Extra Virgin Olive Oil Tasting in Val d'Orcia, Tuscany

The Val d'Orcia is the UNESCO-protected valley that postcards have made famous — a perfectly composed landscape of solitary cypresses, undulating golden hills, and Renaissance villages. This is Brunello di Montalcino country, home to some of Italy's most prized red wines, and the birthplace of Pecorino di Pienza. Pope Pius II rebuilt his hometown of Pienza in 1462 as the first 'ideal city' of the Renaissance — and the surrounding countryside has been protected ever since.

Real Tuscan extra-virgin olive oil is closer to a fine wine than to the supermarket product most travellers know — peppery, green, slightly bitter, with a finish that lingers. A tasting in Val d'Orcia at a working frantoio (mill) reveals just how much variation lies inside the simple word 'olio'.

Your host walks you through the orchard, into the cold-press room, and finally to the tasting bar — six to eight oils served in coloured glasses (the colour is suppressed so taste alone guides you). Bruschetta, fresh ricotta and the estate's own salt accompany the tasting. October–December tastings include a visit during the harvest itself.