gatherings

Ethiopia’s Coffee Elite Unite to Elevate the Specialty Sector

Ethiopia’s Coffee Elite Unite to Elevate the Specialty Sector

The Specialty Coffee Association of Ethiopia (SCAE) has officially come into existence, marking a significant milestone in the country's specialty coffee industry. Comprising a group of prominent green coffee professionals, the new trade body aims to elevate Ethiopia's specialty sector and enhance its global standing. The SCAE, as they are now known, plans to achieve this ambitious goal by fostering collaboration between local players and promoting quality and sustainability standards. This fresh initiative is a testament to Ethiopia's growing recognition as a major player in the global specialty coffee market. With more than 60% of the world's Arabica coffee originating…
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Fairtrade Announces Major Revamp of Certification Standards for Coffee and Other Crops

Fairtrade Announces Major Revamp of Certification Standards for Coffee and Other Crops

Fairtrade International, a pioneer in ethical consumerism, is set to revise its certification standards for small-scale producer organizations, hired-labor organizations, traders, and agricultural commodities. The multi-year project aims to reshape the way millions of farmers, workers, and buyers interact with the system that supports smallholder farmer livelihoods. The Germany-based nonprofit plans to overhaul all generic standards and product standards for coffee and other crops. The new "evolved" standards are expected to be published in 2027, with certification against them starting by 2028, following a full public consultation in 2026. Marike Runneboom de Peña, Interim CEO of Fairtrade International, stated, "We…
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Unveiling the Charm of French Crémant: A Must-Try Alternative to Champagne

Unveiling the Charm of French Crémant: A Must-Try Alternative to Champagne

When it comes to French sparkling wines, Champagne steals the limelight. But let us introduce you to a lesser-known yet equally delightful alternative - Crémant. This underrated gem shares similarities with its expensive cousin but boasts unique flavors that make it truly special. Crémant, primarily produced in France and Luxembourg, is a sparkling wine created using the traditional method, much like Champagne. However, it's crafted outside the Champagne region by winemakers who may not possess land there. This diversity results in a multitude of regional styles and specialties that warrant recognition for their taste rather than their price tag. For…
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South African Pinotage: A Redemption Story in Every Bottle

South African Pinotage: A Redemption Story in Every Bottle

After a long history of being dismissed as cheap and not so great, South African Pinotage is making a comeback. The grape variety, a cross between Cinsault and Pinot Noir, has been reborn in the capable hands of modern winemakers. In this article, we'll delve into a recent tasting experience of a Pinotage from Walker Bay, South Africa – a sub-region known for its balanced and aromatic wines. The Wine Tasting Challenge posed a question: can we change our perception of Pinotage? After all, it has earned the nickname "the Grinch" in the world of wine. But like The Grinch,…
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Unveiling the Charm of Chiêu Thi Lục Trà Green Tea from Vietnam

Unveiling the Charm of Chiêu Thi Lục Trà Green Tea from Vietnam

If you're a green tea aficionado, prepare to be intrigued by Chiêu Thi Lục Trà, a unique gem hailing from the verdant hills of Vietnam. This exceptional green tea is produced by Nguyễn Trung Dũng in the picturesque Hồ Thầu commune, Hoàng Su Phì district, Hà Giang province. Nestled amidst the Shan mountains, Chiêu Thi Lục Trà's production process is as captivating as its taste. This tea comprises approximately 15% silvery buds, plucked at just the right moment to ensure the perfect balance of flavor and aroma. The leaves, when steeped, produce a pale yellow liquor that promises an unforgettable…
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Discover the Rich Flavors of Thien Red Tea from Vietnam’s Muong Khuong District

Discover the Rich Flavors of Thien Red Tea from Vietnam’s Muong Khuong District

If you're a tea connoisseur on the hunt for an exceptional black tea, look no further than Thien Red Tea. Hailing from the picturesque Muong Khuong District in Lao Cai Province, Vietnam, this ancient Snow Shan Tea is making waves in the global tea market. Thien Red Tea, a product of TienThien Tea Investment and Development Joint Stock Company, stands out with its unique characteristics. The leaves are composed of small, wiry curls that unleash an overpowering cocoa aroma as soon as you open the package. Once brewed, it offers a velvety body with complex notes of dark chocolate, honey,…
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Discover the Rich Flavors of Nepal’s Rose Label Reserve Black Tea

Discover the Rich Flavors of Nepal’s Rose Label Reserve Black Tea

If you're a tea connoisseur seeking an extraordinary black tea experience, look no further than the Rose Label Reserve from Kanchanjangha Tea Estate and Research Center in Nepal. This premium tea offers a unique blend of medium, wiry curls that captivate your senses with their fresh aroma. The Kanchanjangha Tea Estate and Research Center, nestled in the picturesque Panchthar District, is renowned for its dedication to quality and innovation. The Rose Label Reserve is no exception, boasting a velvety body that tantalizes your taste buds with notes of toffee, chocolate, and vanilla. But what sets this tea apart is its…
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Unleashing the Secrets of Whole Cluster Fermentation: A Deep Dive into Stemmy Wines

Unleashing the Secrets of Whole Cluster Fermentation: A Deep Dive into Stemmy Wines

Whole cluster fermentation is all the rage in the wine world, and for good reason. But what exactly is it, and how does it impact the taste of your favorite vino? Let's dive in. Whole cluster refers to winemaking with entire bunches of grapes, including stems. Traditionally, grapes are destemmed before fermentation, but whole cluster leaves them intact. This method dates back centuries, as it was impractical to remove individual grapes by hand before machines were invented. So why do winemakers still use this method today? The answer lies in the complex flavors that whole cluster fermentation brings to wine.…
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Delving into the Rich Flavors of French Crémant: A Wine Tasting Challenge

Delving into the Rich Flavors of French Crémant: A Wine Tasting Challenge

When it comes to French sparkling wines, Champagne often steals the spotlight. But don't overlook its affordable and flavorful counterpart - Crémant. This week, we're diving into a bottle from the Loire Valley to show you why this underdog deserves your attention. Crémant is a traditional method sparkling wine produced primarily in France, with Luxembourg also joining the party. While it shares similarities with Champagne, it has its unique characteristics that set it apart. In the Loire Valley, for instance, you'll find Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir grapes, but our focus is on a Chardonnay-driven Crémant de Loire.…
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Discover the Sun-Kissed Flavors of Assyrtiko from Santorini

Discover the Sun-Kissed Flavors of Assyrtiko from Santorini

You want a wine that evokes the essence of its origin? Look no further than Assyrtiko, the island grape from Santorini, Greece. This week, we're diving into the story behind this remarkable white wine that'll transport your senses straight to the Mediterranean. The Tasting Challenge is all about exploring 34 wines from 12 countries each week – an adventure for your palate and a test of your wine knowledge. When it comes to pairing with seafood, there's no better companion than Assyrtiko. This grape variety, native to the picturesque island of Santorini, is the perfect match for those looking to…
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