Crete – in Greece, an Island surrounded by Soluble Coffee!
This week’s coffee visit was to Crete, the largest of the Greek islands and a most beautiful destination for mountain and beach hikers.
My wife and I hiked over 25 miles up and down mountains, thru Gorges and along the Southern Libyan sea, We also Kayaked and Stand up Paddled more than 10 coast miles from Village to Village, Restaurant to Restaurant, Hotel to Hotel.
In every stop, coffee was of interest, as we sampled the preparation of preference, 8 out of 10 times, we found bowls full of soluble prouder with soup spoons to serve into porcelain mugs along with with jars of hot water, sides of sugar and soluble milk to follow.
Eventually, a real espresso of Italian or French brands was available, usually outdated and stale.
Cretans drink and offer different preparations, a strong local drink is the Frape, soluble coffee, ice cubes, milk and sugar , then there is the Fredo – Espresso or Capuccino, both cold and including a real espresso shot.
Regular single or double espresso’s were only available in the larger towns, upscale hotels and restaurants.
We never saw any French press nor even the regular brew we enjoy in America and Mainland Europe.
On the other hand, the Cretan hospitality, their exuberantly healthy and delicious food and the grandiose beauty of their Island, make up for the lack of attention to the coffee quality and preparations they offer.
Crete, a great and unforgettable experience! :))
Christian Wolthers
