Extra-virgin Olive Oil is one of the essential elements of Mediterranean cuisine. It was a culinary gift from the Ancient Greeks, who brought olives to the Italian peninsula along with wine and bread. The Ancient Romans then brought olives to the numerous countries and empires they conquered and demanded olive oil to pay taxes. The Romans invented the concept of “olive oil therapy, “using it for beauty treatments for wealthy senators’ wives.
Back in their day, the Romans also had the first classification of olive oils, depending on whether they came from pressed green olives, semi-mature olives, mature olives, fallen olives, or squashed olives. Even 2,000 years ago, olive oil was categorized by quality. Today, there are countless varieties of olives and oils, and it’s easy to get confused about which are better, how they are defined, and when to use each type. Extra-virgin olive oil, for example, is derived from the first pressing of olives using specific machines, through the cold-pressing technique at low temperatures and without the aid of water.
The resulting oil also depends on the olive varietals used by the producer. In Tuscany, the most common olives are Frantoio, Moraiolo, and Leccino. Each of them has different flavors and notes, from fruity to spicy, and is compatible with various dishes, helping bring out the flavors of ingredients and preparations.
There is no better way to understand and enjoy the secrets of olive oil than by visiting an oil mill. We have designed this fascinating day tour for those of you interested in a unique day out in the countryside, with tastings of premium olive oils, as well as a masterclass with Tuscany’s best Chocolate producer.
Signature journey
Highlights include Extra Virgin Olive Oil Tasting, Artisan Chocolate Tasting, Gourmet 5 Course Lunch, and Private Mercedes Chauffeured Tour.
Day 1Florence - Pontedera - Florence
Olives harvested by hand
Morning: Your driver will pick you up at your hotel in Florence (this excursion is also viable from Livorno, Pisa, Lucca, and Florence). The first stop today is the fabulous Poggio Cappiano olive oil estate. On this private tour, you will visit the olive groves and the nursery, receive a detailed explanation of the cultivation processes at the oil mill, the characteristics of the different olive varieties, and then finally sit down to an educational and fun olive oil tasting.
Lunch: You will enjoy a relaxed lunch here, paired with local wines and dishes featuring the estate’s olive oils, each prepared to highlight the character of the specific olive varietals.
Afternoon: After lunch, your chauffeur will bring you to Pontedera, where a fantastic tasting experience awaits at Amedei, a premium chocolate company. You will learn about the chocolate-making process from bean to bar on this private tour and tasting. Visiting this chocolate maker will certainly leave a great taste in your mouth. Before returning to your hotel, if time permits, swing by the nearby Leaning Tower of Pisa for a peek.
“Delicious day out in the Tuscan Countryside!”
Cellar Tours private itineraries include chauffeur-led transportation, carefully selected hotels, winery appointments, restaurant planning, and practical support before and during your journey.
Depending on the destination and proposal, your tour may also include private guides, tastings, special experiences, cultural visits, regional transfers, and dining reservations.
Your custom proposal will clearly show what is included, what is optional, and what is not included.
Our custom itineraries include chauffeur-led transportation, carefully selected hotels, private winery appointments & tastings, restaurant planning, and support before and during your travel.
International flights, travel insurance, personal expenses, optional spa treatments, gratuities and meals or tastings not listed in your itinerary are usually not included unless specifically stated.
All itineraries are private and pre-arranged for your party.
Yes, 100%. Share mobility considerations, allergies, dietary preferences, and pacing needs early so we can adapt hotels, transport, restaurants, and visits wherever possible.
