In the world of gourmet food, few innovations capture the imagination and palate quite like Castillo de Canena’s Marine Plankton Extra Virgin Olive Oil. This exceptional Spanish EVOO is not just an ingredient—it’s an experience, redefining what olive oil can be through the marriage of land and sea, tradition and avant-garde science.
What Makes Plankton Olive Oil Unique?
Imagine the vivid green of early-harvest Arbequina olive oil—then elevate it with the marine brilliance of phytoplankton. The result is a dazzling, almost iridescent "sea green" hue, and an aroma that is a true explosion of the ocean, both on the nose and the palate. This EVOO is 100% natural and vegan, as the marine plankton is entirely plant-based, opening limitless culinary possibilities for chefs and food lovers alike.
The Science: Where Land Meets Sea
At the heart of this product is a collaboration with Ángel León, the celebrated three-Michelin-star chef known as Spain’s "Chef of the Sea." By combining early-harvest Arbequina EVOO with marine phytoplankton, Castillo de Canena has created an oil with a unique sensory profile—fresh, elegant, and intensely aromatic. The plankton in suspension gives the oil its vibrant color and a flavor profile that is both sweet and saline, with a gentle bitterness and a fleeting, balanced spiciness.
This is not just an oil; it’s a masterclass in flavor chemistry. The marine plankton brings a depth of umami and mineral notes rarely found outside the ocean, while the olive oil provides a structured, fruity backbone. The result is a product that surprises and delights with every taste.
Tasting Notes: A Sensory Journey
- Color: Intense, brilliant marine green
- Aroma: Explosive sea breeze, fresh-cut grass, subtle vegetal notes
- Flavor: Sweet entry, balanced bitterness, elegant salinity, and a mild, quick-dissipating spiciness
- Mouthfeel: Silky and fresh, with lingering marine minerality
Culinary Inspiration: How to Use Plankton Olive Oil
This oil is a playground for creativity. Its distinctive marine character makes it ideal for:
- Rice dishes and seafood: Drizzle over paella, risotto, or grilled shellfish to amplify oceanic flavors
- Grilled fish and octopus: Finish just before serving for an elegant, aromatic lift
- Pasta and ceviche: Add a few drops to pasta with clams or a zesty ceviche for a burst of freshness
- Tartares and fish carpaccio: Enhance the natural sweetness of raw seafood with a complex, savory edge
- Mayonnaise and vinaigrettes: Transform classic sauces with a subtle hint of the sea
Even a simple slice of sourdough, lightly toasted and finished with this oil, becomes a gourmet revelation.
Innovation Rooted in Excellence
Castillo de Canena’s Marine Plankton EVOO is part of their "Aceites del Siglo XXI" (Oils of the 21st Century) collection—a series dedicated to pushing the boundaries of flavor and technique. Alongside creations like Royal Temprano, Biodynamic Picual, and Arbequino al Humo de Roble, the plankton oil stands as a testament to the brand’s relentless pursuit of excellence and originality.
Presentation and Storage
Every detail, from the fully wrapped bottle evoking the microscopic beauty of phytoplankton to the signature marine green hue, signals the product’s premium status. To preserve its freshness and vibrant flavors, store in a cool, dark place away from heat and light.
Where to Find It
Experience the next wave of Spanish EVOO—discover Castillo de Canena Marine Plankton Extra Virgin Olive Oil at Le Gourmet Central. This is more than an ingredient; it’s a journey for the senses, an invitation to reimagine what olive oil can be.
Curious about the broader health benefits of extra virgin olive oil?
Expand your knowledge and discover why EVOO is a pillar of healthy, gourmet living in our in-depth guide: The Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.