Evo Oil Tasting School with Blindfolded Tasting and Lunch

Discover the Evo Oil Tasting School in Chianti

The Evo Oil Tasting School with Blindfolded Tasting and Lunch offers a hands-on exploration into extra virgin olive oil production, right in the heart of Chianti. Priced at $150.39 per person, this 3-hour experience is designed for those eager to learn about the quality, extraction, and health benefits of olive oil. The tour operates from Via dei Cofferi, 12, with a meeting time at 10:30 am, and it features a mobile ticket system for convenience.

Located in the Chianti Classico area, halfway between Florence and Siena, the farm produces extra virgin olive oil and saffron. The guides are passionate about sharing their land’s produce and love to involve guests in the process, making this experience both educational and engaging. With an average booking window of 124 days in advance, this tour appeals to visitors who appreciate well-organized, in-depth food and farm experiences.

Key Points

• Hands-on olive grove experience with practical pruning and tree recognition
• In-depth exploration of olive oil extraction, classification, and health benefits
• Blind tasting of three high-quality EVO oils, teaching you how to identify excellence
• Includes a four-course homemade lunch paired with local wines
• Small group size limited to 14 travelers for personalized attention
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Exploring the Olive Grove and Pruning Techniques

The tour begins directly in the olive grove, where guides demonstrate Tuscan pruning methods and teach how to differentiate varieties of olives. This practical component gives insight into how the farm manages its trees and what makes their oils unique. Expect to see different types of olive trees and learn what to look for in a quality harvest.

This part of the experience emphasizes the connection to land and tradition, providing a tangible understanding of how Olive oil begins from tree care and cultivation. It’s a chance to see olive harvesting practices up close and gain a broader appreciation of Tuscan agricultural methods.

How Olive Oil Is Made at the Farm’s Mill

Following the grove visit, the guides take you through the olive oil extraction process at the farm’s mill. They explain the steps involved and clarify Italian quality classification standards, helping you assess different grades of olive oil with confidence. A detailed explanation covers extraction techniques, temperature control, and storage best practices.

Understanding why olive oil is vital for health, the tour discusses nutritional benefits and how to recognize freshness and quality. You’ll learn what glass to use for tasting and the ideal oil temperature for experiencing authentic flavors, making it a comprehensive lesson for both enthusiasts and novices.

The Art of Blind Olive Oil Tasting

After the theoretical part, the focus shifts to practical tasting skills. The tour features a blind guided tasting of three different EVO oils, where you learn professional tasting techniques. The emphasis is on how to distinguish quality oils even without prior knowledge of the brands or varieties.

Guests discover what makes an olive oil high quality, including aroma, flavor, and texture. This segment helps sharpen sensory skills and enhances appreciation for small nuances in flavor, making the tasting both fun and enlightening.

Savoring a Homemade Four-Course Lunch with Farm Wines

Completing the experience, guests enjoy a home-cooked four-course lunch, featuring traditional Tuscan recipes paired with local wines produced on the farm. The meal highlights seasonal ingredients and demonstrates how olive oil enhances every dish.

The lunch is a relaxed, convivial part of the tour, allowing for conversations about the day’s learning and farm life. The inclusion of pairing farm wines adds a memorable touch, giving guests a full taste of authentic Chianti hospitality.

Meeting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour departs from Via dei Cofferi, 12 in Il Ferrone, Florence, and concludes back at the same location. It operates most days, with a start time of 10:30 am. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with up to 14 participants ensuring a personalized experience. It’s also designed to be accessible, with proximity to public transportation.

Booking well in advance is recommended, as the experience is popular, often reserved 124 days ahead. The free cancellation policy allows rescheduling or full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours beforehand, offering peace of mind for planning.

Unique Features That Set This Tour Apart

What makes this olive oil experience particularly special is the combination of practical farm activities, educational lessons, and culinary enjoyment. The blind tasting element adds a layer of fun and skill-building, helping guests develop a keen palate for high-quality EVO oils. The home-cooked lunch paired with farm wines rounds out the experience, making it a well-rounded introduction to Tuscan food culture.

The passionate guides, especially Fabrizio and his wife, create a warm atmosphere, sharing their knowledge and farm life stories. Many visitors praise the hospitality and authenticity, highlighting the chance to meet the land’s residents, including the farm animals.

Why This Tour Suits You

This experience is ideal for food lovers, culinary curious, and anyone wanting a hands-on introduction to olive oil. It’s perfect for those interested in local farming practices and gastronomy. The tour’s small-group setting ensures a more intimate, personalized visit, making it suitable for couples, small groups, and individuals.

While the 3-hour duration is manageable for most, it requires moderate walking in the olive grove and mill areas. The price point reflects the comprehensive nature, including the tasting, farm tour, and home-cooked meal—a true value for those seeking an immersive experience.

Final Thoughts on the Olive Oil School in Chianti

This Evo Oil Tasting School offers a well-balanced mix of education, tasting, and gastronomy. The guided farm tour and practical activities make it more than just a tasting—it’s a learning journey into the world of extra virgin olive oil. The blind tasting adds a fun challenge, while the homemade lunch ensures a satisfying conclusion.

The small group size and expert guides guarantee a personalized experience that appeals to those interested in authentic Tuscan produce and culinary craftsmanship. For anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of olive oil and enjoy a tasty farm lunch, this tour delivers a memorable, educational day in Chianti.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the lunch is a four-course home-cooked meal that can accommodate vegetarian preferences, as it highlights local, seasonal ingredients.

Do I need prior knowledge of olive oil to enjoy this experience?
No, the tour is designed to teach everyone from beginners to enthusiasts. The guided lessons and tasting exercises are accessible for all levels.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves walking in the olive grove and mill, but it is generally manageable for most people. Comfortable footwear is recommended.

Can I cancel or reschedule if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations made less than 24 hours ahead will not be refunded.