Until recently, Europe has always been the sole purveyor of olive oil. But, thanks in part to its similarity in climate and geography the Central Coast is now becoming a leader in olive oil production. In 2002, recognizing that the conditions that were so conducive to the olive production in Europe, Yves and Clotilde Julien planted olive trees and began their farm, bringing that European quality to California. Olea (which means olive in Latin) Farm is owned and operated by Yves and Clotilde. Olea Farm is the perfect embodiment of the European ideals and traditions that are a quintessential part of the olive oil culture. A visit to their tasting room located just outside the historic town of Templeton, is like taking a day trip through the European countryside. 1000 silvery green Arbequina olive trees line the winding drive leading to the tasting room. Once in the tasting room Yves and Clotilde welcome you with gracious European hospitality and immediately their love of olives and antiques is evident. It is a comfortable place where Clotilde leads her guests through the flavors and textures of the oil that is uniquely Californian and yet so distinctly representative of Olea Farm. The tasting room showcases their award winning Arbequina olive oil, two expertly blended oils, Crescendo and European; along with the delicately flavored lemon and basil oils.

Visiting Olea Farm is the perfect introduction to the unique Arbequina olive. This small Spanish olive loves the warm California sun and produces one of the finest oils on the market. Its taste and essence are intense and powerful yet it is delicate enough to be used in any recipe without over powering the other ingredients. The flavor of the Arbequina is like putting spring into a bottle, which is why so many chefs from the area insist on using it to highlight their Central Coast cuisine.

If you want to know more about olive oil and experience old world charm plan a visit to Olea Farm where you will be educated in the nuances of the finest olive oil the Central Coast has to offer.