Greek Olive Oil & Raisins – A Taste of Tradition from Kiato & Corinth

Basking under the golden Greek sun, I embarked on a journey into the heart of Greek olive oil production in Kiato and witnessed the fascinating process of raisin production in Corinth. From extra virgin olive oil harvested from Manaki olives to sweet, sun-dried Corinthian raisins, Greece’s agricultural traditions reflect centuries of Mediterranean heritage.

In the land where Athena gifted the olive tree to the people of Athens—symbolising wisdom, peace, and prosperity—I discovered the age-old traditions that make Greek olive oil one of the finest in the world. From the lush olive groves of Kiato, where farmers work in harmony with nature, to the raisin factories of Corinth, where sun-dried grapes undergo meticulous processing, every step of the journey was steeped in history, craftsmanship, and Mediterranean magic. Whether it’s drizzling golden-green olive oil over fresh bread or savouring the sweet intensity of Corinthian raisins, Greece’s culinary heritage is a testament to its rich mythology, vibrant culture, and deep-rooted passion for food.

ASSOCIATION OF KIATO, KIATO’S FARMERS CO-OPERATIVE - THE HEART OF GREAT OLIVE OIL PRODUCTION

In Kiato, olive oil production is a community effort, with the Association of Kiato collecting olives from over 5000 local farms to produce premium extra virgin olive oil. This cooperative model ensures that small-scale farmers can contribute to a high-quality product, maintaining traditional harvesting methods while benefiting from modern processing techniques.

Greek olive oil is renowned worldwide for its rich flavour, low acidity, and high nutritional value. The Manaki variety, grown in the mountainous regions of Corinth, is particularly prized for its smooth, fruity taste and golden-green hues.

WHY GREEK OLIVE OIL IS THE BEST - award winning quality

Greek olive oil is celebrated globally, winning prestigious awards for its exceptional quality. But what makes it so special?

Ideal Climate & Soil – Greece’s Mediterranean climate and fertile soil create the perfect conditions for olive cultivation.
Traditional Harvesting – Many farmers still hand-pick olives, ensuring minimal bruising and maximum freshness.
Cold Pressing – Greek olive oil is cold-pressed, preserving its nutrients and antioxidants.
Versatile Use – From cooking and baking to salads and dipping, Greek olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.

HOW GREEKS EAT OLIVE OIL - a mediterranean staple

Greek people don’t just cook with olive oil—they celebrate it.

Dipping & Mopping – Olive oil is seasoned with salt, oregano, and lemon, then mopped up with fresh bread.
Drizzled Over Everything – From Greek salads to grilled meats, olive oil is poured generously.
Used in Cooking – Whether it’s slow-cooked stews or crispy fried vegetables, olive oil is essential.

RAISIN PRODUCTION IN CORINTH - A FASCINATING PROCESS

In Corinth, I visited the Melisagro raisin export factory, where I witnessed the meticulous process of turning sun-dried grapes into sweet, chewy raisins.

The raisin production process in Corinth is a meticulous combination of traditional methods and modern technology, ensuring only the highest-quality fruit reaches consumers. It begins with harvesting, where grapes are left to dry naturally on the vine, absorbing the warmth of the Mediterranean sun to concentrate their flavours. Once picked, they undergo further sun-drying on straw mats, allowing them to develop their signature sweetness and chewy texture. After drying, the raisins enter the sorting and cleaning phase, where they pass through powerful magnets designed to remove any metal particles and a laser detection system that meticulously identifies and eliminates glass fragments or foreign objects. This ensures that every batch is free from contaminants, preserving the integrity of the final product. Once fully cleaned, the raisins are carefully sorted by size and quality, ensuring consistency before they are packaged and prepared for export.

BLACK RAISONS VS YELLOW CURRANTS - WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Greece is well-known for producing two distinct types of raisins, each offering unique characteristics and culinary uses. The Small Black Raisins, also known as Corinthian Raisins, are tiny, seedless, and intensely sweet, packed with antioxidants that make them a nutritious choice. Their deep, rich flavour lends itself perfectly to snacking, baking, and traditional Greek desserts, where their natural sweetness enhances everything from cakes to bread.

On the other hand, the Large Yellow Currants are paler, plumper, and milder in flavour. These golden raisins are often favoured for their gentle sweetness, making them an ideal ingredient in pastries, fruit cakes, and Mediterranean dishes that require a more subtle touch. Whether used in classic Greek recipes, enjoyed on their own, or incorporated into global cuisines, these raisins showcase the sun-soaked agricultural excellence of Greece.

WHERE TO FIND GREEK OLIVE OIL AND RAISINS WORLDWIDE

Greek olive oil and raisins are exported globally, reaching markets in the UK, Norway, Switzerland, and beyond. You’ll find them in specialty food stores, supermarkets, and online retailers, bringing a taste of Greece to kitchens worldwide.

From Kiato’s olive groves to Corinth’s raisin factories, Greece’s agricultural traditions are deeply rooted in history. Whether you’re drizzling golden olive oil over a fresh salad or snacking on sweet Corinthian raisins, you’re experiencing centuries of craftsmanship.

If you ever find yourself in Athens, don’t miss the chance to experience the best Greek olive oil and raisins firsthand. Whether dining at a traditional taverna, wandering through local markets, or indulging in a sun-soaked Greek mezze feast, be sure to request premium extra virgin olive oil and authentic Corinthian raisins—because the difference is undeniable. A drizzle of golden Greek olive oil over fresh bread, paired with the sweet intensity of sun-dried raisins, is a true taste of Greece—one that will linger on your palate long after you leave.

Thanks to the following organisations for arranging this trip

Greek olive oil production / Best Greek olive oil brands / Extra virgin olive oil Greece / Corinthian raisins / Raisin production in Greece / Kiato farmers cooperative / Mediterranean diet benefits / Greek food traditions / Olive oil health benefits / Where to buy Greek olive oil / Manaki olive oil / Cold-pressed olive oil Greece / Traditional Greek food / Olive oil tasting in Athens / Greek olive oil exports / Black Corinthian raisins vs yellow currants / Sun-dried raisins Greece / Greek cuisine essentials / Best olive oil for cooking / Greek raisin factory process

eat and drink, food, latest blog post, TRAVELBy Adele ConnGreek olive oil production- Best Greek olive oil brands - Extra virgin olive oil Greece - Corinthian raisins - Raisin production in Greece - Kiato farmers cooperative - Mediterranean diet benefits - Greek food traditions - Olive oil health benefits - Where to buy Greek olive oil, Corinthian raisons, corinthian raisins, raisin production, greek raisins, greek olive oil, kiato greeve, corinth greece