Liquid gold

What makes RIO LARGO's olive oil as renowned and precious as it is? Edwain Steenkamp visits the spectacular farm to find out

Of all the world's many marvels, olive oil is perhaps among the most extraordinary. Revered for its culinary uses, many health benefits and cultural value, it's been a staple in homes for millennia. In fact, historians believe that olive oil may have been produced as far back as 6 000 years. But while it may often still be associated with its origins - the Mediterranean Basin - today, some of the most prized olive oils in the world are produced right here in South Africa. And perhaps the finest among all these local oils is RIO LARGO.

Situated in the picturesque Scherpenheuwel Valley on the banks of the Breede River, RIO LARGO is, in a word, idyllic: breathtaking views of the valley, the unfiltered sunlight and, of course, the olive trees in their perennial beauty.

At the helm of this impressive setting is Nick and Brenda Wilkinson, who, along with their team, have tended to the groves of over 18 000 olive trees for more than 10 years. During this time, Nick and Brenda have taken RIO LARGO to new heights: scooping up some of the most prestigious accolades in the industry, with a large following of olive oil devotees around the country and, indeed, the world.