Exactly one year ago, we shipped our very first bottles of Wildly Virgin olive oil. What started as an idea, to bring the very best small-batch Portuguese olive oils to the U.S., has turned into a wild, humbling, and incredibly rewarding ride.
In just twelve months, we’ve introduced five new olive oils from two harvests, each one telling the story of a different producer and grove. We won a gold medal at the NYIOOC and were named among the top 100 olive oils in the world. We’ve found our way onto the shelves of iconic shops like Monsieur Marcel, The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills, and Boulder Wine Merchant. We poured at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, and nearly 100 five-star reviews from customers have fueled us the whole way.
But more than the accolades, it’s been the people, the harvests, the tastings, and the shared moments that have made this first year unforgettable.
What we’ve learned:
-
The passion for olive oil is only growing: Nader and I both love olive oil, which is probably evident by now. It really is a magical thing. A year in we love it even more. Meeting the people, seeing the process, and learning about the nuances of each varietal and how each harvest brings something new has only grown our passion.
-
Olive oil is still misunderstood. For many, it’s a kitchen commodity. Yet we’re seeing more people discover just how much health, flavor, and transparency matter when it comes to great olive oil. Choosing the right oil can feel as intimidating as picking a wine—but with far less knowledge to guide you. That’s a challenge we’re committed to solving.
-
Portugal is rising. For too long, Portugal has been the quiet underdog of Europe. Now, more and more people are tasting, traveling, and discovering the depth and diversity of this incredible country. We’re proud to be part of this moment.
-
This work is deeply rewarding. Walking the groves, tasting oils fresh from the press, working alongside producers who care as much as we do—it’s all been a joy. Seeing someone’s face light up when they taste our olive oil for the first time is everything.
-
The grocery aisle is still a noisy place. Too many vague claims, too much hand-waving. It makes it hard for people to know what’s truly in the bottle. That’s why transparency and storytelling are at the heart of what we do.
-
The future is uncertain, but the mission endures. Tariffs, fires, shifting supply chains—there’s a lot we can’t control. What we can do is stay focused: bringing world-class olive oil to the U.S. and putting Portuguese olive oil on the map.
To our customers, partners, and friends: thank you. Every review, every time you’ve told your favorite shop to carry us, every gift of Wildly Virgin you’ve shared—it has all made this first year possible.
We’re only at the beginning. Here’s to many more harvests, many more stories, and a future where Portuguese olive oil finally gets the recognition it deserves.
— Riley & Nader