Introducing Medoro – 100% Mediterranean Extra Virgin Olive Oil
How did the Medoro become part of the Willow Creek family?
We’ve partnered with trusted extra virgin olive oil producers across the Mediterranean, each sharing our fierce dedication to crafting the finest EVOO.
South Africa produces world-class olive oils with a fresh, green, herbaceous profile. But we also know that many home cooks are inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, which calls for softer, rounder olive oils with fruity or nutty notes. Medoro was created to bring the rich heritage of Mediterranean olive oils into the Willow Creek family. By introducing Medoro, we give South Africans the opportunity to experience authentic Mediterranean flavour in their everyday cooking, without having to compromise on quality or value.
Willow Creek has always celebrated South African olive oils – what made us realise that South African home cooks might want access to a Mediterranean variety as well?
South Africa is a net importer of extra virgin olive oil — the country brings in more EVOO than it produces. While much of this is used in seed oil blends, some is offered as pure EVOO, which shows that local consumers are already buying olive oils from across the world. With Medoro, we wanted to make sure that when South Africans choose a Mediterranean EVOO, they can do so with the confidence of the Willow Creek name behind it — backed by our strict quality standards and packaged in an innovative, practical format.
For the home cook who’s used to South African olive oils, what’s the biggest flavour difference they’ll notice when cooking with Medoro?
South African EVOO vs. Mediterranean EVOO
South African EVOOs are typically fresh, grassy, and herbaceous with a crisp, peppery finish, thanks to our early harvest styles. Mediterranean EVOOs, on the other hand, are often rounder and smoother, with notes like almond, apple, and ripe banana, depending on the cultivar. The difference is subtle but noticeable — Medoro offers that softer, more balanced Mediterranean profile, which makes it incredibly versatile in the kitchen.
Dishes that work best with the Medoro
Although these oils can be used interchangeably — the Mediterranean oils shine in dishes that echo their origins. Think of classic pasta sauces, roasted vegetables, seafood, Spanish tapas, or a simple bruschetta with ripe tomatoes. The Medoro’s smoothness and rounded profile make it a natural fit for these recipes, while South African oils bring vibrancy to fresh salads, grilled meats, or anything that calls for a bold, peppery lift.
It’s incredibly versatile: drizzle it over warm focaccia, finish a risotto, toss it with pasta, roast seasonal vegetables, or pair it with grilled fish and seafood. It also works beautifully in baking, adding richness to cakes or breads.
Effortlessly Excellent
How does the packaging change the cooking experience, and what inspired this design?
At Willow Creek, we understand the art of everyday cooking, and that’s why we present our 100% Mediterranean EVOO in an innovative 500ml PET bottle, thoughtfully designed for both elegance and utility.
We knew we had to create packaging that is both elegant and functional. The squeezable PET bottle adds effortless convenience — you get a clean, controlled pour every time, It’s designed for the rhythm of everyday cooking, where precision and ease really matter. It also avoids the messiness that sometimes comes with pouring from glass bottles.
The bottle features an advanced oxygen scavenger and UV barrier, can you explain what this means?
Both oxygen and light are the biggest enemies of olive oil freshness. Our bottle technology actively reduces oxygen exposure and blocks harmful UV light, meaning the oil stays fresher for longer. Essentially, it helps lock in that “just pressed” flavour, so every dish you cook tastes as it should.
The packaging preserves freshness for at least two years – why is this important for home cooks, and how does it compare to how long people should keep olive oil?
Olive oil is at its best when it’s fresh. Typically, oils should be enjoyed within 12–18 months of harvest. Our innovative packaging extends that shelf life to at least two years without compromising flavour, which gives home cooks more flexibility — whether they use olive oil every day or only for special occasions.
Was affordability an important factor in launching Medoro?
At R129 for 500ml, this positions the Medoro as an excellent EVOO choice.
Our goal was to create an excellent quality EVOO accessible for everyday use. Too often, international olive oils come with high price tags or uncertain quality. With Medoro, we’ve created a premium Mediterranean oil that home cooks can trust and afford to use generously in their daily cooking.
For someone building their pantry or just getting into cooking with quality olive oils, would you recommend Medoro as a good starting point?
Medoro is approachable, versatile, and designed for everyday cooking. Its smooth, balanced flavour profile makes it a great “all-rounder,” so you can use it across cuisines and dishes. For someone new to EVOO, it’s a wonderful introduction.
Where can people buy Medoro?
Medoro will be available in leading retailers nationwide as well as through our online store. We’re excited to make it widely accessible so that home cooks across South Africa can enjoy the Mediterranean experience in their own kitchens.
Experience the true essence of the Mediterranean, delivered with uncompromising Willow Creek quality and sophisticated practicality for the art of everyday cooking.
WILLOW CREEK OLIVE PRODUCTS
Product Range
Willow Creek Olive Products strives to be the preferred South African extra virgin olive oil brand by developing a diversified range of quality, ethical and trusted products that promote a healthy lifestyle. Our versatile range of premium olive-based products is constantly evolving to accommodate the culinary and sensory demands of consumers and connoisseurs alike.
