Exploring the flavors of California’s wine country has never been more enticing. Join a small group of just eight participants on a sensory journey through family-owned olive groves, artisanal cheeses, and a curated wine tasting flight. Led by a local expert, this unique experience offers a chance to explore the nuances of olive oil production, appreciate the complexities of Northern California’s finest vintages, and discover the food revolution that’s transforming the culinary landscape. Prepare to indulge your senses and uncover the captivating stories behind each delightful morsel.
Key Points
- Intimate 2-hour experience with a local expert in California’s wine country, focusing on olive oil, cheese, and wine tasting.
- Multilingual options available, and the experience is wheelchair accessible for inclusivity.
- Sensory evaluation of award-winning olive oils, guided by a local expert to enhance appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship.
- Wine tasting flight featuring a selection of Northern California artisanal wines, complementing the olive oil and cheese experiences.
- Reservations can be made online or by contacting the organizers, with a free cancellation policy and a "reserve now & pay later" option.
Activity Overview
The activity offers an olive oil, cheese, and wine tasting experience led by a local expert in the heart of California’s wine country.
It lasts 2 hours and takes place at 2625 Mankas Corner Rd, just 20 minutes from Napa Valley.
The group size is limited to 8 participants for an intimate setting.
An intimate experience with just 8 participants, allowing for a personalized tasting journey.
Multilingual options are available in English, Italian, and French.
The experience is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the rural setting.
Guests will explore family olive groves, taste award-winning oils, artisanal wines, and locally made cheeses during this immersive culinary journey.
Experience Highlights
As visitors walk through the family olive groves, they’ll learn about the production of extra virgin olive oil and have the opportunity to taste award-winning oils.
The experience also includes a wine tasting flight featuring artisanal wines from Northern California’s micro producers. Guests will explore the differences between industrial and artisanal cheese production and enjoy a cheese tasting of two locally made varieties.
Throughout the 2-hour tour, you will relish the beautiful rural setting, just 20 minutes from Napa Valley, while discussing the food revolution over recent decades.
Sensory Evaluation of Olive Oils
At the heart of the olive oil tasting is a sensory evaluation that allows participants to fully appreciate the complexity and nuances of the award-winning oils. Guided by the local expert, guests will learn to discern the oils’ aromas, flavors, and textures through a structured tasting. The evaluation covers four key attributes:
| Attribute | Description |
| — | — |
| Fruitiness | The perception of fresh olive fruit |
| Bitterness | The pungent sensation in the back of the throat |
| Pungency | The piquant or spicy sensation on the tongue |
| Balance | The harmonious blend of the oil’s positive attributes |
This immersive experience elevates the understanding and appreciation of exceptional extra virgin olive oil.
Wine Tasting Flight
Following the tasting of the award-winning olive oils, guests embark on a wine tasting flight showcasing the artisanal wines of Northern California’s micro producers.
The selection includes:
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A crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc
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A bold, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon
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A lively, fruit-forward Pinot Noir
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A smooth, oak-aged Chardonnay
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A delicate, floral Rosé
Guests savor each varietal, learning about the unique terroir and winemaking techniques that contribute to the flavors.
The wine tasting provides a wonderful complement to the olive oil and cheese experience, offering a well-rounded exploration of the region’s artisanal food and beverage products.
More Great Tours NearbyArtisanal Cheese Tasting
What lies in store for guests next is the artisanal cheese tasting.
They’ll explore the art of small-batch cheese production, sampling two locally made cheeses. The expert will guide them through the nuances of each cheese, discussing the differences between industrial and artisanal methods.
Attendees will learn how factors like milk source, aging, and traditional techniques contribute to the unique flavors and textures.
This hands-on cheese tasting complements the olive oil and wine tastings, offering a well-rounded exploration of Northern California’s gourmet food revolution in a scenic, intimate setting.
The Food Revolution
Over recent decades, a food revolution has transformed the culinary landscape, challenging traditional methods and embracing artisanal, locally-sourced ingredients.
This movement has sparked a renewed appreciation for:
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Organic, sustainable farming practices
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Minimally processed, "clean" foods
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Innovative flavor profiles and cooking techniques
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Transparency in food production and supply chains
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Cultural preservation through traditional recipes and foodways
As consumers demand more authentic, high-quality experiences, producers and chefs have responded by highlighting the stories, craftsmanship, and community behind their offerings.
This food revolution continues to shape culinary trends and inspire new generations of foodies.
Booking Details
How does one reserve a spot for this unique olive oil, cheese, and wine tasting experience? The process is simple.
Customers can reserve their spot online or contact the organizers directly. They offer a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Plus, a "reserve now & pay later" option is available, providing customers with flexibility. If customers need to adjust the schedule, they’re encouraged to reach out, as the organizers aim to accommodate alternative times.
The experience is limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate setting for this culinary adventure.
Additional Information
The price of the experience includes all the tastings, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the flavors of the region.
The price of the experience allows guests to fully enjoy the flavors of the region with all tastings included.
Customers can purchase olive oil and other goods after the tasting to take home. However, gratuities aren’t included in the price.
Visitors should check in at the designated parking and entrance area. The experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all.
Flexible scheduling is available, so guests can contact the organizers if they need alternative times.
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All tastings included in the price
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Option to purchase olive oil and other goods post-experience
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Gratuities not included
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Check-in at designated parking and entrance
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Wheelchair accessible
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated During the Tasting?
The experience accommodates dietary restrictions. Guests should notify the organizers of any needs when booking, and the local expert will ensure a customized tasting that caters to all participants.
How Long Does the Drive From Napa Valley Take?
The drive from Napa Valley to the tasting location takes approximately 20 minutes. The experience takes place in a rural setting just outside Napa Valley, providing a scenic and convenient getaway from the popular wine region.
Do Participants Receive a Copy of the Tasting Notes After the Event?
The tasting notes are not provided to participants after the event. However, the local expert leads an interactive discussion during the tasting, allowing guests to take notes and ask questions throughout the 2-hour experience.
Is It Possible to Arrange Transportation to the Tasting Location?
Yes, the experience provider can arrange transportation to the tasting location for an additional fee. Guests should contact the provider to inquire about transportation options and make the necessary arrangements prior to the event.
What Is the Dress Code for the Olive Oil, Cheese, and Wine Tasting?
The tasting experience has a casual, relaxed dress code. Comfortable, weather-appropriate attire is recommended, as the tour includes a walk through the olive groves. No formal wear is required for this informal, immersive food and wine event.
The Sum Up
This immersive tasting experience allows visitors to discover the nuanced flavors of California’s olive oils, wines, and artisanal cheeses. Led by a local expert, you will explore the intricacies of sensory evaluation, the food revolution, and the region’s culinary heritage. With a intimate group setting, this activity promises a well-rounded appreciation for the local producers and their exceptional products.
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