Our Founding Story
Nelson Olive Oil Co. was founded in 2019 by Michelle Rudell, a Nelson local with a love of creative cooking and healthy living. Inspired by a passion for authentic olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars, she opened a tasting room in the heart of Nelson, BC, to bring these world-class flavours to the Kootenays.
From the beginning, the goal was to create a community hub where locals and visitors alike could taste, learn, and experiment with gourmet products. The store has become a place not just to shop, but to experience flavours, meet passionate staff, and discover new ways to enjoy everyday cooking.
Over the years, Nelson Olive Oil Co. has grown alongside the community, welcoming residents from surrounding towns including Castlegar, Creston, Slocan, Kaslo, and Salmo, offering not just products, but a journey of flavour and inspiration for anyone who loves food.
What We Believe
We believe that every bottle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar should be fresh, genuine, traceable, and of the highest quality. Our mission is to provide products that inspire flavour, elevate meals, and connect people through food. Transparency, integrity, and care guide everything we do, from selection to service.
Sourcing & Ingredients
We work with Veronica Foods, the most reputable supplier in North America, to source the freshest extra virgin olive oils from both the northern and southern hemispheres, following harvests closely to ensure peak quality.
Our balsamic vinegars come from Modena, Italy, aged naturally in wooden casks. We also offer infused balsamics made with real ingredients, free from artificial additives, to bring depth and versatility to your cooking.
Authenticy is something that we, and Veronica Foods, take very seriously. Read more here.
