Welcome to Vassilakis Estate, nestled in the breathtaking Mirabello Valley, where the art of olive oil production has been a family passion for over 150 years. If you are seeking the most authentic and insightful olive oil tasting Crete has to offer, join us for a journey that connects you to the heart of Cretan tradition!
Why Choose a Vassilakis Estate Tasting?
We don’t just offer a sample; we offer an Olive Oil Discovery rooted in generational expertise. As one of the area’s first olive oil producers since 1865, our estate is where history meets modern excellence.
- Expert Guidance: Your tasting will be led by our knowledgeable guides or a Vassilakis family member, who will share the secrets that connoisseurs look for in an award-winning olive oil.
- A Taste of Quality: You will learn how to distinguish a top-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil from lesser grades. This hands-on experience provides the skills to confidently select the best oil for your table.
- The Full Journey: Every tasting includes a tour of our estate, combining the past and present:
- The Museum: View our original 1865 hand-operated press and step back in time to see how our family’s legacy began.
- The Modern Mill: Witness our ultra-modern olive mill in action, where we use cold-extraction methods to ensure our oil retains its subtle flavor and consistent quality.
Our Signature Tasting Experiences
We offer several 5-star visitor experiences to suit every taste, all designed to showcase our multi-award-winning organic and extra virgin olive oils.
| Experience | Duration | Key Focus | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olive Oil Discovery Tasting | 30-45 min | Fast-track method to distinguish high-grade EVOO | Tasting of 3 oils (2 high-grade EVOO, 1 low-grade), bread & apple for palate cleansing. |
| Olive Oil Tasting Masterclass | 90 min | Professional deep dive into quality recognition | Tasting of 4 premium olive oils, appetizers, full mill/museum tour. |
For a truly comprehensive Greek gastronomy experience, consider our Wine & Olive Oil Tasting Combo, where you can pair our liquid gold with a selection of 5 Cretan wines, accompanied by a generous selection of local delicacies.
From Our Grove to Your Table
The olive groves surrounding Vassilakis Estate have been cultivated by our family for four generations. We specialize in producing high-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil—a product we consider the heart of Crete.
After your tasting, you are invited to browse our on-site shop. Here, you can take home our cherished products, including our:
- Multi-Award-Winning Organic & Extra Virgin Olive Oils
- Cretan Wines & Spirits
- Pure Honey, Marmalades, and Olives
Come for the experience, and leave with a taste of tradition.