The art of olive oil tasting is a highly stimulating experience. Discovering how the same food can vary in taste, texture and color is truly marvelous. If you have never experienced an olive oil tasting, your moment has arrived.

1. The first step is to choose at least two different varieties of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This way, the tones, aromas and flavors of the different oils will be more easily contrasted.

2. Observe the tone of the color of each oil. To do this, pour some oil into a wine glass and cover the upper part. This will concentrate the aroma of the oil and the olive oil tasting will become a highly sensory experience. Do the oils have green or golden tones?

3. Smell the aroma of the oil. To ensure that the oil properly releases its aroma, the ideal temperature is 28ºC (82ºF). Take the glass in both hands and rotate it for 30 seconds so that the oil warms, aerates and releases its aroma. Bring the glass up to your nose and enjoy. The aroma may be subtle or intense, and you may even pick up hints of various aromatic notes.

4. Taste the flavor of the oil. For olive oil tasting, take a little oil in your mouth and leave it for a few seconds. Place the tip of your tongue behind your upper teeth and inhale gently three times. The oil may have bitter and/or spicy touches.

5. Assess its density. The oil may change in density at various points of the tasting. Take note of the sensation left by the oil on the palate once you have swallowed it.