Better

The Better Vessel: A New Way to Taste Espresso

The Better Vessel: A New Way to Taste Espresso

There’s something brewing in the world of espresso—a tool that challenges the way we think about crema, flavor, and extraction. The Better Vessel, developed by Filipino coffee innovator Michael Harris Conlin, isn’t just another accessory. It’s a deliberate shift in how we approach the final cup, offering a method to separate crema from liquid espresso and reveal the drink’s core. After testing its single- and double-shot versions, I’m left with a clear takeaway: this isn’t about removing crema for the sake of it. It’s about understanding its role and how it shapes what we taste. The Better Vessel’s design is…
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Filipino Coffee’s Global Rise: Michael Harris Conlin’s Mission to Shine

Filipino Coffee’s Global Rise: Michael Harris Conlin’s Mission to Shine

Here’s what you need to know about the Philippines’ coffee revolution—and the man leading it. Michael Harris Conlin isn’t just a barista; he’s a storyteller, an inventor, and a bridge between Filipino farmers and the world. His journey began in 2001, when a single bag of green coffee beans from a supplier transformed his life. “That moment sparked a curiosity that turned into a mission,” he says. Today, he’s the first Filipino to reach the World Barista Championship semi-finals and the 2025 Philippine National Champion, carrying Philippine coffee—especially Liberica—into global conversations. Conlin’s work isn’t just about flavor. “Filipino coffee is…
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