#german glassware

[yourcoffeeguru]

Vintage Liquor Alcohol Footed Etched Set 6 Shot Glasses made in Germany Barware || SWtradepost

[romegreeceart]

Roman glassware

* Romano-Germanic Museum, Cologne

* coloured glass, hence 3rd or 4th century CE.

* Local workmanship IIRC

Cologne, November 2017

[misforgotten2]

Burda Moden (A multilingual European women's magazine) - July 1978

[girlactionfigure]

THURSDAY HERO: Carl Lutz

Carl Lutz was a Swiss diplomat in Hungary who saved tens of thousands of Jews during the Holocaust by providing them with transit visas and creating safe houses throughout Budapest.

Carl was born in 1895, in Walzenhausen, Switzerland, to a devout Methodist family. When he was 14 his mother died of tuberculosis. The next year he left school and started working at a textile mill. Carl yearned to explore the wide world outside his sleepy mountain town, and at age 18 he moved to the United States, settling in Granite City, Illinois. For five years he worked and saved money for college, then in 1918 enrolled in Central Wesleyan College in Missouri.

In the summer of 1920, Carl took a summer job in Washington DC working at the Swiss Embassy. He loved the international environment and the rewarding work. Carl’s gracious personality and keen intelligence made him well suited for diplomacy. He enrolled in George Washington University, graduating in 1924 with a BA in law and history. Two years later, Carl moved to Philadelphia, and then St. Louis, to serve as Swiss Consul in those cities. Around this time he married Gertrud Fankhauser, a Swiss human-rights activist,

Carl was sent to Jaffa in 1935, where he was Swiss Vice-Consul. In 1936, he and Gertrud watched an unarmed Jew being lynched by a mob of Arabs. They were horrified and helpless to do anything. The tragic incident haunted Carl and perhaps contributed to his later stunning heroism in Europe.

The Swiss government recalled Carl from the Middle East in 1942 and sent him to their embassy in Budapest, Hungary. He represented not only Switzerland, but also countries that had broken ties with Hungary after it allied with Nazi Germany. As soon as Carl arrived in Budapest, he began working with the Jewish Agency for Israel to provide Hungarian Jewish children with transit visas, enabling them to emigrate to Palestine, then under British Mandate.

In 1944, the Nazis occupied Budapest and immediately started rounding up Jews and sending them to death camps. It was late in the war, and the Nazi war machine had gotten chillingly efficient at murdering Jews. During a two month period, 440,000 Jews were deported to Auschwitz. Carl Lutz kicked into high gear to save lives. As a diplomat, part of his job was to cultivate relationships with Hungarian officials, as well as German Nazi leaders in Budapest. He used these connections to negotiate a special deal – he could issue protective letters to 8000 Jews, enabling them to move to Palestine.

Carl used clever tricks to increase the amount of Jews he could save. He enabled each letter to cover an entire Jewish family of any size, rather than just one person. Taking the ruse further, he issued tens of thousands of protective letters, making sure each had a number between 1 and 8000, so that busy officials wouldn’t realize that more than 8000 letters had been issued. “The Germans are very correct people. They admire discipline and order. So when Nazi commandants saw these letters, they accepted them,” said Eric Saul, founder of “Visas for Life,” a project that honors diplomats who saved Jews during the Holocaust.

As thousands of Jews were being shoved onto cattle cars and taken to their death, Carl was desperate to save as many as he could. With the integral help of his wife Gertrud, he set up 76 “safe houses” all over Budapest, designating them as under the control of the Swiss government, and therefore beyond the reach of Hungarian or German authorities. One of them was the Glass House, a former glassware manufacturing facility previously owned by Arthur Weiss, a Hungarian Jew. In the summer of 1944, Weiss’ business was forcefully taken from him and he disappeared, leaving the large building empty. Carl rented the space to open the newly created Swiss Embassy’s Emigration Department for Representing Foreign Interest. Over the next few months, over 3000 Jews found refuge in the Glass House.

During this time, the Nazis overthrew the Hungarian ruler and installed the fascist Arrow Cross Party as the new government. The Arrow Cross was viciously anti-Semitic, and after taking power they started massacring Jews in the streets. One day, Carl was strolling by the Danube River when an Arrow Cross officer shot a Jewish woman right in front of him. Bleeding, the woman fell into the river – and Carl, in his suit and tie, jumped in after her. He rescued her from the water, and demanded to speak to the Hungarian officer who’d ordered the shooting. Projecting confidence and authority, he proclaimed that the wounded Jewish woman was a citizen of Switzerland and was protected by international law. As the Nazis stood mouths agape, Carl quickly helped the woman into his car and took her to safety.

In November 1944, the Arrow Cross gathered 70,000 Jews from transit camps and hiding places and forced them on a death march to concentration camps in Austria and Germany. Carl and Gertrud followed along in their car next to the exhausted marchers and used every opportunity to surreptitiously pull people out of line and provide them with protective documents. Carl later described the scene, “For these people it was the last glimmer of hope, for us, this was the worst form of spiritual torture. We saw the people being lashed with dog-whips and lying in the slime and mud with bloody faces…. Whenever possible I would drive alongside these people on their way to the concentration camps to try and show them that there was still hope.”

After Hungary was liberated in early 1945, Carl and Gertrud returned to Switzerland. Without a shared humanitarian mission, the marriage fell apart and they divorced in 1946. Three years later, Carl married Magda Csanyi, a Jewish woman he had saved, and adopted her daughter Agnes.

Carl was not honored for his heroism for many years. On the contrary, when he got back to Switzerland he was criticized for exceeding his authority by saving Jews; the government didn’t want their neutrality called into question. In 1958, the Swiss understanding of World War II started to change, and Carl Lutz was “rehabilitated” and honored as the great man he was. The riverside promenade where he saved the wounded Jewish woman from drowning is now the Carl Lutz Rakpart. A street in Haifa, Israel was named after him, and in 1965, Carl became the first Swiss national to be honored as “Righteous Among the Nations” by Israeli Holocaust Memorial Yad Vashem. There are other memorials to him in Washington DC, Israel, Switzerland, and Budapest, where the Glass House is now a small museum. Carl died in 1975 in Bern, Switzerland.

For saving the lives of over 62,000 (!) Jews, we honor Swiss diplomat Carl Lutz as this week’s Thursday Hero.

[nardo-headcanons]

Iwagakure Worldbuilding Headcanon

yes, it is time. i have been planning to do this ever since i wrote the suna ones. what inspired me to write these? my chem analytics lab practical

People and Culture

Iwagakure is a rather densely populated village, with its country having a rather large population. The citizens of Iwa are often times brutally honest with each other and often work as one big union. The language spoken in Iwagakure sounds similar to Konoha's language, but not quite (Almost like Dutch sounds compared to German). There are many different dialects across different valleys, every one sounding slightly different from the other. This sometimes leads to interesting dialoagues, but they manage. Many foreigners think Iwa citizens don't have a sense of humor, but they do. It's just that it's rather dry compared to what most foreigners are used to.

Infrastructure

A lot of the infrastructure in Iwagakure is made of stone and their architecture is very immaculate and they like using earth style to accentuate their homes. Despite their economy not being the strongest, Iwagakure has a homeless rate of 0% since housing is easy to construct there.

Education

In the Iwa academy, genin are not only taught ninja skills, but basic geology and chemistry as well. Despite Iwa nin being regarded as 'stupid' by outsiders due to their funny accents, they have an extensive education system.

Fireworks

Fireworks in Iwagakure are a special good, and they are very proud of the fact that they invented it. No one really knows how, but the story says that one shinobi of Iwagakure's explosion corps added copper sulphate, rubidium acetate, strontiom sulphate and lithium chloride into their explosive clay, creating a prototype of the fireworks they use nowadays. Using their knowledge of the different minerals and their flame test colors, the earth country's pyrotechnicians are able to create elaborate artworks out of thin scraps.

Clothes

Most clothes are dyed with either natural colorants or colorful chemicals. Most older people prefer the natural dyes from plants, such as ube, purple and orange carrots, etc. The youngsters are more adventurous.

Politics

Much like Suna shinobi, Iwa ninjas had more trust in their tsuchikage than in their own daimyo, however this recently changed due to Oonoki, the third tsuchi-kage hiring mercenaries like the Akatsuki to work behind the other big villages backs. Since the economy of Iwagakure was not the strongest, they often relied on imperialism as well as colonialism to build their economy. In the modern era, this has changed, however, since Iwa and the Earth country in general is the biggest exporter of rare minerals such as, diamonds, pottery, glassware and fireworks.

Flora

The Earth country is a cold and rocky place, with many gushes of wind carrying rock and debris throughout the country, even beyond its borders. The winters of Iwagakure are very cold and harsh and the summers are only mild compared to the fire country, where Konoha is located. There is little to no vegetation, and the vegetation that exists is used for agriculture which has led to many native animals being driven out of their natural habitat.

Fauna

The mountains of Iwagakure are populated by ewes, goats and sheep, which, much like in our world, could not care less about gravity. Another animal that can be found in such large heights is the snow leopard, a symbol of bravery and strength to Iwagakure shinobi. Wolves are also native to Iwagakure, however its citizens have an ambiguous relationship to the canines, as they frequently pillage livestock from the people. It would also be a crime to not mention yaks, the national animal of Iwagakure. Their meat, tar and fur are all highly prized and yak meat serves as a protein source to many Iwa shinobi. When looking up into the sky, eagles, kites, vultures and hawks are no rarity, feasting on any small mammal they might find. Fortunately for all arachno- and insectophobes, Iwagakure's insect and spider population is rather small, the only ones that survive living in such high altitudes either minding their own business or even being useful to its citizens, the iwagakure mountain bees, coming to mind.

Food

Tubers and Root vegetables

The main component of any Iwagakure dish are tubers and root vegetables. Iwa nin actually prefer them over grains as their main source of carbohydrates. The most popular ones are potatoes, purple carrots, parsnips and onions. Often times, ube and ube extract is used as a flavoring agent and colorant for food.

Legumes

Another important stable of Iwa cuisine are beans, which are imported from Sunagakure. The most popular variety are kidney beans, mainly due to their color matching the iwagakure shinobi uniform. In the past there used to be many lectin and cyanide poisonings, until the government stepped in and implemented 'how to properly cook beans' into the education system.

Meat

Most meat comes from either yaks, goats, dear or sheep. Unlike their close allies, Sunagakure, Iwa nin rarely dry their meat and prefer it marinated or jarred.

Sweets

Similarly to Kirigakure, not many manufactured sweets can be found here, however, crispy rice cakes (Iwagakure rock mochi) are a specialty. The most popular filling for these rice cakes is, of course, red bean paste.

[stirringwinds]

Do u have any headcanons about Rome or the other ancients

i do! here are some of them:

Rome is the Italybros' father, not their grandfather. Children are sometimes bittersweet omens for nations; your beginning is a harbinger of someone else's end.

When he was still a republic, the Battle of Cannae during the Punic Wars against Carthage was the moment Rome most feared dying for real. As the Carthaginian general Hannibal proclaimed; "I swear to arrest the destiny of Rome with fire and steel"—that put some real fear into young Rome's heart.

Persia (aka the Achaemenid Empire) is at least 3,000 years old—they and modern Iran are the same person. Another ye olde helltalia, like China.

Germania's real name is not Germania: he is one of the many Germanic nations that existed; as historically, Tacitus' concept of "Germania" is more of a Roman construction—they didn't see themselves as a single unified "Germanic" cultural or political entity. So, Tacitus' Germania? Much like Herodotus: father of history, father of lies, perhaps...

Yao's earliest memory is of walking along the Yellow River. It's one thing he has in common with many other ancient nations; rivers feature heavily in their earliest sense of being: Rome (the Tiber), Sumer (the Tigris and the Euphrates), Ancient Egypt (the Nile) and Olmec (the Coatzacoalcos, in modern Mexico) being some examples. Yao thinks of the Yellow River as being both life and death; the fertile silt on the banks that would be the lifeblood of his civilisation, but also the source of devastating floods throughout his history.

Yao rather respected Rome, Persia/Iran and India a lot more than his other neighbours; Rome being called da qin（大秦）or "great qin". Almost a sort of "oh, there's another empire at the opposite end of the (then) known world just like me." Bit of a difference from how at various points, Yong-soo and Kiku got much less flattering names. Today, many things have crumbled under the sword of time, but there's still Roman glassware he has from that long-gone time of the Silk Road that linked Rome and China—as well as all the other cultures in between—together.

[borom1r]

(In the ask box because tumblr on phone dislikes me and will not show the lil note thing to reply on actual posts for Some Reason) I fuckin loved the Gondor/Rohan cultural influence thoughts if you do dish up more of the Thoughts I am so here for it

WOOFWOOFWOOF you’re enabling me. you’re enabling me!!!!! anyways screenshots from our DC dms bc I’m a lazy gremlin who cannot be bothered to re-type:

So this is like. this gets into a lot of half-formed thoughts abt other aspects of potential Rohirric culture and the overlap with iron-age Norse culture there which ties into the Gondorian overlap with fucking. Christians. WHICH IS ITS OWN CAN OF WORMS. but jts a can of worms were about to open

sorry if this is poorly formatted and rambly I’m sick and I don’t have the time off from work so there’s THAT and this feeds directly into my autistic special interests AND I’m a heathen so it also ties into my own religion :3

but when I was adding to the costuming document I made an offhand note about the fact Éowyn’s fashion most likely aligns more with Gondorian noble fashion than actual Rohirric fashion — bc the signifiers of nobility in iron-age Norse fashion came less from the type of garment but from the layers, dyes, and accessories. Éowyn, however, is dressed in a way which explicitly stands apart from the few common Rohirric women we see. so like.

Gondor as a homogenizing force.

I’m not going to use “colonizing” because Gondor never explicitly COLONIZED Rohan, but it very much has always positioned itself as Rohan’s better, and this holds true to Aragorn’s fucking coronation.

extrapolating from Norse culture, it seems Rohan was sort of the platonic ideal of the Germanic/Anglo-Saxon/Norse “viking.” Very Wagner’s Ring Cycle type of depiction, which gets into this weird romanticization while also depicting the gods especially as petty and self-centered, and denigrating the women. Turning from that, this fictionalized “ideal,” to what we know of the actual culture at that time— we get into a lot of grey areas. Was Rohan a raiding culture? quite possibly, at their start; I think it’s a fair assumption to make, that Rohan had a history of raiding. Which seems to have stopped once they settled in the land gifted to them by Gondor.

now, is raiding… good? oh gods no. absolutely not. but while there was a lot of violence typical of raids, not every expedition ended in raids— or was spent *only* on raiding. Vikings would stop and make camps, would trade, even settle in areas long enough that we have archaeological evidence of Danish jewelry made out of Frankish materials. Much of “viking” culture is built off borrowing; we have mjolnir pendants as modern heathens because these people saw Christian crosses, went “oh, that’s cool, we should have something to signify our faith!” and started forging mjolnirs. They were often produced by the same smiths! Sold in the same areas!

So, so much of this culture was decentralized. There was no set religious doctrine, histories and myths were told orally— hence why Skalds were so important (and likely why Théoden was so willing to take Gríma back despite. Everything). My hearth cult is different from your hearth cult is different from the hearth cults the next village over. Stories change with the times, names are lost and added, our culture shifts with the land and her people. The iron-age Norse peoples had very positive relations with Arab traders, to the point that we have an extremely detailed description of the funeral of (what was very likely) a nobleman documented by Ibn Fadlan; they had silks and glassware because of these trade relationships.

so you’ve got a culture built on adapting and borrowing, on *growing,* which has now 1) settled in one area and does not seem to send forces beyond their borders anymore, despite having a specialized category of “riders” not unlike the specialized category of “vikings” and 2) has a positive but distant relationship with its more powerful and decidedly centralized neighbor (not unlike norsemen with the English/French). aaaaaaaaand then there’s Thengel.

now like I said in DMs the blame very much does NOT rest on Thengel. like yea he kickstarted the process but I think this was very much inevitable. Gondor has written histories, better resources, like not even getting into the blood bullshit they just have a much more stable culture. Even if Christianity hadn’t done. what Christianity does. 😑 Norse peoples were worshipping Jesus alongside Þórr. it was simply a matter of time.

and like I stated above, the idea of Rohirrim as lesser and inherently violent is so pervasive even Faramir who is held up as the paragon of grace and nobility in the books does not BEGIN to question it. you don’t leave an environment where everyone thinks you’re lesser than them BY NATURE thinking “wow that was great, nothing about that needed to change!!” — I don’t blame Thengel in the slightest for going “yeah okay nobody in my line is EVER going to look stupid in front of another Gondorian.”

but at the same time as Westron and Sindarin are brought into the noble households, there doesn’t seem to be any similar push to preserve Rohirric oral traditions. Hell, considering the state of things by the war of the ring and the need for Riders, there’s a non-zero chance Gríma may have been the last “Skald” in Meduseld— which quite honestly explains even Éomer’s hesitance to explicitly harm him.

not to mention ultimately royal culture will bleed out into common culture— and eventually royal/noble culture will be all that survives. we have more place names for Þórr and Týr because they were worshipped more widely by the common folk, but more surviving NARRATIVES of Óðinn because he was worshipped by nobility and their closest warriors. If the noble culture of Rohan has shifted to more closely imitate Gondor, then it’s only a matter of time before all that’s left of actual Rohirric culture is place names and folk beliefs

like, I’m saying this as a heathen who’s doing his best to reconstruct a faith based off of archaeological evidence of my ancestors and one (1) surviving text that could be considered religious. EVERYTHING ELSE that is widely available is CHRISTIAN RETELLINGS. whose accuracy is EXTREMELY DEBATABLE. I don’t even necessarily prescribe to what many people consider one of the KEY myths!!!! and while there was a lot of violence involved in the spread of Christianity, quite clearly it does not need to start or end that way. specifically while the Norse peoples, it started very benignly as an interest in the symbols and holy figures— and turned into “all heathens are stupid dirty bloodthirsty monsters, their faith is cruel and backwards and only we Christians have any moral standing”

(Gondorians becoming more and more like those violent middlemen………)

it’s this very pervasive perspective that even when not backed with outright violence on Gondor’s point, clearly leads to the idea that to receive any sort of respect as Men, the Rohirrim must divest of anything that denotes they ARE Rohirric and live instead by Gondor’s standards— the only way to receive salvation is to follow Christ, et cetera et cetera et cetera. I got proselytized to with a bunch of friends in a fucking Mexican restaurant this shit still happens. she compared Christ to gravity and my faith as ridiculous and idiotic (as idiotic as denying that gravity exists).

and that’s part of why I like. don’t find the Gondorian perspective very compelling? like Boromir specifically is interesting because he explicitly defends Rohan and seems to carry a lot of like. both this openness to other cultures for the most part and this sort of trauma around a very similar pressure to Be A Proper Gondorian Heir, depending on how you want to read him— like this intense need to prove himself and his people as worthy to Aragorn, particularly in the films, is veeeeeeeerryyyyyy interesting to consider. meanwhile Denethor is Denethor and book!Faramir has his whole “taming” thing which I cannot even remotely stand. film!Faramir was thankfully spared the weird bullshit prejudices

it does also kind of inherently get into the question of how much of that attitude is specific to Minas Tirith; Gondor’s fucking massive, what pockets of cultures are surviving in coastal towns and out in the more distant regions? because there will always be bleeding, like I said, but this sort of Christian-adjacent attitude that is absolutely held by Gondorian nobility could very well be just that… a NOBLE attitude. the folk of western Anórien probably had WAY more in common with the neighboring Rohirrim on the Eastfold than ANYONE in Minas Tirith.

anyways, was this coherent? barely. do I care? no. I have a head cold. sources? a lot of the same creators as I cited for that gender in Rohan post that I’ll track down and link if the gods decide to bless me with a functional search bar on this site for ONCE, and Children of Ash and Elm. I also mentioned Wagner. I can’t in good faith recommend reading Wagner.

noble Gondorians sit down and shut up about Rohan challenge

(Gríma ramblings under the cut)

[mrdirtybear]

'Portrait of Paul Erhlich', recipient of the 1908 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his contributions to immunology. Ehrlich was a German Jewish physician and scientist who worked in the fields of hematology, immunology, and chemotherapy. This painting shows Ehrlich as a bearded man in late middle age, calmly contemplating the viewer as he stands before shelves of books and glassware. This portrait closely resembles an earlier portrait of Ehrlich by Franz Wilhelm Voigt created for the front cover of a 1910 edition of Jugend, and was commissioned by Dr. Adolf Dessaur directly from the artist. The work was damaged in November of 1938 in the Kristallnacht attacks on Jewish households, and was afterwards restored by an unknown conservator.

[marblesarelost]

Okay but no seriously I just blogged about this last week. This really is a thing.

Listen.

We saved the plastic McDonald's cups, we had glasses that nobody knew where they came from but they were the "glass glasses," my mother made a huge production one year about going to Arby's (and I would like you to know that the closest Arby's at the time was two hours away) at Christmas so she could get the holiday goblets they were selling/giving out.

My mother's cabinets are currently full to bursting with mismatched glasses and plates and things that I guess my stepfather probably picked up at yard sales or out of trash piles.

My own kitchen glasses right this second are washed out and recycled Prego jars and pickle jars. Most of my coffee cups are sarcastic and have cuss words on them. I have plates, but they're all mismatched. I have three pieces of cast iron, I love them all, I got two from my sister when she moved, but the rest of my pots and pans are pretty trashed out. We won't go into my flatware and knives.

I have finally realized I don't have to do this anymore.

I am moving and I STG I am just trashing all of the above and buying new stuff, quality stuff, because if I'm going to spend time in the kitchen crafting food for the people I love, I'm going to have good tools to do it with and pretty plates and bowls to plate and serve it.

And I'm looking FORWARD to it. Okay? I am actually looking very forward to making the order on Wayfair for my new plates (two sets; one for everyday and one for special occasions) and going to Tarzhay and buying new sets of nonstick pots and pans, not to mention glassware and bakeware and flatware and serving bowls and so on. I'm still debating where I'm going to get my knives from; Costco has some really nice German steel sometimes. I don't know where I'm going to get my cast iron but I'm getting cast iron because my new apartment has a gas stove, and y'all, y'all I am so thrilled at this, seriously, I haven't cooked on a gas stove since 1995, I'm thrilled.

I am 46 fucking years old and I am finally going to have a grownup's kitchen.

And I'm looking forward to it.

forget everything anyone has ever told you on the matter the truest marker of adulthood is starting to hear the siren call of high quality kitchenware

[yourcoffeeguru]

Vintage Liquor Alcohol Footed Etched Set 6 Shot Glasses made in Germany Barware || SWtradepost - ebay

[romegreeceart]

Roman glass bottles

Romano-Germanic Museum, Cologne

I'm not sure when these were made, but I assume that they date back to 3rd or 4th century CE ( = coloured glass was used during that time period)

Cologne, November 2017

[thehungrykat1]

Brotzeit Philippines Celebrates Oktoberfest 2024 With Three Party Days

Oktoberfest 2024 is right around the corner so Brotzeit Philippines is getting ready to celebrate this annual German beer event once again. They just launched their special Oktoberfest Menu and have announced their Signature Party Days where guests can experience German music and entertainment combined with authentic food and drinks.

The Hungry Kat was invited last week at Brotzeit's Bonifacio Global City branch to sample their Oktoberfest Menu which is available from September 1 up to November 10, 2024. It had been a while since my last visit but I always make sure to join their Oktoberfest parties. Brotzeit proudly celebrates Oktoberfest 2024 at its two branches in Alabang West Parade and at Shangri-La at the Fort this September to November.

Brotzeit was conceived in Singapore in 2006 and now operates across the Asia Pacific region. It aims to introduce authentic Bavarian cuisine accompanied by world famous quality German beer in a chic and contemporary setting, so Oktoberfest is always one of its biggest events of the year. Now on their 11th year in the Philippines, there’s no better place to enjoy this annual German tradition than at the country’s most popular German bier bar and restaurant.

Oktoberfest is an annual festival held in Munich, Bavaria in Germany from mid-September to the first Sunday in October. This year, it will be held from September 21 to October 6, 2024, but you don’t have to travel to Germany because Brotzeit is bringing the party right here in Manila.

Brotzeit is very proud of its German beers and these are taken very seriously from sourcing, using proper glassware, and even pouring techniques. All beers at Brotzeit are brewed according to the Germany purity law, so you are assured of an authentic German experience.

Brozeit will be offering an exclusive Oktberfest beer for this year's celebrations. The Weihenstephaner Festbier (P480 - 0.5L) is a full rich bodied seasonal lager specially brewed for the Festbier season. This beer represents the Bavarian way of celebrating with its deep gold color, great mouthfeel, and lots of flavor. What I really enjoyed was the Bayrischer Longdrink (P380 - 0.5L) which is one of their Bier Cocktails. This half liter mug comes with lager mixed with calamansi and vodka.

Another cocktail beer that we enjoyed was the Mango Bier (P380 - 0.5L) which has wheat beer mixed with mango juice. Brotzeit offers so many different beers and you are sure to find your own favorite.

I also love their Hot Chocolate so I order this every time I visit. This hot cocoa drink comes topped with cinnamon cream.

Now let’s try some of the special Oktoberfest dishes. Brotzeit has created a new Oktoberfest Menu that perfectly represents the season and goes very well with the featured beers for this celebration. 

The Anchovy Fladen (P490) is a flatbread topped with cheese, anchovies, artichokes, capers, and sweet red onions. This is a good starter that can be shared by the entire table.

Brotzeit Philippines Executive Chef Ivan Maminta then shows us some of the other items on the Oktoberfest Menu.

The Weisswurst (P390) is a traditional Bavarian Pork and veal sausage served with pretzel. The sausage is quite flavorful and you can choose to remove the casing or not. You can also get the Pretzel (P300) as an additional order by themselves.

If you really want to celebrate Oktoberfest, go and order the Oktoberfest 2024 Platter (P4600). This huge meaty platter will surely be the highlight of your Oktoberfest celebrations with its combination of Oktoberfest specials and Brotzeit favorites.

First up, this full platter comes with a Regensberger, a Nurnberger, and a Thuringer Sausage with Sauerkraut and potato salad. These three sausages will definitely satisfy your cravings with its different textures and flavors.

Then there's the Grilled Pork Chop and Roast Beef to satisfy the big meatlovers. These big and juicy slices should go well with some pretzels.

The main highlight of the Oktoberfest Platter is the Signature Pork Knuckle. This an all-time Brotzeit favorite and is the quintessential German dish. The pork knuckle is cooked until the meat is tender then oven roasted for the perfect crackling skin. The meat is actually infused with beer to give it that special taste.

The pork knuckle is so tender that you don't even need a knife to break it open. The Oktoberfest 2024 Platter is definitely packed with all the meat you can handle.

Our Oktoberfest gathering even had some very special guests. My husband Dexter was so surprised to see Marvel Comics Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski join us at our table. He is in town for the much awaited SuperManila 2024 Comic Convention happening on the weekend.

Who would have thought that Dexter would be having beer with one of the comic book industry's top executives? He actually has tickets to SuperManila already so this was a very happy surprise.

Brotzeit’s Oktoberfest 2024 celebrations culminate with their Signature Party Days on September 27 to 29, 2024. This huge 3-day Oktoberfest party will be similar to how they do it in Germany. Special guests will be the AnTon Showband which is a popular German group that performs traditional German folk tunes to modern hits. They will be playing at Shangri-La at the Fort on September 27 and 29 then at Brotzeit Alabang West Parade on September 28. You can book your tables early and join this unforgettable musical journey at (https://brotzeit.ph/reservation). We would like to thank Brotzeit owner Malvin Ang for hosting our advance Oktoberfest party. Prost!

Brotzeit Philippines

GF6 Retail Arcade, Shangri-La at the Fort, 5th Ave. Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

(0949) 881-0360

www.brotzeit.ph

www.brotzeitdelivers.com

www.facebook.com/brotzeitph

[thedecorcircle24]

Wine Glass Sets: The Perfect Touch for Diwali Gifting

Introduction

Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time of joy, celebration, and gift-giving. As we approach this festive season, many of us are on the lookout for the perfect gift that combines elegance, practicality, and a touch of luxury. Enter wine glass sets – a sophisticated and thoughtful present that's sure to light up your loved ones' faces just as brightly as the diyas adorning their homes.

Why Wine Glass Sets Make Perfect Diwali Gifts

Versatility and Practicality

Let's face it, who doesn't appreciate a gift that's both beautiful and useful? Wine glass sets tick both these boxes with ease. Whether your recipients are wine connoisseurs or casual sippers, these glasses will find a place in their homes and hearts. They're not just for wine either – they can be used for serving other beverages or even as decorative pieces.

Aesthetic Appeal

There's something inherently elegant about a well-crafted wine glass. The delicate stem, the curved bowl, the way it catches the light – it's a miniature work of art. During Diwali, when homes are adorned with beautiful decorations, a set of gleaming wine glasses can add an extra touch of sophistication to any table setting.

Symbol of Celebration and Togetherness

Wine has long been associated with celebration and bringing people together. By gifting a wine glass set, you're not just giving an object, but an experience – the joy of sharing a drink with loved ones, of toasting to good times and new beginnings. It's a gift that embodies the spirit of Diwali itself.

Types of Wine Glass Sets

Red Wine Glasses

With their wider bowl and larger capacity, red wine glasses are designed to allow the wine to breathe, enhancing its flavors and aromas. They're perfect for those bold, full-bodied wines that many enjoy during festive occasions.

White Wine Glasses

Typically featuring a narrower bowl, white wine glasses help maintain the cooler temperature of white wines while concentrating their more delicate aromas.

Champagne Flutes

What's a celebration without some bubbly? Champagne flutes, with their tall, narrow design, are ideal for preserving the carbonation and showcasing the bubbles in champagne and sparkling wines.

Universal Wine Glasses

If you're not sure about your recipient's wine preferences, universal wine glasses are a safe bet. These versatile glasses are designed to enhance the flavors of both red and white wines.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Wine Glass Sets

Material

Crystal or glass? Both have their merits. Crystal glasses offer superior clarity and can be made thinner, enhancing the wine-drinking experience. However, glass is more durable and often more affordable.

Design and Style

From classic and timeless to modern and avant-garde, there's a wine glass design to suit every taste. Consider the recipient's home decor and personal style when making your choice.

Capacity

The size of the glass can affect the wine's aeration and the overall drinking experience. Standard sizes range from 8 to 22 ounces, with larger capacities typically reserved for red wines.

Durability

While delicate glasses can be beautiful, consider the practicality factor. Stemless wine glasses, for instance, are less likely to tip over and break, making them a good choice for more casual settings.

Popular Brands for Wine Glass Sets

Riedel

Known for their variety of grape-specific glasses, Riedel offers premium quality and exceptional design.

Schott Zwiesel

This German brand is famous for its break-resistant glasses made from Tritan crystal.

Waterford

Synonymous with luxury, Waterford crystal glasses are often cherished as heirloom pieces.

Lenox

Offering a range of styles from classic to contemporary, Lenox provides quality glassware at various price points.

Budget-Friendly Options for Wine Glass Sets

Not all great wine glass sets need to break the bank. Brands like Libbey and Ikea offer affordable options that don't compromise on quality or style. Remember, it's the thought that counts, and a modestly priced set chosen with care can be just as appreciated as a luxury option.

Luxury Wine Glass Sets for Special Diwali Gifts

For those looking to really make a statement this Diwali, consider high-end options like hand-blown Murano glass sets or limited edition designer collaborations. These luxury sets aren't just glasses; they're conversation pieces that will be treasured for years to come.

How to Present Wine Glass Sets as Diwali Gifts

Gift Wrapping Ideas

Get creative with your gift presentation! Use rich, festive colors like gold and deep red. Consider placing the glasses in a decorative box lined with silk, or wrap them individually in tissue paper before placing them in a gift bag filled with sparkly confetti.

Personalization Options

Add a personal touch by having the glasses engraved with the recipient's initials or a special message. Many online retailers offer this service, making your gift truly one-of-a-kind.

Pairing Wine Glass Sets with Other Diwali Gifts

Wine Bottles

Why not complete the gift with a bottle of wine? Choose a special vintage or opt for an Indian wine to keep with the Diwali theme.

Gourmet Snacks

Pair your wine glass set with some gourmet nibbles like artisanal chocolates, dried fruits, or fancy nuts.

Wine Accessories

Consider adding wine accessories like a stylish opener, stopper, or aerator to create a complete wine lover's gift set.

Caring for Wine Glass Sets

Proper Cleaning Techniques

Advise your gift recipients to hand wash their glasses with mild detergent and warm water. Avoid twisting the bowl and stem, as this can cause breakage.

Storage Tips

Suggest storing the glasses upright to prevent rim damage. If space is an issue, hanging racks can be a stylish storage solution.

The Cultural Significance of Glassware in Indian Households

In many Indian homes, bringing out the "good glasses" is a sign of respect for guests and special occasions. By gifting a wine glass set, you're contributing to this tradition of hospitality and celebration.

Wine Glass Etiquette for Diwali Gatherings

Share some basic wine etiquette with your gift. For instance, holding the glass by the stem to avoid warming the wine with hand heat, or the proper amount to pour (usually about 1/3 of the glass).

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Wine Glass Options

For the environmentally conscious, look into eco-friendly options. Some brands offer glasses made from recycled materials or have sustainable production practices.

Online vs. In-Store Shopping for Wine Glass Sets

While online shopping offers convenience and often a wider selection, in-store shopping allows you to see and feel the glasses. Consider what's more important to you – the ability to inspect the product personally or the ease of home delivery.

Conclusion

Wine glass sets are more than just drinkware; they're a gateway to shared experiences, celebrations, and memories. As a Diwali gift, they embody the spirit of the festival – bringing light, joy, and togetherness into our homes. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly set or splurge on luxury crystal, your thoughtfulness in choosing this gift will surely be appreciated. So this Diwali, raise a glass (a beautifully gifted one, of course) to the spirit of giving and the joy of celebration. Cheers!

[hillfern]

Exploring Different Types of Red Wine Glasses and Top Brand Recommendations

When it comes to enjoying red wine, the glass you choose can significantly impact your experience. Different types of red wine glasses are designed to enhance the aroma, flavor, and overall enjoyment of various red wines. This blog will explore the main types of red wine glasses and recommend a few top brands to consider for your collection.

Types of Red Wine Glasses

1. Bordeaux Glasses

**Description:**

Bordeaux glasses are typically tall with a broad bowl. The shape is designed to concentrate the aromas of full-bodied red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah.

**Benefits:**

- Tall structure enhances the wine's bouquet.

- Large bowl allows the wine to breathe and develop its flavors.

- Wide opening guides the wine to the back of the mouth, emphasizing the richness of the wine.

2. Burgundy Glasses

**Description:** Burgundy glasses have a wide bowl and a slightly shorter stem compared to Bordeaux glasses. They are ideal for lighter, more delicate red wines like Pinot Noir and Nebbiolo.

**Benefits:**

- Wide bowl allows more air contact, enhancing the wine's subtle aromas.

- Directs the wine to the tip of the tongue, emphasizing the sweetness and fruitiness of the wine.

- Encourages gentle swirling, which helps release the wine's bouquet.

3. Universal Red Wine Glasses

**Description:** Universal red wine glasses are versatile and designed to work well with various types of red wine. They typically have a medium-sized bowl and stem.

**Benefits:**

- Suitable for a wide range of red wines, making them a great all-purpose option.

- Balanced shape helps to highlight the wine's aromas and flavors without being too specialized.

- Practical for those who prefer to have fewer glass types in their collection.

4. Stemless Red Wine Glasses

**Description:** Stemless red wine glasses have become increasingly popular due to their modern, casual design. These glasses are often used for informal settings and everyday wine drinking.

**Benefits:**

- Easy to hold and less likely to tip over.

- Space-saving and convenient for storage.

- Suitable for both red and white wines, adding versatility to your glassware collection.

Top Red Wine Glass Brands

1. Riedel

Riedel is a renowned Austrian glassware manufacturer known for its high-quality wine glasses designed to enhance the drinking experience. Their glasses are crafted to suit specific wine varietals, ensuring that each glass brings out the best in the wine.

Top Brands

- Riedel Vinum Bordeaux Glasses

- Riedel Veritas Pinot Noir Glasses

- Riedel O Wine Tumbler (Stemless)

2. Zalto

Zalto glasses are celebrated for their elegance and precision. Handcrafted in Austria, these glasses are known for their thin, lightweight design, which enhances the wine-tasting experience.

Top Brands

- Zalto Denk’Art Bordeaux Glasses

- Zalto Denk’Art Burgundy Glasses

- Zalto Universal Glasses

3. Schott Zwiesel

Schott Zwiesel offers durable, high-quality glassware that combines innovation with tradition. Their glasses are made with Tritan crystal, which is highly resistant to breakage.

Top Brands

- Schott Zwiesel Tritan Pure Bordeaux Glasses

- Schott Zwiesel Tritan Pure Burgundy Glasses

- Schott Zwiesel Tritan Stemless Red Wine Glasses

4. Spiegelau

Spiegelau, another renowned German brand, produces affordable yet high-quality wine glasses. They offer a wide range of glassware suitable for both casual and formal settings.

Top Brands

- Spiegelau Vino Grande Bordeaux Glasses

- Spiegelau Authentis Burgundy Glasses

- Spiegelau Style Red Wine Glasses

Conclusion

Choosing the right red wine glass can significantly enhance your wine-drinking experience. Whether you prefer the elegance of Bordeaux glasses, the sophistication of Burgundy glasses, the versatility of universal glasses, or the modern appeal of stemless glasses, there is a perfect option for every wine enthusiast. Consider investing in high-quality brands like Riedel, Zalto, Schott Zwiesel, and Spiegelau to elevate your wine collection and enjoy your favorite reds to the fullest. Cheers!

[thefinewinecompany]

The Ultimate Guide to Sparkling Wine and Food

Introduction to Sparkling Wine

When it comes to celebrations, a bottle of bubbly is often the drink of choice. But what exactly is sparkling wine? Its effervescence and charm have captured hearts and palates for centuries.

What is Sparkling Wine?

Sparkling wine is a variety of wine infused with notable levels of carbon dioxide, resulting in its effervescent quality. This carbonation can occur naturally through fermentation in the bottle (Méthode Champenoise) or through carbon dioxide injection.

History and Origins

The roots of sparkling wine trace back to the Champagne region of France in the 17th century. Initially, it was an accidental byproduct of winemaking, but over time, it became highly sought after for its unique taste and celebratory appeal.

Types of Sparkling Wine

There are various types of sparkling wines, each with its own distinctive characteristics and production methods. Some of the most renowned varieties include:

Champagne

Champagne is the epitome of luxury and sophistication. Produced exclusively in the Champagne region of France, it undergoes a labor-intensive process known as Méthode Champenoise, where secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle, resulting in its signature fine bubbles and complex flavors.

Prosecco

Prosecco hails from the Veneto region of Italy and is known for its light, fruity profile. Unlike Champagne, Prosecco is typically made using the Charmat method, where secondary fermentation takes place in large tanks, resulting in a fresher, more affordable alternative.

Cava

Originating from Spain, Cava is Spain's answer to Champagne. Made primarily from indigenous grape varieties such as Macabeo, Xarello, and Parellada, Cava offers excellent value for money and boasts a crisp, refreshing taste.

Other Varieties

Beyond Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava, there is a world of sparkling wines waiting to be explored. From Italian Franciacorta to German Sekt, each region offers its unique expression of effervescence.

Pairing Sparkling Wine with Food

Pairing sparkling wine with food can elevate both the dining experience and the wine itself. While it's versatile enough to complement a wide range of dishes, there are some general guidelines to follow:

General Guidelines

Acidity: Sparkling wines tend to have high acidity, making them excellent palate cleansers. They pair well with fatty or rich foods, cutting through the richness and refreshing the palate.

Bubbles: The effervescence of sparkling wine enhances the dining experience by providing a contrast in texture and cleansing the palate between bites.

Sweetness: Consider the sweetness level of the wine when pairing with food. Sweeter sparkling wines pair well with desserts, while drier varieties complement savory dishes.

Specific Pairings

Seafood: The crisp acidity and delicate bubbles of sparkling wine complement the freshness of seafood dishes such as oysters, sushi, and grilled fish.

Poultry: Sparkling wine pairs beautifully with poultry dishes, whether it's roasted chicken, turkey, or duck. The bubbles cut through the richness of the meat, enhancing its flavors.

Cheese: Sparkling wine's acidity and effervescence make it an excellent match for a variety of cheeses, from creamy brie to tangy goat cheese.

Serving and Enjoying Sparkling Wine

To fully appreciate the nuances of sparkling wine, it's essential to serve and enjoy it properly:

Temperature and Glassware

Temperature: Serve sparkling wine chilled but not too cold. The ideal temperature ranges from 45 to 55°F (7 to 13°C) to preserve its aromas and flavors.

Glassware: Use a flute or tulip-shaped glass to showcase the wine's bubbles and aromatics. The narrow shape helps retain the effervescence and concentrates the aromas.

Opening and Pouring

Opening: When opening a bottle of sparkling wine, hold the cork firmly and twist the bottle, not the cork, to prevent it from popping prematurely.

Pouring: Tilt the glass at a 45-degree angle while pouring to minimize bubbles and prevent overflow. Pour in a slow, steady stream to preserve the wine's effervescence.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Observe the wine's color and effervescence. A vibrant hue and persistent bubbles indicate a well-made sparkling wine.

Aroma: Inhale deeply to capture the wine's aromatics, which can range from citrus and floral notes to toasty, yeasty undertones.

Palate: Take a sip and savor the wine's texture and flavor profile. Note the acidity, sweetness, and overall balance of the wine on the palate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sparkling wine is not just a beverage; it's a symbol of celebration, elegance, and joy. Whether you're toasting a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal with loved ones, the versatility and charm of sparkling wine make it a perennial favorite. So next time you're in the mood for a little sparkle, reach for a bottle of bubbly and let the festivities begin!

Visit Website: The Fine Wine Company Ltd

[allovertheworldblog]

The Getty Center

One day when I was living in Hollywood I took a trip out to The Getty Center, which is also in LA.

A German lady who was staying in the hostel was driving there so I took a lift with her.

The Center is named after the late John Paul Getty, formerly the richest man in the world.

Not wanting to be remembered as solely a wealthy man he got the idea to put on view his collection of art. 

The collection is quite varied. Being an astute businessman Getty bought on price.

No specific genre or style of art comes forward and says ‘I was his favourite’.  

There is sculpture, art, ancient manuscripts, glassware, photography. The list goes on.

He just seems to have been an avid collector.

Since his death a trust was established and the collection has been augmented.

A multi-billion purpose-built location for the Center has also been built to display a portion of the collection and accommodate the million-plus visitors who go there every year. 

To get to the Center you take a futuristic train from street-level, up a hill.

The train being a private concern has no advertising on the outside or inside.

Both the style of the train and the lack of advertising give it a very sci-fi feel.

Think the movie Gattaca http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0119177/

From the Center you are treated to views of LA and the mountains. 

Incredibly, the whole thing is free in.

The variety and extent of the collections though, can be too much, an overload. I tried to fit too much in, from paintings from the 16th century right through to the 20th.

From the Far Eastern photography of Felice Beato to an exhibition from Nepal.

I suffered from overload.