Discover Wisconsin finds a whole 'latte' love in the dairy state

Specialty coffees continue in their popularity, and among the most sought-after choices are milk and cream-enhanced varieties. Cappuccino, latte, frappe or breve - a creamy variation is irresistible.

The latest episode of Discover Wisconsin explores this flavorful phenomenon Saturday, Nov. 17 and Sunday, Nov. 18 on the Discover Wisconsin broadcast network with host Emmy Fink, who admits a strong weakness for caramel lattes.

A bright spot in the food industry, sales of specialty coffee drinks are increasing by 20 percent a year, according to the National Coffee Association and the Specialty Coffee Association of America.

Their recent study has shown that 30 million American adults enjoy this brew daily.

Scott Lucey, barista trainer at Alterra Coffee Roasters in Milwaukee who is interviewed on the segment, attests to the popularity of dairy infused coffee drinks.

"In a cafè, probably 70 to 80 percent, or maybe even 90 percent, of the drinks, are drinks with milk in them," he says.

The show includes several interviews with coffee professionals and enthusiasts around the state as well as a how-to demonstration for steaming and frothing milk.

Discover Wisconsin producer Amy Wallace, in partnership with Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, said that while the series, and especially those based on popular food trends, aims to entertain, it often educates by revealing subtle, yet significant ways the dairy industry impacts everyday life that are often overlooked.

Discover Wisconsin is the nation's longest running tourism program, celebrating its 25th Anniversary throughout 2012.

The Discover Wisconsin broadcast network reaches 250,000 viewers across the upper Great Lakes region, including Minnesota, Iowa, Northern Illinois and Upper Michigan, and can be seen statewide on FSN North Saturday mornings at 10 a.m.

For more on this episode or the broadcast schedule in other areas visit www.discoverwisconsin.com.