Firstly, it seems like it's been ages, I roasted up some 'Unicorn' blend on the weekend. I just love this blend, I'll post more about it soon. Think complex, full and silky. I was asked why it's "Unicorn"... because it really is a fantasy. Does it really exist? it's pretty good!

I've struggled to find time for myself lately as the wife is busy with work and uni, we are building the house, and I've been spending loads of time with my little ones (which I just love to do).

Di Bella are tweeting like mad these days, as are 5Senses, good to see some Aussie roasters and retailers embracing social media and connecting with their clients, competitors and friends. Not only are the connections interesting, but also educational and even some times inspiring. Keep up the good work. I think more folk need to get on board, even the small roastery's.

http://www.fivesensescoffee.com.au/ Five Senses put up some neat articles on 'naked' portafilter extraction, storing coffee, and some seedlings in Bali. Worth a read.

http://www.smallbatch.com.au/ Small Batch have some notes online about the Syphon comp in Tokyo

Tim Wendelboe toured Colombia on an epic coffee journey and the Colombian govn have set up a really neat site: http://colombiancoffeehub.com/ it's good fun, and interesting. The site covers Tim's journey, but also allows visitors to interact and mingle with others online. There's loads of excellent articles and video's to be seen. Check it out.

Cafe Corporate http://www.facebook.com/CafeCorporate?sk=wall are really pushing their Facebook presence lately. Promoting their products, connecting with customers and other businesses, meshing with other Facebook pages/sites, and giving away great coffee products to their readers through competitions. Check them out, they just might have your next office espresso machine!

I've been enjoying the 'New World' blend from Fiori (http://fioricoffee.com/) lately. Fiori are just down the road from work, so I can walk down to the roastery, have a chat to the guys, pick up some green or brown beans and be on my way, all in the space of a short walk. The guys there are really friendly and happy to give some roasting advice. Much appreciated

I've been really enjoying the Gaggia Classic at work lately, more than ever. The shots from this machine just amazing. Naken extractions are looking brilliant, and the result in the cup is really incredible. How on earth does such a cheap, domestic machine pull such great shots? I'm going to go ahead and say that the pressure is set just right on this thing, one day I'll measure it.

Until next time, enjoy good coffee, every day!

James