June 24, 2010 10:56 am

Wine of the Day: 2007 Handley Riesling

In the summer, a crisp white wine with fresh, fruity notes can be an exceptionally fitting beverage for the season. As summer marks the beginning to many fruits coming into season, a wine with similar notes and aromas can be exceptionally pleasing on a beautiful summer day.

Whether it's a picnic, barbecue, or quiet dinner at home, I think you'll be pleased with Handley Cellars 2007 Riesling. You'll find flavors of apricots, green apples, peach, and even exotic fruits like starfruit or guava. With this complex yet delicious balance of fruity aromas and tastes, you'll certainly be reminding your taste buds that yes, it's summertime.

Photo credit: Handley Wines

— Written by Alex Abrahamson

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Tags : Handley, Riesling, 2007, Wine, Alex Abrahamson

June 8, 2010 11:10 am

Snack of the Day: BetterOats Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

When we wake up, it's essential that we get a good breakfast. It's an instinctual urge, and for many of us, it's become equally instinctual to grab what food we eat in the morning. Now, I'm no oat expert or anything, but when I think of Oats, I think of Quaker Oats. Ever since I was a kid, I could find endless packages of Quaker Oats in my pantry. Never once did I think I'd have to question the friendly looking Quaker man I've seen on the cover of my oats, rice cakes and granola bars. Never once...until now.

BetterOats is exactly what it sounds like. Better Oats. In fact, BetterOats was so confident their oats were better that they also sent me some Quaker Oats for comparison. I chose to compare both brands' Apple Cinnamon flavor, and before I even tasted the dish, I could notice a substantial difference in appearance. With BetterOats, I had an abundance of apples and noticeable specks of cinnamon sprinkled throughout. With Quaker Oats, however, the end result looked like baby food. Technique: To combat mushy oats, put them in the microwave for about 1:00-1:30 instead of the suggested 2 minutes.

Upon tasting, I could clearly identify the ingredients associated with BetterOats instant oatmeal. The texture and flavor of BetterOats was a refreshing change from my Quaker instant oatmeal. The apples still had a crunch, and the cinnamon was balanced perfectly. It wasn't too sweet, so I instantly knew this would be a sensation for the health conscious. However, for someone like me, I still appealed to the sweetness of Quaker Oats. All in all, I can confidently say BetterOats are better tasting, and better for you.

Photo credit: BetterOats

— Written by Alex Abrahamson

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Tags : BetterOats, Oatmeal, Quaker Oats, Apple, Cinnamon, Alex Abrahamson