Brian's Olive Shop: In the McLaren Vale in the Fleurieu Peninsula region of South Australia

(Text & photos supplied by Sightseeing South Australia)

There's nothing else that tastes like an olive, says Brian Swanson, self-confessed olive addict. Brian is an expert in the olive industry so it seems only fitting that he owns and operates a retail outlet totally dedicated to this noble fruit.

It is here, at Brian's Olive Shop, that you can taste locally grown Kalamata olives and acclaimed cold pressed extra virgin olive oils.

His award-winning olives are snapped up by many of the Fleurieu Peninsula restaurants because not only are they delicious but, unlike commercially produced olives, Brian's olives are naturally treated and do not contain any artificial preservatives or colours.

Brian says olives are great on their own and on pizzas, in pastas and also salads.

"Olives break up the flavour in salads. They have a very distinctive flavour, but blend beautifully," he said.

At Brian's Olive Shop there are several varieties of olives oils to choose from and Brian says they differ in flavour, aroma and style as much as reisling and shiraz.

"They can be very green, peppery and bitter through to soft, sweet and buttery," he said.

"My favourite olive is the traditional, although my new sundried olives are selling like hotcakes."

There are over 30 different varieties of oil on display as well as an assortment of olive products. Browse through olive oil soaps, skin care and other gourmet produce such as sauces, jams and dukkah. Brian has even created 'Olive Mite' an olive spread that is developing widespread interest.

Brian's Olive Shop is open 10am to 5pm Mondays to Saturdays and 11am to 5pm on Sundays. Brian and his friendly staff look forward to guiding you through a superb olive-tasting experience.

Brian's Olive Shop
142 Main Road, McLaren Vale 5171
Phone: +61 (0)8 8323 9231
Mobile: 0414 323 879
Website: www.briansoliveshop.com.au