Planning a trip to the Texas Hill Country? Then, stopping by the Texas Hill Country Olive Company is an absolute must! Tucked away a short drive from Fredericksburg, this unique destination features locally grown olive trees combined with an exceptionally amazing culinary experience.
About Texas Hill Country Olive Company
- 2530 W Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, TX
- texashillcountryoliveco.com
- Texas Hill Country Olive Company is a family-owned business dedicated to producing award-winning, 100% Texas-grown extra virgin olive oil.
Located in Dripping Springs, TX, and just a short drive from Austin, the Texas Hill Country Olive Company is a family-owned and operated business that champions sustainable farming and olive oil production.
History
Founded all the way back in 2008 by John and Cara Gambini, it has grown to become a key player in the local agritourism scene and is even a multi-award-winning producer of extra virgin olive oils, balsamic vinegars and more.
Who Should Visit
The property itself is nothing short of stunning, with lush olive groves stretching nearly as far as the eye can see across a rolling landscape. Whether you’re visiting to sample some of their delicious garlic-infused olive oil or vinegar marinades, learn about Texas olive oil production, or just enjoy the picturesque surroundings, there’s no better place to really experience the heart and soul of the Hill Country. It truly is the perfect outing for foodies, nature lovers, and anyone just looking for a real, unique Texas experience.
Dining
While you’re here, make sure to stop in and dine at The Bistro, the on-site Tuscan-style restaurant. The Bistro serves delicious dishes inspired by the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, perfectly complementing the olive groves around it.
The sit-down service offers a charming atmosphere to take a break, complete with some olive oil or wine pairing, and is the perfect place to wind down after a hike around the property.
The Best Time to Visit Texas Country Olive Company
Timing your visit just right is incredibly important when it comes to enjoying everything that Texas Hill Country Olive Company has to offer. Each season offers something unique and special, but there are a few that are just a little better than the others!
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Texas Hill Country, specifically this location. The landscape is positively popping with wildflowers, including the much-beloved bluebonnet, which comes together to create a stunning backdrop for any visit. It’s also a more comfortable season weather-wise, making outdoor activities more enjoyable and easier to handle than during the hotter summer months.
- Attend guided orchard tours to learn about olive farming techniques.
- Participate in a wine and olive oil pairing event.
- Enjoy patio dining at The Bistro, complete with live music.
Fall (September to November)
Fall offers cooler temperatures and some of the best events the Texas Hill Country Olive Company has to offer. It is also the time of year for olive harvest, which lets guests see firsthand how olives are picked and processed.
- Join a Harvest Tour and Workshop for a hands-on experience.
- Browse the gift shop for holiday inspiration, including artisanal olive oils.
- Pair your visit with local fall festivals in the Hill Country.
Things to Do At Texas Hill Country Olive Company
Texas Hill Country Olive Company offers a lot more than just olive oil tastings, though that is one of its biggest draws. There’s something for everyone when they come to visit, from culinary enthusiasts looking to try something new to those just looking for a peaceful day out in nature.
Olive Oil and Vinegar Tastings
One of the best ways to spend your time when visiting this location is by signing up for one of their daily olive oil and vinegar tastings. This is a one-of-a-kind experience that offers guided tastings where visitors can learn all about the oil-making process even as they enjoy award-winning olive oil and vinegar tastings. This experience is offered year-round and open to both public and private tastings.
- Taste a variety of flavored olive oils and vinegars, like Terra Verde Extra Virgin Olive Oil, White Lemon Balsamic Vinegar, or Sola Stella Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
- Learn how to pair different oils with meals at home.
- Take home your favorites, available for checkout and purchase in their shop.
Enjoy Private Events
For visitors looking for an even more unique experience, Texas Hill Country Olive Company also has plenty of options for private tastings and luncheons, corporate events, and venue rentals. Whether looking for a place to host a wedding or need the perfect spot to host a holiday business lunch, this location offers it all.
- Private 2-hour long luncheons with guided tastings, lunch, and beverages.
- Celebrate special events, including weddings, rehearsals, and more, with a day-of venue manager plus catering and beverage options.
- Host a corporate or work event with optional add-on experiences like on-site entertainment, outside vendors, and more.
Head to The Bistro
If you’re getting a bit tired and want to take a break or just enjoy a delicious meal, the Texas Hill Country Olive Company has just the place: The Bistro! Located on-site and offering a seasonal menu, The Bistro is open daily from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM and is the perfect accompaniment to your day spent enjoying all that the location has to offer. The Gourmet Texas Gift Shop is also located inside, where visitors can shop for all sorts of olive oils, vinegars, gourmet food products, cooking accessories, and gifts.
- Enjoy seasonal food specials.
- Purchase premium quality products, including gifts, food, and more, at the Gourmet Texas Gift Shop.
- Sign up for a subscription to the Fresh Olive Oil Club, which sends out quarterly shipments of some of their best flavors, the ability to purchase new additions early, and receive special event invitations.
Other Things to Do Around Dripping Springs and Fredericksburg
While Texas Hill Country Olive Co. should be at the top of your list for local exploration, there’s also so much more to see and do in the surrounding Fredericksburg and Dripping Springs areas. These are just a few of the activities you might want to think about adding to your itinerary:
- Visit Local Wineries: The Hill Country is renowned for its vineyards and wine-tasting rooms, like Becker Vineyards or Grape Creek Winery. Stop by and have a drink or take a wine tour for some real local flavor.
- Explore Pedernales Falls State Park: A great spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying scenic river views. The park’s waterfalls are a photographer’s dream.
- Stop by Main Street in Fredericksburg: Shop, dine, and soak up the charming small-town vibes. Don’t miss the National Museum of the Pacific War or any number of local shops! There are also a ton of brunch spots perfect for a mid-morning meal.
- Check Out Nearby Breweries: For craft beer lovers, fantastic local breweries like Fredericksburg Brewing Company or Ogle Brewery are a short drive away.
Make Your Hill Country Visit Unforgettable
While visiting the Texas Hill Country Olive Company should be a highlight of any Texas Trip, it is but one of many amazing stops in this lovely area.
From olive oil tastings to private events, this destination offers something truly special for every visitor. Let your journey begin at one of Cozi’s local rentals, where comfort meets convenience, and make some seriously unforgettable memories during your Texas Hill Country getaway!
