I meet people for a living, primarily through networking and connection-building. Even though many people enjoy it, it can be exhausting. My social energy often runs out by the end of the day, turning me from an extroverted to an introverted person. Even though some days are better than others, this cycle continues. Today, I was reminded to reconnect with old friends who were once close. I was moved by a study titled “People are surprisingly hesitant to reach out to old friends.” 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. Starting my newsletters with a topic that has been on my mind rather than coffee is easier for me. This time, I’ll begin with a recap of events I enjoyed attending over the past two weeks.
Cheese and Coffee: A Surprise Combination Who would have thought that cheese and coffee could go together?
An event was held by Palette by Roasteria to demonstrate the enchantment of pairing cheese and coffee. Let me tell you from firsthand experience that it was unexpected and unusual. I preferred these pairings: Petit Basque complimented the bold Brazilian and added almond and buttery notes to 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. With these daring pairings, Palette is redefining coffee experiences, and I’m all for it. There’s another event taking place in two weeks time. Events provides additional information.
A Journey Through 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 consistent—an exploration of exceptional coffees, highlighting their nuanced tastes 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. I found two aspects of this event particularly memorable. 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. The experience gained a new dimension as a result of meeting new people and hearing their perspectives. As I mentioned before, Kranti is set on redefining the way cupping events are done by adding creative twists, like allowing attendees to brand their own tote bags and sign them off 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 through Ibrik’s fascinating past to its distinctive features. The highlight, though, was her signature drink—the very one she presented on stage. In honor of her mother, who didn’t like coffee, she made this drink to make coffee more approachable for her, and it ended up making us love this brewing device.
The September Coffeevine Box
Another excellent release from The Coffeevine this month. Thanks to The Coffeevine, a few people from all over the world arrive in Dubai each month. Miga Coffee Roasters, Dalston Coffee Roasters, and Coffee Collective are the newcomers to the scene for the month of September and are featured in the European Coffee Roasters. 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. This box includes a delicious sugarcane-processed Colombian coffee roasted by the well-known Amsterdam roaster Uncommon.