Athens, April 4, 2026 – The 11th Athena International Olive Oil Competition (ATHENA IOOC), the fastest-growing and most credible institution in the olive oil sector, is celebrating its 11th anniversary where it all began: in Athens. From May 2 to 4, the Stratos Vassilikos Hotel will become the epicenter of global olive oil production, hosting leading tasters and samples from every corner of the planet.
ATHENA IOOC Returns to Athens with Record Participation
After a multi-year journey through emblematic regions such as Pylos, Delphi, Lesvos, Sparta, and Crete, ATHENA IOOC returns to the capital, having earned the title of one of the world’s leading competitions. Speaking with the competition’s president, Maria Katsouli, it becomes clear that this year’s event breaks all previous records. “We are generally very pleased with the competition’s acceptance in the international market. We currently have 664 samples in our database, exceeding last year’s participation,” she states, setting the tone for this year.
It is impressive that this year, foreign samples outnumber Greek ones by 98, demonstrating the institution’s credibility. “There are many competitions now, but international trade knows which ones are strong and reliable. They ask for ATHENA because they consider it a strict competition – and this is one of the reasons why some Greeks may avoid it. However, the market looks at the judging panel and evaluates accordingly,” emphasizes Ms. Katsouli.
Global Reach: From Pakistan to Azerbaijan
The geographical spread of entries is surprising. In addition to the traditional Mediterranean powers, the competition attracts samples from 24 foreign countries (28 in total throughout its history). “We have samples from Japan, and for the first time, participation from Pakistan and Azerbaijan. Even from war zones, such as Israel, producers seek to participate, and we receive requests for extensions from countries like Saudi Arabia due to shipping difficulties. Everyone wants a distinction at ATHENA.”
Catalyst for Quality in Greek Olive Oil
One of the most significant achievements of the competition is its educational dimension. ATHENA IOOC does not just award medals; it provides each producer with the organoleptic profile of their product (histogram) and confidential comments from the committee. “ATHENA has greatly helped to upgrade the quality of Greek olive oil,” notes Ms. Katsouli. “In the past, there was grumbling when someone wasn’t awarded. Now, producers come and tell us ‘you were right’. One producer confessed to me that after a negative comment from the committee, he started filtering his olive oils and saw a dramatic difference. We have producers who have changed practices, harvesting methods, and storage, following the comments of our judges.”
Reviving Rare Varieties
The competition also acts as an “ark” for the Greek olive grove. Thanks to ATHENA, rare and overlooked varieties have regained commercial value. As Ms. Katsouli mentions, “The Olympia variety (formerly known as Nemoutiana) was awarded Double Gold in 2018, and since then, they have been continuously planting it. Asprolia Lefkadas has now begun to revive on the island after its distinction. Leukolia Serron, too,” she says, adding that “In Western Macedonia, the olive grove is reviving greatly, and interest is turning to the diversity these varieties offer.” Similar examples include Tsampidoelia, Tsunati, Petrolia, and Hondrolia Aegean, which are now claiming their place on the shelves of high gastronomy.
The Athens Rendezvous
This year, the 30-member international judging panel, staffed by top names from Spain, Cyprus, and Greece (such as Konstantinos Patistis, making his debut in the institution), will have the opportunity to experience the cultural side of the country. The program includes a visit to the Acropolis and a historical overview by an archaeologist on the position of the olive tree from antiquity to today. As Ms. Katsouli points out: “Our judges become our best ambassadors. When they see the serious work being done, they trust the competition and recommend it to everyone.”
Interested producers have until April 6, 2026, to apply through the website www.athenaoliveoil.gr.
Info: Athena International Olive Oil Competition 2026 | May 2, 3 & 4, 2026 | Stratos Vassilikos Hotel, Athens
