A HAMPSHIRE olive oil company’s star is rising as they pick up celebrity admirers along the way.
Husband and wife team Ben and Lola Knowles are celebrating a year since they opened their Cheriton-based business, Two&One Olive Oil, which imports Picual oil from Spain.
The Chronicle caught up with Lola to talk about the company, which has received approval from the likes of Raymond Blanc and Gennaro Contaldo.
When asked about how things were going, she said: "Well, it’s been stronger and stronger. We have had a great reception, like, for instance, at Blenheim Palace."
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The couple have travelled around the country, showcasing their oil at food fairs, including one at Blenheim Palace where celebrity chef Raymond Blanc gave Two&One his seal of approval.
"He loved them," said Lola. "He really liked them."
The couple have also appeared on the BBC Good Food Show.
Lola, originally from Spain, explained how the name of the business springs from her and Ben's attempts to marry Spanish and British culture.
She explained: “It’s called Two&One because our ethos is 'two cultures, one lifestyle'.”
The festivities for the businesses first year of trading were held close to home, at The Alresford Show.
Since joining the Hampshire Fare as educating members, Lola and Ben have held several olive oil tastings and talks, most recently at Inn the Park in Winchester and Black Chalk Winery near Stockbridge.
SEE ALSO: Couple turn Spanish family olive oil into Hampshire business
The next tasting will take place at the Tichborne Arms, on Friday, September 27.
Two&One is being served at a variety of local restaurants, including Pulpo Negro and the Cabinet Rooms among others.
It can also be found at Basil Leaf Deli, Kingsgate Provisions, and Hogget and Boar Butcher's among other delis and specialist shops, including in London and online.
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