Discovering the Green Gold: Lucques Olives

The mysterious nature of Lucques Olives, also known as green gold, captivates olive enthusiasts worldwide.

Sporting a characteristic crescent moon shape, these olives, primarily used as a table delight, reveal an intriguing history and exquisite flavors.

Let's embark on a detailed exploration of this "green gold" rooted in the sunny regions of Languedoc, particularly in Occitania.

Mysterious Origin and Global Spread

Some sources suggest that Lucques might have originated in the picturesque town of Lucca, nestled in Tuscany, Italy. Others, however, place it near Lucque, in the province of Cordoba, Andalusia, Spain. This controversy adds a touch of intrigue to Lucques' long saga.

Today, however, this exceptional olive has found its haven in southern France, particularly in Occitania. Local farmers have mastered this delicate variety, exporting its gustatory heritage to North Africa, Turkey, the United States, and Australia. Lucques has conquered the world, but it's in the sunny lands of Occitania where it reveals all its splendor.

Our further exploration will delve into the heart of this unique variety, revealing its distinctive characteristics and its fascinating journey across continents.

Lucques in the Lands of Languedoc

Cultivated lovingly in the lands of Languedoc, Lucques unveils a unique character that sets it apart among olive varieties. Although vulnerable to certain pests, this olive bravely withstands cold and drought, making it an ideal companion for varied climates.

Resilience to Cold and Drought, Vulnerability to Pests

Its primary role as a green table olive makes it a sought-after variety. Lucques is also known for the difficulty of extracting its oil, but this rarity makes it exceptionally high-quality when obtained. Exclusively cultivated in Occitania, Lucques is a rare gem, handpicked with artisanal expertise that makes it even more precious.

Lucques, dubbed the "green diamond," entices with its distinctive crescent moon shape. Its delicate and flavorful flesh surrounds a small pit, offering a unique taste experience. On the palate, it reveals itself as sweet and voluptuous, with subtle notes of buttery avocado and fresh hazelnut. On the tables of the finest French chefs, it reigns as the ultimate gastronomic olive, adding a touch of sophistication to every meal. Lucques is more than just an olive; it's a complete culinary experience. In the next section, let's delve into the details of Lucques' delicate cultivation in Occitania and the artisanal harvesting that gives it its special status.

Delicate Cultivation in Occitania

The delicate cultivation of Lucques in Occitania represents an art preserved over generations. Ideal climatic conditions, combined with the expertise of local farmers, allow this exceptional olive to flourish in the sunny fields of Languedoc.

Artisanal Harvesting: Occitan Expertise

The harvesting of Lucques is an artisanal affair. Handpicked by local experts, this method ensures meticulous selection of fruits at their perfect ripeness. It's this attentive process that gives Lucques its unique quality, making it one of the most prized olives in the world.

Tasting Lucques Olives thus becomes an incomparable gourmet experience. Connoisseurs appreciate the subtlety of its flesh, the characteristic sweetness, and the delicate notes of buttery avocado.