**“Virgin” means the oil was extracted mechanically from olives without chemical refining; “extra virgin” is the highest quality grade of that unrefined oil.** Both can be filtered. These terms describe production and quality, rather than a first or second pressing. [International Olive Council](https://www.internationaloliveoil.org/olive-world/olive-oil/)

Under International Olive Council standards:

| Grade | Chemical requirement* | Taste and aroma requirement |
|---|---|---|
| **Extra virgin** | Free acidity no higher than **0.8%** | Some olive fruitiness and no sensory defects detected by a trained tasting panel |
| **Virgin** | Free acidity no higher than **2.0%** | Some olive fruitiness; limited sensory defects are allowed |

*Other chemical requirements also apply. “Free acidity” measures free fatty acids—it is not pH or how sour the oil tastes. [IOC definitions](https://www.internationaloliveoil.org/olive-world/olive-oil/), [sensory grading standard](https://www.internationaloliveoil.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/III-2.2.COI-T20-Doc.-15-REV-11-2024_EN-1.pdf)

**For flavor:** Extra virgin oil can range from delicate and mild to grassy, fruity, bitter and peppery. Bitterness and a peppery sensation in the throat are positive characteristics, not defects. Ordinary virgin oil may have slight off-flavors; it is not simply a milder version of extra virgin. [IOC sensory standard](https://www.internationaloliveoil.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/III-2.2.COI-T20-Doc.-15-REV-11-2024_EN-1.pdf)

**For cooking:** Both are suitable for everyday cooking. Extra virgin works well for sautéing, roasting and frying, as well as dressings and finishing dishes. Its smoke point varies with quality and freshness, so the label alone does not give an exact temperature limit. Good extra virgin oil also has antioxidants that help it resist deterioration during heating. [UC Davis](https://ucfoodquality.ucdavis.edu/olive-oil/olive-oil-myths-and-facts)

Practically, choose an extra virgin oil whose flavor you enjoy, and save especially aromatic or expensive bottles for dressings or a final drizzle, where their flavor is most noticeable.