Leeu Locally Grown Olive Harvest I Leeu Estates
Between March and July each year, the olive groves across the Cape Winelands shift colour, the fruit deepens on the branch, and harvest season begins.
For Leeu Collection, this is a distinctive moment in the farming calendar, as the olives grown exclusively by the Leeu Locally Grown team on Leeu Estates in Franschhoek and at Roundstone in the Swartland are picked, cold-pressed, and bottled into two of South Africa's finest and most site-expressive extra virgin olive oils.
South African Olive Harvest Season
South Africa's olive harvest season typically runs from late autumn through winter. The cooler months offer ideal conditions for harvesting olives at peak ripeness, and the timing varies depending on altitude, aspect, and the grove's specific characteristics. At Leeu Collection, harvest is guided by the land itself, and the patience built into every step of the process shows in the finished oils.
Two Groves, One Variety
The olive variety at the core of both Leeu Collection oils is Frantoio, considered one of Italy's most noble cultivars, and now deeply rooted and thriving in two uniquely South African landscapes. By using a gentle cold-press and bottling fresh after harvest, these are among the rare South African extra virgin olive oils crafted solely from 100% Frantoio olives. The distinction emerges from the remarkable difference in terroir, making each oil a unique expression of its land.
The Leeu Passant Olive Oil, Franschhoek
Planted on the cool, east-facing slopes of Leeu Estates in Franschhoek, the Leeu Passant Extra Virgin Olive Oil carries the freshness of its mountain setting in every drop. Its pale golden colour carries an intense green hue, and the aroma is immediately expressive: floral, balanced by fresh herbs, green apples and freshly-cut grass. On the palate, it is delightfully piquant, finishing with an intense yet pleasant peppery note that lingers in the best possible way.
This oil rewards simplicity. Enjoy it by dipping rustic bread, drizzling over seasonal salads or pasta, pairing with seafood, or elevating a simple plate of ripe tomatoes. It also complements Turkish and Moroccan cuisine, where its herbal brightness naturally shines.
The Mullineux Extra Virgin Frantoio Olive Oil, Swartland
Grown at Roundstone in the dry, rocky Swartland, Mullineux Extra Virgin Frantoio Olive Oil is a distinct expression of its unique location. The landscape’s influence shows in the oil’s deep golden colour, smooth mouthfeel, and aromas of dried herbs, almonds, and citrus, evoking sun-baked earth and wide-open skies.
This is a robust, textured oil made for bold flavours. It pairs well with flame-grilled steak, hearty stews, rich creamy pasta, and roast chicken. It also enhances nuts and hard cheeses, adding warmth and depth that elevate every dish.
Try it at Home
Here are two simple dressings that let both oils shine…
Red Wine Vinaigrette
Ideal for Mediterranean salads or bean dishes
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 small red onion, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ cup Leeu Passant olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Mix the vinegar, red onion, and mustard, then whisk in the oil. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavours to come together.
Honey Mustard Dressing
Sweet, tangy and excellent over leafy green salads
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup Mullineux Extra Virgin Frantoio olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
Whisk together the mustard, honey, and vinegar, then slowly add the oil while whisking.
Taste the Season for Yourself
Whether you visit during harvest season or find the oils already bottled and on the table, the story is one of true distinction: two unique landscapes, one noble variety, and a dedication to producing olive oils that are not only among the finest in South Africa, but celebrated for their unmatched regional identity and character.
