Johnny Madge Olive Oil Tastings

Discover the Unique World of Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Johnny Madge

For anyone curious about olive oil beyond the supermarket shelf, the Johnny Madge Olive Oil Tasting offers a fresh, expert-led experience in Valencia. Priced at $23 per person for a one-hour session, this tour combines fun and learning in a friendly setting. Led by Johnny Madge, the only International Olive Oil Competition judge in Valencia who conducts tastings, guests gain access to top-quality oils from Spain and other countries.

This experience is ideal for food lovers, cooking enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to understand what makes extra virgin olive oil special. The tour features at least three of the world’s best olive oils, with explanations about how they are made, what to look for in quality oils, and how to use them with food. While the tasting is engaging, it remains accessible for all, whether you’re a culinary nerd or just eager to learn. Keep in mind that the group size is small enough to ensure a personalized experience, and the location is a cozy café in Benimaclet, Valencia.

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Key Points

• Led by Johnny Madge, an expert judge with 20 years of experience conducting tastings.
• Includes at least 3 of the world’s best olive oils selected by an industry professional.
• Tasting takes place in a friendly, relaxed environment at a local café.
• Duration is 1 hour, with flexible start times available.
• The tour covers how to taste and use olive oils, including gluten-free bread options.
• Languages offered include English, Italian, French, and Spanish.

From the Meeting Point in Benimaclet to the Heart of Olive Oil Expertise

The tour begins at La Ola Fresca café in the Benimaclet neighborhood, a peaceful square with plenty of trees and no car traffic, making it a comfortable starting spot. The café’s large sign makes it easy to find, and after an hour of guided tasting, the experience ends right back at the same location. This central meeting point makes it simple to incorporate into a day exploring Valencia.

The small group size fosters an intimate atmosphere where Johnny Madge shares his expertise in a friendly manner. The duration of 1 hour keeps the session engaging without feeling rushed, while the availability of multiple languages ensures accessibility for visitors from different backgrounds.

How Johnny Madge Makes Olive Oil Tasting Fun and Informative

Johnny Madge’s 20 years of hosting tastings shine through in his approach. He explains the significance of being “extra virgin”, clears up confusing terms like first cold pressed, and details how the best oils are produced. His explanations are delivered with clarity and a sense of humor, ensuring the experience is enjoyable as well as educational.

Guests are invited to smell and taste the oils using special biodegradable cups, which highlight the aromas and flavors. For those who prefer, bread (including gluten-free options) is provided for dipping, making the tasting accessible to different dietary needs.

Johnny also shares insights into food pairing tips, health benefits, and oil milling technology. For anyone interested in the nerdy details, photographs and additional facts are available, but the overall tone remains light and friendly. Many appreciate that they are made to feel more like guests than clients, which adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

What Oils Are Tasted and Why They Matter

The oils selected for tasting are not produced by individual farmers or brands, but are judged and chosen by Johnny Madge based on quality and flavor profile. This means guests sample some of the best olive oils available globally, including Spain’s top oils and those from other countries.

The tasting involves at least three oils that exemplify diverse flavors and aromas. Johnny explains how these oils are judged in international competitions, giving guests a rare glimpse of what sets award-winning oils apart. The oils are paired with explanations about how to incorporate them into cooking or dipping, making the experience practical as well as delightful.

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Learning How to Taste Olive Oil Like a Pro

The tasting technique is a core part of the experience. Johnny Madge teaches guests how to smell oils to detect fruity, floral, or grassy aromas, and how to taste to identify bitter or peppery notes.

He also demystifies what makes an oil “extra virgin”, explaining common misconceptions about cold pressing and oil quality. Guests learn to distinguish between quality oils and less desirable options, which helps them make better choices when shopping for olive oil.

If desired, guests can practice tasting with bread and see firsthand how different oils pair with various foods. This part of the session provides valuable skills for those keen on enhancing their culinary knowledge or improving their kitchen pantry.

The Importance of the Location: La Ola Fresca Café in Benimaclet

The meeting point at La Ola Fresca is a notable feature of this tour. Located in a quiet, shaded square, the café offers a relaxed setting away from busy streets. The large sign outside makes it easy to find, and the café environment creates a comfortable space for tasting and conversation.

The location’s accessibility and friendly ambiance contribute to the overall enjoyment of the experience. After an hour of tasting, guests return to the same spot, making it a convenient activity that can fit well into an afternoon or be paired with other nearby explorations.

Accessibility and Multilingual Options

This olive oil tasting is suitable for a diverse audience, with services offered in English, Italian, French, and Spanish. The activity is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

The timing flexibility with reserve and pay later options makes it easy to fit into different schedules. Whether visitors want to sample oils casually or dive into the details of oil production, Johnny Madge adjusts the depth of explanation to match the group’s interests.

Why This Olive Oil Tasting Stands Out in Valencia

What makes this tour special is its combination of professional expertise and friendly approach. Johnny Madge’s 20 years of experience as an international judge means that the oils tasted are carefully selected for quality and flavor. The small group size and personalized explanations create an intimate learning environment.

The cost of $23 offers great value for a high-quality, expert-led experience. Unlike tastings hosted by producers, Johnny’s focus on independent selection and explanation provides guests with impartial insights into what makes a top-tier olive oil.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This tasting experience suits foodies, cooks, or anyone interested in understanding olive oil’s true qualities. It’s particularly advantageous for those who want to learn how to identify quality oils and use them effectively in their own kitchens.

The relaxed and informative atmosphere makes it accessible for beginners, while the expert knowledge appeals to more seasoned food lovers. If you’re searching for a short, engaging activity that enhances your appreciation for a staple ingredient, this tour delivers both fun and education.

The Sum Up: A Must-Do for Food and Olive Oil Enthusiasts in Valencia

The Johnny Madge Olive Oil Tasting offers a unique chance to learn from an industry expert in a friendly setting. For $23, guests receive at least three top-quality oils, insights into production, and practical tasting skills. The small-group format and multilingual guides make it a comfortable experience for a variety of visitors.

While it’s not a large-scale commercial tasting, the personalized attention and carefully curated oils mean that this activity stands out as more than just a tasting—it’s an opportunity to expand your understanding of what makes olive oil special. Whether you’re new to olive oil or a seasoned connoisseur, this tour will enrich your knowledge and enhance your appreciation for this essential ingredient.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the olive oil tasting?
The experience lasts 1 hour, with start times available based on availability.

Where does the tour take place?
The tasting occurs at La Ola Fresca café in Benimaclet, Valencia.

What oils are tasted during the session?
Guests sample at least three oils, selected by Johnny Madge from the best oils in Spain and beyond.

Is the tasting suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, gluten-free bread is available for dipping, making the tasting accessible to gluten-sensitive guests.

What languages are offered for the tour?
Guides speak English, Italian, French, and Spanish.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
Reservations can be made now and paid later for flexibility.

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