Main Street USA.  The Heart and Soul of the American Image.  Sinclair Lewis made the image famous in his book of the same name. Recently that image of American innovation and home town spirit have faded overcome from the newest from FaceBook, Amazon, and Twitter. 

However,  for Troy Ohio that home town image is alive and well. The Olive Oasis at 7 E. Main Street in Troy is a family owned and operated business that provides the community with fresh olive oils and balsamic vinegars.

When I visited Olive Oasis, I was captivated by the scent of fresh herbs and spices.  The store features multiple displays of stainless steel dispensers that contain a plethora of olive oil and herb combinations. Patrons are invited to taste test the selections from the individual containers with fresh bread.  Owner, Lucas Schlumpf said  "the company strives to provide, the highest quality extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars in the world. Olive Oasis wants to guide and educate consumers about the taste, health and culinary benefits of olive oils and vinegars. We hope to inspire culinary artists to creative unique flavors." 

Schlumpf became interested in the the olive oil industry when his aunt opened Green Gate Olive Oils in North Carolina.  Schlumpf wanted to recreate that intimate, family atmosphere in Troy. He is passionate about olive oil and the health benefits of the oil.  He noted that what you buy in the grocery store is not really olive oil.  In a study of what is available in grocery stores found that 75% of the oils labeled as extra virgin olive oil failed the test for olive oil.  Most of what is advertised as olive oil are grape seed oil and fillers.  In addition Schlumpf noted that once olive oil is over a year old, the health benefits decrease.  Once olive oil is a year oid it is basically calories and fat.  Therefore it is important to keep fresh oil to cook with.

The Oasis sponsors parties for up to 30 guests. at no charge.  The groups need to provide their own food and drinks; however, the store provides free tasting for all of their products.