Olive Oil Tasting by Expert in Mykonos

A unique opportunity in Mykonos lets visitors explore olive oil tasting with Anita Zachou, a distinguished Olive Oil Expert and judge in international competitions. For $144.11 per person, this 1 hour 30 minutes workshop offers a deep dive into the world of extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs) from across Greece, led by a host acclaimed for her expertise. The tour departs from Paralia Agios Ioannis at 5:00 pm and includes a clear focus on sensory evaluation and olive oil quality.

What makes this experience stand out is Anita Zachou’s reputation as the only true olive oil taster on the island, having pioneered the concept back in 2019. Participants enjoy a view of Sacred Delos Island during the tasting, adding a scenic backdrop to this educational journey. After the workshop, there’s an optional chance to swim at the beach of Agios Ioannis and enjoy a meal in the nearby restaurant, making it a well-rounded afternoon combined with learning and leisure.

While the group size is limited to 15, ensuring personalized attention, the experience is especially suited for those keen to understand olive oil quality, recognize defects, and learn how to evaluate award-winning EVOOs. No prior knowledge is necessary, and the tour is accessible to most travelers—just keep in mind that wearing perfumes or allergy concerns should be considered.

Key Points

• Led by Anita Zachou, a world-famous olive oil expert and competition judge
• Includes tasting of 3 Greek EVOOs and 3 defect oils, with palate cleansers
• Learn sensory evaluation principles and how to identify quality and defects
• The scenic view of Sacred Delos enhances the tasting experience
• Optional swim at Agios Ioannis beach and lunch in the local restaurant
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance

Expert-Led Olive Oil Tasting with Anita Zachou

This tour is the only olive oil tasting program on Mykonos led by Anita Zachou, a globally recognized Olive Oil Expert known for her expertise and judging in international competitions. The $144.11 price covers about 90 minutes of guided tasting, with live commentary on the making, quality, and health benefits of Greek EVOOs.

Participants are quite taken with Anita’s deep knowledge, as her background allows her to explain the olive oil making process, helping guests distinguish between award-winning oils and those with defects. This is not just a tasting but an educational workshop designed to empower consumers to evaluate olive oils confidently at home and avoid fraud.

Scenic View of Sacred Delos During the Workshop

The tasting takes place with a spectacular view of Sacred Delos, adding a memorable visual element to the experience. This scenic setting is an ideal backdrop for learning about olive oil while soaking in the beauty of Mykonos’ coastline. The vantage point enhances the sensory experience, making the tasting more immersive and enjoyable.

What You Taste and Learn During the Workshop

The core of the experience is the tasting of three different extra virgin olive oils from across Greece. Alongside these, three oils with defects are introduced, helping participants identify common faults like rancidity or mustiness. This comparative approach sharpens the palate and enhances understanding.

Along With the oils, the workshop includes water, green apples as palate cleansers, and snacks to balance the tasting. Anita explains the health, beauty, and well-being benefits of Greek olive oil, providing a well-rounded perspective on why EVOOs are a staple in Greek daily life.

How the Sensory Evaluation Works

Participants learn the principles of olive oil tasting and sensory evaluation techniques. This includes evaluating aroma, flavor, and texture, as well as detecting defects that can indicate lower quality. Mastering these skills helps protect against fraud and ensures consumers choose authentic, high-quality olive oils.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The meeting point is at Paralia Agios Ioannis, making it easy to access by public transportation or car. The activity starts promptly at 5:00 pm and ends back at the same location. The group size is limited to 15, which ensures a more personalized, engaging experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Additional Relaxation: Beach and Lunch Options

After the tasting, guests can stay and swim at the beach of Agios Ioannis—just remember to bring a swimsuit. The nearby restaurant offers the chance to enjoy a meal, although lunch and drinks are not included in the tour price. This makes the experience perfect for combining learning, scenic views, and leisure.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers, with confirmation received at booking. It is not recommended for those allergic to olive oil or sensitive to perfumes, as these could interfere with the tasting. The tour also allows service animals and benefits from proximity to public transportation.

Why This Olive Oil Tasting Is a Valuable Experience

This experience offers more than just a tasting; it provides practical skills to evaluate olive oils, understand their benefits, and spot quality differences. Anita Zachou’s reputation ensures a high standard of guidance and education that surpasses generic tastings.

The combination of expert insights, scenic beauty, and optional beach time makes it an engaging choice for those interested in Greek cuisine, local culture, or simply wanting to expand their culinary knowledge in an authentic setting.

Final Thoughts on the Olive Oil Tasting by Anita Zachou

This tour’s main appeal is learning from a recognized authority while enjoying breathtaking views. The limited group size fosters an intimate and educational environment, ideal for foodies, cooks, or anyone wanting to better appreciate Greek olive oil.

While the price point might seem high, it includes expert guidance, quality oils, and a scenic setting. The optional beach visit and nearby restaurant add to the overall value, creating a well-rounded afternoon of education and relaxation in Mykonos.

This experience is most suited to those with a genuine interest in food, health, or Greek culture, and who appreciate expert-led activities. Given its free cancellation policy, it remains a practical choice, especially for visitors planning their schedules ahead of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the olive oil tasting tour?
The tour includes tasting of 3 Greek EVOOs, 3 oils with defects, water, green apples as palate cleansers, and snacks. An expert guide, Anita Zachou, leads the session.

How long does the experience last?
The workshop lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Paralia Agios Ioannis in Mykonos. The activity begins at 5:00 pm.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with allergies?
It is suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for those allergic to olive oil or sensitive to perfumes. Children are welcome, but note that the focus is adult education.

Can I stay and swim after the tasting?
Yes, after the workshop, you can stay to swim at Agios Ioannis beach and enjoy the nearby restaurant.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15 people, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is there an option to cancel?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.

What makes this tour different from other tasting experiences?
This is the only olive oil tasting on Mykonos led by Anita Zachou, a globally recognized expert, offering in-depth education and authentic Greek oils from across Greece.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit if you plan to swim afterward. No specific clothing is required, but comfortable shoes and casual attire are recommended.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it is designed to be accessible for most travelers and is located near public transportation.

Who is the experience provider?
The experience is provided by ANITA Z. with contact at +306979226475 or [email protected].