Olio Tasting Room Opens in Old Town Alexandria

Jul 13, 2011 by M. Velez

Penny and Mike Willimann are the owners of Olio Tasting Room, a unique olive oil & balsamic vinegar shop that opened in Old Town Alexandria in late June. Their official grand opening day is July 16, where an expert will demonstrate how to properly taste olive oil.

Similar to a wine tasting room, Olio provides you the opportunity to taste a variety of olive oils and balsamic vinegars that are imported from across Europe.

The Willimanns wanted Olio to be not just a place where you go to buy olive oil, but an opportunity to learn about the product. “We wanted it to be [both] an experience and an education,” explained Penny.

All of the oils and vinegars are imported from different countries throughout Europe (in the future, some will also come from the United States) and are contained in special containers called fusti that are made in Italy.

The selection of oils and vinegars at Olio will change seasonally and range from popular Italian Herb to more exotic varieties like Honey & Ginger White Balsamic vinegar.

While the concept of an oil tasting room is not new in Europe, it is uncommon in the East coast in the United States. Olio Tasting Room is the first of its kind in Old Town Alexandria.