Palacio Marqués de Viana
Palacio Marqués de Viana is a premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil brand from Spain, with a rich history dating back to the 18th century in Andalusia.
The most significant chapter in the brands history unfolded during the time of José de Saavedra y Salamanca, the 2nd Marquess of Viana. He inherited both the title and the iconic Palacio Marqués de Viana from the first Marquess.
He played a pivotal role in the development of Spains olive oil industry and was the first person in Spanish history to refer to Extra Virgin Olive Oil, though at the time it was called Pure Olive Oil, since olive oil was often mixed with other seed oils.
Encouraged by the Marquess, King Alfonso XIII supported the establishment of Spains first official quality control law for olive oil. Passed in the same year, it became a turning point in Spanish olive oil history and helped position Spain among the first countries in the world to set such standards.
The Marquess also promoted the creation of laboratories dedicated to testing olive oil quality, emphasizing its health benefits and consumer safety. These efforts made Spanish olive oil increasingly recognized and respected worldwide.
The olive groves are located in the Guadalquivir Valley in Andalusia, one of the worlds most renowned olive oil regions. Surrounded by the Cazorla Natural Park and nourished by the Guadiana Menor River, which runs through the estate for 8 kilometers, the unique environment contributes to the oils exceptional flavor profile.
The brand has received numerous international awards for its outstanding Extra Virgin Olive Oils. Notable products include the Sublime Blend, known for its smoothness and luxurious character. Among its accolades are a Gold Medal at Olive Japan (2013) and recognition in Flos Olei (Best 2023).
You can find Palacio Marqués de Viana Extra Virgin Olive Oil at Rimping Supermarket.
The Origins of the Brand
The history of Palacio Marqués de Viana is closely tied to the Saavedra family, who were granted the title Marquess of Viana by King Alfonso XII of Bourbon. The first titleholder was Teobaldo de Saavedra, laying the foundation for a legacy that would later become influential in Spains olive oil industry.The most significant chapter in the brands history unfolded during the time of José de Saavedra y Salamanca, the 2nd Marquess of Viana. He inherited both the title and the iconic Palacio Marqués de Viana from the first Marquess.
The Historic Palace
The Marqués de Viana Palace is located in the foothills of the Sierra Mágina mountains, in the small village of Garciez. Built in the 16th century, the palace is a remarkable example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. In 2006, it was officially declared a site of special cultural interest.A Visionary Marquess
The 2nd Marquess of Viana was a military officer with a deep passion for olive oil. He was also a close friend of King Alfonso XIII of Bourbon and held important royal court positions, such as Gentilhombre Grande de España (since 1902), Caballerizo Mayor (since 1906), and Senator (19051923). He was widely known as an expert hunter, often organizing royal hunting events.He played a pivotal role in the development of Spains olive oil industry and was the first person in Spanish history to refer to Extra Virgin Olive Oil, though at the time it was called Pure Olive Oil, since olive oil was often mixed with other seed oils.
Royal Support and Olive Oil Reform
In 1926, the 2nd Marquess invited King Alfonso XIII to visit and stay at the palace, where he introduced him to the familys olive oil mill. This royal visit was not just ceremonial but marked the beginning of a significant reform in Spains olive oil industry.Encouraged by the Marquess, King Alfonso XIII supported the establishment of Spains first official quality control law for olive oil. Passed in the same year, it became a turning point in Spanish olive oil history and helped position Spain among the first countries in the world to set such standards.
Innovation and Technological Advancement
At that time, the Marquesss olive oil mill was one of the most technologically advanced in the world. The machinery, developed by engineer Guillermo Quintanilla, was later patented and sold to Italy, helping shape the foundation of modern olive oil production standards across Europe.The Marquess also promoted the creation of laboratories dedicated to testing olive oil quality, emphasizing its health benefits and consumer safety. These efforts made Spanish olive oil increasingly recognized and respected worldwide.
A Family Legacy
Today, Palacio Marqués de Viana remains a family-owned business run by the descendants of the Saavedra family. The company continues to uphold the 2nd Marquesss philosophy of excellence at every stage of productionfrom cultivation and care of the olive groves to extraction, preservation, and marketing of premium olive oil.Sustainable Cultivation
The brand maintains a strong commitment to sustainability. Olives are cultivated using traditional knowledge passed down through generations, combined with environmentally friendly practices. Cover crops are used to prevent soil erosion and maintain soil fertility, while biodiversity within the groves is carefully preserved.The olive groves are located in the Guadalquivir Valley in Andalusia, one of the worlds most renowned olive oil regions. Surrounded by the Cazorla Natural Park and nourished by the Guadiana Menor River, which runs through the estate for 8 kilometers, the unique environment contributes to the oils exceptional flavor profile.
The Art of Blending
One of the distinguishing features of Palacio Marqués de Viana is its focus on the art of blending olive varieties. Expert tasters carefully select olives of different cultivars, each with distinct aromas and flavors, and combine them in precise proportions to create oils that are complex, harmonious, and balanced.Distinctive Packaging and Recognition
The bottles of Palacio Marqués de Viana are designed with motifs inspired by the architecture of the Marqués de Viana Palace and its grand halls, reflecting the brands heritage, tradition, and refined craftsmanship.The brand has received numerous international awards for its outstanding Extra Virgin Olive Oils. Notable products include the Sublime Blend, known for its smoothness and luxurious character. Among its accolades are a Gold Medal at Olive Japan (2013) and recognition in Flos Olei (Best 2023).
You can find Palacio Marqués de Viana Extra Virgin Olive Oil at Rimping Supermarket.
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