Exotic Hazelnut Oil…Rich Maletti Aged Balsamic Vinegar…Sweet Nut Chocolate Liqueur…22 Year Old Bowmore single malt scotch…  These delights and more are found at Vom Fass, located in the El Jardin Courtyard at 451 E. Main Street in the heart of downtown Ventura.  Vom Fass means literally “from the cask” in German. While there are more than 250 of these stores internationally, Vom Fass Ventura opened one year ago as the only store of its kind on the Gold Coast, bringing an entirely new and unique retail concept to Ventura County.

What makes Vom Fass special is that customers may sample any of the rare and delicious oils, vinegars, spirits and liqueurs, anytime for free, then purchase the desired product in a quantity to fit their needs.  On one side of the store are wonderful imported olive oils, infused olive oils (citrus and herb infused such as tangerine, basil, rosemary, oregano, truffle etc), nut and seed oils (pistachio oil, pumpkinseed oil, hazelnut oil etc), delightful aged balsamic vinegars and fruit vinegars such as calamansi, pear, mango, raspberry and date. On the other side of the store are single malt whiskeys, cognacs, armagnacs, grappas, liqueurs (including the Green Fairy--Absinthe!) and other spirits. The store also has a small selection of boutique wines featuring local, domestic and imported selections. Oil and vinegar bottles can be brought back to the store for refill when empty, helping to promote a green environment.

Vom Fass Ventura staff members are a superb resource for cooking tips and recipe advice.  The store hosts cooking demonstrations, as well as wine and spirit tastings, perfect for both the beginner seeking to refine their palate, and the most discerning food critic and wine connoisseur. Vom Fass also provides a unique gift selection as well as specialized services for businesses and community groups, including corporate gift baskets and private tasting events in the store.

For more information log on to vomfassventura.com, find Vom Fass Ventura on Facebook and Twitter or call the store at 805 641 1900. Store hours are Monday through Friday 11am – 7pm, Saturday 11am – 8pm and Sunday 11am – 7pm.