4x250ml Ladon | In Arcadia Ego | High Phenolic Evoo | Free Worldwide Shipping

The Latin name for Ladon’s limited edition in Arcadia ego’ means ‘I am of Arcadian origin’. Located 35 kilometres from Ancient Olympia and an altitude of 436 metres, the family olive estate, ‘Ladon’ flourishes in the village of Chora, in the region of Gortynia. Here the local variety of olive, ‘Olympia choraitiki’ is harvested. At least 2500 years old, this variety of olive was used for making Kotinos – the wreath decorated with olive leaves that was given to the winners of the Ancient Olympic Games as a prize symbol of universal peach and freedom. The wreath was also thought to bring good fortune and divine protection to the venerated athlete.

Ladon’s In Arcadia Ego Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is obtained solely from choraitiki variety olives, harvested early to obtain a higher content of polyphenols (antioxidant compounds) – making it one of the more health beneficial olive oils. Polyphenols are responsible for the characteristic spicy and bitter aftertaste of superior extra virgin olive oil and are associated with profound health benefits. Polyphenols protect blood lipids from oxidative stress, contribute to the reduction of cholesterol levels, fight cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, certain types of cancer, reduce stroke risk, contribute to longevity and have anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory qualities.

Characteristics

• Choraitiki olive variety
• Very High Polyphenols
• Cold pressed <26°C

Taste and Aroma

Hints of tomato plant and butter on the tongue with an element of spice and aromas of artichoke and green grass swishing in the nose.

Production

Choraitiki olives are harvested by hand starting from late September to early October. The olives are then transferred to an oil mill to have their oil extracted at temperatures below 26°C. Ladon do not use any chemicals, pesticides or fertilizers in their production of their EVOO making In Arcadia Ego a completely natural and pure EVOO. The oil is filtered to preserve it’s excellent qualities.

Health Benefits

Historically, olive oil has been an integral part of the Mediterranean tradition and diet. Consumption of extra virgin olive oil is associated with increased life expectancy as it contains high levels of phenols, tocopherols and phytosterols. EVOO has been the subject of many scientific studies and research in recent years. The presence of polyphenols such as, oleocanthal (a potent antioxidant in plants) has been linked to a number of health benefits, including decreasing inflammation, regulating blood sugar levels and potentially reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer.

Olive oil is also an example of a heart-healthy fat source, consisting primarily of monounsaturated fatty acids. A review by the American Heart Association has shown that replacing saturated fats (such as those found in butter, lard, and coconut oil) with monounsaturated fats (such as those found in olive oil) is linked with a significantly lower risk of heart disease. Ladon In Arcadia Ego EVOO is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that help lower ‘bad cholesterol’ (LDL) and offer a good ratio between HDL (‘good cholesterol’) and LDL (‘bad cholesterol’) cholesterol.

More information about polyphenols can be found here.

More to the Gourmet Story…

In 752 B.C during the 6th ancient Olympic Games, olive tree branches replaced the fruit of the apple tree (previously the prize) and was given to the winner of running (the oldest known sporting event) by Hercules in honour of his father, Zeus. According to mythology, Hercules himself brought the olive tree from his country, Creta or from the North and planted it in Olympia. One day, he went with his elder brother to Olympia to run which, is thought to be the first running event and Hercules who came first, was awarded the winner with a wreath made of olive tree branches. Phlegon of Tralles mentions that in the first five ancient Olympic Games the winners were not awarded with a wreath. Later, after consulting the Oracle of Delphi the advice was that the winner’s wreath should be made of olive tree branches.