Warm bread, a flavorful dip, and something delicious to drizzle over dinner: a few thoughtful pantry staples can make gathering feel easy. At FEAST, we carry Texas Hill Country Olive Co. for home cooks, relaxed hosts, and gift-givers looking for flavor they can put to use.
This guide introduces the family behind the brand, explains the differences between the products in our online collection, and shares simple ways to bring them to your table.
Meet Texas Hill Country Olive Co.
Based in Dripping Springs, Texas, this family-owned company was founded in 2008 by John Gambini and his daughter, Cara. Their brand story connects a Texas home base with a love of olive oil and food.
That Texas connection deserves a little context. According to the company’s FAQ, its olive oil comes from orchards in South Texas and Northern California. Its traditional and white balsamic bases come from Modena, Italy, while infusions and bourbon aging take place in Dripping Springs.
FEAST carries a selection of the brand’s products online and at our boutique in Glen Rose. Here’s how to choose among our featured oils, vinegars, and seasonings.
Which balsamic vinegar should you choose?
Bourbon Reserve: rich, sweet flavor for dinner
Bourbon Reserve Balsamic Vinegar ages for six years before spending another six months in Garrison Brothers bourbon barrels from Hye, Texas. Its maple-like notes and touch of aged wood make it a flavorful option for roasted vegetables, dressings, and meat marinades.
Try it: Finish a platter of roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts with a light drizzle just before serving. Start small and taste as you go.
Traditional Aged: a versatile classic
Traditional Aged Balsamic Vinegar is made with Lambrusco and Trebbiano grapes and aged six years in oak barrels. It balances sweetness and acidity with a velvety texture.
Try it: Pair it with olive oil for a salad dressing, drizzle it over a Caprese salad, or add a little to vanilla ice cream. Choose Traditional when you want a classic balsamic; choose Bourbon Reserve for its barrel-aged character.
Jalapeño infused olive oil for a peppery finish
Brunch idea: avocado toast with a light drizzle of jalapeño olive oil.
Jalapeño Infused Olive Oil combines an extra virgin olive oil base with natural jalapeño flavor. It’s the option in this selection to reach for when you want heat instead of the sweetness of balsamic.
Try it: Add a few drops to avocado toast, stir it into guacamole, or whisk it into a dressing. It also works in marinades and cornbread. Begin with a little, then adjust to your taste.
Bread dipping spices: an easy place to start
Both blends are dry seasonings; olive oil is sold separately. Mix with olive oil and let stand for five minutes before serving so the herbs can rehydrate.
- Garlic & Herb Dipping Spices combines garlic, basil, shallots, sea salt, pepper, and spices. Use it for bread dipping, homemade garlic bread, or a marinade.
- Italian Bread Dipping Spices includes garlic, basil, oregano, rosemary, sea salt, and red pepper. Try it with warm bread or in a pasta sauce or salad dressing.
For a host gift, pair a seasoning packet with an olive oil of your choice and a handwritten serving suggestion. For a relaxed dinner, set out the dip while the main course cooks. Finish the gathering with our Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Bites.
Shop the collection at FEAST
Choose the flavor that fits your table, or explore our Texas Hill Country Olive Co. collection. Each product page has current pricing and availability.
Shopping in person? Visit FEAST at 116 NE Barnard Street in Glen Rose, or browse our Gourmet collection online for more ideas for your next meal or gift.
Product details are drawn from our listings and the brand’s published information. Lifestyle scenes are AI-generated illustrations of serving and shopping ideas; the product gallery uses existing product photographs.
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