Comparative Review: Books vs e-Readers

It's the modern-day debate that has divided the classic 'nerd' camp into two: the old-school bookworms representing one side and the techie geeks on the other. The debate? Which is better, a classic book or an e-Reader?

Archaic artifact or old-school cool?

I will divide this post into sections, tackling the merits of each, as well as the disadvantages. I have strong opinions on this of course, having grown up loving reading more than any other activity. Which one is preferred by a reader totally depends on which factor is most important to the individual: access, convenience, and emotional value - what I call the 'A.C.E.' factors.

DLSU Employees' Workout Program

A twelve-week fitness program designed for staff and faculty members of De La Salle University.

DOWNLOAD THE WORKOUT HERE

Haters Gonna Hate - 3 Reasons Why Haters Are Good For You

Haters. This word has come to be understood as vaguely as 'people who don't like you' and as specifically as 'critics who don't have anything positive to say about a musician's music'. Whatever it is, it's an inescapable fact that - as the famous meme goes - haters gonna hate. While the ignore-rinse-repeat reaction is common (and safe) there may actually be a positive side to having haters (or being hated on).

It's good for you!

When in Manila: Running in Manila

My article, as featured on When in Manila.

Enjoy, and don't forget to share!

Taylors' Promised Land Shiraz

A review on Taylors' Shiraz, from the Promised Land collection.

Taylors' Promised Land Shiraz ('09)

Kick the Habit 2 - Result and Discussion

The run against smoking concluded earlier today with a late morning start (as compared with other races) and an amazing personal experience.

10k in 1:01 hours, bib #1918

Rivalry: Ateneo-La Salle Musical

"Rivalry" is a play that puts the famed blue-vs-green pissing contest between two of the top private universities in the Philippines on-stage in a musical.

Blue vs Green, since 1939.

Jean Moreau et Fils Syrah

A J. Moreau et Fils review on their Syrah vin de table. 

Jean Moreau et Fils Syrah ('07)

Notes:

This Syrah was deep red in color and its scents hinted of currants with slight hint of plum. A hint of spice was present too. For a Syrah, it was relatively on the sweeter side, and featured a good acidic balance. It was very slightly 'hot' on the palate, suggesting a high alcohol content. Medium-bodied wine. Soft tannins, but still noticeable. Short finish with slightly peppery aftertaste.

• Winery - Jean Moreau et Fils
• Country - France
• Region - Languedoc-Roussillon
• Vintage - 2007
• Varietal - Syrah (mostly)
• Price - Approximately PHP 400.00 ($10.00) per bottle.

Fortant de France Skalli Cabernet-Sauvignon

A Fortant de France review.

Fortant de France Skalli Cabernet-Sauvignon ('09)

Notes:

The wine had a deep red color. It had a delicious, fruity aroma that hinted of red fruits, berries in particular. A little on the sweet and mellow side. Well-balanced and fresh-tasting. Very easy to drink, with noticeable fruity undertones. Light-bodied. Noticeable tannin but not distracting. Light and short finish, with fruity aftertaste. Delicious with light cheese.

• Winery - Fortant de France (crafted by Skalli)
• Country - France
• Region - Languedoc-Roussillon
• Vintage - 2009
• Varietal - Cabernet-Sauvignon
• Price - Approximately PHP 400.00 ($10.00) per bottle.

Montes Alpha Cabernet-Sauvignon

A Montes Alpha review.

Montes Alpha Cabernet-Sauvignon ('09)

Notes:

The wine had a deep red color. Its aroma had a very fruity character that reminded of dark berries and currants. It had good acidity and tasted fresh. Well-balanced wine, but I found it a little strong. Very full-bodied with good consistency. Pronounced tannins. It had a full, satisfying finish albeit a little hot.

• Winery - Montes Alpha
• Country - Chile
• Region - Valle Colchagua
• Vintage - 2009
• Varietal - Cabernet-Sauvignon
• Price - Approximately PHP 1,200.00 ($30.00) per bottle.

Lindeman's Bin 50 Shiraz

For the inaugural post in this label, I would like to feature my current favorite Shiraz, the Lindeman's Bin 50, from the 2008 vintage.

Lindeman's Bin 50 Shiraz ('08)

Notes:

The wine had a very deep, ruby color. The aroma reminded me of currants and dark berries. Good acidity balance and very fresh taste. It was a very balanced wine, with noticeable peppery flavor and sensation. Medium-bodied. Pronounced tannins, but noticeable in a good way. Good finish, and provided a spicy aftertaste and finish.

• Winery - Lindeman's
• Country - Australia
• Region - Southeast
• Vintage - 2008
• Varietal - Shiraz
• Price - Approximately PHP 600.00 ($15.00) per bottle

Wines

Introducing a new post label/category!

I've been drinking wine on and off for the past 14 years or so (my first sip was at age 10) and early last year, I decided to make this a hobby. It hasn't been easy - nor cheap - but the education, information, and sheer enjoyment I've been getting from this is amazing.

As of Nov/Dec 2011.

Here's to the amateur wine lover that is me! :) I hope to share whatever I know with all you fellow wine lovers out there!