By Riley Gibson, Co-Founder @ Wildly Virgin
At the end of September, I embarked on a journey to Portugal to reconnect with Nader, my co-founder who lives just outside Lisbon. Our mission was simple but exciting: to meet local olive oil producers and gain insights into the upcoming harvest season. This time of year, the air is filled with anticipation, and the magic of olive oil starts to come alive across the country.
Exploring the Douro Region
Our adventure took us north to the Trás-os-Montes region, renowned not just for its iconic wines but also for producing some of Portugal's finest olive oils. This rugged terrain, with its steep-sloped hillsides terraced by ancient rock walls, has a timeless quality that speaks volumes about the resilience of Portuguese agriculture. Here, machines are no match for the narrow terraces, meaning these groves are largely preserved from the high-intensity farming that has transformed many other olive-growing regions around the world. This lack of mechanization means you’ll find older olive trees and rare, almost forgotten varietals—true remnants of Portugal's agricultural heritage.
The groves of the Douro gave us an incredible opportunity to experience diversity firsthand. We tasted oils from Cobrançosa, Galega Vulgar, Verdeal, and Madural varietals. The flavor spectrum was nothing short of fascinating—some oils were delicate and soft, while others delivered an intense, grassy kick that lingered on the palate. It’s easy to see why each batch tells its own story—every varietal, every grove, every producer had something unique to say.
Olive Oil Culture
While we were on this journey, one of the unexpected highlights was experiencing how integrated olive oil is into the culture of food. In cities like Porto and Lisbon, nearly every restaurant we visited showcased an olive oil in some way. At one restaurant the sommelier introduced an olive oil pairing with the same reverence as a wine or a port—highlighting its origins, taste notes, and the stories of its producers. At every other local restaurant a bottle of olive oil was on the table and the owners all had a connection to the producer in some way. Seeing olive oil elevated this way was a validation of our belief that it deserves a place in the culinary spotlight, right alongside the finest wines.
Savoring the Traditions of Lisbon and Porto
Of course, no trip to Portugal would be complete without immersing ourselves in the local culture beyond just olive oil. In Lisbon, we spent time wandering through the Alfama district, with its maze-like streets, ancient stone walls, and vibrant street art. The blend of history and modernity was everywhere—it’s a place where the old-world charm of cobbled lanes meets a thriving, modern arts scene.
And then, there was the food. We tasted classic dishes like Bacalhau—Portugal's iconic salted cod, and the sweet Pastéis de Nata, which are famous across the world for their creamy, custardy goodness. Each meal was a reminder of the Portuguese dedication to craft, flavor, and tradition, an ethos that feels deeply aligned with what we’re trying to capture at Wildly Virgin.
An Unexpected Discovery: Cork and Creativity
One of the more surprising aspects of this trip was our visit to a cork factory. Portugal is the world’s leading producer of cork, and we explored how this versatile material could be integrated into our products. From cork stoppers to innovative packaging elements, cork carries with it a story of sustainability and Portuguese heritage—just another way we can bring more of Portugal’s magic into our brand.
An Unforgettable Experience
This journey was much more than just a business trip. It was an opportunity to reconnect with the land, the people, and the vibrant culture that makes Portugal such an incredible place. The small, independent producers we met were so much more than suppliers; they were keepers of a rich heritage, striving to preserve traditional methods amidst the challenges of a changing world. Their passion inspired us to bring their stories to life and to share the magic of Portuguese olive oil with the world.
Portugal never disappoints. Its people, their dedication to craft, and the rich culture of history and innovation are invigorating. This trip has left us more motivated than ever to introduce the unique flavors of Portugal to our community back home. After all, olive oil isn't just a kitchen staple—it's a story waiting to be told, a journey we are excited to continue sharing with you.
