The Festival of the golden olive twig and the young oil 2026, organized by the Association of Olive Growers of Slovenian Istria (DOSI), took place at InnoRenew CoE, during which awards were presented for high-quality olive oils produced in the past year.

The international olive oil evaluation, held for more than three decades, reached an important milestone this year, as more than 165 samples from the wider region were submitted. Expert panels selected the best olive oils and the most popular extra virgin olive oil of Slovenian Istria with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) through several evaluation rounds.

A special novelty at this year’s festival was the Young oil 2026 category, intended for producers under the age of 18. Their oils were evaluated by young tasters, also under the age of 18, with which the organizers encourage the involvement of young people in olive growing and the preservation of tradition.

The event was also attended by the President of the Republic of Slovenia, Dr. Nataša Pirc Musar and the President of DOSI, Danilo Markočič. The festival once again highlighted the importance of high-quality olive oil production, cooperation among producers, and the promotion of premium local products.