Why Catholic Olive Oil?

Sharing a few gems of the Catholic Church...

Like so many of us, my days are full—family, work, health, and the surprises life brings. Yet even in the busyness, God has a way of planting something new in our hearts.

For years, my work took me overseas, guiding pilgrimages to France, Italy, Spain, and Israel. In each sacred place, we walked where saints had prayed, where miracles had unfolded, and where centuries of faith had been lived. Along the way, I discovered something unexpected—a humble gift from creation that has nourished body and soul for thousands of years: the olive.

The olive tree is one of the oldest symbols of peace and blessing in Scripture. From the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem to the rolling groves of Spain, I tasted extra virgin olive oil as it was meant to be—fresh, pure, and deeply rooted in tradition. Families across generations had perfected their craft, producing oil so fragrant and flavorful it seemed almost a prayer in itself.

When I returned home, I longed to share that experience. But the olive oil I found here lacked the life and richness I remembered. I began to research, to learn, and to seek out the same high-quality oils and vinegars I had enjoyed overseas—what Mediterranean people call their “liquid gold.”

Today, that calling has become Catholic Olive Oil—a mission-driven business that brings together the finest flavors of the Mediterranean with the beauty and depth of the Catholic faith. Every bottle tells a story, with labels featuring images from my pilgrimages to shrines and churches around the world.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar from the Mediterranean

Every bottle of my olive oils begins with the finest Koroneiki olives, grown under the Mediterranean sun in Laconia, Greece—a region steeped in centuries of olive-growing tradition. My partner's grove follows age-old methods, free from pesticides or synthetic chemicals, producing oils as pure as the land itself. Once the olive oil arrives in the U.S., I go a step further by having it independently tested three to four times a year for both purity and quality, ensuring it’s always 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil you can trust. 

These olive oils aren’t just delicious—they’re also rich in health benefits. Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, they’ve been shown, according to the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, to help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease when enjoyed in moderation.

My balsamic vinegars are just as special. Artisan-crafted in Modena, Italy, they are thicker, richer, and naturally sweeter than most because they contain a higher percentage of luscious grape must and less wine vinegar. With no added sugars, thickeners, or artificial colors, they are patiently aged in oak and stainless-steel barrels until they reach the perfect balance of sweetness and tang.

From the rolling hills of the Mediterranean, I bring you premium olive oils and balsamic vinegars that reflect the passion of dedicated farmers and artisans—flavors worth savoring, and a food adventure worth sharing.

Selling Wholesale

For five years, I ran a storefront, welcoming customers in person. But over time, I realized that I could reach and evangelize far more by moving fully online—connecting with people across the country and even around the world who are hungry for both healthy, exquisite food and the treasures of our Catholic heritage.

Catholic Olive Oil is more than a product—it’s a bridge. A bridge between the ancient groves of the Mediterranean, and the kitchens, tables, and hearts of those who cherish faith, family, and the beauty of God’s creation.

God bless you,

Lori Stewart (founder of Catholic Olive Oil)