In the atmosphere of one of the most important global evaluations of olive oils, the New York International Olive Oil Competition 2025, the spotlight has once again been directed towards Istria, where in the silence of the olive grove one of the most awarded oils in Europe – Vergal – is born. This line of extra virgin olive oils, behind which stands the tourist group Aminess, has once again proven its excellence by winning three gold medals for each individual oil from its range – Frantoio, Leccino and Vergal Blend. This endeavor distinguishes them not only among the best in the region, but also in the world.

This is an event that gathers the best olive oil producers from almost all continents every year, and this year’s competition was extremely strong – 1244 samples were registered from 28 countries, including globally established olive oil destinations such as Italy, Spain, Greece, Australia and the United States. Yet, among the global elite, Vergal shone in full splendor, entering the category of premium oils that exceed market standards.

Olive Groves by the Sea – the Source of Istrian Excellence

Vergal oils are produced in the immediate vicinity of the Aminess Group’s tourist facilities in Novigrad, where olive groves grow on soil enriched with minerals, with a constant influence of sea salt and the strong Istrian sun. This combination enables the development of olives with exceptionally stable chemical and organoleptic properties. Processing is carried out almost immediately after harvesting, using a cold process, which ensures that aromas, color and quality remain preserved until the final product. Frantoio oil is known for its spiciness and pronounced green note, while Leccino brings a milder, fruity profile with a subtle almond finish. The blend represents a harmony of several varieties, ideal for daily consumption and culinary creations.

Years Present Among the Best

This triple gold award is not Vergal’s first success on the global stage. The oil line is regularly positioned in the most prestigious global guides and selections. Thanks to consistency in quality and innovations in production, this year they were once again highlighted in the Italian competition Leone D’Oro, where they ranked among the finalists. In recent years, Istrian oils have increasingly occupied top positions in global ratings, and Vergal is becoming a symbol of contemporary Croatian olive growing – a blend of traditional methods and modern technological approaches.

A New Dimension of the Tourist Offer

Olive oils are not just a food product, but also an integral part of the tourist experience in Istria. Guests staying in Novigrad increasingly express interest in oil mills, tours of olive groves, and even participating in harvests that traditionally take place at the end of September and during October. Such activities transform an ordinary holiday into an educational and sensory experience. Tourists do not go home only with beach photographs, but also with a bottle of authentic, local oil that carries the story, aromas and flavors of the region.

It is precisely in Novigrad, where Aminess has its hotels and camps, that this concept of a holiday in harmony with nature has been further developed. Oil mills and olive groves are within walking distance of numerous accommodation facilities, and some hotels also offer guests tasting packages with included education on types of oil and tasting rules.

Our Recommendation for Your Ideal Nearby Accommodation

Hotel Aminess Maestral

• A modern hotel by the seafront, with a view of the sea and exceptionally courteous staff.


• Location: Located right next to the promenade and beach, a 10-minute walk from the old town.


• Reasons for Recommendation: Wellness center, pools, top-notch cuisine, proximity to olive groves.


• Amenities: Spa area, indoor and outdoor pools, restaurant, bicycle rental.


• Stars: ★★★★


• In recent reviews, guests have praised the tranquility, cleanliness, and the offering of Mediterranean delicacies.

Aminess Sirena Camp

• A camp located in the shade of a pine forest, with terraces near the sea and private mobile homes.


• Location: 800 meters from the center of Novigrad, in a natural setting.


• Reasons for Recommendation: Ideal for families and nature lovers, immediate proximity to the sea.


• Amenities: Grill area, shops, sports facilities, children's entertainment.


• Stars: ★★★


• Guests were impressed by the spaciousness of the plots and the cleanliness of the communal sanitary facilities.

Apartments Rivarella

• Private accommodation with terraces and a view of the sea, in a quiet part of Novigrad.


• Location: Near Rivarella beach, a few minutes from the town center.


• Reasons for Recommendation: Comfort, homely atmosphere, peaceful location.


• Amenities: Air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, parking, equipped kitchen.


• Stars: ★★★


• Reviews highlight excellent cleanliness and the availability of the hosts for all guest inquiries.

Olive Oil as a Catalyst for the Local Economy

Behind every gold award stand months of dedicated work – from harvesting, processing, storage to bottling and quality control. For local producers, as well as the entire tourism sector, recognitions such as those from New York have multiple importance: not only do they elevate the reputation of the region on an international level, but they also motivate additional investments in production and rural tourism. In Novigrad, there are more and more events dedicated to olive oil, including themed fairs, workshops and expert lectures. This synergy of agriculture and tourism enables Istria to sell its authenticity not only through advertisements, but through real products and experiences.