Žižolera is a rare, indigenous olive variety from southern Istria, characterized by its robust growth and dark red, date-like fruit.
Žižolera
Origin Old indigenous variety minimally cultivated (only a few dozen trees) in southern Istria (Gajana).
Agro biological properties Robust and large; the trunk is very big; foliage is expansive on robust, long, curved branches. Fruit bearing branches are dense and sagging. Leaves are olive grey-green silver, and tapered. Olives are oval, medium to large, with a dark red date-like colour from which the cultivar draws its name.
Fruit bearing Moderate and regular.
Fertilization Within the species, with local and introduced cultivars.
Resistance to adversities Good resistance to common diseases and parasites. Most likely moderate resistance to lower temperatures since it is grown in a small, protected area.
Quality of the oil Cultivated primarily for its oil, there is limited information on the quality of the oil since there are few plants and its olives are typically milled other cultivars.
Grubić is a renowned Istrian olive grower based in Bale, known for its award-winning extra virgin olive oil and a historic oil mill renovated in 2006. The estate manages 8 hectares of olive groves with 1,700 trees, producing high-quality oils recognized in the Flos Olei guide.
Anđelini is a winery in Central Istria specializing in local and international grape varieties, located at 440-474m altitude with a 14-hectare vineyard. The estate offers wine tasting for up to 45 guests and produces honey alongside its wines.
Clai Terre Bianche is a renowned Istrian olive grower located in Krasica, offering high-quality organic olive oil produced in their own oil mill. The estate features 1,500 olive trees, a tasting room, and additional amenities including a restaurant and accommodation.
Agro Millo is a renowned olive grower located in the Baredine area of Buje, North Istria, offering high-quality olive oil production and tasting experiences.
Babos is a recommended winery in Vodnjan, South Istria, producing wines from indigenous Croatian grape varieties on 6.5 hectares of red soil vineyard, with a tasting room capacity of 40 and complementary olive oil and distillate products.
The Istrian Pasta Festival in Žminj is a celebration of traditional Istrian pasta, featuring workshops, food shows, and local culinary heritage under the chestnut trees of Zad Kaštela.