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At Neolea, it’s all about connection—bringing people together with the purity of Mediterranean flavors and the story behind our products. This sense of togetherness is at the heart of every tasting hosted by Jokelien Manten, mother of Neolea’s founder, Bart. 

For over a decade, Jokelien has traveled across the Netherlands, sharing the Neolea story and introducing countless people to our products. Here are 8 of the most memorable stories from her time introducing people to the Mediterranean magic of Neolea.

1. The Italian Seal of Approval

An Italian couple, owners of a restaurant and an olive grove in Italy, sampled Neolea’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil out of curiosity. After an intense discussion in Italian, they bought two bottles, saying, “For home.” Coming from seasoned olive oil experts, this was the ultimate compliment.

2. The Last-Minute Shopper

Just before closing time, a man rushed into a shop where Jokelien had one bottle of olive oil left. Sensing his urgency, she handed him the bottle and said, “This is what you’re looking for.” He bought it immediately, leaving both him and the shop owner impressed. The owner even joked, “I should hire you and let you set your own salary!”

3. A Family Legacy Lives On

At a tasting in Rotterdam, a woman approached to buy olive oil without even tasting it. She shared that her late mother had bought her first bottle of Neolea years earlier and never wanted any other oil. “She kept her first bottle and passed it on to me,” the woman said, “and now I can’t imagine using anything else.” A story that deeply touched Jokelien.

4. A Photo to Remember

A young student listened as Jokelien talked about Neolea and proudly shared that her son Bart was the founder. He was visibly moved and said, “I wish my mom would do something like this for me. Can I take a photo with you?” He left with a bottle of olive oil and a memory that Jokelien treasures to this day.

5. A Silent Connection

At Gelderlandplein, an older woman with a walker, who turned out to be deaf, approached Jokelien’s tasting table. Through gestures and expressions, they communicated as Jokelien shared the Neolea story using her hands.

Other customers, drawn by the moment, patiently listened and tasted alongside them. The woman, delighted by everything she tried, shook Jokelien’s hand in thanks. “It wasn’t about the purchases—though many bought something,” Jokelien reflects. “It was about the kindness, patience, and connection we all shared in that moment.”

6. The Opera Singer’s Gift

At a Bijenkorf tasting, an elegant woman tasted everything with delight but shared, “I’m alone. My husband left me long ago, and I have no family or friends.” Jokelien, moved by her story, replied, “That’s heartbreaking, but you’re such a wonderful person. The world deserves to know you.”

The woman revealed she had been a concert singer and lived for her music. Jokelien remarked, “It’s such a pity I’ve never heard you sing.” To her astonishment, the woman put down her bags and began to sing.

Her stunning aria filled the store, leaving everyone in awe. “It was breathtaking,” Jokelien recalls. “When she finished, she opened her arms, and we embraced. It was a moment of pure connection and joy I’ll never forget.”

7. A Bouquet of Thanks

A man, impressed by the flavors and presentation of Neolea products, bought one of everything. Half an hour later, he returned—not to shop, but to gift Jokelien a bouquet of flowers to thank her for the experience. “Moments like this make it all worthwhile,” she says.
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8. A Special Gift for a Special Occasion

One customer approached Jokelien looking for a unique baby gift. Jokelien explained the meaning of “Neolea” (Youth! New Olive!) and suggested a bottle of olive oil. The customer was delighted by the story and bought the bottle as a meaningful and unexpected gift.

Through more than a decade of tastings, Neolea has introduced the world to the finest Mediterranean flavors while collecting stories that highlight the power of connection. It starts with a bottle of olive oil and ends with a smile, a memory—or even an aria.

Jokelien sums it up beautifully: “It’s like a Sunday afternoon in Greece, gathered around a big table with friends and family. Bread, olive oil, a glass of wine, and time for each other. That feeling of sharing and listening is what Neolea brings to life, again and again.”