In the sun-drenched hills of Portugal, olive oil is more than a product—it is a precious nectar born of tradition and a perfect climate. The country stands as a beacon of quality in the global market, with the Douro Valley leading the way. Here, the harmony of land and craft produces award-winning olive oils that win over even the most demanding food connoisseurs across the globe.

Coming from Spain, I’m naturally biased toward our own world-class oils, but Esplendido EVOO truly surprised me. It has a distinctive yellowish glow that suggests a later, more buttery harvest, yet it doesn’t sacrifice character; you still get that fresh fruitiness and the spicy, peppery finish on the palate. Knowing it’s a pure, cold-pressed oil means you’re getting all the vitamins and antioxidants without any chemical processing. At only 0.2% acidity, it has become my go-to for everything from drizzling over bread to everyday cooking.

For Daniel Ledo Trujillo, the kitchen has always been home. Growing up in Madrid, he spent his childhood navigating local markets with his mother and mastering family recipes on the weekends. This early curiosity blossomed into a global career that took him from the luxury hotels of Madrid to the rugged landscapes of Ireland and the tropical shores of the Caribbean. After years of exploring diverse cuisines in countries like Belize, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica, he brought his talents to the cruise industry in 2010. Whether managing production for high-end catering clients or traveling between his two homes in Madrid and Mexico, Daniel’s cooking remains rooted in the diverse cultures he has encountered along the way.

Currently serving as a Senior Executive Chef for Regent Seven Seas Cruises—widely regarded as the world’s most luxurious cruise line—Daniel Ledo Trujillo’s path crossed with Jorge Caeiro. The two formed an immediate bond over their shared dedication to world-class hospitality and the guest experience. Their mutual passion for fine ingredients led to a collaboration centered on quality; Daniel now takes great pride in featuring Jorge’s award-winning Esplendido EVOO to elevate the signature dishes served across the fleet.