Guide to the best supermarket olive oils in the UK

Best Supermarket Olive Oils in the UK

In a global market where the price of “liquid gold” has turned buying olive oil into a significant investment, choosing the right bottle has become more crucial than ever. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) remains the undisputed gold standard: an unrefined product, cold-extracted to preserve healthy polyphenols and nuanced flavors that vary by region and harvest. Emma Henderson, food editor at The Independent, conducted a blind tasting of 15 supermarket varieties to identify which ones offer the best value for money.

The Undisputed Winner: Exceptional by Asda Greek Koroneiki

The top selection in the market is Asda’s Exceptional Greek Koroneiki (£7 for 500ml). Crafted from the Koroneiki olive variety—Greece’s most prized cultivar—this oil offers surprising complexity for its price point. On the palate, it features a creamy texture with nutty notes and a sharp, peppery finish reminiscent of fresh rocket. This full-bodied and intense oil is ideal as a finishing touch for Greek salads or roasted vegetable dishes where the oil is the star ingredient.

The Best Budget Option: Aldi Specially Selected P.D.O. Castel Del Monte

For those seeking high quality without breaking the bank, Aldi’s Specially Selected P.D.O. Castel Del Monte (£6.29) is unbeatable. Carrying the Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) seal, it guarantees that the olives originate from the Puglia region of Italy and were processed under traditional standards. Its flavor profile is bold and robust, featuring herbaceous aromas and a persistent peppery aftertaste. It is an excellent choice for pairing with cold meats or strong-flavored dishes that won’t overshadow the oil’s personality.

For Intense Palates: Belazu Early Harvest

While Belazu is not a private supermarket label, its availability in almost all major UK retailers makes it a highly accessible premium choice. Their Early Harvest (£11-£14) is made from Arbequina olives picked in early October before full ripeness, capturing the fruit’s most intense flavors. It stands out for its tomato-vine aroma, floral sweetness, and sophisticated bitterness. According to experts, this is an oil “to be savored,” treated with the same reverence as a high-end wine.

The Best for Everyday Use: Filippo Berio Organic

Filippo Berio is perhaps the most recognizable brand on the shelves. Their Organic version (£11 for 1 liter) is recommended as the best everyday oil. It is a blend of organic olives from Italy, Spain, and Tunisia that provides a balanced profile: grassy notes, nutty undertones, and a mild bitterness. Coming in a larger glass bottle, it is the most practical option for frequent cooks who do not want to sacrifice the quality of an organic EVOO.

The Best Mild Oil: Waitrose Duchy Organic Spanish

Not all consumers enjoy the characteristic throat-sting of robust oils. For them, Waitrose Duchy Organic Spanish (£7) is the ideal pick. It is an extremely mild, fresh oil with subtle floral notes. Its lack of aggression makes it perfect for dipping bread or creating delicate dressings where the primary ingredients need to shine. Additionally, sales from this line support charitable causes, adding ethical value to your purchase.

Conclusion: Is Supermarket Own-Brand Worth It?

The analysis by The Independent successfully debunks the myth that supermarket labels are inferior. When choosing, the recommendation is clear: look for single-origin oils (like Asda’s) or those with regional protection seals (like Aldi’s). These products typically offer superior organoleptic quality compared to generic blends. Ultimately, the current UK supermarket landscape provides excellent options that allow consumers to enjoy the Mediterranean diet with high-end products at competitive prices.