December 15, 2005 - Erich Russell:       ... and the new oil was bottled on Saturday.  

This year, because of the long cool summer, our olives stayed on the trees almost a full 30 days longer than last year.   There were also many more of the olives that had slight color.   Also, because of the cool summer combined with our heavy prunning, we only had 50% as much oil as last year.   Unfortunately this means we will only have twenty-six 375 ml bottles of new oil and two 750 ml bottles (my wife has already grabbed the two 750 ml bottles).   We have an additional 29 gallons of oil which will age for the next 90 days in order to let the solids settle out before we bottle the remaining oil.

According to our resident olive oil expert, a.k.a my wife Joanne, this year's new oil is very silky and smooth instead of the rougher tone of last year.   There is a very pronounced pepper flavor on the finish.

This oil is best consumed young and should not be used for cooking.   The Italians drizzle oil over soups, pasta, tomato and cheese, and of course the American favorite, dipping French bread.

The oil is available in the Paso Robles Tasting Room now.   Unfortunately, no oil can be sold in Sonoma as they have decided we need a food handling permit there.   The price is $25.00 per bottle (plus any shipping costs if applicable).   You may come in, call us or email Jackie Pierce if you would like to purchase some of the new oil.   The telephone number is (805) 467-3331, ext. 19 and Jackie's email is jackie@rabbitridgewinery.com.

P.S. Many thanks to Robert Pierce and Mike Sanford who worked the crews and then went to the press all day for quality control.

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