Locating a bottle of premium organic sake can be a difficult challenge, especially in regions where the value of this complex and historic beverage is defined in terms of its alcohol content and ability to shock the western palate. I’m far from experienced in the cultural intricacies of sake, but have gained some valuable insights through careful observation and listening. One of the most frequently repeated recommendations is to choose the best quality sake one can afford. Upon further questioning, this advice is sometimes refined by reference to the term “munouyaku” which means no agricultural chemicals. In Japan, traditional varieties of sake rice have been selectively bred over many centuries. The best sake rice is characterised...

There’s some perception within the wine industry that organic producers are contributing to an international trend of increased alcohol levels in traditional varietals. While less than convinced by arguments of this nature, I’m prepared to concede that a few notable organic vintages have reached towards an upper range of 16 percent and above. These are, however, balanced by the large number of examples where a modest range is maintained, somewhere between 11 and 14 percent alcohol. The nineties were truly a decade for increasing alcohol volumes in wine. The trend was initially observed in the “higher quality” reds sourced from California and several of the imported products from Argentina, Chile, and South Africa. In...

Over recent years, we’ve made several attempts to reduce the quantity of plastic accumulating in our modest three bedroom home. We do our best but the packaging industry seems to have our measure. Every consumer item arrives with layers of the stuff. It eats away precious space and remains depressingly indestructible. Over time this is true for many of the things we purchase. Nylon carpets, garden accessories synthetic polyester clothing, fabricated kitchens, and toys for the children. This pattern may well repeat itself from one generation to the next unless we look at some of the natural and environmentally sound materials which might one day be exchanged for synthetic plastics. A good example of a versatile natural material, one inherently...

Olive oil is a pushy customer. Have you noticed the extent to which our supermarket and delicatessen shelves are bulging under the weight of imported and local varieties? What used to be a simple enough decision is now surrounded by complexity and seriousness. The introduction of boutique varietals coincide with the possibility of new and rewarding taste experiences. The industry is also starting to attract the services of experts. Last year, I attended a conference for manufacturers and purveyors of these oils. The opening speaker offered suggestions for matching her Frantoio pressings with “sophisticated accompaniments” An international chef berated the audience for their lack of knowledge and there were heated arguments between...

We’re always searching for that special bottle of organic wine to share with friends and family. Nothing is more versatile than a decent shiraz, and there have been some interesting ones of late. You tend to pick them up at airports, surprisingly enough. The Winbirra vineyard is located south east of Wagga Wagga, which places it about halfway between Sydney and Melbourne. Their Retief 2006 Gundagai Shiraz is notable for its even palate with rich fruit flavour and characteristic hints of cracked pepper and spice. Incidentally, it is estimated that one in five individuals are blind to the aromatic compounds which provide the spice and pepper characteristics of shiraz. If you happen to be in this category, you’ll still be more than...

Our children are reaching the age where Christmas takes on special meaning. We were talking between ourselves last month and agreed on a few basics. We definitely wish to free ourselves of the consumer drive to hand out elaborate and expensive presents. I received those as a child and, quite frankly, they probably didn’t do me a whole lot of good. What we would like to focus on are the simple joys of being together as a family. This involves plenty of scrumptious food, good stories, wishes, laughter, and some time for serious reflection as well. To achieve that kind of Christmas, you need symbols and the obvious one which inspires so many cultural traditions is the decorated tree. I’m not speaking of those wire and plastic structures...

It’s sometimes difficult to believe that the widespread application of GE in agriculture dates only from 1996. This suggests that there is much to learn about the environmental and health implications of the technology. There are strong indications of consumer resistance to GE products and growing preferences for safe food options, particularly organically certified and holistic foods free of chemical and other contaminants. The unwarranted introduction of GE materials poses a threat to organic producers and the concerned consumer who prefers to avoid undisclosed risk. Seeds of Distrust, written by Nicky Hager, explores the anti-democratic influence of big business in New Zealand and how political expediency, self-interest and the abuse...

Many of us find it difficult to contemplate functioning without our morning coffee. Let’s face it, caffeine stimulates the brain and provides the energy boost we need. Depending on circumstances and routine, that first cup is probably followed by several others, distributed strategically throughout the day. In Continental Europe, freshly brewed coffee has been iconically popular since the beginning of the twentieth century. Try to imagine Paris without its coffee. It’s almost unthinkable! Shortly after the Second World War, the art of coffee making declined in many countries beyond the immediate influence of Continental Europe. This was primarily associated with the advent of instant blends which were economical and convenient. In a return...

A carefully selected wine has the potential to complement fine food and good company. In addition to offering enjoyment and pleasure, the moderate intake of wine has the potential to improve important aspects of physical health. Since the eighties, numerous studies have confirmed the health benefits of moderate wine consumption. Dry red wine, in particular, contains high concentrations of phenolic and other antioxidant compounds which are associated with a lowered incidence of coronary vascular disease. These findings, along with various social and economic influences, contributed to the rise of the mass produced wine. Often sold in cardboard cask or flagons, their quality was often compromised by mechanised harvesting and the routine application...