Last updated on June 28th, 2016 at 04:50 pm
San Diego-based natural grocer Barons Market has installed olive oil and vinegar tasting stations in all six of its locations.
Ten olive oils and 14 vinegars fill silver vats at each store’s tasting station, where shoppers will find bread for dipping. Unique flavors include citrus habanero olive oil and honey ginger white balsamic vinegar, with classic balsamic and extra virgin olive oil available as well. A 12-oz. bottle retails for $9.99.
Rachel Shemirani, VP of marketing at Barons, says large grocery chains can’t quickly adapt to consumer requests and specialty shops aren’t suitable for everyday grocery needs. As a family-owned market, she says Barons has the ingenuity and flexibility to quickly and simply execute innovative ideas.
“We’ve always been the place shoppers go for good foods at good prices, but now we’re introducing a specialty side,” says Shemirani. “You wouldn’t expect to taste artisan olive oils and vinegars inside of a grocery store. It’s our newest way of making grocery shopping more exciting and interactive.”
The olive oil and vinegar bar first appeared at Barons’ Murrieta location in late 2015. In addition to expanding the amenity to all six locations, Barons also plans to include the feature in its newest location opening in the North Park area of San Diego later this year.
