Olives & Olive Oil & Wine Tasting (3 in 1 Experience!) offers a delightful peek into Greece’s most iconic products—olive oil, olives, and local wine—all in a charming Rhodian village. For around 2.5 to 3 hours, you’ll be transported into the heart of olive country, with an expert guide (or owners) leading the way. The tour is based in Maritsa, a traditional village that’s been producing olive oil since 1927, and it’s a rare chance to see a family-run facility that’s grown into one of Greece’s top producers.
What we love about this experience is its authenticity and hands-on approach. You’ll get close to the machines, see how olives are pressed, and learn how the quality of olive oil is measured—something that’s often overlooked in touristy tastings. Plus, the inclusion of homemade wine adds a local flavor that feels genuine rather than commercial. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour takes place rain or shine, so be prepared for any weather.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just a tasting; it’s perfect if you’re curious about the production process or eager to understand Greece’s olive and wine traditions. Foodies, wine lovers, and those interested in authentic local experiences will find it especially rewarding.
Key Points
- Authentic Family-Owned Factory: Visit a historic olive mill dating back to 1927.
- Expert-Led Tasting: Learn how to taste and assess olive oil quality from an experienced host.
- Diverse Tasting Experience: Sample three types of Greek olives, award-winning olive oils, olive pastes, and local homemade wine.
- Educational Insights: Discover how olives are grown, harvested, and pressed in Greece.
- Small Group Atmosphere: Intimate experience with plenty of time for questions.
- All-Weather Activity: Conducted rain or shine, so dress appropriately.
A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience
The Setting: Maritsa, a Traditional Rhodian Village
Starting at the Elaiotpibeio in Maritsa, the tour boasts a scenic setting typical of Greek countryside—olive trees everywhere, a peaceful ambiance, and a sense of stepping into a place where tradition still matters. From the moment you arrive, the charm of this family-run operation is palpable. The mill’s history stretches back nearly a century, and the current owners—grandchildren continuing their grandfather’s legacy—bring both pride and passion to their work.
The Journey Begins: From Tree to Table
The tour kicks off with an explanation of how olive trees grow and how olives are harvested. You’ll learn that the process starts with the careful picking of ripe olives, often by hand, ensuring quality from the outset. This part of the tour gives you a new appreciation for the labor behind the product, with the guide emphasizing how different harvest times or methods impact flavor.
Inside the Olive Oil Mill: Machines and Methods
Next, you’re taken inside the olive mill, which is both historic and modern—a unique blend that’s rare to find. The owners, with their decades of experience, showcase the pressing process, explaining each machine’s role and how traditional and contemporary techniques come together to produce high-quality olive oil.
What’s particularly engaging is the opportunity to see the machinery in action—from the crushing stones to the centrifuges—and to hear about how each step influences the final product. This close-up view demystifies what often seems like an opaque process, turning it into an educational experience.
More Great Tours NearbyQuality Assessment: Tasting the Liquid Gold
After the production overview, Mr. Nikos, the owner, demonstrates how to check olive oil acidity, which is a direct indicator of quality. This part of the tour is practical and memorable—you’re not just sampling blindly, but learning to evaluate olive oils on aroma, flavor, and texture.
You’ll sample three different types of award-winning olive oils, each with distinct flavor profiles. The guide teaches how to taste oils properly, examining aromas, noting bitterness or fruitiness, and understanding the nuances that make each one unique. This skill enhances your appreciation and helps you select quality oils for your home.
Olives and Pastes: A Tasting of Greece’s Best
Moving on, you’ll try a variety of Greek olives, some of the finest in the region, alongside olive pastes—think tapenades and spreads. These are made from local recipes and pair beautifully with the oils you’ve just tasted. The experience is relaxed, with plenty of time to ask questions or discuss your favorites.
The Highlight: Homemade Wine and Local Hospitality
No Greek experience is complete without a taste of local wine, and here you get to sample a homemade variety from the owner’s private vineyards. It’s a warm, genuine gesture—something you’re unlikely to find in commercial wineries or touristy shops. The wine complements the olive products and rounds out a truly local experience.
The End: Drop-off and Reflection
The tour concludes back at your original meeting point, with the option for multiple drop-off locations across Rhodes. This flexible approach makes it easier to fit into your day and explore more of the island afterward.
What Our Guests Say
The reviews highlight the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides, with Julianna noting how charming Nikos (the owner) is, and Nadia praising the “knowledgable and enthusiastic” hosts. Sara appreciated the “fascinating insights,” while Gabriela called the experience “absolutely amazing,” emphasizing the passion of the owner and the hands-on learning.
Many mention the intimate setting, with some tours capped at just six participants, fostering a personal connection and plenty of time for questions. Fanny pointed out how much she enjoyed tasting olive oils, tapenades, and homemade wine in a friendly, relaxed environment—”they explain various things with a big smile!”
Price and Value
While the actual price isn’t listed here, reviews suggest that the tour provides excellent value for a small-group, genuine experience. The combination of education, tasting, and cultural insight makes it more than just a tasting; it’s a chance to connect with Rhodes’ culinary roots.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re curious about how olive oil is made or want to sample authentic Greek products in a family-run setting, this tour will suit you well. Food lovers and those interested in local traditions will appreciate the detailed explanations and the personal stories behind the products. It’s also ideal for travelers who enjoy small, intimate groups and like to learn at a relaxed pace.
The Sum Up
This Olives, Olive Oil, and Wine Tasting is a charming, educational journey into Greece’s beloved products. The combination of historic family-run production, hands-on demonstrations, and delicious tastings creates a memorable experience that goes beyond the typical tourist fare. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of olive oil quality, a new palate for Greek olives, and a taste of local wine—all in a setting that feels authentic and warm.
It’s especially well-suited for travelers who love food, local craftsmanship, and authentic cultural encounters. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply curious about Greece’s famed olive oil and wine, this tour offers a genuine slice of Rhodian life.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, providing enough time to explore, taste, and ask questions without feeling rushed.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at Elaiotpibeio, Ikaron 43, in the village of Maritsa, with pickup options available depending on your booking.
Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly, especially if there’s a chance of rain.
What is included in the price?
You’ll taste three types of Greek olives, award-winning olive oils, olive pastes, and local homemade wine. The tour also includes a visit inside the oldest, most technologically advanced olive mill in Rhodes.
How is the olive oil quality assessed?
Mr. Nikos demonstrates how to measure olive oil acidity, which indicates quality, and guides you through tasting to appreciate different aroma and flavor profiles.
Is this experience family-friendly?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the hands-on, tasting-focused nature generally appeals to adult travelers and foodies.
Can I buy products on the spot?
Yes, many guests recommend bringing cash to purchase the products directly from the factory, as suggested by some reviews.
What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most travelers.
Is there a maximum group size?
The experience tends to be intimate, with reviews mentioning tours with only six attendees, providing ample opportunity for interaction.
In sum, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Rhodes’ olive and wine heritage. For those eager to learn, sample, and connect with local traditions, it’s a rewarding choice that showcases the best of Greece’s culinary craftsmanship.
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