There are many similarities between wine and olive oil. Grapevines and olive trees need the same basic culture. Tastings are smaller but similar with an emphasis on aroma and taste nuances. While visiting Italy in 2007, we visited several wineries and were privileged to see and photograph workers harvesting olives and the process of producing olive oil. You can view an article about this on the Wine Trail Traveler website.

From March 5 to March 8, 2010 a special event will take place in Trieste, Italy. The 4th Olio Capitale Exhibition includes the expo featuring olive oils from Italy, Croatia, Slovenia, Spain and Poland. Hundreds of extra virgin olive oils will be available to choose between and purchase. The tasting sessions will include information on how to taste olive oil and select it. Cooking sessions will explain how to choose and match olive oils with food. In addition, there will be other information related to olives presented in meetings and talk shows.

Check it out and if you can travel to Trieste, Italy consider attending this olive oil festival. While in Italy, try to visit some Italian wineries. I would suggest that visitors should contact the wineries in advance for an appointment.

Cheers! Kathy