By Melisa Beleli

3 Cocktails You Can Make with Extra Virgin Olive Oil

When you think of extra virgin olive oil, your mind probably goes to salads, dips, or a drizzle over roasted vegetables. But what if we told you it can also be the star ingredient in your next cocktail? That’s right—cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil adds depth, richness, and a silky texture that turns an ordinary drink into something unforgettable.

Here are three cocktail recipes that celebrate the bold and fruity notes of high-quality olive oil, inspired by Mediterranean flavors and perfect for your next dinner party or aperitivo hour.

1. 🍋 Olive Oil Gin Fizz

A creamy twist on the classic with bright citrus and a peppery finish.

Ingredients:

  • 60 ml gin

  • 30 ml fresh lemon juice

  • 20 ml simple syrup

  • 1 egg white

  • 1 tsp Joila extra virgin olive oil

  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. Add all ingredients (except ice) into a shaker and dry shake to emulsify.

  2. Add ice and shake again.

  3. Double strain into a chilled coupe.

  4. Garnish with a lemon twist and a tiny olive oil drizzle.

Why it works: The egg white and olive oil create a smooth, velvety texture while the lemon keeps it refreshing.

2. 🍅 Bloody Maria with Olive Oil

A brunch classic, reimagined with a Mediterranean touch.

Ingredients:

  • 45 ml tequila (or vodka if you prefer)

  • 90 ml tomato juice

  • 10 ml lemon juice

  • 1 tsp Joila extra virgin olive oil

  • 3 dashes hot sauce

  • 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce

  • Salt & pepper

  • Celery stick & cherry tomato for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Stir all ingredients in a shaker without ice.

  2. Add ice and roll gently between two tumblers.

  3. Strain into a tall glass with fresh ice.

  4. Garnish and serve.

Why it works: The olive oil softens the acidity and enhances the savory, spicy notes.

3. 🌿 Mediterranean Negroni

Herbal, bitter, and beautifully balanced.

Ingredients:

  • 30 ml gin

  • 30 ml Campari

  • 30 ml sweet vermouth

  • 1 tsp Joila extra virgin olive oil

  • Orange peel

Instructions:

  1. Stir gin, Campari, and vermouth with ice.

  2. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.

  3. Float olive oil on top and garnish with orange peel.

Why it works: The olive oil adds a round, luxurious mouthfeel to this bold aperitif.

Why Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil in Cocktails?

High-quality extra virgin olive oil—like Joila’s cold-pressed blends—offers not just flavor, but also a velvety texture and rich aroma. Think of it like finishing salt or a dash of bitters. It elevates. It surprises. It makes your cocktail memorable.

Whether you’re a professional mixologist or just playing around at home, don’t be afraid to experiment. The best cocktails are the ones with a twist.

 

Pro Tip: Always use fresh, cold-pressed olive oil with fruity or peppery notes. Avoid overly bitter or rancid oils—they’ll dominate your drink instead of enhancing it.