The frost
The magic of winter begins in the lands of Castelldans , a small corner of the province of Lleida known for its rich olive growing tradition. Under the warm autumn sun, Arbequina’s olive groves dress up, ushering in one of the most awaited moments of the annual olive cycle: the frost. This process marks the transition of the olives, which go from vibrant green to deep purple, a crucial phase in their maturation and in the quality of the oil that will be obtained. Undoubtedly, the frostbite is a natural spectacle that does not leave indifferent those who observe it closely.
From green to purple
During the summer months, the small Arbequina olives have remained green and firm on the branches, absorbing the energy of the sun and nutrients from the earth. However, as autumn progresses, the olives begin to transform. This transformation, slow but steady, seems almost like a natural spell. Little by little, their tones change from deep green to deep purple, an unmistakable sign that the harvest is getting closer.
The cooling, key to the quality of the oil
It is precisely during the winter when the Arbequina begins to reveal its true character. As the olives change color, they also begin to accumulate the precious oil inside. This is the key moment when the flavors and aromas that characterize the region’s extra virgin oil begin to take shape. The air is filled with a soft and intoxicating aroma, a mixture of wet earth and ripe fruit, which anticipates what will be one of the best harvests of the year.
A natural spectacle in the olive groves of Castelldans
In addition, walking among the olive groves of Castelldans during the winter is a unique experience. The landscape is transformed into a visual and olfactory spectacle. Between golden hills and clear skies, the olive groves offer a majestic view that reflects the beauty of this natural process. Each olive is a promise of liquid gold, and in its slow transition there is something almost poetic: the patience and meticulous work of the farmers, the wisdom passed down from generation to generation, and the unchanging power of time, which in this phase of the olive cycle is more evident than ever.
The patience and dedication of farmers
Because of all this, harvesting is a crucial moment in the olive tree’s cycle and an opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the work behind each drop of oil. This process hides a complexity and a deep meaning that only those who know the land and its fruits well can appreciate.
The wintering: tradition and respect for the land
So, the magic of the frost begins, the perfect prelude to a harvest that, like every year, will fill the fields of Castelldans with pride.
As olives continue their metamorphosis, farmers prepare to harvest what will undoubtedly be an exceptional crop. In this corner of Catalonia, wintering is more than just a phase of the olive tree cycle, it is a symbol of tradition, dedication and respect for the land.
