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Time Capsule Brew: Passenger Coffee Unveils 10-Year-Old Roast

Time Capsule Brew: Passenger Coffee Unveils 10-Year-Old Roast

Here’s something to stir your curiosity: Passenger Coffee is unearthing a 10-year-old harvest, defying time and tradition in the specialty coffee world. The Pennsylvania roaster is releasing a Kenya Kiriani Peaberry from 2016, frozen green coffee since harvest, as a bold experiment in preservation. This isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s a statement on how roasters are redefining freshness, quality, and the economics of coffee. The 2016 harvest, now a decade old, was frozen immediately after processing, locking in its peak condition. Passenger’s approach mirrors wine vintages, but with coffee’s unique challenges. Freezing green coffee—a practice pioneered by brands like George Howell…
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American Distillers Are Rethinking Grappa’s Classic Roots

American Distillers Are Rethinking Grappa’s Classic Roots

The Italian spirit everyone loves to hate is getting a fresh twist—thanks to American distillers. Grappa, that fiery, often polarizing digestif made from grape pomace, has long been a divisive favorite. But as its traditional roots face scrutiny for intensity and complexity, a new wave of American craft distillers is redefining the category. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and refined flavor, these producers are crafting grappa that’s less about the burn and more about balance. The result? A category that’s evolving beyond its Italian origins. Grappa’s story is one of ingenuity. For centuries, it’s been made from the leftover…
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Zabaglione: The Timeless Italian Dessert That Never Fails

Zabaglione: The Timeless Italian Dessert That Never Fails

Let’s talk about zabaglione—the custardy marvel that’s been satisfying palates since the 15th century. It’s not a fancy technique or a complicated recipe; it’s a simple alchemy of egg yolks, sugar, and booze, whipped into a silky, boozy cloud. While it’s lesser known than its Italian counterparts like panna cotta or tiramisu, zabaglione’s charm lies in its effortless elegance. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a secret shared between generations, perfect for impressing guests without breaking a sweat. The method is deceptively straightforward. Start with a bain-marie—a pot of simmering water and a heatproof bowl. Whisk egg yolks,…
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Italian Desserts: A Symphony of Bold Flavors and Layered Delights

Italian Desserts: A Symphony of Bold Flavors and Layered Delights

Real talk: Italian desserts aren’t about restraint. They’re about unleashing the full spectrum of flavor, texture, and aroma—think almond extract’s creamy nuttiness, lemon zest’s zesty punch, and espresso’s dark, brooding allure. These desserts are maximalist in every sense, layering ingredients like a painter’s palette to create sensory fireworks. From the first bite of a crostata to the final swirl of a boozy glaze, they’re a love letter to indulgence. Almond extract is the unsung hero here, weaving through doughs, fillings, and glazes with a richness that feels both familiar and surprising. Take the crostata: its crisp crust, made with blitzed…
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The Artificial Aftertaste of Dutch Bros’ Watermelon Matcha Lemonade

The Artificial Aftertaste of Dutch Bros’ Watermelon Matcha Lemonade

Here’s a drink that promises summer vibes but delivers a taste of synthetic disappointment: Dutch Bros’ watermelon matcha lemonade. Amid the chain’s growing matcha lineup, this blend stands out not for its harmony but for its alarming reliance on artificial sweetness. Our taster described the watermelon syrup as tasting like cherry cough syrup—sweet, cloying, and entirely unconvincing. Pair that with a matcha concentrate that’s more syrup than powder, and you’ve got a drink that feels like a chemistry experiment gone wrong. The first sip is a shock of bitterness, artificial fruit, and sugary overload, leaving your palate numbed before it…
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The Matcha Powders That Make Every Morning Feel Like a Ritual

The Matcha Powders That Make Every Morning Feel Like a Ritual

If you’ve ever wondered why matcha is taking over your coffee routine, you’re not alone. This ancient Japanese tea has surged in popularity for its earthy flavor, calming effects, and nutrient density. But with so many options, how do you find the best matcha powder to elevate your daily ritual? We’ve tested dozens of varieties, from ceremonial-grade gems to budget-friendly picks, to uncover the powders that deliver both quality and consistency. The best matcha powders start with a clear origin story. Japanese-sourced options—especially from Uji, Kyoto, or Shizuoka—tend to shine, thanks to centuries of traditional cultivation. Kettl’s Kiyona Matcha, for…
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Morning Brews: Coffee vs. Tea—Which Wins for Your Health?

Morning Brews: Coffee vs. Tea—Which Wins for Your Health?

Your morning ritual isn’t just about caffeine—it’s about what your body needs. Coffee and tea are both powerhouses, but their effects diverge in ways that matter for energy, focus, and long-term wellness. The debate isn’t about which is “better,” but which aligns with your unique physiology. Coffee delivers a quick hit of antioxidants like chlorogenic acid and polyphenols, which combat oxidative stress and support brain function, metabolic health, and liver detox. Caffeine itself may reduce inflammation, according to dietitians. Yet, its jolt can trigger anxiety or disrupt sleep for some. Tea, meanwhile, offers a gentler awakening. Green and black teas…
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Tea and Slime Collide in Truckee’s Latest Community Hub

Tea and Slime Collide in Truckee’s Latest Community Hub

Real talk: Truckee’s newest hotspot is where tea meets slime in a way that’s equal parts whimsical and wise. The rebranded Truckee Teas, now part of a shared space with Slime Kitchen, isn’t just a quirky combo—it’s a masterstroke of community-driven creativity. This isn’t your average tea shop; it’s a hybrid destination where parents sip matcha while kids mold glittery sludge, and grandparents find common ground with toddlers over a shared cup of warmth. The shop’s owner, Leanne Johnson, isn’t just selling tea. She’s redefining what a local business can be. Truckee Teas offers 50 proprietary blends, from sleep-supporting chamomile…
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The Matcha Powders That Elevate Every Cup

The Matcha Powders That Elevate Every Cup

Let’s talk about the quiet revolution in your morning ritual: matcha. For years, I’ve swapped coffee for this vibrant green powder, and the right matcha can transform a simple latte into a sensory experience. But with so many options, how do you choose? After testing 14 brands—blending, baking, and sipping—I’ve narrowed it down to the ones that deliver depth, texture, and versatility. Blue Bottle’s Craft Matcha is my go-to for balance. Sourced from Uji, Japan, it’s a masterclass in nuance: nutty, almost-sesame, with a zippy brightness that cuts through sweetness. It’s not overly earthy, yet it’s complex enough for seasoned…
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A Symphony of Flavors: Rose Lychee Matcha Reimagined

A Symphony of Flavors: Rose Lychee Matcha Reimagined

The verdict is in: when matcha meets lychee and rose, it’s not just a drink—it’s a revelation. This hybrid brew marries the earthy depth of matcha with the ethereal bloom of rose and the juicy sweetness of lychee, creating a harmony that feels both unexpected and inevitable. The result? A drink that’s as refreshing as it is indulgent, perfect for cooling down on a sweltering day. The key lies in balancing these elements without letting any single flavor dominate. At its core, matcha provides the backbone—a rich, vegetal base that anchors the floral and fruity notes. Rose syrup adds a…
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