Ancient Gold. Premium Greek Olive Oil Tasting at Olicatessen

Step into the world of premium Greek olive oil at Olicatessen’s exclusive tasting event. Led by expert Alexandros Stefanidis, this immersive two-hour session uncovers the exquisite flavors of "Ancient Gold." Discover sustainable family estates and centuries-old groves as you explore diverse olive oil varietals. With optional food pairings, this experience promises to elevate your understanding of Greece’s olive oil heritage. Are you ready to unlock the secrets behind each bottle’s character?

Key Points

• Discover premium Greek olive oils from family estates and centuries-old groves, showcased by expert Alexandros Stefanidis in a 2-hour tasting session.
• Explore the diverse olive oil profiles of Greece’s microclimates, including bold Koroneiki and delicate Athinoelia varieties, with insights into terroir and production methods.
• Gain insider knowledge on sustainable farming practices and the reverence for land and its bounty that shapes the character of Greek olive oils.
• Enjoy an optional 1.5-hour food tasting experience to complement the olive oil tasting, led by the owner of Olicatessen, Alexandros Stefanidis.
• Benefit from Stefanidis’ extensive experience, with over 1,800 tasting events organized and collaborations with top producers, sommeliers, and gastronomy journalists.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Olive Oil Tasting Experience

What can one expect from the premium Greek olive oil tasting experience at Olicatessen? A 2-hour session led by expert Alexandros Stefanidis, who’s organized over 1,800 tasting events.

The tasting showcases premium olive oils from family estates and centuries-old groves across Greece. Participants will gain unique insights into the complex, varied world of Greek olive oil, learning about locality, cultivation practices, and the significance of respecting nature.

An optional food tasting is included, lasting 1.5 hours. At $98.51 per person, the experience offers a chance to discover the "liquid gold" of Greece.

Expert Guidance and Background

Hosted by Alexandros Stefanidis, an expert and the owner of Olicatessen, the premium Greek olive oil tasting experience boasts an impressive pedigree.

With over 1,800 tasting events under his belt, Stefanidis has collaborated with top producers, olive oil and wine sommeliers, and gastronomy journalists.

He’s also organized the first award institution for Greek products from small producers. This expertise ensures guests receive:

• Insider knowledge on locality, cultivation practices, and the significance of respecting nature

• Unique insight into the complexity and varietal world of Greek olive oil

• Discussion on family estates and centuries-old olive groves

• A true appreciation for the nuances of premium Greek olive oil.

Exploring the Varietal World of Greek Olive Oil

Why is the varietal world of Greek olive oil so captivating? Greece’s unique microclimates and ancient olive groves produce an array of distinct olive oil profiles.

At the tasting, guests explore the complexity of Greek olive oil. They compare bold, peppery Koroneiki and delicate, floral Athinoelia.

Discussions on cultivars, terroir, and production methods offer insights into the nuances of each variety. By exploring the varietal spectrum, guests develop a deeper appreciation for the expertise and passion that Greek olive oil producers bring to their craft.

This tasting illuminates the vibrant, ever-evolving story of Greece’s liquid gold.

Cultivating Respect for Nature

Respect for nature lies at the heart of premium Greek olive oil production.

Alexandros Stefanidis, the olive oil expert and owner of Olicatessen, emphasizes this during the tasting experience. He discusses how:

• Decades-old olive trees are meticulously cared for using sustainable farming practices.

• Minimal intervention during harvesting and processing preserves the oil’s natural flavors and nutrients.

• Family estates honor their ancestors’ traditions while embracing modern techniques to ensure quality.

• The terroir, climate, and topography of each region shape the unique character of the olive oils.

This reverence for the land and its bounty is what makes Greek olive oil so exceptional.

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Highlighting Family Estates and Centuries-Old Olive Groves

The premium Greek olive oil tasting at Olicatessen showcases the remarkable heritage of family estates and centuries-old olive groves across the country.

Guests explore the complex flavors and aromas of olive oils produced by generations-old farming families. From Kalamata to Crete, these family-run operations exemplify the deep-rooted respect for nature’s cycles and traditional cultivation practices.

Alexandros Stefanidis, the tasting host, delves into the significance of this legacy, sharing insights into the unique terroir and varietal diversity that shape the character of each olive oil.

The tasting offers an unparalleled window into Greece’s living olive oil traditions.

Tasting Premium Olive Oils From Across Greece

During the premium Greek olive oil tasting, guests embark on a sensory journey through the diverse terroirs and cultivars that define the country’s revered olive oil heritage.

Led by expert Alexandros Stefanidis, the tasting explores a selection of premium oils from family estates and centuries-old olive groves across Greece.

Attendees gain unique insights into:

• Locality and cultivation practices

• The significance of respecting nature

• The complexity and varietal world of Greek olive oil

• The pivotal role of small producers in preserving this ancient culinary tradition.

The Tasting Itinerary and Meeting Point

Guests begin the premium Greek olive oil tasting experience at Ermou 24, within the historic Agora Modiano marketplace in Thessaloniki.

This is the starting point, where they’ll meet Alexandros Stefanidis, the expert and owner of Olicatessen.

Alexandros has organized over 1,800 olive oil tasting events and brings unparalleled knowledge to the experience.

During the 2-hour session, guests will taste premium olive oils from various producers across Greece, exploring the complexities and varietals of this ancient food.

An optional food tasting is included, providing a deeper dive into the flavors that complement these exceptional olive oils.

Important Considerations and Recommendations

What key considerations should participants keep in mind for this premium Greek olive oil tasting experience?

Firstly, it’s important to note that the tasting isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with food allergies.

To make the most of the session, participants should come prepared with water and comfortable clothing.

The host, Alexandros Stefanidis, is an expert in the field, having organized over 1,800 tasting events.

Participants can expect a deep dive into the complexity and varietal world of Greek olive oil, including:

• Cultivation practices

• Significance of respecting nature

• Unique insights from a seasoned professional

• Tasting of premium oils from family estates

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Olive Oil to the Tasting Event?

No, you can’t bring your own olive oil to the tasting event. The experience is focused on sampling the premium Greek olive oils presented by the expert host. Bringing your own oil would distract from the curated tasting.

Is There an Age Requirement to Participate in the Tasting?

There’s no age requirement to participate in the olive oil tasting. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with food allergies. Participants should be prepared to engage in the tasting and discussion led by the expert host.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

Yes, Olicatessen offers discounts for group bookings. The more people in the group, the greater the discount. Discounts can range from 10% for small groups to 20% for larger parties. It’s best to check with Olicatessen for the current group rates.

Can I Purchase the Tasted Olive Oils Directly From the Venue?

Yes, you can purchase the olive oils tasted during the experience directly from the venue, Olicatessen. The expert host will provide details on how to do so after the tasting session.

Is There a Dress Code or Attire Requirement for the Event?

There’s no strict dress code, but participants should wear comfortable clothing. The focus is on the olive oil tasting experience, so casual attire that allows you to move around and enjoy the event is recommended.

Final Words

This olive oil tasting is a must for enthusiasts. Attendees will explore premium Greek olive oils, learn from an expert, and discover the rich terroir that shapes each oil’s character. The experience includes optional food tastings, making it an immersive journey into the world of sustainable, high-quality olive cultivation. Don’t miss this chance to deepen your appreciation for the exquisite flavors of "Ancient Gold" olive oils.

You can check availability for your dates here: