#gin tasting in melbourne

[adimouze]

For u oomfie hand in rotten hand (it keeps growing I want more soft maxiel I will write it for all our needs)

--

He doesn't take the jet there. He thought about it. Doesn't want people - his people even, to know. To think they can stop him. He doesn't even text Daniel.

They talked before his flight, although Daniel doesn't know Max was leaving. Was landing. Max remembers saying something about sim work, words about the race half swallowed in embarrassment, in excitement. He remembers the soft smile - indulgent even, that Daniel kept throughout. You’ll win, he said and Max doesn't want to correct him.

He would. Could have. Still can – but Max does not want to. Or rather, he thinks – he wants, for himself, for the first time.

He wonders if Daniel has found peace now. Does it have Max’s name on it? Does it make a place for him? Max rubs sweaty palms into his jeans. Refuses the offer from the stewardess to have more to drink. Screws the cap on further against his brow just in case someone recognises him even when they boarded at 2am.

The gin doesn't taste as nice as in his own jet. He sweats more. Sleeps through a guy snoring even with the space between them in first class. He sleeps an hour, two. There are eighteen more to go.

Max watches the plane travel across the world on the screen instead. His heart doesn't stutter when it glances near Abu Dhabi. It flutters when they cross Hong Kong, aches as they cross the ocean and the Australian coast appears in the corner like the DVD logo of Max's childhood.

Words spill behind his tongue. Daniel’s name too. He rehearses what he wants to say. Mimes the words as the figure plane follows the dotted line. It doesn't get easier.

He turns airplane mode off when they land. It blows up with notifications. GP, Rupert – Christian emailed a schedule. He starts the sim session tomorrow. Today, in fact.

Max may already be late. He scrolls past them. Marks them muted. Crosses into Australian land and hot tarmac. It doesn't quite smell like the Melbourne track.

Daniel sent him memes in the last few hours. Before he started feeding the animals. Max has learnt and memorised their names. Even Maximilian the calf. It still makes Daniel snort when he says it - says the baby cow stares at him as much as Max does. Hence the name, Maxy.

Asks Max ten times if he gets the joke - Max, Max Emilian, Maximilian. Max nods, laughs anyway, as it makes Daniel laugh harder. Tells him his joke is silly, and Daniel replies he spent an hour thinking of the name thank you Max. Rambles about how he thought about it as baby cow not Max was being licked by his mother, calf hair sticking up everywhere just like my Max after a race.

Daniel doesn’t say anything when Max chokes on his water, when he breathes too loud. Chokes on Daniel’s name. Tries to find a joke about his hair and the baby calf. Doesn’t come up with one. Daniel smiles, pleased thing Max screenshots with clumsy fingers. It’s blurry. Max sets it as Daniel’s profile picture everywhere. Sends it to Victoria unprompted and gets a heart and a thumbs up from her.

Sends it to team redline. Mutes Luke’s dms for an hour or two after.

Max thinks he stares morethan Maximillian the baby calf anyway. Loves Daniel more than the baby cow. Wants the way Daniel smiles softly at it, the cooing in his voice making Max’s stomach tighten with need. The baby cow doesn't realise how lucky it is, to get Daniel’s affection so freely. Max will be there soon.

Max wants to beg Daniel to give it to him too.

Two more memes. He likes them all, even if Lando sent them to him two weeks ago, when they first appeared on TikTok. It’s cute. Max can't wait to watch them and hear Daniel laugh as he does so - always.

Daniel also keeps sending this guy - burly, hairy - working on a farm. Max always gnaws at his lips so he doesn't ask Daniel if he would like Max that way. Would Daniel be ok if Max burns under the sun instead, that his hair is blonde everywhere and will not be as dark as the TikTok man’s. He can get burly, he thinks — but Daniel will need to let him race with the team online, in exchange.

He knows there is a spare room, in Daniel's farmhouse. Max thinks he can fix his set up there. Can buy a new one. He already knows the ridiculous shipping fees, and has it on back order anyway. Can get Daniel to play with him maybe. He knows Daniel will say yes. Even if Daniel sucks at FIFA. Max tells him whenever he can.

--

My oomfie here writes the best fics btw!!!! This healed me!!!!!

[didnt-hear-cold-as-you-live]

what are some of your favorite drinks to make/some beginner drinks that are not too hard to make but are still delicious? i'm at the point where i want to learn to make actual nice drinks for myself and for friends but i honestly dont know where to start

Okay so I have two levels of answers to this question! Also I’m answering in ml because American measurements are dumb af for measuring cocktails, if you’re in the US just know 30ml = 1 standard shot so pour according to that

Level 1: I do not know any classic cocktails at all other than my own bar order (which is fine, I didn’t either really before I started in Melbourne so no judgement!

Classic Daiquiri - the most basic classic cocktail there is, really, but SO good if it’s made with a nicer / non-well dark rum (my favorite is Plantation’s Fiji Blend). Called a bartenders handshake because it’s so simple. 15ml lime juice, 15ml simple syrup, 60ml rum.

Margarita - if you don’t know how to properly make one, now you do! 15ml lime juice, 15ml triple sec (aka orange liqueur, I like Dry Curaçao!), 45ml tequila. Add 2 dashes of hot sauce for a spicy marg

Cosmopolitan - slay version of a vodka cran. 15ml lime juice, 15ml triple sec, 30ml cranberry juice, 45ml vodka.

Tom Collins - a great tall drink if you want something fizzy! 15ml simple syrup, 30ml lemon juice, 45ml gin, top with soda water.

Level 2: I’m familiar with the Hard Basics and was asking for a level above that!

Espresso Martini (this is my recipe and it’s bangin) - 5ml real maple syrup, tiniest ever splash of vanilla extract, 40ml chilled coffee, 30ml coffee liqueur, 45ml vodka

Passionfruit Daiquiri (again, my recipe) - super easy level-up to the classic daiquiri. 15ml lime juice, 20ml passionfruit liqueur (I recommend Chinola if you want a nice one!), 45ml dark or light rum. Dark rum will give it a deeper & more robust flavor profile, which I like. If you want to taste the passionfruit more, go light!

French Martini - this is a great one if you like a fruity drink! You can increase the pineapple juice depending on your fruity preference. 20ml pineapple juice, 20ml raspberry liqueur, 45ml vodka. If you’re looking to up your Vodka game I recommend Reyka - it’s an Icelandic small batch vodka made w melted glacier water, and it’s so incredibly smooth you can almost sip it. Literally nicer than Grey Goose and it’s a very entry level price point avail at most liquor stores. Goes great in this!

Aperol Spritz - you can make an ANYTHING spritz using this recipe and swapping the liqueur. The passionfruit is great for something sweeter! 60ml Aperol, 30ml soda water, 90ml sparkling wine

Hope this helps bestie! You can go a LONG way with adding sugar, lemon juice, lime juice, and one liqueur to your liquor cabinet. A general archetype a lot of classic cocktails follow is 15ml of something sweet, 15ml of a citrus, 45ml of alcohol if the sweet thing was alcoholic, 60ml if it wasn’t.

I also love the free app coupe for discovering classic cocktails!

[milflewis]

dantteri + an unexpected love language

Lewis flops down into the seat beside him, legs spread wide, jeans artfully worn at the knees. He’s got another nose stud put in over the break and it’s working for him.

“Daniel is fucking men who look like you,” he says, looking at him.

Valtteri sucks at his straw. His water has gone a little room temperature warm and he struggles not to make a face.

“Yes,” Valtteri says.

He’s never tried to lie to Lewis and he’s not going to start now, even if he wishes he was somewhere else.

“He gets all embarrassed when you or one of us run into him when he’s with your lookalikes.”

“Yes,” Valtteri says.

“So embarrassed that he nearly walked into a glass door at Charles’s birthday party last weekend.”

“Yes,” Valtteri says.

“The two of you still haven’t talked since Australia, where he,” Lewis grins here, slow and heated. “Tried your gin.”

Valtteri doesn’t like what Lewis is trying to imply. Tasting Valtteri’s gin was all that happened in Melbourne. He narrows his eyes.

“Yes,” Valtteri says.

“You want to fuck Daniel,” Lewis says.

Valtteri hesitates.

[vardaancare]

Top 5 Group Based Activities in Melbourne

Effective team building allows people to step out of their comfort zones and learn new things about each other. This can reveal surprising traits that improve workplace relationships, leading to better results.

Melbourne offers a range of team building activities that provide memorable experiences. From the vibrant street art scene to a culinary challenge, these group based activities Melbourne foster teamwork and communication.

1. Wine Tasting Tour

Swap the stress of choosing a designated driver and join a small group of wine connoisseurs on this comprehensive guided wine tasting tour. Taste wines at three top local vineyards and enjoy a wholesome lunch at your choice of restaurant.

Spend the day in the calming countryside outside Melbourne on this all-inclusive Yarra Valley wine and food experience. Taste a range of wines, gin, and beers, stroll through sculpture gardens, and eat at a seasonal restaurant.

Enjoy a relaxing day of wine tasting and chocolate indulgence on this deluxe tour from Melbourne. Explore Yarra Valley’s best wineries and breweries while learning about the region’s culture and history.

2. Heritage Walk

A heritage walk is a unique experience that uncovers the history of a city. This type of tour is gaining popularity, particularly among travelers who want to learn more about local culture. It is also a good way to exercise and stay healthy.

Heritage walks are a great way to discover the city's rich history while exploring the streets. Many of these tours are accompanied by guides who can tell you stories about the city's history.

The Women's Heritage Walk is a multi-layered adventure that empowers women through personal growth, learning, and pushing their limits. It also promotes cultural respect and a global sisterhood.

3. Drumming Workshop

Drumming workshops provide a great opportunity to express emotions, stimulate creativity and build strong communities. They are also a great way to develop coordination and motor skills. For example, playing drums requires a high level of coordination as you manipulate different drumsticks and foot pedals.

In addition, drumming teaches you to work together as a team. This is particularly important in the workplace, as it helps improve morale and reduce stress. Drumming is also a social activity, and most people who play music with other people find themselves bonding quickly.

4. Colonial Tramcar Restaurant

The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant is a famous fleet of historical trams that have been converted into an upscale restaurant. These ‘restaurants on wheels’ are the first travelling tramcar restaurants in the world and ensure a delightful dining experience. Gliding along the streets of Melbourne, diners can savor a seasonal menu and quality Australian wines at an all inclusive price.

With a decor that resembles the luxury Pullman-style European trains, the restaurant offers an experience that is both cosy and fun. The restaurant’s signature burgundy color and vintage features are sure to make for a memorable meal.

5. Eureka Skydeck Puzzle Challenge

With a view of the city and its landmarks, the Eureka Skydeck offers a unique setting for team building activities. Use clues to complete puzzle challenges promoting logical thinking and observation skills. The experience is fun and educational, helping teams understand the importance of geometry in creating strong structures like buildings or bridges.

A scavenger hunt around Melbourne’s museums offers an engaging blend of cultural exploration and team challenge, while a virtual reality plank walk promotes resilience and collaboration. Alternatively, a team hike in the Dandenong Ranges fosters unity and builds resilience.

6. Escape Room

An escape room is a great way to improve your problem-solving skills. It forces you to pay close attention to detail and search every corner of the room. You’ll need to scour paintings, look through books and lift up the rug to find your next clue.

The experience is also a valuable team-building exercise. The collaborative effort required to solve puzzles within a limited time encourages communication amongst teammates and breaks down barriers that may hinder effective working relationships.

To maximize the effectiveness of an escape room, make sure you select a theme that resonates with your group and plan ahead. This will help to ensure that your guests can accommodate it in their schedules.

7. Indoor Scavenger Hunt

Kids can easily get bored when stuck inside, but a fun indoor scavenger hunt is the perfect boredom buster. It encourages socializing, teamwork, and observational learning.

For teams that want to push their physical limits, indoor rock climbing offers a challenge that fosters trust and communication. Similarly, art workshops spark creativity and a sense of shared achievement.

Melbourne’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, so a cooking class is an ideal team bonding activity. Working together to prepare a meal promotes communication and collaboration while also building healthy habits.

[essentialcateringvd]

10 Popular Beverages to Elevate Your Wedding Celebration

If there is one event that many people want to go to, it is a wedding. It shows the love and unity of a couple, making their families and friends unite, celebrate, and be happy. And if you are the one who is getting their big day in a couple of months, you might already be looking for a dress and creating a guest list. But if there is one thing you should never forget, it is the catering. Wedding catering Melbourne services have been helpful to many couples with their food and drinks. If you want to be precise on the latter, here are some popular beverages to elevate your wedding celebration:

Champagne

The first one on the list is champagne. This quintessential wedding beverage is perfect if there are guests who want to toast the newly married couple. Do not break the tradition of making a champagne toast, so choose a brand that is popular for the event. The caterer might have a list, so ask them for one.

Signature Cocktails

Since it is a wedding, the cocktails you will choose must be unique and personalised. To achieve this, it is important to know the taste of you and your partner or match it with the theme of your wedding. Some of the common ones you will see are ‘His & Hers’ cocktails.

Wine

Give your guests something they can partner with their meal, and you can never go wrong with wine. You have options between red and white. Before selecting one, you must finalise or even have a list of the meals included in your wedding menu. Complement each other to make the choice much easier.

Prosecco

If you are looking for something that is a more affordable alternative to champagne, go for prosecco. This Italian sparkling wine is perfect as a welcome drink or as the opening to pre-ceremony gatherings. Give your guests something to drink while waiting for you, and this is a good option.

Mimosa

For mixes, go for mimosa. It is a blend of orange juice and sparkling wine. It is light and has a refreshing flavour, balancing the sweetness of the juice and the effervescence of the wine. Mimosa is served during pre-ceremony drinks, just like prosecco, or brunch weddings. 

Mojito

One of the drinks that will never be out of the beverage menu is mojito. This cocktail is made with mint, rum, lime, sugar, and soda water. This drink is refreshing and has a balance of sweet and sour. If your wedding will be done outdoors or during the summer, this drink is perfect. You can also do mojito at home.

Whisky Sour

If you want something that is a perfect balance of flavours, include Whisky Sour on the list. This classic cocktail is a combination of whisky, lemon juice, and sugar. Its sweet-tart flavour is what many people love and it is a good approach to new whisky drinkers.

Iced Tea

If you have non-alcoholic guests, give them the option to have iced tea. This sweet and refreshing drink can be served in different flavours, all of them matching the meal you choose. Some of the flavours you will commonly see are lemon, peach, raspberry, and honey.

Lemonade

Another non-alcoholic drink you can have at your wedding is lemonade. This sour, refreshing drink is a classic, and everybody will love it. If your wedding is outdoors, in a garden, or rustic-themed, this drink is perfect.

Coffee and Tea Station

If iced tea, lemonade, and alcoholic beverages are not for some of your guests, they might like to visit the coffee and tea station. It is a good addition if you will have an after-dinner party. Do not forget to include milk and syrups for customisation.

Here are other drinks you would not want to miss:

Gin and Tonic

Mocktails

Bellini

Cider

Hot Chocolate Bar

Margarita

Craft Beer

Creating a beverage list for your wedding is not additional work. It is a staple in weddings because it reflects the taste and style of the couple. Every choice you make must be within your wants without hurting your budget. If you stick to the classic options or go for the trendy ones, you just know that you, your partner, and your guests will love it.

[bentleighwinestore]

Bentleigh Wine Store: Your Trusted Family-Owned Liquor Destination in Melbourne

For Melbournians seeking a curated selection of quality wines and spirits, look no further than Bentleigh Wine Store. Nestled in Bentleigh East, this family-owned gem has been a go-to for discerning drinkers for years. But Bentleigh Wine Store offers more than just a convenient location – it's a commitment to exceptional customer service, a passion for discovery, and the ease of liquor delivery Melbourne.

A Legacy Built on Quality

Bentleigh Wine Store is a testament to the power of family values. Founded on the belief that everyone deserves access to excellent wines and spirits, the store has grown from strength to strength. The friendly team, many of whom are family members themselves, possess a deep understanding of their customers' preferences. This translates into a personalized shopping experience, where recommendations go beyond generic labels and delve into the nuances of taste and occasion.

Unveiling a World of Flavors

Step inside Bentleigh Wine Store, and you're greeted by a treasure trove of libations. Their shelves brim with an impressive selection of wines, from crisp whites and bold reds to sparkling champagnes and delectable dessert wines. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, the store caters to every palate. Explore established regions like France, Italy, and Australia, or embark on an adventure with lesser-known wineries. Bentleigh Wine Store champions local heroes, stocking a delightful range of Victorian wines alongside international favorites.

Beyond the Vine: A Spirit for Every Occasion

Wine may be the heart of Bentleigh Wine Store, but their offerings extend far beyond. Their collection of spirits is a curated masterpiece, featuring a wide range of options for every taste and budget. From classic vodkas and smooth whiskeys to exotic liqueurs and artisanal gins, the store caters to cocktail enthusiasts and spirit connoisseurs alike. Need something specific for an upcoming gathering? The knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect bottle to elevate your event.

The Convenience of Liquor Delivery Melbourne

Life gets busy, but that shouldn't mean sacrificing quality beverages. Bentleigh Wine Store makes it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite drinks at home with their convenient liquor delivery Melbourne service. Simply browse their extensive online selection, choose your desired wines and spirits, and have them delivered straight to your doorstep. This time-saving option is perfect for stocking up for a party, a relaxing night in, or simply replenishing your home bar.

More Than Just a Liquor Store: A Community Hub

Bentleigh Wine Store transcends the boundaries of a mere liquor store. They actively engage with the local community, hosting wine tastings and educational events. These evenings are a fantastic opportunity to sample new vintages, connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, and expand your knowledge of the world of beverages. The friendly staff is always happy to answer questions and share their expertise, fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The Final Sip

Bentleigh Wine Store is a haven for Melbournians who appreciate quality, convenience, and personalized service. Whether you're a seasoned wine aficionado or just starting your exploration, their friendly staff and curated selection will guide your journey. So, next time you're looking to elevate your next gathering or unwind with a well-deserved drink, head over to Bentleigh Wine Store or browse their online selection for hassle-free liquor delivery Melbourne.

Contact- Web - https://bentleighwinestore.com.au/product/kookaburra-rose/ Mail - info@bentleighwinestore.com.au Ph - 03 9579 4448 Address - 2/251 E Boundary Rd, Bentleigh East VIC 3165, AU

[winerytoursyarravalley]

🎉 Celebrate your upcoming birthday in style with an unforgettable journey through the Yarra Valley! 🍷🍽️ Indulge in exclusive food tastings, sip on exquisite wines, and explore artisan gin and local breweries. Book your tour now and make your special day truly memorable! 🥂✨ #YarraValleyTours #BirthdayBash

[alchemybrewing]

Buzzing Bars: Exploring the Best of Brunswick's Bar Scene

Nestled within Melbourne's vibrant suburb of Brunswick lies a diverse and dynamic bar scene waiting to be discovered. From cozy neighborhood pubs to trendy cocktail lounges, Brunswick offers a plethora of options for those seeking a memorable night out. Let's delve into the best of Brunswick's bar scene and uncover the hidden gems that make this neighborhood a haven for cocktail enthusiasts and beer aficionados alike.

One of the defining features of Brunswick's bar scene is its eclectic mix of establishments, each with its own distinct personality and charm. Whether you're in the mood for a laid-back pub atmosphere or a sophisticated cocktail experience, you'll find something to suit your tastes in Brunswick. Start your evening with a visit to one of the neighborhood's beloved local pubs, where you can enjoy a cold beer and a hearty meal in a relaxed setting. These neighborhood haunts are the perfect place to unwind after a long day and catch up with friends over a game of pool or a live music performance.

For those craving something a bit more upscale, Brunswick boasts a variety of stylish cocktail bars and lounges where you can sip on expertly crafted drinks in a chic and trendy setting. From classic cocktails to innovative creations, these bars pride themselves on their extensive drink menus and skilled bartenders who can whip up the perfect libation to suit your mood. Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur or a lover of all things gin, you'll find plenty to tantalize your taste buds in Brunswick's cocktail scene.

But the bar scene in Brunswick isn't just about drinks – it's also about community and camaraderie. Many of the neighborhood's bars host regular events and activities, from trivia nights and live music performances to themed parties and cocktail workshops. These events provide the perfect opportunity to mingle with locals, make new friends, and immerse yourself in Brunswick's vibrant social scene.

In addition to its diverse array of bars and lounges, Brunswick is also home to a burgeoning craft beer scene, with several breweries and taprooms calling the neighborhood home. Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or just curious to explore the world of craft brewing, Brunswick's breweries offer a unique opportunity to sample a wide range of locally brewed beers and discover new favorites.

For More: Contact Us: (03) 9338-3910 Timings: Mon-Thur: 4pm – 11pm, Fri- Sun: Midday – 11pm Email: bookings@alchemybrewing.co

[yarravalleywinetastingtours-blog]

Enjoy Yarra Valley Winery: Contact Well-known Wine Tour Operator!

If anyone is planning for a short trip, they can visit Yarra Vally Winery for an unforgettable wine-tasting experience. In the picturesque Yarra Valley, Simply, find a trusted and well-known wine tour operator with a reputation for excellence.

Contact them and ask for a suggestion for a private or group trip for whole-day or half-day trips from Melbourne to experience the traditional wine making and tasting in the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula wineries.

Benefits of Contacting Specialised Wine Tour Operators:

Well-established operators of wine-tasting tours usually have extensive knowledge of the region, including the wines, winemakers, and the history of the wineries visited. 

Whether anyone opts for a day tour from Melbourne or chooses to spend a few days exploring the Yarra Valley locally, these experienced service operators ensure a memorable tour experience for not only Australian citizens but also arrange the most pleasing tour for foreigners with experienced guides.

In addition to their scheduled day tours, they offer private group tours, allowing guests to customize their experience according to their preferences and needs.

Similarly, on their full-day Yarra Valley wine tour, guests can expect to visit three wineries or cellar doors, including a lunch in a specialised restaurant paired with a glass of wine at Rochford Wines, and complete the day with a visit to the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie. They also encourage those looking to expand their palate with an optional Gin tasting.

Their customer care executives and skilled staff take care of their guests with the highest level of comfort. They help to make a memorable day by exploring the scenic Yarra Valley just an hour's drive from Melbourne.

Find a Trusted Wine Tour Organiser Locally:

Find some well-known wine tour organisers locally and examine their trustworthiness and level of client satisfaction by reading reviews and testimonials from their clientele. 

Look for operators that employ trained staff who have experience and expertise in handling guests intelligently, manage tours smoothly, and have adequate knowledge about the wine regions they cover. 

To ensure a customised experience, confirm if they provide half-day or full-day trips for small groups as well as private parties.

Finally, select the right organiser, book a tour for your upcoming outing, and experience an unparalleled wine-tasting adventure in one of Australia's most renowned wine regions.

Source

[skyvinn]

Review: Yugen Tea Bar

Le bar à thé

You push open the doors and you are greeted by a polished bar x afternoon tea café. With its pure black minimalistic structures giving of cavern vibes, you get the feel you’re being naughty and heading to the bar a little too early. But at the same time there are pretty afternoon tea sets on the café tables tucked in the corners that look just so tempting. It may sound like a confused café but everything soon makes sense. This was not a random concept thrown out as part of the café culture in Melbourne but the beloved child of tea sommelier Thibaut Chuzeville, pastry chef John Demetrios, and culinary director Stephen Narin.

You drift towards the bar, for the solos and the curious. For every lover of drink would wish to speak to the bartenders and sommeliers to know the specials and to see the craft first hand. Behind this bar are not unique selection of gin, rum and what nots but tea. Likewise in replacement of the jigger and shaker, the bartenders here are equipped with the tetsubin, chawan, yuzamashi and chasen. You won’t find  the theatrical circus of cocktail making but instead the elegant and refined movements of a tea maker. Each move elegant and calming.

Most of us may know our choice teabag but not the best way to savour it.

You sit at the bar and peruse the menu, here they have brought the mystic to earth. No longer will you befuddle about what tea is what, for not only is it arranged in terms of types of tea (green, white, red, black) but also by its tasting notes. For just like wine where how one Bordeaux to the next can differ in taste, tea from different regions and makers can evoke an astonishing variety of flavours. Hence, instead of simply listing out the name of the tea and its origin, here they provide you with an idea of its taste from vegetal to green apples to smoky.

The wine bar concept for tea, is much appreciated. For just as how wine can be hard to access beyond the cheap bottle at the supermarket, tea, you dare say is even harder to access. Its not just about buying good tea leaves, the brewing matters greatly. Each tea has its own unique traits, everything from storage to water temperature to how long to brew has a profound effect on its flavour.

The tasting

You are spoiled for choice and eventually between the three of you, four types of tea are selected. Some interesting, others not so.

First up – a green tea from Georgia. Chosen simply as you never knew Georgia had green tea. Taste wise? You won’t drink it again. Like many western (aka anything west of China) green teas, the scent is stronger than the taste. This tea was floral like gardenia but its taste was mild. A little vegetal but mostly a bore. No one wasted time on a 2nd brew.

Second, a green tea from Japan. It was a total hit amongst the three of you. Called Karigane, it had such good aroma and its first brew had a lovely sweet green bean flavour to it. With the second brew, the umami notes of a gyokuro starts to stand out.

Third, a white tea from Yunnan. Chosen by you because, good white teas are hard to find and certainly one from Yunnan! Yunnan is predominantly famous for its black tea, so it was quite interesting to taste a white tea. You are served the tea and you think this isn’t white tea? Its red tea! You ask the bartender and she confirms it is white tea. However, it was treated roasted in bamboo lending it the profiles of red tea. You would argue this is WhitexRed tea, you think to yourself, is this the rosé of tea?

Finally, you end the day with the classic Da Hong Pao, a very famous tea that dates back to 1385.  With the last of the mother trees’ (the originals if you wold call it) tea leaves harvested in 2005, it has gone from very pricey to priceless. Da Hong Pao are collected and treated as antiques. Its prices can go into the thousands for one gram. Of course, the one you drank wasn’t of such variety but it was still quite a penny. You savour the orchid-fragrance of the tea, it tannin and sweet notes. It is enjoyable but you still think, you’ll pass it for a cup of karigane any day.

The sweets

As this visit was after eating 8 different pastries. You did not have a afternoon tea set to accompany your tea. But thanks to your cousin’s connections, you were served a little sweet pastry anyway. Crispy mille-feuille with vanilla based mousse, it would pair very well with say a black or red tea. The rest of the pastries looked pretty and hence tempting, a second visit is in order to enjoy the tea and desserts.

Address: Yugen Tea Bar

605 Chapel Street, South Yarra, VIC 3141 Wednesday to Sunday: 12pm - 5pm https://yugenteabar.com.au

Yugen runs a dinner place called Yugen Dining as well

[madeleinedrinkstea]

Bobaboba: Pandan Tornado

Tried at Bobaboba Northbridge, with no added sugar.

Maybe 30 is too old to be drinking neon green beverages. Midori sours were my drink of choice back when I was 21, so assuming a normal trajectory of maturity, I should be celebrating my birthday with gin and tonic rather than the artificial hues of pandan bubble tea.

Unfortunately pandan bubble tea just tastes better.

Look, these drinks aren't going to win any awards for honouring the sacred nuances of tea. No one is going to be writing them up in a must-visit list for Perth. But they were fun. Mine tasted great. I'd happily return if I found myself out west again.

Product: 4/5 by Melbourne standards, but 5/5 for Perth.