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ADMIN@CoffeeWineTea.com

1043 Posts
Mastering Online Wine Shopping: Expert Insights and Essential Tips

Mastering Online Wine Shopping: Expert Insights and Essential Tips

In the digital age, you don't need to live near an independent wine merchant to have access to exceptional vintages. Here's how to find top-notch online retailers and make successful purchases. The internet offers a plethora of wine shops at your fingertips. From niche merchants specializing in rare bottles to more general stores catering to diverse tastes, the selection can be overwhelming. But with some expert guidance, you'll soon master the art of online wine shopping. 1. Identify Your Preferences: Before diving into the digital vineyard, determine what you're looking for. Are you a Bordeaux connoisseur or more interested in…
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Can mountain ageing take Valtellina’s wines to new heights?

Can mountain ageing take Valtellina’s wines to new heights?

Title: Exploring the Heights of Valtellina Wines: The Impact of Mountain Ageing Content: Nestled within the picturesque Alps, the region of Valtellina in Italy is renowned for its unique winemaking practices and exceptional wines. One such practice that sets Valtellina apart is mountain ageing, a traditional method where wine matures at high altitudes in the region's mountainside cellars. This process has been an integral part of Valtellina's viticulture for centuries, but its significance in shaping the region's wines has often been overlooked. The distinct terroir and climate of Valtellina offer a perfect environment for mountain ageing. The cooler temperatures, lower…
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Master the Art of Wine Shopping: Tips from the Pros

Master the Art of Wine Shopping: Tips from the Pros

Ever wondered how some people always bring unique, unheard-of bottles to parties? They don't just shop at supermarkets (or even online). If you want to buy wine like a pro, follow these expert tips for an exceptional wine collection. 1. Visit Vineyards and Buy Directly from the Cellar Door You might be surprised to discover vineyards nearby, even in non-wine-producing countries. A visit to a vineyard is more than just a fun day out; it's an opportunity to buy exclusive bottles that haven't made it to stores yet. Rare and original wines, without markups—a perfect souvenir for friends and family.…
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Exclusive Wine Tour at Decanter Fine Wine Encounter London: A Deep Dive into Iconic Vintages

Exclusive Wine Tour at Decanter Fine Wine Encounter London: A Deep Dive into Iconic Vintages

The Decanter Fine Wine Encounter (DFWE) in London recently hosted the Cellar Collection 2025, a unique event that offered wine enthusiasts an exclusive tasting journey through iconic wines. This year's edition, the fourth, featured 21 estates pouring three back vintages of their flagship cuvée to demonstrate the evolution of each wine. The morning and afternoon sessions were sold out, showcasing the caliber of producers that attended. Each guest received a Cellar Collection passport, which they used to collect stamps as they tasted wines from around the world. The event was not just a tasting but an opportunity to meet the…
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Fresh off the wine press: The ‘other’ nouveau wines bringing joyous revelry in November

Fresh off the wine press: The ‘other’ nouveau wines bringing joyous revelry in November

Title: Unraveling the 'Salinity' in Wine: A Hidden Dimension Content: In the complex world of wine, a fifth dimension is gaining attention - 'salinity'. This elusive attribute, while not as immediately recognizable as sweetness or acidity, contributes significantly to a wine's character and balance. Salinity in wine can be traced back to its terroir, specifically the soil composition and climate of the vineyard. Salty soils, such as those found in parts of Greece, Sicily, and Portugal, can impart a mineral-rich flavor profile to the grapes grown there. However, it's not just saltiness from the earth that contributes to salinity in…
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Germany: The Emerging ‘Pinot Paradise’ for Wine Connoisseurs?

Germany: The Emerging ‘Pinot Paradise’ for Wine Connoisseurs?

The world of wine is facing a harsh reality with the looming effects of climate change. Droughts, heat spikes, hailstorms, wildfires - the list goes on. As Andrew Jefford points out, hundreds of billions of tonnes of fossil carbon now linger in our atmosphere, a remnant of an era long before phylloxera. This excess carbon is causing extreme climate change, which may render our greatest vineyards unusable within two human lifetimes. Germany, however, might just be bucking this trend. With its unique terroir and climate, the country is emerging as a potential 'Pinot Paradise'. The Kaiserstuhl area of Baden-Württemberg, in…
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The Sacred Concept of Terroir: A Double-Edged Sword in Wine Communication

The Sacred Concept of Terroir: A Double-Edged Sword in Wine Communication

In the world of wine, the concept of terroir is a revered term that has long been associated with the unique characteristics imparted by a vineyard's location. However, its ubiquitous use today raises questions about whether it truly helps us to understand and appreciate the nuances of a wine. The origins of terroir date back to the Middle Ages when it was used derisively to describe a wine with an unpleasant earthy taste. Yet in the 20th century, it held little interest for wine writers, with notable omissions in early wine literature. It wasn't until the latter half of the…
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Mastering Heat Gun Roasting: Achieving Consistent Results

Mastering Heat Gun Roasting: Achieving Consistent Results

You've probably dabbled in coffee roasting at home, but have you ever tried using a heat gun? This unconventional method can yield impressive results, but it comes with its own set of challenges. I recently took on this adventure and learned some valuable lessons that I'm eager to share. Roasting coffee with a heat gun is an exciting venture for home enthusiasts, as it allows for precise control over the roasting process. However, unlike traditional methods, managing heat transfer can be tricky. During my attempt, I noticed that the hottest setting on my heat gun produced strong airflow, causing the…
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Mastering Washed Process Beans Roasting on Freshroast

Mastering Washed Process Beans Roasting on Freshroast

You've been nailing naturals, but now you're ready to explore washed process beans. As a Freshroast user, you're in for an exciting journey! Let's dive into the specifics of roasting Ethiopian washed process beans. First off, understand that washed process beans undergo a different fermentation and washing method compared to naturals. This affects their flavor profile, acidity, and body. The lack of fruitiness found in naturals means you'll need to adjust your roasting profile accordingly. For washed Ethiopians, aim for a slightly longer roast. Start with a low temperature (F9) and low power level (P1) for the first 2 minutes.…
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Mastering Live Data Display for Artisan Roasting: A Comprehensive Guide

Mastering Live Data Display for Artisan Roasting: A Comprehensive Guide

If you're a small roaster in the UK, like our friend at /u/concerning_noises, you might find yourself wondering how to display live data during artisan roasting. We've got your back. Let's dive into this pressing issue and share some valuable insights. First things first, let's clarify what we mean by 'live data.' In the context of artisan roasting, it refers to real-time monitoring of key parameters like development time and percentage moisture. The good news is that with your Giesen W15, Mac, and Artisan setup, you can indeed display these figures live—but you'll need a bit of tweaking. To achieve…
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