The Savantes programme held at Fortnum and Mason in London was an all round success. Over 65 of the world’s leading olive oils from Spain, Greece, Italy, France, Israel, Jordan, Palestine, Morocco, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Chile and Portugal were tasted by participants from USA, United Kingdom, Spain, Greece, Canada and Australia.

The programme, led by Judy Ridgway and Simon Field, evaluated the olive oils in the context of world markets and culinary uses. Tarryn Leigh Steyn, Retail Development Chef with Fortnum and Mason, demonstrated culinary uses of olive oil in the instore demonstration cooking facility, attracting many shoppers.

The olive oils exhibited the full range of styles and complexities available in world markets, setting a benchmark for the differentiation of extra virgin olive oils by producers seeking to establish or retain their brands on retail shelves.

Blending and taste exercises gave individuals the chance to evaluate their own tasting ability in a commercial setting.

Judy Ridgway brought the group up to date with the international olive oil scene, covering innovative processing techniques which are bringing new styles in to the marketplace. Simon Field provided an overview of world markets, retail and wholesale prices, and internet marketing trends.

Images: Left: Judy Ridgway prepares olive oil in blue glasses for tasting.  Right:Tarryn Leigh Steyn of Fortnum and Mason demonstrates cooking techniques to Savantes participants.

Participants involvement in the industry included production, distribution, wholesale, retail and foodservice. All took the opportunity to establish valuable business contacts and as a result new brands can be expected in the North American, Australian and European markets after their showing during the tastings.

The following comments from two of the participants sum up the dynamics of the group and the scope of the sessions.

‘(I) wanted to say how much I appreciated the seminar, the learning process, Judy's patience to introduce us to the amazing world of tasting, and the very helpful encouragement to think about the commercial aspect of our businesses, however small they might be!!’

‘It was a fantastic experience and safe environment to learn in... definitely due to Judy, Simon and the entire group.’

2010 is the tenth anniversary of Savantes and planning is already underway to bring together over 300 olive industry participants, who have attended the programme over the last ten years, for a significant update, refresher and renewal of valuable business networks.