Way back when, I used to have a page where I kept of list of things I recommended. I eventually dropped it, because I didn’t really maintain it, and because no one really looked at it.

Nevertheless, I still like things, and sometimes want to tell my friends about particularly good things. So, here’s a post with some semi-enthusiastic recommendations.

Please note that in conformance with recently released FTC rules on blogger endorsements and testimonials, I must disclose that none of the makers of the consumer goods discussed herein gave me a damned thing. They are certainly welcome to do so, however. Actual free samples would be fine, but I’d also be happy with embroidered ballcaps, t-shirts with logos, or other types of schwag.

Arkansas Blacks

I was visiting a New Seasons market, which as a rule have marvelous produce departments, and found a selection of heirloom apples. One of the prettiest of the apples was a variety called an “Arkansas Black”, with a coloration so dark and lustrous it’s easy to see how it got the name.

But better than the way they look is the way they taste. The flesh has a firm, crisp texture that is intensely sweet without being cloying, and just tart enough to match the sweetness. they have so much flavor it puts most commercially-grown apples to shame.

Cypress Grove Fromage Blanc

Also at New Seasons is one of my latest addictions: Fresh fromage blanc from Cypress Grove Chèvre. It’s unbelievably tasty, creamy and mild, with just a hint of the kind of tanginess found in more aggressive goat cheeses. It’s delicious on bread, on fresh pears, or drizzled with a little bit of honey. I’m hopelessly hooked on it.

Raven’s Brew Coffee

Since dabbling with cold-extract brewing, I’ve been trying coffee from various roasters. One of my favorites is Raven’s Brew Coffee. I love this coffee. I love the flavor, I love the artwork on the packages, I love the different blends, and I love the names of the different blends. Especially Dead Man’s Reach (strong enough to wake the dead) and Three-Peckered Billy Goat:

This is tasty stuff. Try some.