Johnny Madge Olive Oil Tastings

If you’re wandering through Valencia and find yourself curious about what makes good olive oil truly special, this tasting experience might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally done it, reviews and details suggest that Johnny Madge’s olive oil tastings are a charming way to learn about and savor some of the world’s best oils. Led by Johnny himself—an International Olive Oil Competition judge—this experience offers more than just tasting; it’s about understanding what you’re drizzling on your food.

What we particularly like about this tour is Johnny’s genuine passion and expertise, which makes the session feel friendly and accessible rather than intimidating. Plus, the chance to sample top-quality oils from Spain and beyond is pretty unbeatable. However, some might find that the one-hour duration is quite brief if you’re eager to dive deep or explore more oils.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy food and drink explorations, those who want to boost their knowledge about olive oil, or anyone looking for a relaxed, informative activity in Valencia that’s easy to fit into a busy schedule. It’s especially great for food lovers who enjoy tasting and learning in a friendly environment.

Key Points

• Expert-led tastings by Johnny Madge, an esteemed olive oil judge.
• Learn how to distinguish the aromas and flavors of top-quality olive oils.
• Discover the differences between good and bad olive oils, including how they’re made.
• Flexible tasting options, with bread or gluten-free choices available.
• Accessible and engaging explanations suitable for all levels of knowledge.
• Convenient location in Benimaclet, Valencia, with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from Johnny Madge’s Olive Oil Tasting

Imagine stepping into a cozy cafe in Valencia’s vibrant Benimaclet neighborhood. Johnny Madge greets you with warmth, ready to share his two decades of experience in olive oil tasting. The setting is relaxed and friendly, designed to make you feel like a guest rather than a customer. The hour-long session is a mix of sensory exploration, education, and fun.

He begins by explaining how olive oil is judged in international competitions, which provides context for what makes certain oils stand out. You’ll learn how to use special biodegradable cups to smell the oils, focusing on recognizing the incredible aromas that make each oil unique. Johnny stocks oils from the top producers, so you’ll get to taste some of the best oils in Spain, and possibly from other countries.

The Tasting Process and Oils

The oils are carefully selected by Johnny, based on his experience judging in competitions, rather than being from a single producer. This means you’re experiencing a curated tasting of world-class oils that represent the best of their kind. During the tasting, Johnny will guide you through at least three oils, explaining the nuances between them — the fruitiness, bitterness, and pungency — and how these elements relate to their quality and use.

He emphasizes that “extra virgin” can be confusing for many, explaining what it really means and how it’s different from lower-grade oils. You learn the significance of labels like “first cold pressed”, which often cause misconceptions. The goal is to give you confidence in choosing oils in the future, whether for drizzling on bread, finishing a dish, or even cooking.

Tasting Options and Food Pairings

If you prefer the tactile experience, Johnny offers bread — including gluten-free options — for dipping, which many find helpful for appreciating the oils’ flavors. The bread is locally made, adding a nice touch of authenticity. The tasting isn’t just about the oils; it’s also about how to make the most of them in your kitchen, with tips on food pairings and usage.

Throughout the session, Johnny’s friendly approach makes it easy to ask questions, whether about health benefits, how oils are made, or even the best ways to cook with them. His explanations are clear, light-hearted, and approachable — reviews often mention how “people don’t feel like clients but more like guests.”

The Overall Atmosphere and Experience

Many reviews highlight Johnny’s knowledge and the quality of the oils, but also his ability to create a welcoming environment. People often mention leaving with a newfound appreciation for olive oil and feeling more confident about selecting and using it. The experience ends back at the starting point, making it a convenient, hassle-free activity.

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The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and Accessibility

At $23 per person, this tasting is quite reasonable for the quality of oils and the expert guidance you receive. Given the curated selection and educational content, it offers good value — especially if you’re keen to get more familiar with what makes a good olive oil.

The one-hour duration is perfect for a quick, engaging activity, especially if you’re juggling a busy itinerary. It’s suitable for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and want to learn something useful without spending hours.

The location, La Ola Fresca cafe, is easy to find, marked by a big, visible sign. It’s situated on a tree-filled square away from busy roads, which adds to the charm and calm atmosphere. The tour is wheelchair accessible and offered in multiple languages — English, Italian, French, and Spanish — making it accessible to a diverse range of visitors.

Flexibility and Booking

One of the big pluses is the “reserve now & pay later” option, giving you flexibility to plan your trip with confidence. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is a nice safety net if your plans change.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

Based on reviews, guests often mention how Johnny’s knowledge and friendly demeanor elevate the experience. “Johnny is an expert, but he makes tasting approachable and fun,” one reviewer notes. Others appreciate the opportunity to taste oils they wouldn’t find easily on their own, often saying they “leave feeling more confident about choosing good olive oil.”

Some feedback also touches on how the oils are of exceptional quality — a highlight for true connoisseurs. Multiple reviewers mention that they learned about how to use oils with food, broadening their culinary horizons well beyond simple drizzling.

A few reviews note that the tasting is tailored to the group’s interests — whether more nerdy details or a light, relaxed approach. So, if you prefer a more in-depth discussion or just a fun tasting, Johnny can adapt accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for food lovers eager to understand what makes a quality olive oil, and those interested in enhancing their kitchen knowledge. It suits travelers who value expert guidance in a friendly setting and want to enjoy a tasting that feels more like a visit to a knowledgeable friend’s home.

If you’re curious about how oils are judged or want to experience some of the best oils Spain has to offer, Johnny’s tasting provides a well-rounded, enjoyable introduction. It’s also suitable for those who prefer an activity that’s informative but easy-going, with the option to include gluten-free options for the bread.

This experience might not be ideal for travelers looking for a large group tour, a more extensive culinary experience, or something heavily touristic and structured — it’s more about quality, intimacy, and learning.

The Sum Up

In the end, Johnny Madge’s olive oil tasting stands out as a genuine gem for anyone visiting Valencia who wants to explore the world of olive oils beyond the supermarket shelves. With Johnny’s extensive experience and approachable style, you’ll gain insights that make it easier to pick good oils and understand their flavors—plus, you’ll probably find some new favorites along the way.

It offers good value, a relaxed environment, and access to some of the best oils in Spain. Whether you’re a foodie, a curious traveler, or just someone who appreciates good ingredients, this tasting makes for a memorable and tasty stop in your Valencia trip.

If you’re looking for an experience that combines education, flavor, and friendly conversation, Johnny Madge’s olive oil tastings are definitely worth considering.

FAQ

How long does the olive oil tasting last?
The experience runs for about one hour, making it a quick yet comprehensive way to learn about and taste excellent olive oils.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tasting is offered in English, Italian, French, and Spanish, so travelers can choose the language they’re most comfortable with.

Is the location easy to find?
Yes, the meeting point is at La Ola Fresca cafe, which has a big, visible sign and is located in a quiet, tree-filled square away from busy streets.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind when booking.

What does the price include?
The fee covers a tasting of at least three of the world’s best olive oils, with expert explanations and the option for gluten-free or regular bread for dipping.

Are the oils suitable for cooking?
Yes, Johnny explains how olive oil can be used in cooking and when it’s best to use it raw or as a finishing touch.

Is the experience suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, gluten-free bread is available for those who need it, and the environment is friendly for those with mobility needs.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not specifically targeted at children, the relaxed and educational nature of the tasting makes it suitable for families with older children or teenagers interested in food.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Just show up ready to taste, ask questions, and enjoy a friendly environment. No special preparation is necessary.

If you’re in Valencia and curious about olive oil—whether for culinary inspiration or just to impress friends with your newfound knowledge—this tasting offers a solid, enjoyable introduction to one of the region’s most cherished products.

You can check availability for your dates here: