Portugal

Vinho Verde: The Affordable, Versatile Wine You’re Missing Out On

Vinho Verde: The Affordable, Versatile Wine You’re Missing Out On

Let’s talk about the wine that’s as misunderstood as it is refreshing. Vinho Verde isn’t just a fizzy white wine—it’s a region, a culture, and a revelation for anyone who’s ever wanted something light, crisp, and undeniably Portuguese. If you’ve ever grabbed a green-topped bottle at your local shop, you’ve probably wondered why it’s so cheap, why it’s always bubbly, and why it’s never the star of a wine list. The truth? Vinho Verde is a gateway to a world of flavor, history, and value. The region itself is a marvel. Nestled in northern Portugal, the Douro Valley’s nine sub-regions…
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Mastering Home Espresso with Delonghi Stilosa: A Personal Journey

Mastering Home Espresso with Delonghi Stilosa: A Personal Journey

Delve into the world of espresso at home, a journey I've recently embarked on, and let me share my initial foray with the DeLonghi Stilosa. The coffee beans, hailing from Torra in Portugal, present as a medium/light roast that has piqued my interest. The DeLonghi Stilosa offers versatility, allowing me to bypass the pressurization feature on its original baskets for a more traditional extraction method. Although it doesn't come with an IMS basket, adjusting the pressure manually has proven rewarding. Pairing the original tamper, a homemade WDT tool, and a Kingrinder K6 grinder, I've found a sweet spot with 14-15g…
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