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The International Olive Council (IOC) invites producers, producer associations and packers of extra virgin olive oil from the Northern Hemisphere to submit their entries for the 2026 edition of the Mario Solinas Quality Award.
Established in 2000 in tribute to Professor Mario Solinas, a leading advocate of sensory analysis in virgin olive oils, this international competition reflects the IOC’s commitment to promoting excellence in the olive oil sector. It aims to recognise extra virgin olive oils of outstanding organoleptic quality in accordance with the IOC’s trade standards.
This edition of the competition is open to oils produced during the 2025/2026 crop year that comply with IOC requirements for extra virgin olive oil. Entries must come from a single, homogenous batch stored in a sealed tank located in the producer’s country.
Eligibility
Applications are welcomed from the following categories:
- Small-scale producers (batch ≥ 1,000 litres; annual production < 20,000 kg)
- Large-scale producers (batch ≥ 4,000 litres; annual production > 20,000 kg)
- Packers (batch ≥ 15,000 litres; annual packed volume > 25,000 kg)
Each participant may submit only one entry under a single category.
Selection process
The oils are selected and scored by an international jury composed of leaders of tasting panels that are recognised by the IOC. Prizes are awarded based on the highest scores for harmony, complexity and balance, with medals (gold, silver and bronze) presented in each category. Finalists also receive official recognition.
Deadline for submission: 17 February 2026
To participate, applicants must submit:
- A completed registration form
- A notarial deed certifying the collection of the samples, the batch volume, the category, the location and sealing of the tank.
- Chemical and sensory analysis certificates issued by IOC-recognised laboratories and panels
- Three sealed samples (500 mL) and documentation of traceability
- A declaration on honour that the participant does not participate in or own other
- companies or company names that have submitted samples in this competition
All materials must be delivered to the Executive Secretariat of the IOC in Madrid by the deadline. Detailed rules and requirements are available on the IOC website.
For further information, please contact iooc@internationaloliveoil.org.
The IOC encourages all eligible producers and packers to take part in this unique opportunity to promote excellence and quality in the global olive oil sector.
