McEvoy is definitely a fine olive oil. It's more consistant and easier to find than some of the smaller production lables.

If you are looking for an Artisan oil, try McEvoy Ranch from California. Nan bought the seedlings from Tuscany and models her oil from that inspiration. They sell at the SF Farmer's Market and have an excellent reputation. http://mcevoyranch.com/

I order from these guys:

http://www.oliviersandco.com/

Someone has already mentioned Zingerman's and they are in the upper midwest. They stock great olive oils including California lables such as Pasolivo. California is now turning out some superior olive oils. In fact CA olive oils are about where CA wines were back in the seventies; that is ready to be taken seriously.

When I lived in New York I looked forward to finishing my bottle of olive oil so I could go to DiPalo's and taste some new oils from different regions, each quite distinctive. Your question prompted me to see if they have an online store, and it turns out they do now. http://store.dipaloselects.com/oil.html
They give good descriptions of how the oil will taste. I would probably go with something like the Lochitello Biancolilla from Sicily because I like the grassy notes, but they have a variety if you prefer something fruity or peppery. I've never ordered from them online, and haven't lived in New York for five years, but I'll be ordering from them now, as I haven't found an Italian shop with as careful a selection of products.

thanks for the suggestions. I really have to do mail order, I live in a rural area with no specialty shops or costco. what I am looking for is one that tastes good enough to drizzle on as a finish to dishes, or to use in salad dressings,etc. one that Frances Mayes would eat

This is is the brand that my family has been using for years and my absolute favorite. I get it locally, but have ordered it on Amazon.com before. http://www.amazon.com/Frantoia-Barbera-Extra-Virgin-Olive/dp/B002GJDE8I

(Frantoia Barbera)

For everyday use. CostCo "Kirkland" brand is a best buy and well rated above some common supermarket brands.

Columela has many fans: http://www.amazon.com/Columela-Extra-Virgin-17-Ounce-Bottles/dp/B000VBSL3Q/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1297472619&sr=8-9.

The Nudo sounds amazing! I would love to try the mandarin. I also like a California oil - Robbins Family Farm Ascolano. It is a little lighter than the Italian oils and very delicious. http://robbinsfamilyfarm.com/store.html

Is there a Greek or Italian store near you? They often carry a selection of tasty oils and the proprietors can advise you.

I have tried some from Chefshop.com and Zingerman's mail order. Worth a look.

Oh, this stuff is special. And really really good! http://www.food52.com/shops/1029362664_nudo_italia