Thursday January 3, 2013 at 09:30
Hello!
The Olive Oil tasting on our Bath trip was loved so much, I thought it would be worth sneaking over for a Sunday afternoon on the train. This exclusive experience, at the ‘by appointment only’ Tasting Room (of Dragon Den star Mike North) is down a small lane, in the middle of know where… it’s a travellers dream.
Plan for the day:
We’ll catch the 9:57 train from Paddington, arriving at Castle Cary at 11:30
On arrival we will take a senic 20 min walk to the Market House pass the ruins of one of England’s largest castles.
For lunch, I suggest a charming tea house.
Here’s a review from Tripadvisor: What a charming experience. So much thought has gone into the detail of this lovely little tea room, from the decor to the music and uniform worn by the staff. Such a refreshing change from the bland coffee houses of today. I would highly recommend this establishment and intend to return on a regular basisat the Old Bake House, a charming cafe run with somerset Love.
Our carriages will drive us to Shepton Mallet, where we will have around 2 hours of free time to explore before we arrive at the home of the Olive Oil Tasting Room. Here we will have 3-4 hours to eat, drink and learn from two wonderfully inspiring individuals, each with their own passion, Mike, who loves olive oil and his wife Sharron, the Queen of Basalmic Vinegar. – It’s a perfect marriage for any salad. And learn how to use these two ingredients to change the way you cook for ever.
We’ll return to London around 10pm
How to reserve your spot:
Payment via Bank Transfer only. Please contact me for a booking form. info@tastour.co.uk
If you do not have access to your paypal account, please contact me.
Cost:
Price £92, if booked before 1st Feb, £100 after
*Booking fee is waived for Bon Vivant Members
Cost breakdown:
Transport £40 (includes return train from London & taxi to and from Shepton Mallet)
Olive Oil & Basalmic Tasting £20
6 Course Supper with wine £30
Booking fee* (Buying a glass of Champange for the organsier) £10
Paypal fee £2
Limited to 12 people.
We’ll have a few hours of free time in Shepton Mallet, here are some suggestions that we could do:
Shepton Mallet is a historic Market Town
It’s charming and there is quite a bit to see and do. Although I tend to go for farm shops before designer shops – this town has them both. We can take tea or go for a walk. There will be 3 hours and the group can split up or stay together. It’s all within walking distance to the tasting at 3pm.
Kilver Court and Gardens
Mulberry Factory Outlet
Cool British design label Mulberry has its factory shop just a few steps from the main Kilver Court buildings and farm shop. This is Somerset’s most indulgent hotspot, brimming with glamour and urban chic. 
Famous for beautifully hand crafted leatherwork, Mulberry has set an industry standard in the UK since the early 1970’s and has a long history at Kilver Court through its creator Roger Saul.
Male and female Mulberry aficionados will both enjoy some serious shopping in the peaceful environment of Somerset, where Mulberry’s past and present lie.
Tea at Bannatyne’s Charlton House Spa Hotel
You could also book a spa visit, and enjoy a 2 course lunch and all the spa toppings. You will need to book this directly with the hotel.
The Olive Oil Tasting is a 5 minute walk from the Hotel.
This really was a great tasting and super supper! Here’s the menu – veggie options available
THE OLIVE TRAIL TAPAS TASTE EXPERIENCE
“Tapas” are small portions of food so as not to distract from conversation.
We the family, Michael, Sharran & Emma will take you on a tasty tapas style journey through seasonal fresh olive oils and the wonderful world of Black Gold Balsamic Vinegars of Modena.
Your hosts will match seasonal fresh olive oils and Black Gold balsamic vinegars to compliment these wonderful dishes
Soup CUPLETS
Homemade Soup of Season
DIPPERS & TOPPERS
Seasonal Fresh Olive Oil & Black Gold “66” Dipping Pool
(Served with fresh white bread)
Garlic & Oregano Toast
Roasted Sweet Peppers & Olives
Brussels Pâté
Sharran’s Specials Salads
Grated Carrot & Salted Roast Peanuts
Pearl Barley & Celery
Mixed Green Leaves, Tomatoes & Feta
EMMA & SHARRAN’S DOUBLE STUFFED POTATOES
Irish Champ & Parmesan Cheese
SHARRAN’S MEATY BIT
Greek Style Roast Leg of Lamb with Garlic & Thyme
Vegetarian option available upon advanced request
DESSERT
Decadent Chocolate Mousse
