Olive Oil Tasting in Ancient Masseria in Ostuni

This review covers a fascinating tour of an ancient masseria in Ostuni, where visitors get to explore centuries-old olive groves, see historic olive presses, and taste some of Italy’s finest organic extra virgin olive oils. While we haven’t personally done this experience, it’s clear from reviews and detailed descriptions that it offers a truly authentic glimpse into Puglia’s most treasured product.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the setting — a beautifully restored 16th-century farm surrounded by monumental olive trees. Second, the knowledgeable guidance from a certified olive oil sommelier like Lucia Leone, who makes the tasting both educational and engaging. Third, the chance to walk among ancient trees and visit an underground olive press carved into the rock, a rare glimpse into traditional methods.

The only potential downside? Transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point. Still, for those interested in food history, authentic farming practices, or simply savoring top-quality olive oils, this experience offers more than just a tasting—it’s a genuine journey into Puglia’s land and traditions.

This tour suits food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone fascinated by olive oil’s history and production. If you appreciate scenic rural landscapes and want to enhance your understanding of Italy’s culinary pride, this one’s well worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic Location: Set in a 16th-century masseria surrounded by monumental olive trees.
• In-depth Experience: Includes a guided tour, visit to underground olive press, and walk in ancient groves.
• Expert Guidance: Led by Lucia Leone, a certified olive oil sommelier who educates through tasting and storytelling.
• Hands-on Tasting: Sample four different organic extra virgin olive oils, learning how to distinguish flavors.
• Educational Focus: Learn how to select, store, and use high-quality olive oil at home.
• Affordable Value: At $46, the experience offers a combination of history, education, and tasting, making it a worthwhile investment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Perfect Blend of History, Nature, and Flavor

The experience begins with an easy-to-find meeting point along the SS 16 Adriatica, marked by a welcoming gate with “Il Frantoio Azienda Agricola” sign. Once you arrive at the masseria, you’re greeted by the peaceful landscape of Puglia, where the land’s red earth perfectly contrasts with the silvery leaves of ancient olive trees. The masseria itself is a beautiful blend of restored historic architecture and functional farm buildings, offering a sense of stepping back in time.

The 60-minute guided tour takes you through the estate’s historic rooms and charming courtyard, introducing you to the estate’s long history as a rural farm. But the real highlight is visiting the hypogeum, an underground olive press carved deep into rock. This site offers a tangible connection to the past, where olives were pressed in the cool shadows centuries ago. According to reviews, this underground press is a rare sight, and one that adds a special dimension to the experience—it’s not often you get to see a working ancient olive press.

Walking through the monumental olive groves, visitors learn about the different harvesting methods—hand-picking on the younger trees and mechanical shaking for the older, more massive trees. This detail isn’t just technical trivia; it reflects a commitment to sustainable practices and respect for the trees’ longevity. Reviewers like Michele praise Lucia’s passion and thorough explanations, describing her as “exceptional” and noting how she conveys her love for olive oil with infectious enthusiasm.

The Art of Olive Oil Tasting

After soaking in the history and scenery, the most anticipated part begins—the tasting. Led by Lucia Leone, who is described by reviews as passionate and knowledgeable, guests sample four carefully selected organic oils produced right at the estate. The oils are not just tasted—they’re dissected, with Lucia guiding you to identify aromas, bitterness, and spiciness.

This is where the experience shifts from a simple sip to a genuine educational journey. You’ll learn to distinguish between aroma notes and recognize what makes each oil unique. Lucia emphasizes how to choose the best oil for different dishes, and how proper storage can preserve flavor. As one reviewer said, “The tasting was accompanied by a very good explanation,” which helps you leave with practical skills to enhance your home cooking.

The oils represent the estate’s sustainable, organic cultivation methods, and the tasting offers insight into what makes an exceptional olive oil stand out. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or an everyday cook, you’ll walk away with a better eye (and nose) for quality olive oil—and the confidence to select and use it wisely.

The Experience’s Value

At $46 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded mix of history, culture, and tasting education. Considering the complexity of the experience—guided tour, visit to ancient presses, walk through historic groves, and a professional tasting—it’s a strong value for those wanting an immersive, authentic experience in Puglia.

The fact that the estate uses respectful harvesting techniques and produces organic oils adds an extra layer of appeal. When you taste the oils and see the trees older than many nations, you’ll understand why olive oil is such a prized product in Italy. Reviewers appreciate how the experience is more than just a tasting; it’s a lesson in tradition and sustainability.

The tour duration, approximately an hour, makes it manageable even on a busy travel schedule, but it’s packed with enough content to feel substantial. Keep in mind, transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly to arrive at the meeting point on time.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

• Historic Setting: The 16th-century masseria provides a beautiful, authentic backdrop that enhances the experience. It’s a place where history is visibly alive.
• Visit to Ancient Olive Press: Seeing the hypogeum, carved into the rock, offers a rare window into antique pressing techniques that are rarely accessible to travelers.
• Expert-Led Tasting: Lucia Leone’s knowledgeable guidance elevates the tasting beyond simple sipping, making it educational and memorable.
• Focus on Sustainability: The estate’s organic practices and careful harvesting methods highlight a respect for tradition and land, which adds depth to your appreciation of the oil.
• Authentic Nature Walk: Walking among millennia-old trees connects you directly to the land and the centuries of care behind each drop of oil.

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Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is ideal for foodies eager to learn about one of Italy’s most iconic products. It’s equally suited for history buffs interested in traditional agricultural techniques. Travelers who love scenic rural landscapes and authentic farm visits will find it especially rewarding.

It’s perfect for those who want to expand their palate and gain practical knowledge on choosing and using high-quality olive oil. If you’re visiting Ostuni or nearby areas and want a meaningful, hands-on experience that combines history, nature, and flavor, this tour will fit the bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation to and from the masseria isn’t included. You will need to arrange your own way to the meeting point, which is accessible from the main roads.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 60 minutes, making it a manageable addition to a day of exploring Ostuni or the surrounding countryside.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for international visitors.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers a guided tour of the historic masseria, visit to the underground olive press, walk in the olive groves, and a technical tasting of four organic extra virgin olive oils with expert guidance.

Are the olive oils produced on-site?
Yes, all four oils are produced at the estate, emphasizing organic and sustainable cultivation methods.

Can I learn how to select and store olive oil?
Absolutely. Lucia provides practical advice on how to choose, store, and use high-quality olive oil at home, enhancing your culinary skills.

Is this experience suitable in the off-season?
Yes, the experience is designed for year-round visits, whether during harvest time or quieter months, as it focuses on the land, tradition, and tasting.

What kind of trees will I walk among?
You’ll see monumental, millennia-old olive trees—some older than nations—adding a sense of living history to your visit.

Can I buy the oils or other products after the tour?
While not explicitly stated, most estate visits offer the opportunity to purchase their oils and related products—worth checking with the provider to confirm.

Final Thoughts

This Olive Oil Tasting in a 16th-century Masseria offers a meaningful peek into Puglia’s land, traditions, and culinary treasures. The combination of historic sites, expert guidance, and immersive tastings creates a memorable experience suitable for a diverse range of travelers.

The setting’s authenticity, the educational focus, and the opportunity to connect with the land make it more than just a tasting—it’s a cultural journey. For those who want to deepen their understanding of Italian cuisine beyond just eating, this tour provides both inspiration and practical knowledge.

While transportation concerns are worth noting, the experience’s depth and the chance to walk among ancient trees and visit a rare underground press make it a compelling option. Whether you’re an olive oil novice or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll leave with a richer appreciation—and plenty of delicious oils to enjoy back home.

In summary, this tour is best suited for food lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking an authentic, hands-on experience in Puglia’s scenic countryside. It’s an excellent way to connect with the land’s traditions and bring home not just memories but new skills and appreciation for Italy’s liquid gold.

You can check availability for your dates here: