The new program's executive director, Curtis Cord and Dorothy Hamilton, the founder of the International Culinary Center, announced the joint project at the NYIOOC press conference today.
The Olive Oil Times Education Lab, in conjunction with the International Culinary Center, announced today the launch of a series of certification courses for aspiring olive oil sommeliers.
The announcement was made by Olive Oil Times publisher, Curtis Cord and Dorothy Hamilton, the founder of the International Culinary Center at a press conference in New York.
“The Olive Oil Sommelier Certification Program will bring the world’s foremost olive oil experts and educators to New York and the International Culinary Theater in a comprehensive series of courses spanning production, quality management and advanced sensory assessment,” said Cord, who will serve as its executive director.
The first three-day course, level one of a three-course series, will begin this fall at the International Culinary Center in Soho (New York). Advanced level courses will continue quarterly.
“There has never been a greater need to foster a deeper understanding of this important food among tomorrow’s culinary leaders, and there is no better place to reach them than the International Culinary Center,” Cord said.
Extra virgin olive oil is the unrefined juice from olives which has been part of the cultural heritage around the world for thousands of years. Like wine, olive oil reflects its terroir and exhibits complex taste characteristics depending on the olive varieties used and countless other variables in cultivation and processing.
Extra virgin olive oil is coveted for proven health benefits and its ability to enhance the tastes of foods. Chefs around the world are learning to harness the endless possibilities in their kitchens and there is a growing demand for high-quality olive oils and those who can identify them.
“The International Culinary Center has always been at the forefront of culinary innovation, and we’re proud to launch the first Olive Oil Sommelier Program,” said Hamilton. “We are excited to team up with the Olive Oil Times Education Lab to introduce a never-before-seen, innovative program to our current and future students.”
The unveiling of the new sommelier program coincided with the release of the results of the New York International Olive Oil Competition, the world’s largest and most prestigious olive oil quality contest. More than 800 entries from 25 countries competed at the four-day event. Spain took home the most awards, followed by Italy and Greece.
For more information on the Olive Oil Sommelier Certification Program, visit the International Culinary Center website, or oliveoilschool.org.
More articles on: Curtis Cord, education, Olive Oil Sommelier
Jun. 17, 2021
Olive Oil Sommelier Program Heads to Croatia
The Olive Oil Times Education Lab's flagship five-day sommelier program will be presented in Postira, Croatia coinciding with the fourth annual World Championship of Olive Picking and the local olive harvest this October.
Dec. 1, 2021
Future Lies in Specialized, Sustainable Production, Deoleo CEO Says
According to Ignacio Silva, specialization is key to the survival of traditional producers, and the whole sector must modernize to thrive.
May. 4, 2022
New Law in Sicily Protects and Promotes the Mediterranean Diet
The purpose of the new law is to promote local food production, MedDiet education, wine and oleotourism, public health and environmental protection strategies.
Dec. 22, 2021
Boundary Bend Co-Founder: Quality and Investment Are Key to Olive Oil’s Future
Rob McGavin said the industry needs to work together to succeed long-term, from technology-based solutions to emphasizing extra virgin olive oil’s health benefits.
Aug. 26, 2021
Certain Food Proteins Reduce Bitterness and Pungency of EVOO
The findings could pave the way to increase the appeal of extra virgin olive oil for consumers turned off by bitter and pungent flavors.
Mar. 25, 2022
The Flavors of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Countless factors influence the flavors in extra virgin olive oils. Understanding the basics can lead to satisfying results.
Feb. 17, 2022
Olive Council Announces Australian Campaign
The IOC said a three-year campaign tp promote olive oil in Australia will target consumers, producers and policymakers.
Aug. 16, 2021
New Book Serves as Daily Guide for Following the Mediterranean Diet
‘The Real Mediterranean Diet’ offers readers a digestible explanation of the health benefits of the diet and tips on how to improve daily eating habits.