I was pleased to find we have a gourmet olive oil and vinegar store, Olive Gourmet, here in the West Valley!
For me it is only a short 6 mile drive to this newish upscale mall, Park West Mall in Surprise. I was encouraged to visit Olive Gourmet after reading Julie P's enthusiastic Yelp review. And I'm so glad I did.
OG has 21 olive oils, including flavored olive oils, and over 15 balsamic vinegars. All are available for tasting. Their products are sold in attractive tall 12 oz. bottles.
After tasting I chose the Tuscan Herb olive oil. It has the most delicious subtle taste of herbs. I find it's perfect for dipping bread and adding to cooked vegetables. My other choice was the Raspberry balsamic vinegar - intense and smooth. I've made my own raspberry vinaigrette from it, so I'll forget about buying prepared dressings after tasting mine.
Betsy, the friendly and helpful saleslady was a pleasure to do business with. While there I sampled a wonderful lemon pound cake made from their lemon olive oil. It was delicious and they shared the recipe.
Olive Gourmet's frequent buyer card is an incentive to visit again. My next visit will be to purchase their heavenly dark chocolate balsamic vinegar. I'm told it is wonderful over fresh strawberries. Can't wait!