We are proud to announce that our family estate has once again received the prestigious “Best Olive Oil Hospitality in Europe” award. The award was presented as part of the international competition Il Magnifico – European Extra Quality Olive Oil Award, held in the historic Certosa venue in Florence. With this achievement, our olive mill in Vodnjan has been named the best olive oil tourism destination in Europe for the third consecutive year.
Il Magnifico is one of the world’s most respected extra virgin olive oil competitions, bringing together leading producers from across the globe. In addition to evaluating outstanding olive oil quality, it also recognizes those who successfully communicate olive growing and olive oil production as a complete and meaningful experience.
This recognition is especially significant to us because it confirms a philosophy we deeply believe in: extra virgin olive oil is not merely a product, but an experience meant to be shared.
Every guest who visits our olive mill in Vodnjan becomes part of our story. From walking through the olive groves and discovering the production process to learning how to taste olive oil like a professional, our goal is to offer an authentic and unforgettable journey into the world of olives.
The award for Best Olive Oil Hospitality in Europe is not only about extra virgin olive oil itself, but also about the way it is experienced. This is precisely why this recognition means so much to us – it validates the approach we have cultivated over the years: authenticity, knowledge, and a genuine desire to bring visitors closer to what we do.
This award belongs to our exceptional team, without whom none of this would be possible, and also to all of you who visit us from around the world and help shape this story with your presence.
In addition to this recognition, our olive oil Romano was selected as a finalist for the Best European EQOO 2026 award, further confirming the outstanding quality of Istrian olive oil on the European stage.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil as an Experience
Exceptional extra virgin olive oil is the foundation of our work, and every visit to our olive mill is designed to deepen the understanding of this remarkable product and enrich the overall experience.
We aim to introduce guests to the entire process from cultivation and harvesting to production while also demonstrating how olive oil can become part of everyday life. Even more importantly, we teach visitors how to recognize high-quality extra virgin olive oil, how to choose it, and how to store it properly to preserve its finest characteristics. In this way, the experience does not end when guests leave but it continues at home through more informed and conscious choices.
Through expert guidance, we share our family story and production process, while the tasting itself forms the heart of the experience. During the tasting, guests learn to identify aromas and flavors and understand the qualities that define exceptional extra virgin olive oil – its freshness, fragrance, and taste. We also share practical knowledge about food pairings, helping guests use olive oil more confidently and creatively in their everyday cooking. Whether you are just beginning to explore the world of olive oil or already have a strong interest in it, our experiences are designed for anyone who wishes to deepen their knowledge and appreciation.
Our Tours: A Blend of Education, Gastronomy and Experience
Taste Istria is the ideal introduction to our story and philosophy. This experience includes a walk through the olive groves, a guided tour of the olive mill, and an educational tasting during which guests learn to recognize the characteristics of premium extra virgin olive oil. The experience concludes with traditional local delicacies and authentic Istrian Malvasia wine.
Grand Tasting is an extended experience for those who wish to explore the world of olive oil and learn more about its culinary uses. Following a welcome drink, guests are guided through a tasting of our olive oils while learning how to identify the qualities of premium extra virgin olive oil and how to pair it with food. The tour also includes a rich selection of local delicacies and concludes with dessert and a local dessert wine.
MixOILogy is a unique experience that combines the world of olive oil with contemporary mixology. Alongside expert guidance and olive oil education, guests discover innovative ways of incorporating olive oil into original cocktails. Participants have the opportunity to create their own olive oil cocktails using spirits from local distilleries. This experience is perfect for those seeking something different, and each guest takes home a special souvenir: our branded cocktail shaker.
Istrian Tapas, Wine and Olive Oil
This gastronomic experience combines Istrian tradition with a contemporary approach. Through a guided and engaging experience, guests discover our family story as well as the expertise of sommelier Karin Rupena Perdec. The program includes a tour of the olive groves, a visit to the olive mill, and a professional tasting of our extra virgin olive oils. Guests learn how olive oil enhances food through creative tapas pairings and local wines. It is the perfect experience for anyone wishing to enjoy new flavors in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Discover and Choose Your Ideal Extra Virgin Olive Oil
In addition to our guided tasting experiences, which require prior reservation, you are also welcome to visit our olive mill in Vodnjan spontaneously. We will be happy to introduce you to our range of extra virgin olive oils, all of which can be tasted on site.
Our team is available to provide expert advice on the characteristics and quality of each product and help you choose the oils that best suit your preferences and needs, ensuring that you leave with complete confidence in your selection.