Tropicana Pure Valencia

I'm a big fan of orange juice, particularly Tropicana's Immunity Defense OJ. I was, however, skeptical when I saw the new adds for "Tropicana Pure Valencia." Still curious, I bought a bottle and tried it out. It's just regular orange juice as far as I can tell and the original still tastes better. Of course, the Valencia is more expensive and I have to think that half the cost went into the little booklets that came with the bottle. Bear in mind these are little booklets that tell you how wonderful what you're about to drink is. The first page boasts that this OJ was a "taste like you've never experienced" and an "orange juice like no other."

Why does Tropicana think that Valencia is so super? Here's their reasoning: "Because this juice is 100% Valencia, and the Valencia is a special orange. . . . Valencias spend more than a year ripening on the tree, developing a deep, rich color, exceptional juiciness, and an especially succulent taste."

It's also not easy to get picked to be part of this new drink! "Ultimately," the booklet tells us, "only the top 3% of our entire harvest is chosen for Tropicana Pure Valencia." The makers of Valencia "squeeze slowly, taking great care and concern with each step. And we embrace the smallest details to ensure only the very best juice." Apparently, Valencia is "out most luscious juice ever" and it is supposed to "change the way you think about juice."

As if all this wasn't absurd enough, the makers of Valencia take the time to tell you how to drink this super OJ! First, you must "Close your eyes and breathe in the incredible aroma." Then, "open your eyes and take in the deep, intense color." Third, "Swirl the juice in your glass to observe the full body." And, finally, "take a sip. Let every taste bud be entertained by teh luscious experience of succulent fruit."

I'm not at all convinced!

Where to Eat in Charlottesville

OK, so this is a week old but I've been busy. The Washington Post recommends a few spots, which I should check out when I'm in Cville. Among the recommendations are Mas, Revolutionary Soup, the Albemarle Baking Co., HotCakes, and Aroma's Cafe. I've been to a few of these but will give further thought before reviewing them. Check out the article to see what they have to say.