The Olive Tap

 
If you're a fan (or patient) of Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, then you've heard of The Olive Tap - if not, allow me to enlighten you!

The Olive Tap is a neat little shop in downtown Medina, Ohio (Kmart Shopping Plaza); actually there are five locations, but only one in Ohio. 

As the name suggestions, The Olive Tap specializes in a variety of fresh, artisan Extra Virgin Olive Oils from around the world, but that's not why I think this shop is so great.

I go there for their fresh, artisan Balsamic Vinegars from around the world!

Dr. Esselstyn says that greens (kale, spinach, bok choy, etc.) are essential for good health and need to be eaten daily.  Only problem is, I don't like them!  Ok, I have alleviated this problem to a degree by incorporating wraps into my daily routine, but Esselstyn wants you to eat greens at every meal - ugh!  Esselstyn knows what time it is and that greens don't have a strong fan base.  So, he tells his patients to use flavored balsamic vinegars to make the greens more appealing; which this shop just happens to specialize in and Esselstyn is a frequent patron of.

By the way, I found out that Esselstyn's favorite vinegar is Aceto Balsamico di Modena (not bad!).

Now I am even a less of a fan of vinegar than I am of greens, so I knew I had to taste test before buying, which this shop encourages!  In fact, the staff is so super friendly and knowledgeable - all I had to do was mention Esselstyn's name and they knew exactly why I was there.  I explained that I didn't like traditional balsamic, but that I did like fruit and I was directed towards a Strawberry Balsamic and Mango Passion Fruit among others!  They even have a Dark Chocolate vinegar (pair that with some fruit)! 

I even learned that there are thicker, almost sauce-like vinegars, kinda cool!

And the best part!  

While they do sell typical large, about 12.68 oz bottles, they offer a set of 4, 3.4 oz bottles for $25 of the flavor(s) of your choice - the bottles are made up on the spot!  My plan is to keep trying all the sample bottles to discover my ultimate fav!

These cute little bottles would make a perfect gift and as a little bit of vinegar goes a long way, I predict my set is going to last me a few months and I use them daily!

The Olive Tap, Medina
1077 North Court St.
Medina, OH 44256
(330) 721-6500


Check them out or shop online!
The Hoff

P.S. They have a newsletter!