Olive Oil, Cheese, and Wine Tasting with Local Expert

A unique opportunity to explore California’s food scene through the eyes of a local expert, this Olive Oil, Cheese, and Wine Tasting with Local Expert offers an intimate and educational experience. Priced at $129 per person, the tour lasts approximately 2 hours and takes place at a family-operated olive farm in Suisun Valley. What makes this experience particularly appealing is the chance to taste award-winning olive oils, sample artisan cheeses, and sip small producer wines—all guided by someone with over a decade of experience in Italy and a Masters in Food Philosophy and Sustainability.

With a maximum group size of six, the tour maintains a personal touch, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed, informative outing. The tour is well-suited for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone curious about California’s local produce. However, it’s important to note that participants must be 21 or older for wine tasting, though the olive oil and cheese parts are open to ages 18 and above.

Key Points

• Personalized experience limited to 6 guests for more interaction
• Includes a walk through olive groves on a family-owned farm in Suisun Valley
• Tastings of award-winning olive oils, local cheeses, and artisanal wines
• Learn to evaluate flavors and understand what makes extra virgin olive oil special
• Opportunity to meet small California wine producers and hear their stories
• Tour duration is approximately 2 hours, starting at 10:30 am

Starting Point at Il Fiorello Olive Oil Company

This tour begins at Il Fiorello Olive Oil Company, located at 2625 Mankas Corner Rd, Fairfield, CA. The meeting time is 10:30 am, making it a great morning activity. The location itself is part of the charm, with the farm offering sweeping views of the Suisun Valley and a welcoming setting for tasting and exploring.

The meeting point is easily accessible, and the tour ends back at the same location. Being based at a working farm means you’ll get a firsthand look at how olive oil is produced and the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the landscape. The host is flexible and willing to accommodate different schedules if the current times don’t suit.

Tour Highlights at the Family-Owned Olive Farm

The core of this experience is the stroll through the olive groves, where visitors observe traditional farming practices. The guide, who comes from a family that has produced olive oil for over 20 years, shares insights on olive cultivation and production processes.

Following the walk, guests participate in a detailed olive oil tasting featuring various oils from the family’s award-winning harvest. The focus is on sensory evaluation—learning how to identify freshness, fruitiness, and bitterness—and understanding what extra virgin really means. This part of the experience aims to demystify olive oil fraud and highlight quality standards.

Sampling Award-Winning Olive Oils and Pairings

The highlight for many is the tasting of several olive oils, each carefully selected to showcase different flavor profiles. The oils are paired with snacks that enhance their flavors, making for a delicious and educational experience. Reviewers frequently mention the oils’ complexity and the knowledgeable guidance that helps participants appreciate the nuances.

Since the oils are produced by the host’s family and regularly win domestic and international awards, tasting these oils provides a rare look at some of California’s best. Guests leave with a new appreciation for the craftsmanship behind quality olive oil.

Exploring California Wines from Small Artisanal Producers

After the olive oil tasting, the tour shifts gears to wine tasting, featuring a flight of small-batch wines from Northern California producers. Many of these wineries are artisanal and family-owned, and the host often calls the winemakers friends.

Guests learn to evaluate wines through sensory techniques, similar to the olive oil tasting, and develop an understanding of wine regions and flavor profiles. The wines are carefully selected to complement the oils and cheeses, enhancing the tasting experience. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and variety of wines, often noting that the experience feels more personal than a typical commercial tasting.

Sampling Local Cheeses and the Food Revolution

Concluding the tasting, participants sample two locally made cheeses. The guide discusses the food revolution happening in California, emphasizing local sourcing and artisanal production. The cheese tasting adds a rich, savory element to the experience, and the conversation explores food pairing fundamentals.

Participants gain insights into food authenticity and how regional craft food products are shaping California’s culinary identity. The combination of oils, cheeses, and wines creates a balanced, flavorful tasting that highlights the region’s diverse food culture.

The Intimate and Personal Atmosphere

The small group size ensures a relaxed, engaging setting. The host, Elisabeth, is described as knowledgeable and friendly, making everyone feel comfortable and welcomed. This personalized approach allows for customized conversations and detailed explanations about each product.

Guests frequently comment on the stunning location and the friendly farm environment, which adds to the overall enjoyment. The experience is suitable for those seeking educational insights as well as casual fun.

Practical Information and Booking Details

This tour is priced at $129 per person and lasts around 2 hours. The only scheduled time listed is 10:30 am, but the host encourages contacting them if alternative times are needed, making it flexible for different schedules.

Confirmation is received at booking, and the tour is designed for a maximum of 8 travelers. The experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so planning ahead is recommended. Service animals are allowed, and participants must be 21 or older for wine tasting, though under 21 can enjoy the olive oil and cheese parts.

Why This Tour Stands Out in California’s Food Scene

What sets this experience apart is the family-owned farm setting, combined with the expertise of a host with international food experience. The focus on small producers and artisanal products offers a taste of California’s local food revolution.

The combination of educational tasting, beautiful scenery, and personalized attention makes it a memorable outing for foodies and wine lovers alike. The emphasis on sensory evaluation and food pairings ensures guests leave with practical knowledge and new appreciation for regional products.

Final Thoughts on the Olive Oil, Cheese, and Wine Experience

This tour offers a rich, hands-on look at California’s local food culture, with a focus on quality, tradition, and personal stories. The small group size and expert guidance make it a particularly rewarding experience for those curious about olive oil production, wine craftsmanship, and artisanal cheeses.

While the price might be a consideration, the quality of the products and the personalized approach justify the cost for many. It’s suitable for foodies, wine enthusiasts, and anyone interested in supporting local farms and small-batch producers.

Participants who enjoy educational tours and tastings in a relaxed, scenic environment will find this experience both delightful and informative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 18 can participate in the olive oil and cheese tastings, but wine tasting is only for 21 and older.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 10:30 am.

Where does the tour meet?
The tour begins at Il Fiorello Olive Oil Company located at 2625 Mankas Corner Rd, Fairfield, CA.

Can the tour accommodate larger groups?
Yes, the host is happy to accommodate larger groups for private tastings beyond the standard group size.

What is included in the price?
Guests enjoy a selection of artisan wines, samples of award-winning olive oils, artisanal cheeses, and additional snacks.

Is there a cancellation policy?
The experience is non-refundable; if canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

What makes this tour different from other tasting experiences?
The focus on family-owned farms, small producer wines, and personalized guidance sets this experience apart from typical tastings.

Can I request a different time or date?
Yes, the host encourages contacting them to find alternative times if the scheduled options do not fit.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking is recommended, especially during the farm walk through the groves.

Is this experience accessible for people with mobility challenges?
No specific accessibility details are provided; guests should inquire directly if needed.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely—especially for those eager to learn about California’s local food and wine scene in an intimate setting with a knowledgeable guide.