The Epicurious Guide to Olive Oil

Like that orchid you bought and immediately killed and Maria Carey's vocal cords (and entire persona, actually) olive oil is delicate, precious—dare we say high maintenance. Exposure to sunlight, oxygen, heat, and the general elements will destroy its flavor and freshness—and more quickly than you think. But we're not trying to scare you. There are solutions. You can appease the diva of fats, provided you buy it in the proper packaging and store it correctly.

Read our general guide to storing olive oil, with tips from an expert, here.

Read about our favorite olive oil cruets—because the thing that dresses your salad beautifully should also be dressed beautifully in the finest ceramics.