Showing posts with label Food and drink. Show all posts

Enjoyable Drink Options for the Designated Driver: A World Beyond Alcohol

Being the designated driver doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your enjoyment of drinking. While alcohol is often the centre of attention at social gatherings, there is a wide array of refreshing and delicious non-alcoholic options available to elevate your drink experience. In this blog post, I will explore some delicious choices for the designated driver, including a unique sparkling tea called the Royal Flush Drink. So, if you're looking for flavourful alternatives that won't leave you feeling left out, read on and discover a world of enticing options.

Mocktails - Bursting with Flavours

mocktails

Mocktails, or non-alcoholic cocktails, have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. These interesting concoctions deliver complex flavours and a touch of elegance without alcohol. From fruity blends like a Virgin Mojito or a Berry Fizz to sophisticated creations like a Shirley Temple or a Pina Colada sans the rum, mocktails are a versatile choice that caters to diverse taste preferences. Their vibrant colours and artistic presentations also make them visually appealing, ensuring a pleasurable drinking experience for everyone.

Sparkling Teas - A Royal Treat

One standout non-alcoholic option that is gaining attention is the Royal Flush Drink. Combining the sophistication of a sparkling beverage with the unique flavours of tea, this fizzy delight offers a refreshing and indulgent experience. The Royal Flush Drink is a blend of premium tea infused with natural fruit essences, gently carbonated for a sparkling effect. With flavours like peach rhubarb and strawberry, it delivers a complex taste profile that is sure to impress. Served in an elegant flute or a tall glass with ice, the Royal Flush Drink adds a touch of luxury to any occasion.

Crafted Mock Beers - The Art of Brewing 

Craft breweries have recognised the growing demand for non-alcoholic options and are now crafting mock beers that capture the essence of their alcoholic counterparts. These innovative brews offer the same malty, hoppy, or fruity flavours found in traditional beers, but without the alcohol content. From hop-forward IPAs to crisp lagers and rich stouts, there is a non-alcoholic beer to satisfy every beer lover's palate. So, the next time you're at a bar or gathering, ask for the non-alcoholic beer selection and explore the world of craft brews without the buzz.

Infused Waters - Naturally Refreshing 

infused drink

Sometimes simplicity is key, and infused waters provide a refreshing and hydrating option. Combining water with a variety of fruits, herbs, and even vegetables creates a delightful drink that is as visually appealing as it is full of flavour. Whether it's cucumber and mint, lemon and ginger, or strawberry and basil, the possibilities are endless. Infused waters are not only delicious but also promote healthy hydration, making them an excellent choice for the designated driver who wants to stay refreshed throughout the night.

Conclusion

Designated drivers deserve to have delicious non-alcoholic alternatives and there are plenty of options on the market that cater to a range of tastes and preferences. From the sophisticated sparkle of the Royal Flush Drink to the complex flavours of mocktails and mock beers, there is something for everyone. So, the next time you find yourself behind the wheel but still want to enjoy a drink, explore these enticing alternatives and embrace a night of flavour and fun without compromising your commitment to safety. Cheers to memorable moments and responsible choices!

*Collaborative post 
Posted by at No comments
Labels: ,

All You Need To Know About Bubble Tea And Why Is It So Delicious

Bubble tea, also known as boba tea, is a Taiwanese tea-based drink that originated in the 1980s. The drink is typically made by combining tea, milk, sugar, and flavourings, and then adding tapioca pearls or fruit jelly to the mixture. The tapioca pearls are small, chewy, and round, and give the drink its signature "bubble" or "boba" texture.

There are many different varieties of bubble tea, and it can be made with a wide range of teas, including black tea, green tea, oolong tea, and more. The drink can also be customised with a variety of flavours and toppings, such as fresh fruit, syrups, and ice cream.

bubble tea


Bubble tea has become increasingly popular in recent years, and is now enjoyed worldwide. It is often served in speciality tea shops and cafes and can be purchased either hot or cold, depending on personal preference. If you haven't tried bubble tea before, it's certainly worth a taste!

Why Is Bubble Tea So Delicious?

The delicious taste of bubble tea can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the tea itself is often brewed using loose-leaf tea leaves or high-quality tea powders and infused with various flavours, such as fruit, milk, or syrups, which give the drink a unique taste.

Secondly, the texture of bubble tea is also an important factor in its deliciousness. The chewy tapioca pearls or fruity jelly add a fun and unique texture to the drink that many people find enjoyable. The pearls and jelly also help to balance out the sweetness of the drink, making it more refreshing.

Finally, the customisation aspect of bubble tea is also a big part of its appeal. Customers can choose the type of tea, flavourings, and toppings that suit their taste preferences. This allows for a wide range of flavour combinations and ensures that every bubble tea is unique and tailored to the individual customer's tastes.

Overall, the deliciousness of bubble tea is a combination of the high-quality ingredients, unique texture, and customisable nature of the drink.

Where Can You Get Bubble Tea?


cup of bubble tea

You can get bubble tea in specialised bubble tea shops, in cafes and coffee shops, in Asian grocery stores and online, so you can make bubble tea at home.

  • Bubble tea shops: Many cities have dedicated bubble tea shops where you can find a variety of flavours and types of bubble tea. The popularity of bubble tea in the UK has also risen with increased travel to Asia.

  • Cafes and coffee shops: Some cafes and coffee shops also offer bubble tea on their menu.

  • Asian grocery stores: You may be able to find bubble tea kits or pre-made bubble tea drinks in Asian grocery stores.

  • Online: You can also purchase bubble tea supplies and ingredients online, including tapioca pearls, tea leaves, syrups, and toppings.

Overall, there are many places where you can find bubble tea, and its popularity has made it widely available in many parts of the world.

If you an interested in food and drink check out my other posts here. 
Let me know, have you tried bubble tea? Do you like it?

*Collaborative post
Posted by at No comments
Labels:

Saperavi, A Love Story.

Saperavi is a truly remarkable and unique wine and a friend to all. The gorgeous colour and lively acidity have made it one of the most popular wines used for blending and bringing vibrancy to less lively wines. Saperavi is one of Georgia's most famous wines and is grown in the area straddled by the Caspian and the Black Sea.

Saperavi is the Georgian word for 'dye,' but it doesn't just end there. The robust tannins and acidity play a strong supportive role in a host of different wines, from rosé wines all the way through to semi-sweet, sweet, and fortified wines.

The most comfortable position for the Saperavi wine is undoubtedly in the realm of the big-time full-bodied dry red genre with loads of dark fruits, blackberries, and lovely black plums.

The French also have this wine down as a 'dyer' but in a little more encompassing way. Saperavi is one of the very few wines that has red flesh. Teinturier is the term used to describe wines with red flesh like Alicante Bouschet and Dunkelfelder.

Traditionally, Saperavi wine was used to blend with other wines. Still, the natural beauty of the wine has encouraged the production of one-hundred percent Saperavi wines that are typically aged for up to ten years.

Let's look at the top Saperavi wines and begin with one from Georgia.

Winiveria Saperavi 2019

red wine

Winiveria Saperavi 2019 is a young wine with a lot of growth potential. The rounded and firm tannins coupled with the dark fruit and plum produce a fresh and full-bodied wine. The wine will benefit from resting in the cellar for ten years or so and should be decanted for a short while before drinking.

George Piradashivili has combined both the traditional winemaking processes using Qvevris to ferment and macerate the wine, followed by ageing in oak barrels. The introduction of wood ageing helps to create a well-rounded wine.

The Winiveria Winery produces limited quantities of quality wines, and the Saperavi 2019 is a classic example of great organic wine from this winery. A wine to pair with rich meat dishes and game.

Lagvinari Saperavi 2020

pouring red wine

Around ten years ago, Eko Glonti started the Lagvinari Winery in the prime wine area of Kakheti. After harvest, the grapes are left in underground qvevri containers for eight months. The first three months are spent with the skins.

The resultant wine has a powerful, balanced combination of rich tannins and dark fruit flavours that pair beautifully with rich game flavours and duck.

The Lagvinari Saperavi 2020 is a wine that will develop further left in the cellar for up to ten years.

Danieli Saperavi 2019

Couple drinking red wine

A lovely organic wine from the tiny region of Argokhy region famous for wines made with the Kisi grapes. Eka Chviritidza and Olaf Malver produce limited quantities of this one-hundred percent Saperavi wine.

The Danieli Saperavi 2019 is produced using a combination of traditional and modern techniques, resulting in a wine rich in rounded tannins and lushes dark fruit. The rich dark colour combines with the enticing aromas of red cherries and sweet violets to make an irresistible wine.

The wine will benefit from a leisurely sojourn of up to ten years in the cellar, and decanting the wine for an hour will enhance the tasting experience.

Solomnishvili Saperavi 1984

woman drinking red wine

On this family-run estate, Georgy Solomnishvili produces superb wines that benefit from his intimate knowledge of the terroir of the Kakheti region in Georgia.

The thirty-five-year-old vines are grown at an altitude of five hundred and fifty meters in a rich combination of limestone, gravel, and clay.

The wine enjoys a combination of traditional and modern fermentation techniques. After spending time fermenting in the ancient qvevri pots, the wine is aged in French Oak for a further eighteen months. The result is a wine of deep, intense colour with a concentration of dark fruits and smooth tannins and a delicious lingering aftertaste.

After decanting for an hour or so, the Solomnishvili Saperavi 1984 2017 is a perfect partner to substantial red meat dishes, venison, and strong cheeses.

The superb quality of this wine allows it to be cellared for up to fifteen years.

Chateau Purcari Acaemia Saperavi 2019

red wine

This is a wine from the southeastern corner of Modolvia in the region close to the Black Sea. The prestigious winery produces this Saperavi wine in limited quantities, and only six thousand bottles are produced annually.

The bouquet is of prunes and rich dark fruit. The deep and luscious colour presents an invitation to enjoy the beautifully smooth and velvety tannins coupled with the dark textured fruit and ending with a long, satisfying aftertaste.

Enjoy this beautifully crafted wine with pork and veal dishes.

Let me know, do you like red wine?
Posted by at No comments
Labels: ,

39 Steps Filter Coffee Review

A good cup of coffee is the holy grail of drinks, isn't it? But to get a good cup of coffee at home can be harder than you think. Supermarket coffees can be bland, a small roaster is where the coffee experts go where you want to have a decent cup of coffee at home. So let's have a look at one such small roaster, 39 Steps Coffee.

39 Steps Coffee was started in early 2018 in Soho, London to provide the finest speciality coffee to those living and working in central London, as well as delicious food in their cafe. The roastery is approved by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) and also offers workshops and courses for the coffee enthusiast. 

If you can't get to central London you can now order your coffee online from 39 Steps Coffee. They sell a range of coffee from filter and espresso coffee to compostable coffee pods. 

coffee-1

As I only have a cafeteria to make coffee, otherwise known as a French Press, then I opted for the filter coffee to review. The filter coffee I was sent was the Colombia Malla 14 and Burundi Microlot 2145. 

coffee packet


coffee packet

So the coffee has the date on which it is roasted so you can see how fresh it is. The packet is fully recyclable too and it has a tear-off enclosure which is easy to reseal. 

Colombia Malla

colombia malla

The Colombia Malla 14 is a filter coffee that also comes in espresso too. Sourced from Colombia's Huila region from a variety of producers, this blend, they say has notes of apple, sugarcane and flora tones. 


colombia malla

Priced at £13.50 for 250g it is now on special offer for £12.50. 

malia

To make the coffee I used one dessertspoon per cup of coffee, so in this French Press, I used two dessertspoons of coffee to make two cups. I then poured freshly boiled water up to the top and waited 3 minutes before I pressed the plunger down.

The Malla coffee didn't have a strong smell in the packet, so I expected it to be milder coffee. This coffee though has exciting flavours and it made a mellow medium-strength coffee. I felt it was a good coffee for those of you who don't like a robust flavour. I added my favourite plant based milk to it, Alpro soya milk. Made with soya milk this coffee tasted mellow, and I thought it was a good cup of coffee to have in the afternoon.

Microlot 2145

microlot coffee

The Microlot 2145 is a filter coffee from The Kayanza area of Burundi. This coffee is sourced from a single coffee producer, and this coffee has flavours of citrus, cinnamon and cane sugar. 

microlot


This coffee is priced at £13 for 250g. 

microlot coffee

To make the coffee I made it exactly the same as before to compare. I used one dessertspoon per cup of coffee, so in this French Press, I used two dessertspoons of coffee to make two cups. I then poured freshly boiled water up to the top and waited 3 minutes before I pressed the plunger down.

The coffee was my favourite as it was a darker roast. I could taste slight cinnamon flavours in the coffee and it had more of a tang that I could taste for longer. It would be good as a coffee to have in the morning. Have it black for an extra kick or add your favourite milk, I recommend either semi-skimmed milk or oat or soya milk.

Marcus-drinking-coffee
Conclusion

My husband and I both enjoyed the coffee. Our favourite was the Microlot 2145 which we both said we could buy in the future. If you are looking for a speciality coffee producer, why not check out 39 Steps Coffee? They also offer certified training in areas related to coffee including understanding the roasting process and barista skills. 

Let me know, what is your favourite type of coffee?

*AD
Posted by at No comments
Labels: ,

5 Best Foods For Boosting Brain Power And Memory

Your brain is a big deal. It’s the control centre of your body, meaning it’s responsible for keeping your lungs breathing and your heart beating, which allows you to feel, move and think. To flourish professionally and personally, fuelling your body with the right foods is essential. What you eat plays a key role in keeping your brain healthy.

Whatever kind of diet you currently follow, here are some fantastic foods that can boost concentration and focus.

Oily Fish

tuna sandwich

Oily fish is a superb source of omega-3 fatty acids. These help to build membranes around each cell in your body, such as your brain cells. Omega-3s can boost the structure of your brain cells, known as neurons. Some examples of oily fish that contain high levels of Omega-3 include salmon, herring, and sardines. Canned tuna is also a fantastic food for supporting memory and brain function. You can visit John West and buy products like canned tuna steaks that can support your immune system too. They also sell tuna bowls and bites, no drain fridge pots, and infusions.

Nuts and Seeds

Filling your bowl with more nuts and seeds may be beneficial for your brain. This is because these foods contain antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to these benefits, nuts and seeds are excellent sources of protein. They can regulate body weight too. This is because their fats aren’t fully absorbed. You can put nuts and seeds in just about anything too, such as desserts, salads, and smoothies which will add more versatility to your diet.

Dark Chocolate

dark chocolate

Dark chocolate may boost your brain function too. Dark chocolate is packed with some brain-boosting compounds, such as caffeine and antioxidants. Research suggests that dark chocolate stimulates neural activity in areas of the brain that connect with reward and pleasure. This can significantly reduce stress and boost mood. Eating dark chocolate with 70% cacao may have positive effects on your cognition, memory, and mood.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a firm favourite on any roast dinner plate. If you’re a fan yourself, you may not realise the potential brain-boosting benefits this vegetable can bring. Broccoli is said to help in rebuilding your brain. This is because sulforaphane found in broccoli features anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These are said to help rebuild damaged neural cells. Broccoli is also good for heart health and your immune system.

Coffee

Coffee

In the UK, it’s estimated that roughly 95 million cups of coffee are drunk every day, meaning it’s safe to say we’re a nation of coffee lovers. If you see coffee as your morning saviour, you may be surprised at how it can potentially support brain function. This is because the caffeine found in coffee has several positive effects on the brain, such as increased alertness and improved mood.

The foods you eat have an enormous effect on the health and structure of your brain. Therefore, following a brain-boosting diet can encourage both short and long-term brain function. Making minor changes to your diet and incorporating any of the above are sure to enhance concentration levels and improve memory.
Posted by at No comments
Labels: ,

Different Varieties Of Grapes For Italian Wines

Italy is a beautiful country and is known for its amazing food and drink. It's a place where people who love amazing gastronomy go. If you are a food expert or just love Mediterranean food and drink, I bet you've tried Italian wine.  From Pinot Grigio made from the grape of the Pinot family to Moscato wine made from the Moscato grape, there are many styles and varieties of Italian wines and many different varieties of grapes used. Let's have a look more in detail at these. 

Italian wine

How many varieties of grapes are there in Italy?

Italy is known all around the world for its delicious wine but did you know there are over 350 varieties of grapes allowed to be planted to make Italian wine? I bet most of us can't even name a handful! Let's have a look at what the most popular grape varieties are. 

Sangiovese

The Sangiovese grape is the most widely planted in the whole of Italy. This grape has been grown around central Italy for generations and is now grown around Tuscany, Umbria and Corsica. Wine made from Sangiovese grape has rich red fruit flavours such as strawberries, and cherries. 

Pinot Gris

Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio is a white wine grape variety that is made from grapes with greyish, white, and or purple skins. When the grapes are ripe they give off tropical flavours whilst less mature grapes will have sharper citrus tones. This grape is found in the Lombardy region of Italy.

Merlot

Merlot is a dark blue–coloured wine grape variety. It is used in various wines as a blending grape as well as on its own, It is grown in the Friuli wine region in the northeast of Italy. It is often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc or Sangiovese. The Merlot grape generally has flavours of red fruits and chocolate.  The Italian Merlot wine is characterised by its light body and herbal notes due to the terroir (soil and climate) in which it is grown.

Moscato

The Moscato or muscat grape ranges from white to pink and makes sweet wine with a floral aroma. In Italy, it is primarily grown in the Piedmont region and is used in the production of Asti Spumante, a sweet sparkling wine that is popular around the world where it is one of the wines of choice for celebratory toasts. 

Barbera

Barbera is a red Italian wine grape variety. It is known for its deep colour, high acidity and low tannins. It produces medium body wines with cherry as well as other red and black fruit flavours. It is found in the northwest part of Italy although it is also found lesser so in the south. 

So here are some of the different varieties of grapes used in Italian wines.  There are many more. Did you recognise some of these grape varieties? 

*Collaborative post

Posted by at No comments
Labels: ,

3 Of The Best Hot Chocolate Recipes to Warm Yourself Up

When the weather is a bit chilly, a thick blanket and a cup of hot chocolate in the palm of your hands are what you need to warm up. It will make everything better if you have a creamy and soothing hot chocolate recipe on hand instead of going for the store-bought instant cocoa mix. Here are three of the best hot chocolate recipes to get you warm and make you forget about those instant hot chocolate drinks.

Classic Hot Chocolate



During sweater weather, the traditional and classic hot chocolate can never be surpassed and is always best to enjoy with the family. This easy recipe calls for five simple ingredients and a microwave, even though it is created from scratch.
Ingredients:

3 cups of milk
1/3 cup of grated semi-sweet chocolate
One tablespoon of sugar
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon powder
Some marshmallows
An egg

Method:
  1. Pour the milk into a microwave-safe container and heat it in the microwave for 2 minutes on high. 
  2. After it is done, add the sugar, chocolate, and cinnamon to the bowl and place aside. Crack an egg in another small bowl and whisk until smooth, then add it into the chocolate mixture and mix everything.
  3. Put it back into the microwave and heat for another 3–4 minutes on high, or until frothy (keep in mind not to let it boil). 
  4. Whisk the mixture until everything is smooth and pour it into your mugs. 
  5. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder and some marshmallows before serving.

White Hot Chocolate



White hot chocolate is a lighter version of a standard cocoa drink. Blending grated white chocolate, white chocolate pudding, and vanilla powder create layers of richness that you will surely enjoy. You can try adding some dried orange peel for a nice contrast.

Ingredients:

6 of cups white chocolate, grated
Three packets (3oz) of white chocolate pudding mix
Four tablespoons of powdered vanilla
2 to 3 tablespoons of dried orange peel
1 1/2 cups of milk
Whipped cream, cocoa powder, and cinnamon powder as toppings

Method:
  1. Combine the white chocolate, pudding mix, vanilla powder, and orange peel in a small bowl to make the chocolate mix.
  2. Heat the milk on the stove with low heat until bubbles appear around the edges and steam rises to the top. Be careful not to let the milk simmer or boil.
  3. Then, combine the milk with the white chocolate mix and whisk it gently until the chocolate melts and the drink is mixed properly.
  4. Fill individual cups with the mixture and decorate with whipped cream, cocoa powder, or powdered cinnamon on top. 
  5. Serve while it is hot.

Red Wine Hot Chocolate



The usual hot chocolate drink might seem dull for some grownups, so why not spice things up? This red wine is great with hot chocolate and will make it decadently rich and boozy while remaining perfectly balanced. It contains enough chocolate to appeal to people who are not big wine drinkers but need a hint of alcohol in it. You are free to choose the type of wine as it can significantly influence the flavour of your hot cocoa. Use a fruit wine for a sweeter, fruitier outcome or merlot, shiraz, or cabernet sauvignon if you prefer something drier.

Ingredients:

2/3 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
2/3 cup of red wine of your choice
1/2 cup of milk
1/2 cup half-and-half
Two tablespoons of sugar
A pinch of salt
One teaspoon of vanilla extract

Method:
  1. Mix the chocolate chips, wine, milk, half-and-half, and sugar in a saucepan and cook over medium-low heat. 
  2. Stir the mixture continuously until all the chocolates are melted and hot.
  3. Turn down the heat when it has been done and add the vanilla extract and salt. 
  4. Stir until everything is properly mixed before pouring the mixture into cups and serve.
* Collaborative post 
Posted by at 1 comment
Labels:

7 Quirky Ideas For The Perfect Home Bar

Drinking on a night out is fun, but also very expensive! Why not party the night away in the comfort of your own home? Save money, and make the most of wasted spaces in your house. 


cocktail

Here are 7 quirky ideas for the perfect home bar.

Suspend your bar…from the wall!

We all recognise traditional bar counters, firmly rooted to the ground. Go for something a little different, and choose a suspended wall bar. Although a suspended wall bar might sound a little intimidating, they are completely stable – the perfect place to store booze with character and charm.

Impress your guests, and take your home bar sky high.

Invest in a bar cart

Bring your home bar on the go, with a bar cart that can transport your alcohol and treats anywhere in the house. Try an antique or vintage bar cart, well-crafted and full of personality.

No matter the bar cart you choose, they add something more to any home bar, contemporary or classical.

Create a cosy lounge area

Create a cosy lounge area, and really take your home bar to the next level. We’d recommend a hairpin bar stool, bringing a touch of quirky-modern-goodness into your home bar design.

Take a break from dancing and recline in a lounge area, perfectly tailored to your space.

Intimate lighting

When you go to a club, you’re immediately confronted with fast-paced and dizzying ultra neon lighting! For a home bar, we advise going for something a little different.

Try intimate lighting, with warm tones and soft lamps Рmaybe even complemented by banquette seating and copious natural material such as cork placemats or wooden d̩cor. Intimate lighting really makes your bar feel like an extension of your home, and a place where you can relax uninhibited.

Convert a closet or pantry

An old closet or pantry is often one of the most unused spaces in the home. Instead of letting this room go to waste, do something a little quirkier! Converting your closet or pantry into a home bar is an achievable feat, with a touch of shelving and glass. Check out this step by step guide, if you need a hand.

Use booze as inspiration!

A home bar is made for drinking…so why not use booze as your inspiration when decorating?

If you’re a lover of red wine, try appropriating the rich colours of this drink in the colour scheme and paint you use.

Cans of beer can even be used as repurposed lighting, and bottle caps can be used as backsplashes. Reduce, reuse, recycle! Save the environment and make an unforgettable home bar.

Statement pieces

Statement pieces are the be-all-and-end-all of the perfect, quirky home bar. Look for an impressive marble countertop, or stunning artwork that strikes at the heart of your guests. Why not invest in a plush, colourful leather or suede seat?

The potential for statement pieces to improve and enhance your home bar is pretty much endless.

*Collaborative post

Posted by at No comments
Labels:

Luxury Italian Wine From Independent Wine

A nice bottle of wine is a little luxury many of us enjoy now and again. If you are looking for some delicious Italian wine for Father's Day or any day, to be honest, then Independent Wine is one such company you should look at. This is an advertorial in conjunction with Independent Wine, but, as always, all thoughts are my one.

Who are Independent Wine? Independent Wine are a company that handpicks the best Italian wine for their customers around the world.  Working directly with the vineyards their wine has excellent flavour notes and they are competitively priced too.


Recently Independent Wine sent me two bottles of wine to review and report back to my readers. Let's have a look at what they are. 


Siddùra Spèra 2019 | Vermentino di Gallura DOCG 


The white wine they sent me was the Siddùra Spèra 2019. This is a fresh bright wine with pale to medium light yellow colour.  This wine is from Northern Sardinia and made with Vermentino, Sardinia's signature white grape. These grapes are hand-picked in a vineyard at the foothills of the mountains in the area, gently crushed and then fermented at a very low temperature to preserve the fresh flavours. 


It's a still white wine with 14% alcohol. We thought it had undernotes of lemon, lychee and pears and some decent flavour - no super light Pinot Grigio here, instead, a lovely rounded wine with a scrumptious flavour.




The next wine I was sent was the Feud di Guagnano Pietrafinita. This is a rich red wine with big bold flavours. This wine is only produced in the best years of the winery and comes from the vineyards with vines that have been established 55 to 60 years ago. 

red wine

The grapes are again harvested by hand so as not to crush the grapes and then they are dried in wooden crates for almost a month, which intensifies the flavours. After drying the grapes are carefully pressed and fermented for two weeks, then it is aged in oak for twelve months and allowed to settle for 6 months to develop the flavour.

red wine in glass

This wine has really rich deep red fruit flavours with hints of blackcurrant, blackberries and dates and an alcohol level of 14.5%. This full-bodied wine has a dry mouthfeel, with the flavours of blackberries lingering long after you have finished the glass. A really delicious wine.


If you are thinking of what to get your dad for Father's Day, a bottle of Italian wine from Independent Wine would make a great gift. They are experts in wine and have a great online wine knowledge base, if you are not sure what to buy too. Why don't you check out Independent Wine for that really good quality bottle and treat yourself or your loved one! 

Let me know, which wine is your favourite?

*AD
Posted by at No comments
Labels: ,

Must Have Gadgets And Gifts For Wine Lovers

If you are a wine connoisseur there are some great gadgets and gifts out there for you.  Gadgets that can make your life easier, that can keep the wine at the correct temperature or can cool it down and gadgets that can keep your wine longer. 

Wine

Let's have a look at some of the must-have gadgets and gifts for wine lovers in 2021.

Corkscrew

Although you can buy wine with screw top lids, I think you will agree with me that a corkscrew is a must-have for wine lovers everywhere. For a touch of luxury check out the Peugeot range of quality corkscrews that are designed for ease of living. From rechargeable electric corkscrews to a Sommelier's corkscrew with an integral foil cutter, you will be surprised at the range and depth of corkscrews you can buy. 

Wine cooler

A wine cooler is a useful gadget for any wine lover, especially those that love white wine. White wine is kept cold, either very chilled for light white wines to lightly chilled for oaky white wines. A basic wine cooler is an ice bucket, which you fill with ice and place the wine in to chill, a more advanced wine cooler is an insulated container that is chilled to keep the wine insulated and cold while a more sophisticated wine cooler is similar to a mini-fridge. All of these make a great gift for a wine lover.

Decanter 

decanter
A wine decanter is a great gift especially for lovers of red wine. A decanter is a vessel usually glass that has an easy to pour neck. Pouring wine from the bottle into the decanter is said to let the wine 'breath' and improve the flavour of wine as well as separate the sediment from the wine. White and red wine can be decanted like this but sparkling wine should not or it will lose its sparkler. Red wine is a good wine to decant as it gains more complex flavour notes at room temperature. 

Wine Saver

When a bottle of wine is open it lets oxygen in and before long it can change the flavour of the wine. Sparkling wine can also become flat. A wine saver is a gadget that removes air from a bottle creating a vacuum seal. This can help the wine preserve its flavour and keep it fresh-tasting for up to a week. A perfect gift for someone that likes the odd glass of wine but doesn't want to drink the whole bottle.

Wine Tasting

wine tasting

My last addition to this list of gadgets and gifts is a voucher for a wine tasting. There are many vineyards around the world, from small boutique wineries to large wine production centres where you can see how grapes are grown, picked and made into wine. Of course, there are also tastings too and any wine lover would really appreciate a visit to a wine tasting. You can even have a virtual wine tasting where wine is delivered to your door. 

As you can see there is a range of must-have gadgets and gifts for wine lovers out there. Let me know, do you love wine or do you know someone who does?

*AD

Posted by at No comments
Labels: , ,

The Variety of Coffee Flavours and How to Understand Them

Coffee is one of the most complex beverages in terms of aroma and flavour – scientists are counting hundreds of flavour compounds found in roasted coffees, making it especially flavourful and intriguing to taste. For easier flavour navigation, SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) has created the Coffee Taster's Flavour Wheel – a descriptive diagram showing the variety of taste profiles coffee can have. It helps pinpoint the exact notes and guides the tasters when trying to understand their coffee. However you may wonder, how do those hundreds of flavours develop, what growing and natural conditions do they require, and what defines the notes and how we taste them brewed in a cup of coffee? Find the answers in this article below.

Does it matter where my coffee was grown?



Growing coffee requires specific natural conditions. Specific climate factors such as soil, altitude, wind, sun and rainfall affect the coffee plant’s health and ability to produce flavours. For Arabica coffee beans, the Coffee Research website suggests the following two growing conditions:

High altitudes between 1800-3600 feet with rainy and dry seasons are very well defined. Such conditions are most common in the subtropical regions, Mexico, Jamaica, the S. Paulo and Minas Gerais regions in Brazil, and Zimbabwe are examples.
The regions around the equator at altitudes of 3600-6300 feet with frequent rainfall, like Kenya, Colombia, and Ethiopia.

The optimum temperature for Arabica beans is between 15-24ºC all year round, however direct sunlight should be avoided. The soil should be rich, well-drained and porous, as well as nutrient-dense. However, how does that reflect the taste, and why are the same coffee arabica plants grown in different parts of the world taste different? 

At low altitudes there is more oxygen, however, the higher you go – the less oxygen you get, therefore coffee grown in higher altitudes, such as mountainous regions will have difficulty taking its energy from oxygen, and hence releasing lactic acid and complex sugars. It helps the plant grow and naturally adds richness and creaminess to the brew, as well as fruitiness and acidity in the taste, developing very complex notes. On the opposite – coffees grown in lower altitudes will have more sweetness and an earthiness to the taste. It’s more expensive to grow coffee in high altitudes, however, it’s also where the most interesting taste notes develop, as days are mildly warm, and nights get cooler – this dynamic thermal environment is helping the coffee cherries produce and lock down those flavour compounds.

5 elements that help you taste your coffee



The complexity of coffee as a beverage comes down not only to the growing conditions, region and variety of the plant but also to a few other important steps. These are processing, roasting and brewing, and all of that helps develop the end result – taste. When tasting, especially with little experience or dedication to understanding the notes behind it, it’s very important to know what to pay attention to. There are five different elements of the coffee taste – aroma, flavour, acidity, body, and aftertaste.

Aroma or the scent of coffee is what you smell after you brew a cup. It’s a key factor that helps you understand the taste, as it’s very closely linked to smell, allowing our brains to add both of these aspects and form a unified verdict. Aroma gives a good indication of where this flavour is heading – light and fresh, or heavy and nutty?
Flavour is the reason why most of us enjoy coffee so much – it’s the most obvious characteristic and helps us understand what our tongue feels – vanilla sweetness or berry sourness? Sometimes aroma and flavour of the same bean can be different, so it’s recommended to first smell and then taste the coffee. When tasting – do it with small sips, slightly opening the mouth to let some air in, as it will help you sense the notes.
Acidity is found in every coffee and means brightness and clarity of the taste, it’s the dry sensation that brings out the flavour profile of the coffee, without acidity, it would not be possible to taste much.
Body is the mouthfeel of the sip – how heavy or light it feels. When tasting, the body of coffee can be described as full, light, watery, silky, creamy, syrupy, etc. and it contributes to the whole tasting experience.
Aftertaste is an important characteristic. At the end of the sip, it’s the flavour that lingers after drinking the coffee, and it's affected by all characteristics mentioned before.

So next time before tasting your coffee, find out where it came from and how it was grown. Look at that region deeper and try to find out if it’s been grown high or low, this will give you a heads up on what to expect in the taste. Then focus on the 5 characteristics mentioned before and try to indicate each of them while tasting – takes notes as you go along and taste different coffees – the more experience you’ll get, the better you will understand your own preference.
Posted by at No comments
Labels: ,

Why You Should Have Champagne At Your Celebration

Champagne is a drink that many of us enjoy on a special occasion.  It's a drink of celebrations and luxury events. If you are thinking of buying some for your special day but are a little unsure of spending that kind of money, then have a read below. I firmly believe that you should have champagne at your celebration and here are my reasons why.

Why You Should Have Champagne At Your Celebration

It marks something special

bollinger

Champagne is always used to celebrate something special and it's a great drink to make memories. You can probably remember where you had Bollinger Special Cuvee champagne last as its not an everyday drink. It's a lovely drink to toast those special occasions and becomes part of those evocative memories. Champagne is definitely the drink to mark something special, such as a wedding, graduation, and special birthday.

It's fun

drinking champagne


It's fun

Champagne is a fun drink, especially if opened with a champagne saber for a little extra excitement. It's a little indulgent, it's something special, but most of all it's fun. It has bubbles that make it different, and that means it can make you feel tipsy quicker and you can guarantee that where there is champagne, there is laughter. Champagne is almost always drunk with other people, and anecdotal evidence suggests that drinking bubbles with friends can lift your mood!

It's good for you

wedding couple with champagne


It is said that drinking wine, in moderation, is good for your heart and research by the University Of Reading in 2009 concluded that it could actually be.  The research paper quoted "the fact that drinking champagne has the potential to reduce the risks of suffering from cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke, is very exciting news".  There has also been research into the link between drinking champagne and dementia, looking at it possibly preventing memory loss, so this is one area to watch in the future. 

It has fewer calories than a glass of wine

champagne with a view


Champagne has fewer calories than a glass of wine... sort of. As it's served in a flute the serving size is smaller than a typical glass of wine, and the bubbles slow down how fast you drink the wine, also making you feel fuller.  As it is pricey, people really try to savour it too. So this all means less champagne is generally consumed, and fewer calories too.

As you can see there are many reasons why you should have champagne at your celebration. If you are considering buying champagne, I say, do it! After all, you only live once.  Cheers!

*Collaborative post

Posted by at 2 comments
Labels: , , ,

Easy Ways To Avoid Buying Bottled Water But Stay Dehydrated

Depending on where you are, the tap water may be unsafe to drink. Coupled with the unhealthiness of soft drinks, this has led to a surge in popularity for bottled water. As an unfortunate side effect, over 300 million plastic bottles are used globally per day. When you consider the fact that each plastic bottle takes over 700 years to decompose, it is not such a good sign for the environment. Take a look at these ways to drink more water without buying bottled water. They can make your carbon footprint a lot smaller.

1. Reuse Your Bottle

drinking water

Use a Berkey water filter to purify your drinking water. You can use it to fill a reusable bottle that you can take with you. It is a good idea to keep a bottle on you at all times. Use a stainless steel bottle or an insulated model to keep your drink cool when you're out in the sun. Remember to fill your bottle every morning. Remember to change filters regularly. This will keep your water pure and ensure that there are no contaminants or bacteria in it.

2. Boil Out the Contaminants

If you find that the perfect thing to energize you in the morning is a fresh glass of cold water, boil a kettle or a pot of tap water before you go to bed at night. It will cool down overnight and will be completely bacteria-free. You can drink a glass of the purified water at home and fill a reusable bottle with some to have on the go. If the taste doesn't appeal to you, carry some packets of a flavoured drink mix with you to add to your water.

3. Crack Open a Coconut


If you have the choice between a bottle of water or a coconut, think about enjoying some hydrating coconut water. It can not only keep you hydrated, but it is a delicious solution to your thirst. It also contains numerous benefits for your health. This solution is best to use while you are on vacation. In tropical areas, coconuts are much cheaper than they are in the United States. In many popular tourist destinations, the cost of a coconut (with a reusable bamboo straw) is comparable to the cost of bottled water.

4. Filter Your Water Via Reverse-Osmosis

One of the products that is endorsed by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) is the iSpring. It works to purify and remineralise your water. It will pull all of the minerals out of the water to cleanse them and put then it will put them back again. The osmosis process presses your water through specially designed screens to clear it of contaminants. Drinking demineralised reverse-osmosis filtered water can cause your body to lose nutrients so it is important to get a filter that will provide a remineralisation service.

5. Make Your Water Taste Good


One way to make skipping your regular bottled water easier is to make the alternative irresistible. Try filtering some water at night and mixing in some powdered flavouring or sweetener, or add lemon juice, a slice of lemon and a little sugar.  Not only can this help you drink more water throughout the day but it is a pleasant change from plain water. Canned seltzer is also a popular drink. Cans, while not friendly to the environment, are more amenable than plastic bottles.

6. Invest in a Portable Steriliser

There are many products on the market today that can sterilize your drinking water by using the power of UV rays. The most popular is SteriPen. This portable water sterilizer can give you water that is free of bacteria and other contaminants. It has its own UV lamp that is activated by minerals in the water. Just stir it to destroy the harmful microbes and bacteria. It takes just three minutes to sterilize around 2 cups of water.

Drinking clean water is essential to living. Not only is it important for keeping us hydrated but it can help to strengthen our immune systems and help us stay fit. Unfortunately, clean drinking water is not always available but bottles are so hazardous to the environment. Use these simple tips to help you get potable water whenever you need it. They can make it so that you never feel the need to buy bottled water again.

*AD
Posted by at No comments
Labels:
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)