Milas and Memecik Olives

Milas has been the center of olive cultivation for thousands of years and is one of the most important olive production regions in Turkey. The majority of the region's olive trees are of the Memecik variety, known for its durable structure, and 90% of the production is for olive oil. The 7.8 million fruit-bearing trees in Milas stand out with their annual production capacity of up to 95 thousand tons. Olives are the main source of income for the local people and form the backbone of the agricultural economy. They say, "Oil flows from the mountains of Milas and honey flows from its plains"; this saying reflects the fertility and natural riches of the region. While the geographical structure of Milas supports the production of quality olive oil, olive trees have shaped the cultural and economic identity of the region throughout history by resisting occupation and destruction. Milas is not only an agricultural region, but also a land of abundance where soil and labor are blended with art.

Memecik olives can be easily distinguished from other varieties by their unique asymmetrical oval shape and slight curve at the tip of the fruit. Depending on ripeness, their color varies from yellowish green to dark cherry black. This olive, which has large grains and small seeds, has a medium-hard texture when fully ripe. Memecik, which can be used both for table and oil, is also known in the region by different names such as Taşarası, Aşıyeli, Tekir, Gülümbe, Şehir and Yağlık.

The trunk of the Memecik tree has a solid and durable structure. Its branches form a round and compact crown, while its gray-green leaves exhibit a silvery sheen in the sunlight. The flowering period begins in late April, and it begins to bear fruit in late May and early June. The fruits ripen in mid-November. This species is quite resistant to harsh environmental conditions such as drought and cold.

Memecik olive oil attracts attention with its greenish yellow tones. It has a medium-density fruity aroma and offers rich aromatic notes such as bitter orange, orange, almond and bay leaf. Thanks to its intense antioxidant components, it leaves a slight burning sensation in the throat and a mild bitterness. Memecik olives, which are quite rich in vitamin E (α-tocopherol) and phenols, are of great importance for human health with their high antioxidant and nutritional properties.