The Bruvi coffee maker is convenient because I can schedule all of my brews in advance from my phone. This aesthetically pleasing appliance brews up to seven different beverages.

What is the Bruvi Coffee Maker?

The Bruvi coffee maker is a single-serve brewer that makes seven drinks: coffee, espresso, Americano, cold brew, iced coffee, infused coffee and tea. Bruvi scans each distinct B-Pod and auto-adjusts brew parameters. It actually brews good coffee, and its the smartest coffee maker Ive ever encountered.

I’ve used my Bruvi every day for the past few months. For an appliance to top my Nespresso Vertuo Plus, which I previously used daily for six yearsthat’s a big deal.

Bruvi Pods

Bruvis main focusthey only partner with roasters who make their coffee sustainably and ethically to create their B-Pods. Each B-Pod contains 40% more coffee than the average K-Cup, and the Bruvi coffee maker saturates each pod with 20 streams of water for even extraction.

I sampled five different B-Pods in the variety pack: a Colombian light roast, an Ethiopian light roast, a medium-dark roast from Colombia and Honduras, a medium roast from Guatemala and Colombia and a medium roast espresso from Colombia and Honduras. Each coffee serves a distinct flavor reminiscent of its roast and origin. B-Pod coffee roasters on the site include Mulholland Roasters, Wonderland Coffee Spellbinder D. C. A., Equator Coffee, Lamill Coffee and Joyride for cold brew.

Its hard to compare the Bruvi coffee maker to fresh, ground beans in my French press, but its pretty close. The same goes for the Espresso B-Pods to a true Espresso machine.

Smart Machine

Using the Bruvi coffee machine is so simple with a large touchscreen control panel. After filling the removable water tank, Bruvi scans the inputted B-Pod, and the screen reflects pod options, differentiating between coffee and espresso. Select from four sizes ranging from 6 to 12 ounces. For a stronger brew, select the stronger option. For a coffee pod, make it hot, iced or cold brew, and for an espresso pod, brew a single, double or triple. Brew options average around three minutes, with the cold brew function taking five minutes. This is impressive, considering most cold brew coffee makers take an entire day to steep.

Once your coffee is finished, the machine chimes and sends a notification to your phone. In the app, it records which coffees you brewed, and you can schedule your brews in advance. Pre-load a B-Pod and mug, then select preferences and schedule coffee to brew from your phone. The night before, I set up my Bruvi coffee maker and scheduled it to wake me up in the morning with a hot brew. I don’t like to get out of bed, but if I smell the coffee, I’m up and at ’em.

Options & Features

I often use the hotter option to brew hot water for French press coffee or tea. The “hotter” brew setting also increases the beverage temperature from 155 degrees to 165 degrees. The “low acid” function uses colder water when brewing.

Sustainability is an area of concern with single-serve coffee machines, but B-Pods can simply be tossed when usedunlike Nespresso where the pods must be mailed back. Bruvi creates B-Pods with a food-safe bio-enzyme, so pods degrade in a few years, and no microplastics are left behind. Test results prove a B-Pod breaks down 63% in 577 days, whereas an untreated pod breaks down just 2%.

Bruvi nailed the aesthetics of this coffee maker with a large sleek touchscreen, a white exterior, light wood accents and a minimalistic design. The machine itself looks smart and futuristic. The Bruvi coffee maker weighs 13.2 pounds and measures 12.6 x 10.2 x 11.5 inches. With the lid open, the machine is 17.2 inches tall.

After a B-Pod is used, its stored in a six-pod capacity bin. Once the bin is full, dump it in the trash. Note, the Bruvi coffee maker tends to make slight backsplash. This is a higher concern with espresso cups when the coffee has a longer distance to travel. The Bruvi’s drip tray can be adjusted to a taller height to minimize splashing when brewing in a smaller vessel. Or, remove the drip tray for mason jars and travel cups. Anything taller than 6.75 inches won’t fit under the Bruvi spout.

My main issue with the Bruvi is that you must press down very hard on the lid when inserting a pod. The first time I used the Bruvi, I thought I had broken the appliance. However, the plastic of the B-Pod just needed a good crunch. I also wish the Bruvi had a built-in milk frother. As a workaround, I use an Amazon frother. To accompany my morning brew, I employ East Fork Pottery mugs and Daysie syrups.

Pros

• Remote brewing with smart app capability
• Four size options ranging from six to 12 ounces
• Seven drink settings
• Easy to use with a large touchscreen control panel
• Makes better coffee than other single-serve coffee makers
• Aesthetic design with white exterior and bamboo accents
• Sustainable coffee pods

Cons

• Only compatible with B-Pods
• Lots of backsplash when brewing, which makes a mess on the counter
• Lacks a milk frother
• Must press the lid down hard when inserting pod

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We Tried It

Bruvi Coffee Maker

Bruvi makes the best pod coffee machine that's a smart app-compatible, touchscreen device that brews seven drinks: coffee, espresso, Americano, cold brew, iced coffee, infused coffee and tea.

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Why I Love It

The best thing about Bruviit makes seriously good coffee. It’s a full-bodied, palatable cup of joe. Each roast is packed with flavor and distinguishable from the others.

No, I don’t think a single-serve coffee maker will ever beat the taste of French press coffee with freshly ground beans. However, it is easier to brew coffee in the Bruvi, and a heck of a lot quicker when I’m in a pinch for time.

When guests come over, they’re always in awe of my Bruvi and all the options. For a coffee maker, it’s quite entertaining to use with the large touchscreen control panel and smartphone app capability.

The Bruvi is aesthetic and looks beautiful on my coffee bar with a white exterior and bamboo accents. I’m all for a bright, minimalistic appliance. Plus, it’sthe only single-serve coffee maker that can make so many different types of drinks. And, it’s sustainable and aesthetic!

But Dont Take My Word for It!

I’m not alone, reviewers are obsessed with their Bruvi coffee makers.

Five-star reviewer, Tyler S. is throwing out his Keurig and encourages you to bite the bullet with Bruvi. “I don’t know what I was expecting, but all of my expectations have been exceeded. I’ve been dedicated to the Keurig brand for a good number of years now solely due to convenience, but I’ve never been too impressed with the quality of the coffee. In my opinion, Bruvi is finally an alternative to Keurig that successfully does what Keurig can’t. Coffee strength is impeccable, taste is amazing [and] it never feels watered downI can even make strong iced lattes in the comfort of my own home! If you’re struggling to bite the bullet with Bruvi because you already have a Keurig, let this be your sign,” he writes.

Stephanie Q. says this is the best coffee maker she’s ever used. She seldom leaves reviews, but felt this one was needed. “I cannot say enough positive things about the Bruvi. We added this to our coffee bar about three weeks ago, and it has become my new favorite kitchen gadget. I was strongly against the pod system because I didnt care for how the water sat in the machine. We used to own a Keurig, and that would often make us have stomach troubles. I have not experienced that yet with the Bruvi. I can taste the difference between the pods and feel the temperature which is amazing.”

Where to Buy the Bruvi Coffee Marker

The Bruvi coffee maker bundle retails for $398 on Bruvi’s website and Amazon with the inclusion of a brewer and 20 B-Pods. This option serves the best bang for your buck. Or, purchase the brewer alone for $373 on Bruvi.

A pack of 20 pods ranges from $22-$30, so each pod costs $1.10-$1.50. Opt for auto-delivery every two, four, eight or 12 weeks and receive a 20% discount. I always end up restocking the variety pack for an array of options.

Final verdict, the Bruvi lives up to the hype. While others may have different opinions, the Bruvi is the only pod coffee maker I’d recommend.

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Bruvi Coffee Maker

Bruvi uses an auto-optimized brewing system to brew up to 40% more sustainably sourced, 100% Arabica coffee than a typical pod.

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Why You Should Trust Us

I’m a Senior Shopping Editor at Taste of Home and have years of experience reviewing products. I’ve tested numerous pod coffee makers and coffee brewing vessels, including Keurig, Nespresso, Chemex, AeroPress, Bialetti and Bodum to name a few. As a coffee connoisseur, I worked at a Fair Trade-certified coffee shop in college and learned the art of coffee.

FAQ

Does Bruvi use K-Cups?

No, the Bruvi coffee maker only uses B-Pods, which can be purchased on the Bruvi site.

The post Bruvi Review: I Can Brew My Morning Coffee From Bed appeared first on Taste of Home.

While Christmastime may seem far away, now is the time to snag a fun Advent calendar. Festive Advent calendars are filled with treats from cheeses and chocolates to Bonne Maman jams and coffee.Hunting for the perfect gift for the whiskey connoisseur in your life? Then look no further than a whiskey Advent calendar.

Counting down to Christmas is sweeter with an Advent calendar filled with edible chocolate delights or boozy spirits. It’s best to pre-order trending Advent calendars as they have a limited supply and sell out fast! Flaviar’s whiskey Advent calendar is no exception.

If you want to receive Flaviar’s 2023 calendar, you have to pre-order now as it’s renowned for selling out every year. Taste of Home readers can get an exclusive $10 off the Flaviar calendar with code TOH10. Try a wine Advent calendar if whiskey isn’t your spirit of choice.

What is the Flaviar whiskey Advent calendar?

Flaviar, an online spirits club for whiskey connoisseurs, offers a new Advent calendar every year that features rare whiskies from across the world. I personally tested Flaviar’s 2023 Indiana Jones-themed whiskey Advent calendar.

Explore The Lost Art of Distillation: The Amber Kingdom with 24 1.7-ounce vials of whiskey from eight different countries, two Glencairn glasses, a tasting journal with information about each whiskey and a free one-year Flaviar base membership.

The one-year Flaviar base membership ($350 value) includes a full-size bottle and three mini-samples of your choice every quarter of the year. Plus, it also provides member discounts, free shipping on certain products, access to a vast array of spirits from across the globe, first dibs on exclusive bottlings and entry to a passionate spirits community.

Flaviar only unveils so many details about their Advent calendar, as it should be a surprise. If you want to find out more, you’ll have to order the box for yourself or as a gift for a whiskey lover to enjoy.

Pros

• Shareable design
• Vials hold 60% more liquid than most Advent calendars
• 24 top-shelf whiskey samples from eight countries
• Free one-year Flaviar base membership ($350 value)
• Festive packaging with an engaging tasting experience
• Two Glencairn glasses
• Tasting journal with information on each whiskey sample

Cons

• Pre-order only
• Only ships to 32/50 states in the U.S.
• Pricey

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Editor's Pick

Flaviar Whiskey Advent Calendar

Flaviar's whiskey Advent calendar is our go-to gift for bourbon enthusiasts. Sample 24 curated selections of bespoke bourbons from the best distilleries across the globe.

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Why I Love It

With 24 days until Christmas starting December 1, there’s one 1.7-ounce hand-picked and expertly curated glass whiskey vial for every day until my favorite holiday.

Industry-leading whiskey makers and distillers contributed to this whiskey Advent calendar across eight countries: the United States, Ireland, Australia, the United Kingdom, Scotland, Denmark, Japan and New Zealand. Sample a thoughtfully curated variety of new and old whiskeys: bourbons, ryes, blended Scotches and single malts.

Whiskey samples include award winners and exclusive new releases. Some whiskey vials come from bottles worth over $150. One whiskey vial features a Scotch that comes out in 2024.

Flaviar’s whiskey Advent calendar is designed as a gift to be shared, hence two Glencairn glassesthe best glassware for tasting whiskey. A single 1.7-ounce pour is enough for two people to enjoy. Sample whiskeys from across the globe with your significant other, close friend or family member.

The education-focused tasting journal includes information on each individual whiskey sample with space for personal tasting notes on each whiskey vial. For whiskey lovers with a green palette, the tasting notes in the journal are rather helpful in refining spirit preferences.

Might I add, the Advent calendar is wrapped in stunning black and gold packaging, enhancing the overall tasting advent-ure. Additionally, the whiskey vials and glasses are secured tightly in their slots and won’t break during shipping.

But Dont Take My Word for It!

Reviewers tout Flaviar as the best whiskey Advent calendar on the market. From the packaging to meticulously curated samples, every step of the tasting journey is captivating and festive. For some, it’s the best gift they’veeverreceived.

Five-star reviewer Josh Cannery says, Best Advent calendarEVER! Packaging is high quality, user experience is entertaining, samples are wonderfully delivered and no shortage of variety.

It’s the perfect gift for any whiskey enthusiast in the family, according to Nick Glorioso. My wife and son purchased this for my 50th. Absolutely the best present I could receive. Hands down one of the best presents you could purchase as a gift.

For verified purchaser and boozeenthusiast Chefbourbon, it was an opportunity to expand his palette. My wife got me that for Christmas. What a treat! Really fun to try some new bottles I might never have given a time of day.

Where to Buy the Flaviar Whiskey Advent Calendar

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Editor's Pick

Flaviar Whiskey Advent Calendar

Flaviar's whiskey Advent calendar is our go-to gift for bourbon enthusiasts. Sample 24 curated selections of bespoke bourbons from the best distilleries across the globe.

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The Flaviar whiskey Advent calendar is available exclusively from Flaviar’s website. $250 gets you 24 curated 1.7-ounce whiskey samples among other goodies. $250 for 40.8 ounces of whiskey hammers out to $6.13 per ounce. Given some included whiskey bottles are worth over $150, it’s a stellar deal! Or, purchase two whiskey Advent calendars and save $50 (just $225 per calendar).

Remember, Taste of Home readers get an exclusive $10 off the calendar with code TOH10. If you preorder by October 25, you’re guaranteed to receive a calendar by Thanksgiving. Flaviar does not ship the whiskey Advent calendar to certain states or P.O. boxes.

For the whiskey-obsessed or those looking to expand and refine their booze palette, Flaviar’s whiskey Advent calendar is the perfect gift.

The post I Tried the Flaviar Whiskey Advent Calendar That Sells Out Every Year appeared first on Taste of Home.

Curate your own set of mixed glasses for alfresco entertaining. Mixed glassware sets work especially well for hosting because each person has a designated color for ease of use.

What is Estelle Colored Glass?

Vintage-inspired, colored drinkware has taken the internet by storm. Sitting around a dinner table at Wild Dunes resort with Estelle founder Stephanie Summerson Hall, I first heard the story of Estelle colored glass.

The History

Growing up, Stephanie spent afternoons antiquing with her grandmother, lovingly named “Big Mama” in Holy Hill, South Carolina, right outside of Charleston. Often, the pair would score vintage glasses in lively hues.

In the South, we love to hunt for beautiful and unique items and display them throughout our homes. Estelle Summerson Williams, Stephanie’s grandmother, displayed family heirlooms and vintage glassware in her china cabinets and had a passion for hosting.

Stephanie was on the hunt for colored drinkware for her own home and couldn’t find anything outside of antique markets and secondhand stores. A modern glassware brand with an extensive array of vibrant colorways ceased to exist. Stephanie was on a mission to put colored glass back on the market and revive a dying art.

Estelle launched in October of 2019 after several years of research on Stephanie’s behalf. Estelle colored glass is handblown in Poland by a 100-plus-year-old glass manufacturer. Stephanie searched relentlessly alongside her industrial designer to locate the right artisan for the job.

The Products

Estelle’s backstory is just as colorful as its products. Shop eight different styles of drinkware, decanters and cake stands in 22 alluring shades. Stephanie never planned to highlight mixed drinkware sets, but they’re a response to passionate customer requests.

One of Estelle’s most popular items, a mixed set of glasses in six different colors, is my go-to for alfresco entertaining. I opted for Ocean Blue, Royal Blue, Lavender, Mint Green, Fuchsia and Coral Peach Pink. Estelle colored glass is always the talk of the table at my dinner parties. Various sources in Stephanie’s day-to-day inspire the colorways. Ocean Blue pays ode to clear, blue oceans in tropical destinations, and Lavender came from an Elie Saab dress.

The glassware set arrives meticulously packaged in a white box with gold embossing, packed with individual styrofoam molds for each cup. Each wine glass stands 9.5 inches tall with a 3.9-inch diameter and holds 16.5 ounces of liquid. In my hand, the glass is the perfect weight.

I handwash my set of six Estelle wine glasses every few days, and they look brand new. The quality is astounding. I’m naturally clumsy and have dropped a glass or twoI’m amazed they didn’t shatter upon immediate contact with the ground.

Yes, there are cheaper options on the market, but the quality of Estelle colored glass doesn’t compare. Each glass is of heirloom quality, intended to be passed down over generations. I’d rather purchase something once and have it forever.

Whether your bar cabinet needs new cocktail glasses or not, this is your sign to spice up your glassware rotation. On display alone, Estelle glasses are the “jewels for your table.”

Pros

• Pretty enough to display when not in use
• Heirloom pieces to pass on to the next generation
• Handblown by skilled artisans in Poland
• A versatile gift for various occasions
• Mismatched set pairs well with most tablescapes
• Differentiated wine glasses
• Vast color selection with 22 colorways

Cons

• Hand wash only
• Pricey (but worth it)

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Why I Love It

I have a few stemware sets from Anthropologie, but lately, I reach for my Estelle colored glass and nothing else. It pairs wonderfully with my mismatched Spode blue and white china. Universally, Estelle colored glass coordinates seamlessly with most tablescapes.

Mixed stemware sets work especially well for entertaining because each person has a designated color. Estelle is centered on the principle of everyday luxury, made for a casual drink (from sweet tea to an Aperol Spritz) with friends after work.

This one-of-a-kind Charleston grandmother had quite the style. For every celebration, Estelle colored glass is my go-to gift that any kitchen connoisseur or baker would love. Begin a friend’s colored glassware assortment with two coupes or a set of six wine glasses. The beauty of it all, they can mix and match and grow their collection over time. I like to commemorate life’s special moments with the addition of a new shade of Estelle glass to my collection.

For graduates, brides, mothers-to-be, or any gift for a special occasion, Estelle colored glass is the way to go. Express gratitude, celebrate a milestone, say congratulations or let someone know they graced your mind. I know a few individuals with their own unique collections, whether it’s a large matching set or several unique colors or sets of two. The world is your oyster.

But Dont Take My Word for It!

Estelle colored glass is the stemware of my dreams, but I’m not the only satisfied customer who shares this sentiment. Snag the perfect gift for a wine lover.

Crystal W. describes Estelle colored glass as elegant and beautiful. “These glasses are so beautiful!! Perfect color for any occasion. They look so classy and are such a great size. Buy them! They are worth the investment! You won’t regret it!!”

Kerryn decided to recently upgrade her wine glasses, “The eclectic colors make a very strong statement and update any place setting! Also having different colors makes it easier at a dinner party not to confuse glasses!”

Hayley D. continues to curate her glassware collection, “Each color is beautiful on its own but I love how they look together! I’ve been wanting these for over a year and they did not disappoint. Love the quality and weight of the glass too.”

Where to Buy Estelle Colored Glass

Estelle not only offers eclectic stemware but also cake stands, coupes, decanters, stemless wine glasses, champagne flutes, shot glasses, rocks glasses, regal stemware and martini glasses in 22 colorways. Mix and match and curate several collections.

Estelle colored glass is sold at Anthropologie, West Elm, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Tuckernuck and Lulu and Georgia. Each wine glass averages $30. Opt for a set of two for $85 or a custom mix-and-match six-pack for $185.

Estelle colored glass deserves a home on everyone’s dining tableit’s an interior designer’s dream, so what are you waiting for?

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FAQ

Are Estelle glasses dishwasher safe?

No, do not put Estelle colored glass in the dishwasher. I use hot water, dish soap and a bottle brush.

Where is Estelle colored glass based?

You can find Estelle colored glass in a 70-year-old warehouse space in Stephanie’s hometown of Holly Hill, SC, right outside of Charleston. Estelle herself lived a mere five minutes away.

Where is Estelle colored glass made?

Estelle colored glass is handcrafted by artisans in Poland at a glass manufacturer with an abundant 100-plus-year-old history.

The post You Need My Favorite Colorful Stemware for Alfresco Entertaining appeared first on Taste of Home.