gatherings

Unraveling the Mystery of Your New Purchases: A Guide to Preparation and Enjoyment

Unraveling the Mystery of Your New Purchases: A Guide to Preparation and Enjoyment

You've found yourself in possession of an intriguing new addition to your kitchen, but with no prior experience or knowledge on how to prepare it. Fear not! We're here to help you navigate this exciting culinary journey. Your new acquisitions are known as yerba mate gourds, a traditional South American beverage container made from the hollowed-out shell of a gourd or a metal cylinder. Yerba mate is a caffeine-rich herbal infusion that's been enjoyed for centuries in countries like Argentina and Brazil. The gourds come in two primary types: empty, where you can add your own yerba mate leaves, and…
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Mastering the Art of Brewing Oolong Tea

Mastering the Art of Brewing Oolong Tea

If you're a tea aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates a good cup of oolong, this piece is for you. We'll delve into the intricacies of brewing an '80s Min Nan–style Mao Xie, a medium roast oolong with a subtle yet profound jasmine-leaning aroma. Mao Xie, often referred to as 'hairy monkey,' is a type of oolong tea that hails from the Fujian province in China. This particular variety has a medium roast, lending it a rich, complex flavor profile. The jasmine notes are not overpowering but subtly present, providing a delightful dance of aromatics on your palate. The secret…
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Unraveling Unusual: Gongfu Cha in Unexpected Places

Unraveling Unusual: Gongfu Cha in Unexpected Places

Gongfu cha, a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, isn't typically associated with unconventional settings. But as it turns out, breaking free from the confines of the teahouse can yield some truly unique experiences. Case in point? Sipping gongfu-style tea on a plane—an endeavor that's recently become a part of my frequent-flyer life. Imagine this: you're cruising at 35,000 feet, gazing out the window as clouds drift by, when suddenly, you're transported to a serene tea garden. Well, sort of. That's exactly what happens when I brew a pot of gongfu cha on a plane. The compact setup—a thermos and a foldable…
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First-Time Racking of Portuguese Riesling: A Personal Vineyard Journey

First-Time Racking of Portuguese Riesling: A Personal Vineyard Journey

If you're a wine enthusiast or a budding vintner, racking your first bottle can be an exhilarating experience. For me, it was just that. Today, I'm sharing my personal journey of racking a Riesling produced in Portugal, offering insights into the process and the delightful outcome. Racking is a crucial step in winemaking where you separate the clear wine from the sediment accumulated during fermentation. For my first attempt, I was eager to gauge the wine's taste and its final alcohol level. With high expectations, I took the plunge, ready to unveil the fruit of my labor. The process began…
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Aging Gracefully: An Analysis of Louis Jadot 2005 Beaune Gréves

Aging Gracefully: An Analysis of Louis Jadot 2005 Beaune Gréves

If you're a wine enthusiast seeking a bottle to elevate your Thanksgiving feast, look no further than Louis Jadot 2005 Beaune Gréves. But be prepared for a complex journey that unfolds with age. Pouring this 20-year-old vintage reveals a nose redolent of cherries, leather, and earthy undertones. On the palate, tart cherry and cranberry notes dance harmoniously with a pleasant acidity and surprising body—contrary to some critical opinions. The finish delivers more cherries and a lingering hint of leather, offering a satisfying conclusion to this aged masterpiece. However, it's important to note that 2005 may require an additional 5-10 years…
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Unveiling the Flavor Profiles of Thanksgiving Wine Picks

Unveiling the Flavor Profiles of Thanksgiving Wine Picks

The perfect wine can make your Thanksgiving feast even more memorable. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? Let's dive into three standout bottles that will elevate your holiday dining experience. First up, Pierre Gerbais Les Grands Cotes. Its fine bubbles may not overwhelm at first sniff, but give it a moment, and you'll discover hints of raspberry and rhubarb. The tingling sensation in your mouth is more of a gentle dance than a Co2 punch. This champagne exudes yeastiness and breadth with an air of exuberance that's hard to resist. Next, we have Drouhin…
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Unveiling Domaine Nico La Savante’s 2021 Pinot Noir: A Hidden Gem

Unveiling Domaine Nico La Savante’s 2021 Pinot Noir: A Hidden Gem

If you're a fan of Pinot noir and are on the hunt for a quality bottle without breaking the bank, look no further than Domaine Nico La Savante's 2021 vintage. This wine has consistently proved its mettle, offering an elegant yet powerful taste that sets it apart from others in its price range. The 2021 edition showcases a unique blend of flavors, with cranberry and dark cherry notes dominating the initial taste. Sweet tobacco adds a subtle depth to this refreshing combination. Unlike some of their other Pinot noirs, which often feature a more pronounced pomegranate flavor, this one maintains…
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Rediscovering the 1998 CdP: A Timeless Wine Treasure

Rediscovering the 1998 CdP: A Timeless Wine Treasure

If you've been hanging onto that 1998 Château de Pommard (CdP) for the past two decades, it's high time to pull it out and savor its timeless charm. Let it rest overnight to allow sediment to settle, then decant an hour before dinner service. Prepare yourself for a symphony of aromas—tobacco, leather, smoke, spice—that meld beautifully with black fruits and cherries. The balance is striking, making this wine as impressive now as it was when first bottled. In the realm of fine wines, age often equals elegance. The 1998 CdP, a classic Burgundy from the esteemed Château de Pommard, embodies…
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Elevate Your Thanksgiving Dinner with These Remarkable Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wines

Elevate Your Thanksgiving Dinner with These Remarkable Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wines

If you're looking to impress your guests this Thanksgiving, consider serving a bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This iconic French wine is known for its rich, complex flavors that perfectly complement a festive meal. In this article, we'll take a closer look at two exceptional vintages from Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe – the 1983 and 1990 Beaucastels – and discuss why they could be the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. First, let's talk about the 1990 Beaucastel. This wine boasts a vibrant garnet red color and an intoxicating floral nose that is sure to captivate your guests. On the palate, it…
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Laithwaites and Alan Carr Partner for the Fun-Filled Wine Podcast “Bottoms Up!”

Laithwaites and Alan Carr Partner for the Fun-Filled Wine Podcast “Bottoms Up!”

Laithwaites, a renowned UK wine merchant since 1969, is teaming up with comedians Alan Carr and Lee Peart for the launch of their new podcast, Bottoms Up! This fun-filled show aims to make the world of wine more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Laithwaites has jumped at the opportunity to support Bottoms Up! as the hosts' philosophy aligns with their own mission. Alan Carr and Lee Peart, known for their conversational style and shared passion for wine, promise a podcast filled with wine, gossip, and chaos. The show is designed for those who appreciate wine but don't necessarily own a…
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