The Best Olive Oil Tasting in Paso Robles
Paso Robles might be known for its world-class wines, but tucked among the vineyards and rolling hills is another liquid gold worth sipping: California extra virgin olive oil. With its Mediterranean climate, rich soils, and long growing season, Paso Robles has become one of California’s emerging olive oil destinations. Family-owned farms and artisan producers are crafting award-winning oils—from grassy and peppery to buttery smooth—that reflect the unique terroir of the Central Coast. If you’re heading there for a visit, here are the best places for olive oil tasting in Paso Robles.
How to Taste Olive Oil Like a Pro
Before you dive into tastings, it helps to know how professionals evaluate olive oil. Much like wine, olive oil tasting engages all the senses:
- Swirl – Pour a small amount into a glass or cup. Warm it in your hand to release the aroma.
- Smell – Inhale deeply. Fresh, high-quality oils should smell grassy, fruity, or herbaceous—never rancid or greasy.
- Sip – Take a small sip and let it coat your mouth. Then do a “strippaggio”—a quick slurp of air through your teeth to help release the flavors.
- Savor – Note the bitterness and pungency. A little peppery bite in the throat is a good sign—it’s due to polyphenols, which are antioxidants and an indicator of freshness.
Keep in mind: olive oil isn’t meant to be subtle. Great oils have complexity, just like wine, and can range from buttery and mild to green and peppery.
Here’s a guide to the top spots in Paso Robles to swirl, sniff, and savor exceptional olive oils—and maybe even bring home a bottle or two.
Where to Taste Olive Oil in Paso Robles
Pasolivo
Tucked into the rolling westside hills, Pasolivo is one of the best-known olive oil producers in Paso Robles. Their estate-grown, small-batch oils are crafted with care, and tastings include an array of flavored oils like lemon, rosemary, and even tangerine.
Don’t miss: The bold and peppery Tuscan blend.
Make it a stop: 7350 Vineyard Dr, Paso Robles
Website: pasolivo.com
Kiler Ridge Olive Farm
At Kiler Ridge, you’ll find a Tuscan-inspired experience from start to finish. They grow Italian olive varieties, press their oil on-site, and offer guided tastings that include a short tour and education in traditional production methods.
Don’t miss: The Italian Blend—earthy, complex, and COOC-certified.
Visit them at: 1111 Kiler Canyon Rd, Paso Robles
Website: kilerridge.com
We Olive Paso Robles
Located in the heart of downtown Paso, We Olive is a tasting bar and boutique featuring a wide variety of California-produced extra virgin olive oils. It’s a great spot for quick tastings, gifts, and gourmet pantry finds.
Don’t miss: Their smooth and fruity Arbequina EVOO.
Stop in: 1311 Park St, Paso Robles
Website: weolive.com
San Miguel Olive Farm
Nestled in the hills just north of Paso Robles, San Miguel Olive Farm is a boutique producer of award-winning extra virgin olive oil. Owners Richard and Myrna Meisler cultivate 1,200 Tuscan varietal olive trees, hand-harvesting and milling on-site to create high-polyphenol oils prized for their robust flavor and health benefits. Their private, appointment-only tours offer an intimate look at the olive oil-making process, culminating in tastings of their acclaimed oils and Italian balsamic vinegars.
Don’t miss: The bold and peppery Tuscan Gold EVOO, a frequent gold medalist at international competitions.
Make it a stop: 1960 Nygren Rd, San Miguel, CA 93451
Website: sanmiguelolivefarm.com
Olivas de Oro (at the Downtown Paso Market Walk)
Originally based in Creston, Olivas de Oro brings their bold, organic olive oils to the bustling Paso Market Walk. Their tasting counter offers a rotating selection of oils and vinegars, including infused varieties perfect for grilling and marinades.
Don’t miss: The Jalapeño Garlic oil—it brings the heat.
Find them at: 1803 Spring St, Paso Robles
Website: olivasdeoro.com
Olea Farm
Just a few minutes south in Templeton, Olea Farm offers a serene tasting experience with a strong focus on quality and hospitality. Their estate olive oils, bath products, and gift sets make this a great stop for travelers seeking something special.
Don’t miss: The Estate Blend—elegant, smooth, and well-balanced.
Visit at: 2985 Templeton Rd, Templeton
Website: oleafarm.com
Groves on 41
Just east of Paso Robles in Templeton, Groves on 41 is a women-owned, family-run olive oil estate that blends sustainability with hospitality. The 3,000-tree grove is planted with Spanish Arbequina olives, known for their smooth, fruity flavor. Owners Karen and Jackie Tallent are passionate about sharing their story—from planting the first trees to producing their award-winning extra virgin olive oil.
Tasting Experience: Guests can book private tastings or small-group experiences that often include fresh bites, olive oil education, and a walk through the scenic groves. It’s a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path stop perfect for travelers looking to slow down and savor.
Don’t miss: Their 100% Arbequina EVOO—delicate, buttery, and ideal for everything from dipping to drizzling over grilled fish.
Visit them at: 1140 Pine St (for appointments) or at the grove on 41 East, Templeton
Website: groveson41.com
FAQ: Your Olive Oil Tasting Questions Answered
Q: What is an olive oil taster called?
A professional olive oil taster is often referred to as a “panelist” or an olive oil sommelier when they are part of an official sensory panel. These trained experts evaluate oils for aroma, flavor, and quality, often as part of certification processes like those used by the California Olive Oil Council (COOC) or international competitions.
Q: Where does the best tasting olive oil come from?
That depends on what you’re looking for! Countries like Italy, Spain, and Greece have long histories of producing exceptional oils, but California—especially regions like Paso Robles, Sonoma, and the Capay Valley—has emerged as a global leader in high-quality, extra virgin olive oils. California producers often prioritize freshness, sustainability, and transparency, making them standouts in taste and quality.
Q: How do you do olive oil tasting?
Start by pouring a small amount into a cup. Warm it with your hands, then inhale deeply—you’re looking for aromas like fresh-cut grass, herbs, or ripe fruit. Next, take a small sip, coating your mouth, and do a quick “slurp” to aerate the oil. Finally, note the bitterness, fruitiness, and pungency—a slight peppery burn in your throat is a good sign of freshness and healthy antioxidants.
Q: Which olive oil has good taste?
That’s subjective, but high-quality extra virgin olive oils should taste fresh, vibrant, and balanced. Mild oils like Arbequina are buttery and smooth, great for drizzling or baking. More robust varieties like Koroneiki or Frantoio offer grassy, peppery notes ideal for dressings, marinades, and finishing grilled dishes. Look for oils that are COOC-certified or freshly harvested for the best flavor.
Plan Your Paso Olive Oil Trail
Many of these producers are certified by the California Olive Oil Council (COOC) and adhere to strict standards for freshness and authenticity. Spring and fall are especially great times to visit, when new oils are being bottled or production is underway.
So next time you’re in Paso Robles, take a detour from the tasting rooms and explore the rich, nuanced world of California olive oil. You’ll taste the land in every drop.
This article was written by Alison Needham, @agirl_defloured, photos by James Collier for California Grown.