Press Release September 2007

Morgenster recognised as South Africa's best at SA Olive Awards

"Quality without compromise" is the mantra of Morgenster's proud Italian owner, Giulio Bertrand. His passionate dedication to producing only the finest extra virgin olive oil, olive products and red blends was recognised at the 2007 SA Olive Awards held recently at Laborie Estate in Paarl.

Morgenster's olive maestro Gerrie Duvenage not only walked away with the overall trophy for the best Extra Virgin Olive Oil in SA, but also stepped up to receive the trophy for the best Table Olives in SA. Morgenster's Extra Virgin Olive Oil received a gold medal, and the Nocellara Green table olives received the only gold medal on the evening awarded for green table olives. The Black table olives were also recognized with a silver medal.

The SA Olive Awards is South Africa's premium competition for extra virgin olive oils and table olives. Morgenster's Extra Virgin Olive Oil won the judges over with its "intense aromas of green tomatoes, herbs and spices. The mouth feel delivered a remarkable profile of flavours, followed by well balanced bitterness and piquancy."

With this acclaim, Morgenster Estate adds to their already impressive list of accolades, including being Italy's L'Orciolo d'Oro winner for 8 successive years, Gold medal winner at LA County Fair and Best Certified Quality Blended Olive Oil in the World at L'Extravergine 2006 as well as winning the "Mill of the year" in 2007 - the highest possible accolade to be bestowed on any producer.

Olive oil maker Gerrie Duvenage and Production Manager Wayne Kitney are justifiably proud: "Every year the quality of South African olives and oils improves dramatically. For Morgenster to rise to the top is a great honour." With markets for their oil in the UK, USA, China, Germany, Holland, Switzerland, Sweden, Denmark, Singapore and France, Morgenster is also holding Brand SA high.

Locally, these fine products are available at selected Delicatessens, Caterix Cape Town, Pick 'n Pay, Spar and Shoprite Checkers stores in the Western Cape, greater Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, the Eastern Cape, Natal and Polokwane the Lowveld.

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