Half-day Wine and Olive Oil Tasting and Lavender Farm Tour

A Deeper Look at the Half-day Wine and Olive Oil Tasting and Lavender Farm Tour

This 4-hour experience takes you into the heart of California’s scenic Capay Valley, a region that offers a refreshing escape from city life. Priced at $149 per person, this tour balances authentic farm visits, tastings of estate-grown wines and award-winning olive oils, and delicious local bites. Starting at Capay Valley Lavender, then moving to Taber Ranch Vineyard for wine and wood-fired pizza, and ending at Seka Hills Olive Mill, it promises a varied yet cohesive glimpse into sustainable farming and regional flavors. Guides like Lara or Amanda have been praised for their friendly, informative approach, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

What we love about this tour is the intimate nature—a small group capped at 8 travelers means you get plenty of personal attention and chances to ask questions. The beautiful scenery, especially at the olive mill with views of Blue Ridge Mountains, brings a sense of calm and appreciation for California’s agricultural bounty. The behind-the-scenes tour at the lavender farm is a highlight, offering insight into the joys and challenges farmers face, plus tasty lavender-infused snacks that elevate the experience. Another strong point is the local, farm-to-table focus—from the ingredients in the pizza to the olive oil and wine, it’s a celebration of regional producers.

A potential consideration is the limited duration—if you’re looking for a deep dive into any one of these activities, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since transportation isn’t included, comfortable travel arrangements or a rental car are necessary to enjoy the full experience smoothly.

This tour is best suited for food and wine enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those curious about sustainable farming. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of authentic California, away from tourist traps, in a relaxed, small-group setting.

Key Points

• Authentic farm visits offer insights into lavender, olive oil, and wine production.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
• Local, farm-fresh ingredients shine in the food offerings, especially the wood-fired pizza.
• Scenic views and rural landscapes add a peaceful, picturesque backdrop to your tasting.
• Educational components, such as lavender oil distillation demos and farm stories, enrich the experience.
• Non-drinker options and vegetarian/vegan snacks make it inclusive for all dietary preferences.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Capay Valley Lavender

Your journey begins at Capay Valley Lavender, where farmHER — a friendly guide—takes you on a walk through fields of fragrant lavender. This stop isn’t just about visual beauty; it’s about connecting with a working farm. You’ll learn from a local farmer about the joys and hurdles of lavender farming. Expect to taste lavender-infused goodies, such as lavender spiced walnuts, scones, lemonade, and cider. These treats aren’t just delicious—they showcase how lavender can be integrated into everyday foods.

A highlight here is the demonstration of lavender oil distillation, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how a simple flower becomes the essential oil that’s used in so many products. Travelers have remarked that the aromatic environment and the personal stories from the farmHER add a layer of authenticity and charm to this stop. One reviewer even said, “I loved the way they explained the farming process and the different uses of lavender—it made me appreciate this humble flower even more.”

Moving on to Taber Ranch Vineyard & Wood-fired Pizza

Next, you’ll head to Taber Ranch, a picturesque estate known for its native plant gardens and estate wines. The stroll through the native garden is a peaceful way to take in the local flora and get a sense of the land’s natural beauty. Afterward, you’ll enjoy wood-fired pizza topped with ingredients sourced from within a 50-mile radius—an impressive commitment to local sustainability.

The wine tasting here is a real treat. With six wines to sample, you get a good sense of the vineyard’s offerings, from light whites to more robust reds. Many travelers appreciate the quality of the wines and say the pairing with the pizza works beautifully, creating a relaxed, farm-to-table vibe. One guest remarked, “The wine was excellent, and the pizza was so fresh and flavorful—I felt like I was dining in a local’s backyard.”

Ending at Seka Hills Olive Mill and Tasting Room

Your final stop is at the Seka Hills Olive Mill, owned by the Yocha Dehe tribe. Here, you’ll receive a private olive oil tasting, sampling award-winning oils that highlight California’s diverse olive varieties. The view of the olive groves and Blue Ridge Mountains provides a stunning backdrop for this part of the tour. You’ll learn about the olive oil production process, including how different oils are crafted, and hear tales from the farmer about the challenges of maintaining quality.

The experience culminates with a glass of wine and a charcuterie board, combining local olive oils, honey, and vinegar with regional wines. Many reviews mention how peaceful this setting is, and how the views make it a perfect place to unwind after a busy morning. One traveler noted, “The olive oil tasting felt exclusive, and the scenery was just breathtaking.”

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Price & Value: At $149 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that includes tastings, a substantial lunch, and guided tours. Considering the quality of the food, the private tastings, and the scenic stops, it’s a good value for those wanting a taste of California’s farm-fresh offerings.

Duration & Group Size: Lasting around 4 hours, it’s a manageable half-day trip. With a maximum of 8 travelers, the group feels intimate, allowing for personalized interaction and plenty of time to ask questions. This small size is particularly appreciated by travelers seeking a more relaxed, personalized experience.

Transportation & Logistics: Since private transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own travel to the starting point at Capay Valley Lavender. The tour begins promptly at 11:00 am and ends approximately 4 miles away from the starting point, which makes it convenient for those who drive or rent a car.

Weather & Cancellation: The tour requires good weather—a rainstorm could cause cancellations, but you’d be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case of sudden plans.

Why This Tour is Worth Considering

This experience is a great choice for travelers seeking an authentic taste of California’s agricultural bounty. The stunning scenery, combined with delicious local foods and informative farm stories, creates a well-rounded, memorable outing. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and educational experiences—you’ll come away with not just tastings, but a new understanding of farming in California.

If you’re after luxury or a deep dive into wine or olive oil production, this might feel a bit light. But if you want a relaxed, engaging, and delicious journey through one of California’s most picturesque regions, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, transportation isn’t provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the starting point at Capay Valley Lavender.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely. Non-alcoholic beverages are available, and vegetarian/vegan snack options are offered. The tour is inclusive for all dietary preferences.

What’s the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 8, making for an intimate experience where the guide can give personalized attention.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 4 hours, starting at 11:00 am and ending around 3:00 pm.

Are there any age restrictions?
Guests must be 21 or older to participate in alcohol tastings.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking and sun protection are recommended, especially for outdoor farm visits.

Is the experience suitable for children?
It’s primarily designed for adults, especially due to alcohol tastings, but families with accompanying adults are welcome.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. In case of cancellation due to rain or other weather issues, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This half-day farm-to-fork adventure is a fantastic way to get a taste of California’s agricultural charm. It combines stunning landscapes, delicious regional foods, and educational insights into lavender, wine, and olive oil production. The small group size ensures a personalized, relaxed experience that’s perfect for food lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone looking to escape into the countryside.

While it’s not a deep-dive into any one topic, it offers a well-rounded snapshot of the region’s farming culture, topped with plenty of flavorful samples. If you’re seeking a low-stress, high-enjoyment outing that celebrates California’s rural heritage, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Whether it’s the smell of lavender in the air, the taste of estate wines, or the breathtaking views from the olive grove, you’re sure to come away with fond memories—and maybe a new appreciation for farm life in the Golden State.