õlivees

Õlivees is an Estonian-language term used for a beverage whose core component involves olives or olive-derived material infused in water. Because the use of the term is not standardized, the exact composition can vary between producers. Common forms include olive leaf infusions in water, which yield a pale, slightly bitter drink, and emulsified preparations that blend small amounts of olive oil with water to create a light emulsion.

Production methods are diverse. Some recipes steep dried olive leaves in cold or hot water to extract phenolic compounds such as oleuropein, often with added citrus zest or herbs for aroma. Others combine a trace amount of olive oil with water and stabilize the mixture with natural emulsifiers or gentle carbonation. Flavor profiles typically lean toward fresh, grassy, and mildly bitter notes, sometimes complemented by citrus, rosemary, or mint.

Characteristics and sensory aspects. Õlivees is usually non-alcoholic and low in calories, with a pale green to amber appearance. The aroma can be olive-forward with herbal or citrus nuances, and the mouthfeel ranges from crisp and refreshing to slightly creamy in emulsified variants.

Etymology and usage. The name likely derives from Estonian roots associated with olives and water, reflecting its primary components. In contemporary contexts, õlivees appears mainly in niche or specialty product offerings in Estonia and some Nordic markets, produced by craft producers or small beverage companies.

See also: olive leaf tea, olive oil beverages, olive water.