Johnny Madge Olive Oil Tastings

Exploring the World of Olive Oil with Johnny Madge in Valencia

Olive oil is more than just a cooking staple—it’s an art form, a science, and a local passion in Spain’s Valencian Community. This particular experience, led by Johnny Madge, an esteemed International Olive Oil Competition judge, promises a fun, friendly, and highly educational journey into the world of extra virgin olive oils. Over a one-hour session in a cozy cafe in Benimaclet, Johnny takes guests through a tasting that’s both delightfully tasty and surprisingly informative.

What sets this tour apart? It’s Johnny’s unique position as the only EVOO judge in Valencia offering tastings based on his 20 years of experience. He brings a wealth of knowledge, sharing insider secrets about what makes an olive oil truly exceptional. We love that while the session is packed with expert insights, it remains accessible and engaging for all levels of olive oil enthusiasts.

One possible hiccup? The experience lasts just an hour, which might feel a bit short for those wanting a deep dive into all things olive oil. However, this is perfect for travelers looking for a quick, authentic, and enjoyable tasting that won’t take up your entire day.

This tour is ideal for food lovers, curious travelers eager to understand what makes a high-quality olive oil, or anyone who simply wants to elevate their kitchen game. Whether you’re planning a trip to Valencia or are a local foodie, the session offers a genuine taste of Spain’s olive oil excellence.

Key Points

• Expert-Guided Tastings: Led by Johnny Madge, the only Valencia-based EVOO judge in town.
• Tasting of Premium Oils: Sample at least three of the world’s best olive oils, selected by a seasoned professional.
• Educational & Fun: Learn how to spot quality, understand labels, and pair oils with food in a relaxed setting.
• Accessibility & Flexibility: Options to taste oils with gluten-free or traditional bread; light-hearted explanations suitable for everyone.
• Location & Convenience: Easy-to-find cafe in Benimaclet, a peaceful, leafy square away from busy streets.
• Value for Money: For $23, you gain access to expert knowledge, high-end oils, and a memorable experience.

The Experience: What to Expect from Johnny Madge’s Olive Oil Tasting

From the moment you arrive at La Ola Fresca cafe in Benimaclet, you’ll sense the friendly, inviting atmosphere. Johnny Madge, with his approachable style, makes you feel more like a guest than a client. His distinction as an International Olive Oil Judge is immediately noticeable, and he’s eager to share his expertise.

The Setup and Approach

Johnny begins by explaining how olive oils are judged in international competitions, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at what makes an oil stand out. This insight alone is worth the price of admission, especially if you have a budding interest in food quality and authenticity. You’ll smell oils using special biodegradable corn cups, which are designed to trap and showcase aroma, a step that elevates the tasting beyond just “dipping bread.”

He emphasizes that this isn’t just a tasting of his own oils; it’s a curated experience featuring the best oils from Spain and other countries, chosen by him for their quality and flavor complexity. During the class, Johnny discusses what “extra virgin” really means, dispelling common misconceptions like the confusing phrase “first cold pressed.” He explains how true high-quality oils are made, and what distinguishes a top-tier product from subpar oils.

Tasting & Food Pairing

Guests are invited to taste the oils neat—an opportunity to appreciate the aroma and flavor nuances—or dip gluten-free or traditional bread into the oils, depending on preference. This flexibility helps create a relaxed, inclusive environment. Johnny’s goal is to make everyone feel comfortable, whether you’re a olive oil nerd or a complete novice. Multiple reviewers have remarked on his ability to blend humor and expertise, making the session both educational and entertaining.

The Educational Aspect

Johnny’s explanations extend beyond tasting. He discusses how oils are produced, what to look for in labels, and how to incorporate good olive oil into everyday cooking. He’s more than willing to answer questions on health benefits, culinary uses, or milling technology, often filling in details with photographs and stories that illuminate the process.

Reviews & Feedback

Multiple reviews mention that Johnny’s approach makes guests feel more like friends than customers. One reviewer noted, “People who review my experiences nearly always talk about the fact that they don’t feel like clients but more like guests, and sometimes they even end up friends!” This personal touch transforms a simple tasting into a memorable, warm experience.

The Value of the Tour

For $23, this tasting offers an impressive level of value. You’re not just sampling oils; you’re gaining knowledge that can change how you select and use olive oil at home. This is especially useful if you want to shop smarter or impress friends with your newfound expertise. The oils selected are some of the best in Spain and beyond, meaning your tasting is curated by an expert with a keen palate and deep understanding of quality.

While it’s a short session, the quality of the oils and the depth of insight make it worthwhile. Plus, the flexibility to enjoy a relaxed tasting with bread or a more detailed nerdy explanation caters to different learning styles.

Practicalities

The meeting point is a welcoming cafe with clear signage, located in a quiet square full of trees—far from busy roads—making it a peaceful spot to enjoy your tasting. The tour lasts about an hour, with options for different starting times (check availability). It’s accessible for wheelchair users, and guides speak multiple languages, including English, Italian, French, and Spanish, making it suitable for an international audience.

Water is provided free of charge, but if you’d like additional drinks, those are available separately. Booking is flexible—cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance—and you can reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans are still evolving.

Who Should Sign Up?

This tour is perfect for foodies, travelers, and curious minds who want to deepen their understanding of olive oil. It’s especially ideal if you’re visiting Valencia and want a local, expert-led experience that’s both educational and fun.

If you’re someone who loves tasting high-quality food products, or if you want to learn how to identify good olive oil from poor, Johnny’s session covers all bases. It’s also a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and everyone feels like a guest.

Final Thoughts

Johnny Madge’s Olive Oil Tastings in Valencia offer a well-balanced mix of expert guidance and approachable teaching. You’ll sample some of the finest oils available, gaining insights into what makes them special and how to incorporate them into your daily life. The experience is tailored to be inclusive and fun, making it suitable for all levels of knowledge.

While the session is relatively short, the depth of information and quality of oils make it a highly worthwhile addition to any food-focused trip. The personal stories, expert explanations, and friendly vibe create a memorable and enriching experience.

If you’re looking to elevate your understanding of olive oils, or simply enjoy discovering new flavors in a relaxed setting, this tasting will likely be a highlight of your Valencia visit.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tasting runs for approximately one hour, making it a quick but impactful experience that fits easily into a day’s sightseeing schedule.

Is it suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, guides speak multiple languages including Italian, French, and Spanish, along with English, ensuring a comfortable experience for international visitors.

Are gluten-free options available?
Absolutely. Guests can choose to taste the oils with gluten-free bread, which Johnny can provide, ensuring everyone can enjoy the tasting comfortably.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to reserve your spot to guarantee availability, especially during busy seasons. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours beforehand.

What if I want a more detailed explanation or nerdy details?
Johnny is happy to share more technical insights and photographs about how oils are produced, making the experience adaptable to those eager for in-depth knowledge.

Is the meeting point easy to find?
Yes. The cafe La Ola Fresca has a big, visible sign and is located on a quiet, tree-filled square, away from traffic, making it convenient to access.

To sum it up, Johnny Madge’s Olive Oil Tastings are a fantastic way to combine education, flavor, and local culture in Valencia. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply curious about what makes a good EVOO, this experience offers real value and memorable insights at a reasonable price. The friendly, expert-led format makes it accessible and enjoyable for all.