WE WON'T GET to see or taste the following items for months, but this summer's National Association for the Specialty Food Trade show in New York has already posted a slate of winning products I can't wait to try.
Here's the short list of items that I promise to sample when the food show comes to the Bay Area next January. And don't worry -- most of these items won't be available here on the West Coast until after they are showcased here.
So for all of you foodies out there, here's the scoop on the newest and best food products headed our way (and a little side-commentary, of course):
Les Produits Fins Fabrice Lafon - Apple Ice Wine Vinegar
I'm not a francophine by any means, but I'm a fan of ice wine, and I can only imagine how gorgeous an ice wine vinegar might be. A little like white port, but concentrated? We'll see.
Nueske's Applewood Smoked Meats - Nueske's Wild Cherrywood Smoked Uncured Bacon
In my considerable experience as a food taster, I've yet to taste an "applewood smoked" anything that I did not love. Bring it.
Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Co. - Salt & Pepper Chocolate BarMmmm. Not so sure, but if you ask nicely, I'll take one for the team.
PreGel America - Salted Caramel Super Sprint
Not sure what the sprint part is all about, but salted caramels -- yum. I'll be happy to rate these against my recent column on the same.
Rishi Tea - Masala Chai Concentrate
I won't like this because these are typically sweet and often have added fats that my middle doesn't need. But if you insist, I'll try.
South African Consulate General - Rozendal Hibiscus Vinegar
Since I loved the tart-sweet-floral flavors in the Soy Delicious Dairy-free Hibiscus frozen dessert I recently tried, I'd love to try this.
Spread Health Food - Nutmeric Ultra
These are my people! I love these spreads; they're nut-based, but laced with pepper and garlic and turmeric, making them super-taste and -- even better -- really good for me. I will search the aisles for this one.
I haven't forgotten how lovely these sauces tasted -- so I'm not surprised at the win. This time, I'll request samples so I can give you a full report on not only the winning sauce, but the entire lineup.
Sukhi's Gourmet Indian Foods - Tandoori Chicken Naanwich
Very cute idea. Since I love Indian, it would be hard to resist. My fingers are crossed that it has the bold, pungent spice flavors that make Indian cuisine so popular.
The Cheeseworks Ltd. - Carboncino by Caseificio dell'Alta Langa
Huh? A websearch turns up that it's a cheese, which means it's on my radar. My goal at next January's show is to taste every cheese. I might have to work all three days to get it done. http://www.nasft.com/
