Benimaclet, Valencia: Olive oil and Food Pairing

Imagine a cozy café in the lively neighborhood of Benimaclet, where you can sample some of the world’s best olive oils and learn how to turn simple ingredients into memorable dishes. For just $61 per person, you’ll spend about two hours with Johnny Madge, an International Olive Oil Competition judge, who shares his passion and expertise in a friendly, approachable way. This experience combines tasting, education, and good food—something every food enthusiast or curious traveler should consider.

We love how Johnny makes the complex world of olive oil accessible, explaining how oils are judged and what to look for in a high-quality product. His insight transforms a simple tasting into a skill you can take home. Plus, the pairing with thoughtfully prepared vegetarian and vegan dishes, complemented by a glass of wine or beer, makes this a well-rounded culinary experience.

One potential consideration is that this experience is quite food-focused, so if you’re looking for a full-blown tour of Valencia’s broader culinary scene, you might want to combine it with other activities. But if you enjoy learning about gourmet ingredients and elevating the simplest foods—think bread, salads, and cheeses—this is a perfect fit.

This tour suits those with a curiosity for authentic flavors, an interest in how quality ingredients are judged, or anyone seeking a relaxed, informative way to enjoy Valencian gastronomy. It’s especially ideal for vegetarians and vegans, given the nature of the dishes, and accessible for those with mobility considerations.

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: Johnny Madge, an international judge, offers professional insights with a personable touch.
• High-Quality Oils: Tasting 3 to 5 of the world’s best olive oils elevates your understanding of their flavors.
• Food Pairing: The dishes are thoughtfully prepared to showcase the oils, making the flavors pop.
• Inclusive Experience: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, catering to various dietary needs.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Held in a friendly café, making it easy to enjoy the tasting without feeling rushed.
• All-Inclusive Price: No hidden costs—wine or beer, oils, and tasty bites are included in the fee.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Experience

In a charming corner of Valencia’s Benimaclet neighborhood, Johnny Madge’s olive oil tasting session offers an authentic look at one of Spain’s most treasured ingredients. For two hours, you’ll sit in La Ola Fresca, a small, welcoming café, and explore the world of extra virgin olive oils—what makes them special, how they’re judged, and why they matter so much in Spanish cuisine.

What makes this tour stand out is Johnny’s dual role as an expert and entertainer. We loved the way he combines serious knowledge with humor and a relaxed style, making even the most technical aspects of olive oil accessible. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about what makes a good olive oil, Johnny’s explanations help you appreciate the subtle nuances of aroma, flavor, and texture.

Another highlight is the tasting of top-tier oils. Johnny brings oils that have won international awards, so you’re sampling some of the very best in the world. As he describes the oils’ characteristics—whether peppery, grassy, or fruity—you begin to understand what makes each one unique. The accompanying food is delicious and designed to highlight the oils’ qualities, not overpower them.

A small drawback might be that the experience is quite centered on olive oil and vegetarian food, so if your main interest is a broad tour of Valencia’s cuisine or its famous dishes like paella, this will be a more specialized complement rather than a full meal. But for those who love learning about quality ingredients and tasting premium oils, it’s a real treat.

This experience is best suited for food lovers, curious travelers, and those interested in authentic Spanish ingredients. It’s an ideal way to deepen your appreciation for a kitchen staple that often goes unnoticed but can truly transform simple dishes.

What to Expect

The Welcome and Introduction

Johnny greets you warmly at the small café, with clear signage making it easy to find. He starts by sharing his background and explaining the basics of how he judges olive oils in international competitions, which instantly builds trust and sets the tone for an educational yet fun session.

Tasting High-Quality Olive Oils

You will taste 3 to 5 different oils, each with unique flavors. Johnny describes how the oils are made, what “extra virgin” and “cold pressed” mean, and how quality can vary dramatically. He emphasizes the importance of aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel while guiding you through the tasting process—similar to wine but with a focus on freshness and purity in oil.

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Learning the Judging Process

For those interested, Johnny shares insights into how he evaluates oils in competitions held around the world—Japan, Germany, Greece, Tunisia, and more. This behind-the-scenes look reveals what experts look for: balance, complexity, aroma, and persistence. His approach makes this an engaging class, rather than a dry lecture.

Food Pairing and Tasting

The highlight is pairing these oils with five carefully prepared dishes. Expect vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, all designed to showcase how a good olive oil can elevate simple foods like crusty bread, salads, or cheese. Johnny explains how the oils’ flavors change the way you experience these dishes, often transforming them into something surprising and mouthwateringly good.

The Beverage

A glass of wine or beer accompanies the tasting, which is included in the price. Johnny points out how certain oils pair especially well with particular drinks, adding another layer of enjoyment to the experience.

The Atmosphere

Held in La Ola Fresca, the vibe is friendly and relaxed. The small group size encourages interaction, questions, and plenty of tasting notes. It’s a great setting to learn without feeling overwhelmed.

The Details that Make It Valuable

Duration and Group Size

At approximately two hours, the experience is long enough to be immersive but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring. It’s a comfortably small setting, ensuring personalized attention from Johnny.

Price and Value

At $61 per person, this experience offers tremendous value considering the quality of oils sampled and the personalized guidance. You’re not just paying for tasting; you’re gaining skills to identify and appreciate quality olive oils—a skill that will serve you well long after your trip.

Accessibility and Languages

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the instructor speaks multiple languages—English, Italian, French, Spanish—making it welcoming for diverse travelers.

Flexibility

With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, you can plan with confidence. Plus, you can reserve now and pay later, which is especially useful if your travel plans are still flexible.

Why This Tour Matters for Travelers

This tasting provides more than just palate-pleasing bites. It opens a window into Spanish culture and appreciation for one of its most iconic ingredients. You’ll leave with an understanding that olive oil is not just a condiment but a craft, and with the confidence to select better oils back home.

For travelers who love learning through tasting, this is a memorable, hands-on experience. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy vegetarian or vegan dishes, as the included food caters perfectly to those diets. If you’re a wine lover or culinary enthusiast, the pairing aspect deepens your appreciation for how flavors work together.

And, because it takes place in a small café in a residential neighborhood, it offers a glimpse of Valencia beyond the tourist spots—a chance to connect with local life centered around good food and company.

The Sum Up

For a well-rounded, immersive look into Spain’s culinary treasure—olive oil—this experience hits the mark. Johnny Madge’s expertise makes the tasting both educational and enjoyable, perfect for curious minds and food lovers alike. The combination of premium oils, thoughtfully prepared dishes, and a friendly atmosphere provides an authentic taste of Valencia’s rich flavors.

If you want to step beyond sightseeing and truly understand what makes Spanish olive oil so special, this tour is a practical, enjoyable choice. It’s especially good for those who want to learn how quality ingredients can turn everyday food into something extraordinary, all while enjoying a relaxed two-hour session.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone eager to try something new, this experience offers real value, memorable flavors, and a deeper appreciation of one of Spain’s culinary icons.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, the dishes are vegetarian and vegan-friendly, with options that cater to various dietary preferences.

Are gluten-free options available?
Yes, the tour can cater to gluten-free needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the pairing.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately two hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable activity.

Is there an age limit?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but it’s best suited for adults or older children interested in food.

What languages does the guide speak?
Guides speak English, Italian, French, and Spanish, accommodating international travelers.

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the venue and activity are wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

What should I bring?
Just bring your curiosity and a good appetite! All tasting materials and drinks are included.

Where exactly does the tour start and end?
It begins at the small café La Ola Fresca, clearly marked, and ends back at the same spot.

In all, this olive oil and food pairing session is a delightful blend of education, flavor, and local charm—perfect for those who want to deepen their appreciation for authentic Spanish ingredients.

You can check availability for your dates here: