Ojai Olive Oil

Ojai Olive Oil has farmed organically since its founding, using no chemical fertilizers or pesticides of any kind. Olives are picked by hand and carried directly to the on-site mill, keeping the time from tree to press to an absolute minimum. The farm uses a classic Tuscan-style mill: olives pass through a hopper, crusher, and mixers before a decanter centrifuge separates the oil. Finished oil is stored in stainless steel tanks in a dark, oxygen-free, temperature-controlled environment and bottled continuously from the barrel. Olive paste left after milling is composted with additional organic matter for nearly a year, then used to brew compost teas that form the basis of the farm's fertilization program. The farm operates on permaculture principles, using waste outputs as feeds, fuels, and fertilizers, and focusing on building a self-sustaining ecosystem. Water management, including soil care and rainwater catchment, is an ongoing focus to reduce irrigation needs.