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

Exploring the Best of California’s Hidden Countryside: A Review of the Half-day Wine, Olive Oil, and Lavender Farm Tour

If you’re on the lookout for a laid-back, scenic experience that combines the best of California’s rural charm with some truly enjoyable tastings, this half-day Wine and Olive Oil Tasting and Lavender Farm Tour might just be what you’re after. Designed for those who appreciate good food, beautiful views, and a bit of farm-to-table education, this tour offers a taste of California’s countryside that feels both indulgent and authentic.

We love how this experience balances wine tasting with educational farm visits and delicious local eats. It’s a well-structured way to spend a few hours away from city hustle, especially if you’re into discovering lesser-known spots. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a relatively intimate experience, capped at eight travelers, which means a cozy, more personal vibe.

However, it’s worth noting that you’ll need to arrange your own transport, as private transportation isn’t included. That’s something to think about if you’re not nearby or don’t want to organize a taxi or carpool. This tour is particularly suited for those who enjoy wine, food, and beautiful landscape, and who don’t mind a bit of walking and farm tour insights.

Key Points

• Authentic farm experiences combined with tastings make this tour stand out.
• Small group size ensures a personal touch and avoids feeling rushed.
• The scenic locations and views of the Blue Ridge mountains add a special charm.
• The tour offers vegetarian/vegan options and non-alcoholic beverages, making it accessible.
• Price point at $149 per person is reasonable considering the variety of tastings and activities.
• Booking in advance (average 45 days) is recommended to secure your spot.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

First Stop: Capay Valley Lavender Farm

This is where the tour really begins on a fragrant note. The farmHER guide takes you on a tour that’s both educational and sensory-rich. Expect to learn about lavender and farming practices, which adds a layer of understanding to your visit — it’s not just about sniffing and tasting, but seeing the effort behind the scenes.

The lavender farm is an Instagram-worthy spot, with rows of vibrant purple stretching out under the sun. What’s especially nice is the chance to sample lavender-infused treats like lavender scones, lavender lemonade, and even lavender-spiced nuts. These snacks aren’t just tasty; they also give you a real sense of how versatile lavender can be.

A highlight here is watching a demo of lavender oil distillation. It’s a rare peek into the process, and it’s fascinating to see how this fragrant oil is extracted. The farm visit lasts about an hour and includes admission, which is a good balance of time to soak in the sights and learn a few farming tips.

Second Stop: Taber Ranch Vineyard & Garden

Next, we head to a lovely estate known for its native plant garden and wine. The estate-grown wines are the focus here, and you’ll get to taste six different wines, which gives a nice variety of flavors to explore. The pairing of wine with wood-fired pizza made from ingredients within 50 miles of the farm really emphasizes California’s farm-to-table ethos.

The garden walk is a calming experience, with native plants that reflect the local landscape, making it a peaceful backdrop for your tasting. The pizza, with its fresh toppings, complements the wines without overpowering them, making for a satisfying lunch that feels both hearty and simple.

Final Stop: Séka Hills Olive Mill and Tasting Room

This is perhaps the highlight for olive oil lovers. The olive mill tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at California’s olive oil production. You’ll learn about how award-winning olive oils are made and get to sample various oils in a private tasting session.

Sitting at the olive grove with a glass of wine and a charcuterie board feels like a perfect way to wind down. The stunning views of the Blue Ridge mountains and the olive groves make this a memorable conclusion to your afternoon. This segment lasts about an hour and a half, giving you plenty of time to savor the flavors and enjoy the scenery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’re paying $149 for a package that includes all tastings — six wines, olive oil, vinegar, honey, lavender snacks — plus lunch with wood-fired pizza and a charcuterie board. Non-alcoholic drinks and vegetarian or vegan options are available, which is a thoughtful touch.

The only thing not included is private transportation, so you’ll want to plan how to get to the starting point in Capay Valley. Given the regional spread of the stops, a car or shared ride is probably your best bet.

Final Thoughts on Value

At $149 per person, this tour offers a curated taste of California’s rural produce, wine, and olive oil. Considering that it includes multiple tastings, a hearty lunch, and insightful farm tours, it’s a pretty good deal — especially if you’re into food and wine tourism. The small group size makes it feel more personalized, and the scenic stops give it a relaxed, unhurried vibe.

While it’s not a full-day adventure, it packs enough into four hours to feel satisfying. If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local food production while sampling delicious treats, this tour hits the right notes.

Who Will This Tour Suit?

This experience is particularly suited for travelers who love food and wine and want to explore California’s countryside without committing to a full-day excursion. It’s great for couples, small groups, or even solo travelers looking for a peaceful escape. If you appreciate authentic farm visits, stunning views, and tasty samples, you’ll likely find this a worthwhile outing.

It’s less ideal if you’re traveling with young children or looking for a high-energy activity, since it’s focused on tasting and learning in a relaxed setting. Also, those relying on public transport might need to plan carefully, as the tour doesn’t include transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking at least 45 days ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially given the limited group size.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available, and non-alcoholic beverages are offered, making it accessible for different dietary needs.

How long does each stop last?
The lavender farm is about an hour, the vineyard and pizza stop is another hour, and the olive mill experience lasts about an hour and a half.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely. Non-alcoholic drinks are available, and there are lavender and food tastings that don’t involve alcohol.

Is transportation included?
No, you need to organize your own transportation to and from the meeting point in Capay Valley.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothes suitable for farm tours and walking, plus sun protection like hat and sunscreen, are advisable.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify, tours like this are often best in spring or early summer when lavender blooms and the weather is pleasant.

All in all, this tour offers a charming taste of California’s rural bounty. It’s relaxed, informative, and full of flavorful surprises. Perfect for a laid-back day of exploration that balances scenic beauty with delicious bites. If you’re into discovering local farms and enjoying good wine and food in a small-group setting, it’s worth considering.