I meet people for a living, primarily through networking and connection-building. While many find it fun, it can be draining. By day’s end, my social energy is often depleted, turning extroversion into introversion. Even though some days are better than others, this cycle continues. Today, I was reminded to reconnect with old friends who were once close. A study, “People are surprisingly hesitant to reach out to old friends,” resonated with me. Friends can feel further away from one another as time goes on. Reconnecting with them, on the other hand, may assist in restoring that social energy. I find it easier to start my newsletters with a non-coffee topic—something that’s been on my mind. This time, I’ll start by going over the enjoyable events I’ve attended over the past two weeks. Cheese and Coffee: A Surprise Combination Who knew coffee and cheese could be paired together?
An event was held by Palette by Roasteria to demonstrate the enchantment of pairing cheese and coffee. Let me tell you first hand that it was unexpected and something out of the ordinary.
I preferred these pairings: A bold Brazilian met its match with Petit Basque complimenting and adding almond and buttery notes in the mix.
Indonesia, a funky favorite, went well with Gruyère and Roquefort, amplifying the flavors of fermented foods and adding complexity, making funky coffees more approachable. Palette is redefining coffee experiences with these bold pairings, and I’m all for it. In two weeks, another event will take place. Events provides additional information. An Exploration of Kranti’s Coffee Kranti Coffee held their second cupping event a month later, this time at the stunning Ferment Artistry Cafe, as promised. Sonam’s recent victory at the UAE Aeropress Championship coincided perfectly with the timing of the session. The agenda remained the same: an investigation of exceptional coffees with an emphasis on their complex flavors and aromas. The fact that they featured a selection of specialty coffees from India in addition to those from Vietnam and Myanmar was their one-of-a-kind selling point. Two aspects of this event really stood out to me. First, it was hard to believe that one of these coffees came from India when it was tasted both as an espresso and in a milk-based drink. Second, it was reassuring to see a few passionate coffee lovers actively participating in the event. Meeting new people and hearing their perspectives added a fresh dimension to the experience.
As previously stated, Kranti intends to reshape the way cupping events are organized by introducing novel innovations like allowing attendees to personalize their own tote bags and sign them with their names. They are definitely on the right path, in my opinion. What are your thoughts? Learning Ibrik It is not often that you get the chance to observe Mariam Erin, the UAE Cezve/Ibrik Champion, in action and gain firsthand knowledge of the art of brewing Ibrik coffee. Special thanks to Brewing Gadgets for putting together such an outstanding event. Mariam took us on a journey from the rich history of Ibrik to the unique qualities that set it apart.
The highlight, though, was her signature drink—the very one she presented on stage. This drink, a tribute to her mother who wasn’t a coffee fan, was crafted to not only make coffee more approachable for her but also ended up making us fall in love with this brewing device.
The September Coffeevine Box Another excellent release from The Coffeevine this month. Every month, some of the from around the world make their way to Dubai, thanks to The Coffeevine.
For the month of September and featured in the European Coffee Roasters, Miga Coffee Roasters and Dalston Coffee Roasters are the new kids on the block along with a familiar name, Coffee Collective.
Featured in Global roasters is Wyndhams Coffee, a small family roastery from Barbados, and Bloom Coffee from Marrakesh, bringing specialty coffee to Morocco.
Recently, The Coffeevine began offering decaf coffee. A super nice sugarcane processed Colombian coffee roasted by the well-known Uncommon, roaster based in Amsterdam, is featured in this box.
The order form closes on the 9th of September.
In addition, we have created a group on Instagram to directly notify members whenever a new edition is released or coffee is delivered. Feel free to join here.
