In this episode of the Cooking Chat Food & Wine Podcast, I talk with Daniel Danes, Founder of Titin EVOO, and Ben Aguilar, the company's head of operations. Titin is a Boston-based, family-owned brand importing high-quality extra virgin olive oil from the Jaén region in southern Spain. We dig into what truly sets great olive oil apart, how harvest timing and terroir shape flavor, and practical ways to bring better olive oil into your everyday cooking.
You can also listen on:
Apple podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music
Highlights from this episode include:
- The family story behind Titin EVOO, founded by Daniel and inspired by three generations of women in the olive oil producing region of southern Spain.
- How Daniel's MBA experience at Babson - and difficulty finding high-quality olive oil in U.S. stores - led to launching Titin in Boston.
- Ben's path from risk management into food & beverage, and the trade-show tasting that convinced him to join the company.
- What truly distinguishes extra virgin olive oil, and why harvest timing (early harvest vs. November vs. later-season olives) dramatically changes flavor and quality.
- The unique qualities of Titin's oils: single origin from Jaén, single variety (Picual), single vendor sourcing, and full traceability back to the groves.
- Flavor and usage differences between the Universal (everyday) EVOO and the Finishing (early harvest) oils - including their signature peppery kick.
- Simple ways to let great olive oil shine in home cooking, from Spanish tortilla and fried eggs to pasta, salads, and even ice cream topped with finishing oil.
- Where to find Titin EVOO locally in Boston-area shops, online, and soon through Amazon Prime shipping.
Today’s Guests
Daniel Danes is the Founder of Titin EVOO. His great grandmother was nicknamed Titin, and started the tradition of harvesting olives on the family groves in Spain over a century ago. He launched Titin after completing his MBA from Babson.
Ben Aguilar is the Head of Operations for Titin. He was the first hire for the US company, and is Dani’s right hand man.
Titin EVOO is a family-owned extra virgin olive oil brand from Boston. They are able to provide fresh olive oil for a fair price because Titin controls their whole supply chain – from their family groves in Jaen Spain to your bottle. For more information, including ways to order their EVOO or find it in a Boston area store, visit the Titin EVOO website.
Leave a Reply