Issue 63 | June 2018
ZINE THE MAGA HE GT PROMOTIN N IN GIO D -A-CH RE AND H IS E NG L A M GER N
ELEN A
UHLIG ON FITNESS CRAZES AND MALLORCA VACATIONS
PLUS
TOP GERMAN FASHION BRANDS LET’S BBQ! WINE WORLD SWITZERLAND 2018 TRAVEL, BUSINESS & MORE
T H E M AG A Z I N E P R O M OT I N G G E R M A N Y, S W I T Z E R L A N D & A U ST R I A
Your Shortcut to Germany Bergen
NORWAY
Oslo Stockholm Bromma
SWEDEN Aalborg bo org g
UNITED KINGDOM DENMARK K
G enburg Goth
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Billund Manchester
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BELGIUM BE
Düsseldorf
GERMANY
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WINNER OF DANISH TRAVEL AWARD 2012 “BEST EUROPEAN AIRLINE”
Snacks
Me al s
ba.com
Dr inks
Pap ers
Lounges
Smiles
Discover Germany | Contents
Contents JUNE 2018
18 Photo: © Thomas Dashuber
COVER FEATURE 18 Elena Uhlig Known for her roles in the likes of crime series Mit Herz und Handschellen or Til Schweiger’s Keinohrhasen, Elena Uhlig has become one of Germany’s most versatile actresses. She speaks to Discover Germany about the meaning of ‘home’, her new book, the fitness craze in the German film industry and more.
SPECIAL THEMES 8
Top German Fashion Brands In this special theme, we speak to some of Germany’s most innovative fashion designers to find out more about their beautiful creations, their design approaches and more.
26 Let’s BBQ! As barbeque season is in full swing, we thought it might be helpful to introduce some of Germany’s top products and companies that will elevate every barbeque to the next level. Get inspired for this summer! 32 Culinary Indulgence and Lifestyle – Made in Switzerland Switzerland is known for tasty treats like chocolate or fondue - but there is far more to discover as entrepreneurs across the country work hard to bring tasty new products to the market. We take a look at some of Switzerland’s best culinary exports. 38 First Class – Wine World Switzerland 2018 Not widely known as a wine-producing country internationally, Switzerland has nevertheless some fine wines on offer. In this special theme, let us take a look at some of Switzerland’s innovative wine
54 Photo: © aletscharena.ch
estates, their intricate wines, great wine restaurants and more.
28 Photo: © Feuerhand
FEATURES 15 Products of the Month, Germany & Austria Looking for exceptional natural cosmetics or long-lasting, stylish leather accessories? We have got you covered as this month, we put a focus on cosmetics by Vivian Weiss and grga leather design products. 24 Restaurant of the Month Our Restaurant of the Month has a lot to offer: in a relaxing ambiance, visitors can look forward to healthy and extremely delicious Vietnamese cuisine. Definitely worth a visit! 50 Star Interview: Daniel Rodic You might know the young actor Daniel Rodic from films and TV series like So viel Zeit, Der Lehrer or SOKO Leipzig. Discover Germany met up with him to talk about his love for Berlin and Cologne, why acting is his absolute dream job and much more. 52 Close to Heaven at Neuzelle Abbey Sometimes called the ‘Baroque marvel of Brandenburg’, Neuzelle is one of Europe’s few completely preserved abbey complexes. The Cistercian monastery turns 750 this year and our writer Wibke Carter finds out more. 54 Nature in Flux In a recent announcement, Swiss researchers stated that “the glaciers in the Alps are beyond saving”. In this feature, we explore what exactly this means for the region, its visitors and its inhabitants. 56 Top Spa Destination Treat yourself to a special time this month – at our Top Spa Destination. The Vabali Spa
offers numerous saunas, relaxation rooms, a great restaurant, pools and more.
REGULARS & COLUMNS 6
Dedicated to Design Whether you are searching for Alfresco living tips, the season’s hottest swim and beachwear or other great fashion or home designs, be sure to take a look at our design section.
22 Wine & Dine Our Wine & Dine section is filled with features such as a company that produces tasty tonic water, great restaurants, wine estates of a special kind and much more this month. 57 Business Our business section is filled with exclusive business profiles from the DACH region and plenty more besides. Furthermore, our columnist Gregor Kleinknecht takes on the interesting topic of miscarriages of justice. 65 The Delights of the German Vocabulary In our monthly column, British author Adam Jacot de Boinod explores the weird and wonderful world of German vocabulary and finds some rather interesting terms. 66 Culture Calendar Discover Germany’s culture calendar is your perfect guide to what not to miss in June. 70 Barbara Geier Column This month, our columnist Barbara Geier educates us about the most recent royal wedding – German style. Issue 63 | June 2018 | 3
Dear Reader,
Discover Germany Issue 63, June 2018 Published 06.2018 ISSN 2051-7718 Published by Scan Magazine Ltd. Print Liquid Graphic Ltd. Executive Editor Thomas Winther Creative Director Mads E. Petersen Editor Nane Steinhoff Assistant Editor Marilena Stracke Copy-Editor Karl Batterbee Graphic Designer Mercedes Moulia
Cornelia Brelowski Gregor Kleinknecht Jessica Holzhausen Wibke Carter Cover Photo © Thomas Dashuber Sales & Key Account Managers Emma Fabritius Nørregaard Laura Hummer Melanie von der Kammer Sophie Blecha Audrey Bardzik Publisher: SCAN GROUP Scan Magazine Ltd. 15B Bell Yard Mews Bermondsey Street London SE1 3YT United Kingdom Phone: +44 (0)870 933 0423 Fax: +44 (0)870 933 0421 Email: info@discovergermany.com For further information please visit www.discovergermany.com
Contributors Adam Jacot de Boinod Barbara Geier
It is that time again – from 14 June onwards, the world will go crazy for the FIFA World Cup. And wherever you might be for the month until the winning country is triumphant, you will most likely be unable to escape the hype. If you happen to be in Germany, you are in for a special treat: Be sure to attend at least one of the official ‘public viewing’ events planned. For example, the ‘Fanmeile Berlin’, situated at the Brandenburg Gate, will be Germany’s largest public viewing venue during the World Cup. While being almost two kilometres long, the Fanmeile provides several large screens and thus, much space for a gigantic area for football fans. If you are interested, you can see all of Germany’s group matches here and all matches of the later knockout stage. Now, all you have to remember is to paint your face, bring your country’s flag and all kinds of noise-making accessories and you are ready for the big football extravaganza. To bridge the waiting time until the start of the World Cup, we have collected some interesting reads for this month’s issue. For example, we met up with German actress Elena Uhlig, who is known for her roles in the likes of the crime series Mit Herz und Handschellen or Til Schweiger’s Keinohrhasen, to speak about the meaning of ‘home’, her latest book release and the fitness craze in the German film industry, for example. Additionally, we met up with actor Daniel Rodic to talk about his love for Berlin and Cologne, why acting is his absolute dream job and much more. Other topics covered in our June issue are great products for the much-anticipated barbeque season, innovative German fashion brands, Swiss wine estates that are well worth a visit, as well as top restaurants and spa destinations, amongst other interesting topics. Last but not least, we take a closer look at the ‘Baroque marvel of Brandenburg’ – Neuzelle Abbey – which turns 750 this year, and we explore how the glaciers in the Alps deal with climate change through finding out what this means for the region, its visitors and its inhabitants. Sit back, relax and thanks for reading.
© All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of Scan Group – a trading name of Scan Magazine Ltd. This magazine contains advertorials/promotional articles.
4 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Nane Steinhoff, Editor
Transform now. Europe’s business festival for innovation and digitization
More business contacts. More excitement. More inspiration: While at CEBIT, discover what’s next. Creative solutions that advance digital transformation. Disruptive technologies that shape tomorrow’s business world. Meet and mingle with creative thinkers, movers and shakers from business and society. The conference starts on Monday, the exhibition on Tuesday.
11 – 15 June 2018
Book your ticket now! www.cebit.com
Discover Germany | Design | Fashion Finds
Fashion Finds The sun is finally out, and so let us take a trip to the beach! Pack a good book, a comfortable chair or a pretty towel and, of course, do not forget an airy summer outfit. If your summer wardrobe from last year needs an update, do not despair – we have collected some of this season’s beach and swimwear trends by the DACH region’s designers, to get you inspired. EDITOR’S PICKS I PRESS IMAGES
Inject some colour into your life with this colourful beach poncho by SUNFLAIR® - a German label, from the Adolf Riedl GmbH & Co. KG, that is known for its emphasis on the highest quality and a great fit. £49. www.sunflair.de/en
6 | Issue 63 | June 2018
If you need a new bikini, look no further. This gorgeous one is from OLYMPIA®, yet another Adolf Riedl brand, and sports an intricate design that is sure to be an eye-catcher at any beach you end up on. £POA. www.olympia.de/en
These stylish sunglasses are a must-have for the summer season 2018. Designed by Solaris by APOLLO, they will not only be a great addition to your outfit, but will also provide that all important protection for your eyes at the beach. £53. www.apollo.de
A must-have item for any beach day is a light and airy dress – just like this pretty one by TOM TAILOR. The dress is inspired by indigo and folklore and with its design, it just screams summer! £61. www.tom-tailor.eu
Easy to slip in and out of, these slippers by STRANDFEIN by Uta Raasch combine elegance, a chic maritime look and wearing comfort in a modern way. Available at QVC. £61. www.qvc.de
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 7
S P E C I A L T H E M E : T O P G E R M A N FA S H I O N B R A N D S
International, energetic vision meets purism You may know Germany for a lot of things, but perhaps fashion is not one of them. But in fact, the country has brought forward a diverse landscape of cutting-edge fashion designers that want to change that. We speak to some of the most innovative ones in the following special theme to find out more about their beautiful creations, their design approaches and more. PHOTOS: PIXABAY
8 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Top German Fashion Brands
Top left: Umbrella ‘Lotus’ available in black and offwhite. Below left: Eye-catching graphic pattern lightens up rainy days. Top middle: Inventor Hans Haupt with one of his Knirps umbrellas. Below middle: Sensational advertising campaign in the 50s. Right: ‘Lotus’ the limited edition for the 90th anniversary.
TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: KNIRPS GMBH
A pioneer of 90 years
Seit 90 Jahren Vorreiter
This year, Knirps – the original from Germany – celebrates its 90th birthday accordingly: Knirps made itself an anniversary present and designed an umbrella which combines its entire design and production know-how of the past 90 years.
Dieses Jahr begeht Knirps – das Original aus Deutschland – seinen 90. Geburtstag. Und das wird natürlich tatkräftig gefeiert: Knirps hat sich anlässlich des Firmenjubiläums einfach mal selbst beschenkt und einen Schirm entwickelt, der das gesamte Design- und Produktions-Know-how der letzten 90 Jahre vereint.
Since Knirps, one of the world’s leading umbrella brands, invented the first foldable pocket umbrella in 1928, the German traditional brand has stood for being Germany’s best-known umbrella and for constant umbrella innovations. A Knirps can be repaired and represents a sustainable quality product; features that distinguish it from many cheaper products. Bernhard Lindner, head of international sales and marketing, says: “Furthermore, we put emphasis on trendy designs and on producing ever lighter products without compromising stability.”
Seitdem Knirps, eine der weltweit führenden Regenschirm-Marken, 1928 den ersten zusammenlegbaren Taschenschirm erfand, steht die deutsche Traditionsmarke für den in Deutschland bekanntesten Schirm und für stetige Schirm-Innovationen. Ein Knirps kann repariert werden und ist ein nachhaltiges Qualitätsprodukt; etwas, das ihn von vielen Discounterprodukten abgrenzt. Bernhard Lindner, Head of International Sales and Marketing, sagt: „Des Weiteren setzen wir auf modische Designs und auf immer leichtere Produkte, ohne dabei an Stabilität einzubüßen.“
All of these quality features can be found in the limited anniversary edition. The ‘X200’ model can be purchased from September onwards and is a mixture of the successful models ‘X1’, Knirps’ smallest umbrella with EVA case, and the ‘T.200’, the all-rounder with handy open and close automatics. When opened, the ‘X200’ expands to an impressive size of one metre, raindrops simply roll off it and, thanks to its low weight, it can be easily taken everywhere. And, of course, function also meets design in this model: the modern, clean look has been crafted to interpret a lotus blossom. ‘X200 Lotus’: from Knirps – for us!
All diese Qualitätsmerkmale können Kunden in der limitierten Jubiläums-Edition wiederfinden. Das Modell ‚X200‘, das ab September erhältlich ist, ist ein Mix aus den Erfolgsmodellen ‚X1‘, dem kleinsten Knirps-Schirm mit EVA-Case, und ‚T.200‘, dem Allrounder mit praktischer Auf- und Zu-Automatik. Der ‚X200‘ verfügt im geöffneten Zustand über eine beeindruckende Größe von knapp einem Meter, Regentropfen perlen einfach vom Schirmdach ab und dank des geringen Gewichts kann ‚X200‘ überall mit hingenommen werden. Und natürlich wird auch bei diesem Modell Funktion mit Design verbunden: der moderne, cleane Look interpretiert eine Lotusblüte. ‚X200 Lotus’: von Knirps - für uns! www.knirps.com Issue 63 | June 2018 | 9
Aquam. Origami Schiff 925 Ohrringe €31,90
925 Vergissmeinnicht Echtsilber Ring €31,90 925 Echte Blätter Ohrringe €31,90
925 Echtsilber Moos Ring €36,90 925 Mond & Opalstein Armreif €39,90
Baumrinde Ring 925 Echtsilber €36,90
Waschbär Ring 925 Echtsilber €31,50
925 Echtes Blatt Lange Kette 35,90€ Aquamarin Wasserfall 925 Ohrringe €34,90
Lederarmband Echter Korallenwein €34,90
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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Top German Fashion Brands
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: KERSTIN KRAUSE MADRID
Clear lines and feminine cuts
Klare Linien und feminine Schnitte
When she was only 13 years old, Kerstin Krause already had a huge interest in fashion. As there was not much choice in the 1980s she learned early on how important creativity is. Today, she has her own fashion label: Kerstin Krause Madrid.
Bereits mit 13 Jahren interessierte sich Kerstin Krause für Mode. Da in den 1980ern die Auswahl begrenzt war, lernte die kunstbegeisterte Designerin früh wie wichtig Kreativität ist. Heute hat sie ihr eigenes Modelabel: Kerstin Krause Madrid.
“It has always been my dream to have my own label,” says Kerstin Krause, who studied at the famous Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. “I wanted to gain experience and was lucky to get placements with Geoffrey Beene and Mary McFadden in New York.”That is where she first learned the craft behind quality fashion.
„Ein Label zu haben war schon immer mein Wunsch“, erzählt Kerstin Krause, die ihr Studium am legendären Fashion Institute of Technology in New York absolvierte. „Ich wollte zunächst Erfahrungen sammeln und hatte das Glück in New York bei Geoffrey Beene und Mary McFadden Praktika absolvieren zu dürfen.“ So lernte sie wie hochwertige Mode handwerklich hergestellt wird.
Today, Krause produces her creations in Germany and Italy and searches for the best fabrics worldwide. “I always go for natural fabrics and buy them in places with tradition,” she explains. For Krause it is important that the women who wear her designs blossom, thanks to good fits and feminine cuts: “Fashion is supposed to highlight the woman.” Currently, the designer is working on her new spring collection, inspired by American painter Georgia O’Keeffe, a pioneer for women in art.
Kerstin Krause.
In Germany, Kerstin Krause’s fashion is available at the boutique of the Schloss Elmau Resort and, of course, online.
Heute produziert Krause ihre Kreationen in Deutschland und Italien und sucht weltweit nach den besten Stoffen. „Ich setze bei der Auswahl immer auf natürliche Stoffe und kaufe dort ein, wo Tradition hinter steht“, sagt sie. Für Krause ist es wichtig, dass die Trägerinnen ihrer Kreationen durch gute Passformen und weibliche Schnitte aufblühen: „Die Kleidung soll die Frau hervorheben.“ Momentan arbeitet die Designerin an der Frühjahrskollektion, welche von der amerikanischen Malerin Georgia O´Keeffe, eine Vorreiterin für Frauen in der Kunst, inspiriert ist. In Deutschland gibt es Kerstin Krause Fashion in der Boutique des Resorts Schloss Elmau und natürlich online. www.deutsche-modedesigner.de www.kerstinkrausemadrid.com www.schloss-elmau.de Issue 63 | June 2018 | 11
Discover Germany | Design | Dedicated to Design
Dedicated to Design… This summer, we embrace the hot new trend of Alfresco living. No longer reserved for fleeting summer days in southern France or Spain, this trend is set on redefining our outside spaces and turning them into elaborate meeting points that can be used all year round. Think outdoor sofas, outdoor kitchens, cosy fireplaces, bars, TVs and more. After all, Alfresco living is about making exterior spaces beautiful and useful, whatever the season. BY: NANE STEINHOFF I PRESS IMAGES
1. There is probably nothing better than a nice meal with all of your loved ones on a mild summer night. And to make your meal a special one, we suggest serving it on the beautiful, high-quality tableware the German traditional brand Villeroy & Boch has on offer. Various articles, £POA. www.villeroy-boch.de 2. Fancy reading a great book on the terrace this summer? We might have just found your new favourite spot for this! This modern garden lounge chair is called ‘Asmara’ by Best and is made out of weatherproof wood. Exclusively available at designbotschaft.com. £479. www.designbotschaft.com 3. Not many things can change an ambiance as much as lamps do. Thus, choose this cosy ‘Breeze’ lantern by House Doctor for your new, Alfresco living, outdoor space, available from GI Design by GRAFINTERIORS. £21. www.grafinteriors.de
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4. Not only cosy, this hanging sofa, called the DEDON SWINGREST, is a true eye-catcher and a great highlight in any outdoor space. Around £5,086. www.einrichten-design.de
3 4
5. No Alfresco living space would be complete without some pretty plants. This Mediterranean flower pot is a timeless, yet beautiful home for your favourite summer shrubs. £POA. www.idyllhome.co.uk
5 12 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Discover Germany | Design | Swiss Children’s Universe
TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN
Japanese pocket size games conquer the European board game market
Japanische Spiele im Kleinstformat erobern den europäischen Spielemarkt
Pocket sized games with simple rules – those are the trademarks of the Japanese Oink Games publishing company. The Swiss family enterprise Board Game Box has been working together with Oink Games for two years now and markets their games in Switzerland.
Spiele im Taschenformat und mit einfachen Regeln – das sind die Markenzeichen des japanischen Oink Games Spieleverlags. Das Schweizer Familienunternehmen Board Game Box arbeitet seit zwei Jahren mit Oink Games zusammen und vertreibt die Spiele in der Schweiz.
The board games published by Oink Games Inc, who have existed for ten years now, distinguish themselves not only through their small pocket size, but also through the simplicity of their rules, their particular design and diversity. In Europe, the company has so far published five games: Deep Sea Adventure, Insider, A Fake Artist Goes To New York, Start Up and Troika. “Most games are invented by games developer Jun Sasaki, but the ideas of other collaborators are also taken into account and brought into the typical Oink design,” says Laura Grundmann, managing director of Oink Games GmbH Germany, a subsidiary company responsible for the European market since 2016.
Die Gesellschaftsspiele der seit zehn Jahren existierenden Oink Games Inc. zeichnen sich nicht nur durch ihre Pocket-Größe aus, sondern vor allem durch die Einfachheit der Regeln, ihr spezielles Design und die spielerische Vielfalt. In Europa sind inzwischen fünf Spiele des Verlags erschienen: Tiefseeabenteuer, Insider, A Fake Artist Goes To New York, Startup und Troika. „Die meisten Spiele erfindet der Spieledesigner Jun Sasaki, es werden aber auch Ideen anderer Leute aufgenommen und in das typische Oink-Design gebracht“, sagt Laura Grundmann, Geschäftsführerin der Firma Oink Games GmbH Deutschland, einer seit 2016 existierenden Tochtergesellschaft für das europäische Vertriebsgebiet.
“I am surprised again and again by how much of a game fits into such a tiny box. Barely larger than a cigarette box, you can take the game everywhere and every game is indeed completely different,” says Michael Zimmerli, executive manager of the Swiss sales partner and distributor Board Game Box. He and his wife Swetlana, as founders of Board Game Box, not only value the good cooperation with Oink Games, but also love playing the games themselves.
„Ich bin immer wieder aufs Neue überrascht, wie viel Spiel in so einer kleinen Schachtel verpackt ist. Kaum größer als eine Zigarettenschachtel kann man die Spiele überall mitnehmen und jedes Spiel ist ein komplett anderes“, sagt Michael Zimmerli, Geschäftsführer des Schweizer Vertriebspartners Board Game Box. Er und seine Frau Swetlana als Gründer von Board Game Box schätzen nicht nur die gute Zusammenarbeit mit Oink Games, sondern lieben auch die Spiele. www.boardgamebox.de www.boardgamebox.ch
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 13
Discover Germany | Design | RAINCOMBI
Miracle garment
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: ORAIN GMBH
RAINCOMBI merges high functionality with a modern, minimalist look – from tip to toe, if necessary. Consider how you would have loved to swiftly turn your parka into an overall the last time you got soaked to the skin while cycling to work! As it turns out, the RAINCOMBI multifunctional rain gear makes exactly that possible. Foldable into a neat little package, the city-smart rain garment leaves nothing to be desired. The RAINCOMBI material is environment-friendly down to the waterproof lining and pleasant to the touch. The motion-optimised design is available in seven unisex sizes and a choice of three colours, and can be changed from overall back to jacket in a flash. For safety measures, it features several reflectors – and last not least, the adjustable hood leaves enough room for the bike helmet. “It is simply a fact that nowadays more and more people ride their bicycle to work,” says designer Oksana Stavrou. “My goal was to create a modern outfit that mir-
rors this new lifestyle. Both easy to wear and nice to look at, it can be worn with a clear conscience, due to its environmentfriendly, EU-made qualities!” The magical 430g mini roll is easily stowed away. And when the next sudden downpour starts, you are safely and stylishly equipped for all circumstances.
Easily stowed away.
Motion-optimised design.
www.raincombi.at Safely covered from tip to toe.
GE N LE UIN AT HE E R
A L L O W YO U R S E L F SOME LUXURY W W W . M AT T I O L I - B A G S . D E
Discover Germany | Design | Product of the Month, Germany
Vivian Weiss.
P RO DU C T O F TH E MONTH , GERMA N Y
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE |
PHOTOS: VIVIAN WEISS
Inner and outer beauty: thanks to Mother nature’s treasures
Äußere und innere Schönheit mit den Schätzen der Natur
Natural cosmetics by Vivian Weiss may be the answer to our fast-paced lives: strictly natural skincare in harmonic alignment with nature. With her passion for traditional Chinese medicine and a beautifully holistic approach, Vivian Weiss creates highly effective natural cosmetics.
Naturkosmetik von Vivian Weiss ist die Antwort auf unseren schnellen Alltag: Hautpflege, die konsequent natürlich ist und in harmonischem Einklang mit der Natur steht. Mit ihrer Leidenschaft für Traditionelle Chinesische Medizin und einer wunderbar holistischen Herangehensweise, bietet Vivian Weiss wirkungsvolle Naturkosmetika.
As a health-conscious woman, Vivian Weiss had the idea for her anti-aging line practically overnight. “In traditional Chinese medicine, yam roots and goji berries have been known as natural anti-aging remedies for 3,000 years, and a few years ago, hyaluron was discovered as another anti-aging remedy,” Weiss explains. “So why not combine them and create an anti-aging line: Tradition meets innovation?”
Als gesundheitsbewusster Mensch kam Vivian Weiss die Inspiration für Ihre Anti-Aging-Pflege quasi wie von selbst. „Yam Wurzel und Goji Beeren sind seit 3,000 Jahren natürliche Anti-Aging-Mittel in der Traditionellen Chinesischen Medizin und die Hyaluron wurde vor ein paar Jahren als Anti-Aging-Mittel entdeckt“, erzählt sie. „Warum machen wir daraus nicht eine Anti-Aging Linie: Tradition trifft modern?“
After two years of development, the TCM anti-aging line with yam, goji berries, soy beans and hyaluron was born. The range includes TCM 24H cream, TCM eye cream, TCM cleansing milk & makeup remover, as well as the TCM mask. “For inner beauty we offer many healing herbs in form of powders such as ginger powder or Houttuynia cordata in about 30 varieties,” says Weiss und adds: “My favourites are the hyaluron ampoules, TCM 24H cream and TCM eye cream. My wrinkles are less, the skin is rejuvenated and looks fresher and younger.”
Daraus wurde nach einer zweijährigen Entwicklungsphase die TCM Anti-Aging Linie mit Yam, Goji Beeren, Sojabohnen und Hyaluron. Es gibt unter anderem die TCM 24H Cream, TCM Eye Cream, TCM Cleansing Milk & Make-Up Remover, sowie die TCM Mask. „Für die innere Schönheit haben wir viele Heilkräuter in Pulverform, wie Yam Pulver, Ingwer Pulver oder Houttuynia cordata in circa 30 Sorten zu bieten“, sagt Weiss und verrät: „Meine Lieblingsprodukte sind unsere Hyaluron Ampullen, TCM 24H Cream und TCM Eye Cream. Meine Falten sind reduziert, die Haut ist regeneriert, schaut frischer und jünger aus.“ www.vivianweiss.com Issue 63 | June 2018 | 15
Discover Germany | Design | Product of the Month, Austria
dinA4 plus writing case. © grga Photo: Johannes Weiss
Gregor Mair. © grga Photo: Maria Frank
PRO DU C T OF THE MON TH, A USTR IA
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI
Lovingly crafted and sustainable
Formschön, durchdacht und handgemacht
grga leather design products are made for those who like long-lasting, stylish accessories for either their daily commute or international travels.
Nachhaltig bis ins Detail und ansprechend gestaltet: grga Ledertaschen- und Accessoires werden liebevoll aus einer Hand gefertigt, vom Entwurf bis zur Fertigung.
To guarantee a soft leather quality, Gregor Mair mostly uses vegetable-tanned cowhide and calfskin. The designer enjoys travelling to the tanneries and manufacturers for his handselected materials.
Designer Gregor Mair verwendet dabei zugunsten einer weichen Haptik gern pflanzen-gegerbtes Rinds-und Kalbsleder von ihm persönlich bekannten Gerbereien.
Award-winning qualities
grga Produkte bieten sowohl handwerkliche Qualität als auch einen zeitlosen Stil, der bis zur letzten Manufaktur-Schnalle optisch und funktional durchdacht ist. Die klassische Schreibmappe dinA4 plus verstaut mit drei Einschüben neben anderen unentbehrlichen Utensilien auch das Tablet, sicher und formschön. Die modisch linear gestaltete grga Ledertasche im Kuriertaschenstil, in der sich sogar ein Notebook sicher und komfortabel verstauen lässt, trug kürzlich beim Design Award 17 in der Kategorie Modedesign den ‚Sieger Tirol‘ davon.
His products are marked by first class craftsmanship as well as a timeless, thought-out design. Equipped with three compartments, the classic dinA4 plus writing case, for example, allows its user to slip in their tablet, as well as any other indispensable office utensils – and is safe and stylish. The fashionably streamlined grga messenger bag with extra notebook compartment has recently won the Design Award 17 in the fashion design category (Tyrol Winner). Long-lasting creativity Motivated by a need to create his own design from first draft to finished product, Gregor Mair started his own label in 2013. “grga customers value sustainable, shapely accessories that last well longer than just one season,” the designer explains, “I can imagine passing on some of my cases and bags to my own kids one day!” For now, the Austrian designer aims to make his products available for an international clientele, for example in Italy, Germany and Switzerland. 16 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Preisgekrönte Eigenschaften
Kreativ und langlebig Das Bedürfnis, Objekte aus eigener Hand zu gestalten, motivierte Gregor Mair 2013 zur Gründung seines eigenen Labels. „grga Kunden legen Wert auf Nachhaltigkeit und Stil bei Alltagsprodukten, die ihren Wert über Jahre hinweg behalten“, erklärt der Designer, „Auch ich möchte meinen Kindern gern noch die Taschen weitergeben können, die ich heute benutze!“ Für die nahe Zukunft möchte Gregor Mair grga Produkte vermehrt auch dem internationalen Designmarkt zugängig machen, insbesondere in Italien und innerhalb der DACH-Region. www.grga.at
messenger bag Š grga Photo: Johannes Weiss
www.grga.at | info@grga.at Hallerstrasse 41, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
18 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Elena Uhlig
Elena Uhlig On fitness crazes and Mallorca vacations Known for her roles in the likes of crime series Mit Herz und Handschellen, the award-winning cinema comedy Alles auf Zucker, Til Schweiger’s Keinohrhasen or in the Austrian cult series 4 Frauen und ein Todesfall, Elena Uhlig has become one of Germany’s most versatile actresses. And as if that wouldn’t already be enough, she has just recently released her second book. She speaks to Discover Germany about the meaning of ‘home’, her new book, the diet and fitness craze in the German film industry and much more.
that has stuck in Uhlig’s mind the most, is her first big role in the comedy Problemzone Mann. She recollects: “It already dealt with the diet craze back then. The role is 17 years old but is still highly topical. Up until this day, I haven’t played another such vulnerable, sensitive person as Cleo.”
TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: THOMAS DASHUBER
Fighting the diet and fitness craze
Born in Düsseldorf, actress Elena Uhlig soon knew what she wanted.“Actually, I’ve never really had a different career aspiration than becoming an actress – with maybe the exception of becoming a taxi driver until I was five years old, because taxi drivers always had such snazzy cars. During acting I love that I’m able to slip into entirely different roles and thus, can experience a different kind of life for a certain period of time. It’s stupid, however, that I’ve never gotten to play a princess until now,”she laughs. After completing her acting training at the renowned Ernst Busch Academy of Dramatic Arts Berlin, she soon gained fame through playing the ambitious detective Nina Metz in Sat. 1’s crime series Mit Herz und Handschellen. In 2001, she celebrated her screen debut in the German-Czech horror film Swimming Pool – Der Tod feiert mit. Other great roles followed: for example, she played in the award-winning cinema comedy Alles auf Zucker by Dani Levy
alongside the likes of Henry Hübchen and Hannelore Elsner. Furthermore, she was seen in Grüsse aus Kaschmir, Der Untergang der Pamir, in Til Schweiger’s Keinohrhasen, in Das Geheimnis der Wale alongside Veronica Ferres, in Die Wanderhure and Trau niemals deiner Frau, and in 2014, she got the lead role in the ZDF series Die Familiendetektivin. Since 2015, she can be seen in the Austrian cult series 4 Frauen und ein Todesfall und most recently, she got a role in the history film Die Ketzerbraut. This comprehensive list shows that Uhlig is a rather versatile actress and embraces a variety of different genres. She explains: “When choosing my roles I look at the fun factor and see where I can find an approach to playing a role. And ultimately, playing the role needs to touch my heart.” One role that she would like to get at some point in her career is that of playing a man. “After all, I still haven’t understood this species up until this day,” she laughs. The role
Speaking of the diet craze – the mother of four children has also become a passionate author. The actress’s humorous, yet serious way in which to speak about important topics like the one mentioned below, is what makes her books so popular all over the DACH region. For example, her first book Mein Gewicht und ich – eine Liebesgeschichte in großen Portionen which opposes the omnipresent fitness craze and deals with her fight against her own weight in a humorous way climbed onto the Spiegel bestseller list immediately. Of course, we want to know what her worst diet was. She answers: “As a diet is always bad, you can’t really outweigh the bad with the bad. But the worst was and still is that I participated in the diet craze for over 20 years.” She adds: “Unfortunately, the beauty ideal in the German film industry has remained the same over the past few years. As long as we aren’t allowed to return to curves and femininity, the fashion industry remains to oppose it too and nothing changes in our Issue 63 | June 2018 | 19
Discover Germany | Cover Feature | Elena Uhlig
is probably not place-bound for me and simply where my family is,”Uhlig explains. For those wanting to see the actress on screen, the new movie Der Junge muss an die Frische Luft will come to cinemas this year. In this screen adaption of Hape Kerkeling’s book, Uhlig will play aunt Gertrud. “You can definitely look forward to me playing that role! And also to the WDR improvisation film Klassentreffen. Furthermore, I’m currently writing my third book which I have to hand in by the end of August. Help! And then you can also visit me at readings, of course,” she smiles. And what other dreams and wishes does she still have after already achieving so much? “Well, becoming a millionaire,”she laughs and adds: “Jokes aside. I wish that my husband and I can bring up our children in a way that they are able to stand on their own feet and that we both still have a long time remaining to accompany them during that. And that our humour for the other doesn’t get lost. And maybe I will manage someday to finally call a place ‘home’.” Upcoming readings: - 12 August: Heiligendamm - 1 September: Homburg - 15 October: Hamm - 16 October: Haldensleben
society – above all, Instagram in the social media craze – it will probably also remain like this in the film industry.” Even though Uhlig is not too optimistic about the film industry’s outlooks, she has some general tips for anyone out there that wants to feel their best in their own bodies and not follow all new diets:“Simply live. That actually works quite well if only you allow it and you accept yourself just the way you are. Oh god, I almost sound like a preacher,” Uhlig laughs.
compile them. After all, life still writes the best stories and our family holidays are simply worth telling,” she laughs and adds: “Readers can look forward to a high degree of chaos, funny vacation anecdotes and a rather not perfect family. But in particular, to stories that can be experienced first-hand and stories that one might have experienced in the same or similar way before. And you will notice that you aren’t alone with your holiday problems.”
Recently, Uhlig published her second book which is called Qualle vor Malle – Urlaub mit Familie, Chaos inclusive. This time, Uhlig tells the hilarious story of her own family vacation in Mallorca, which includes buffet battles, beaches filled with jellyfish and free-spirited children with a high degree of self-mockery. “I have collected so many chaotic and bizarre anecdotes on vacation that I only had to
Born in Düsseldorf and having studied and lived in Berlin, Uhlig now lives at Lake Traunsee in Austria with her husband and her four children. We want to know what the term ‘home’ means for her. “That’s a big question, a very big one! And one of the greatest yearnings that I have. I have been searching for ‘home’ for quite a few years. My profession has uprooted me at an early stage and ultimately, my ‘home’
20 | Issue 63 | June 2018
More info at: www.pr-emami.de
Elena Uhlig vor Malle
Longing for ‘home’
Urlaub mit Familie, Chaos inclusive
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 21
Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | FEVER TREE
Gin & Tonic mit Indian Tonic Water.
“If 3/4 of your drink is the mixer, mix with the best!”
FEVER-TREE und die Suche nach dem besten Tonic Water der Welt „Warum stellt man Premium-Spirituosen her und überdeckt ihren Geschmack mit zweitklassigen Mixgetränken?“ Das war vor über zehn Jahren die entscheidende Frage für Charles Rolls und Tim Warrilow, den beiden Gründern von FEVER-TREE. TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I FOTOS: FEVER-TREE
„Gin & Tonic Liebhaber können stundenlang über den perfekten Gin philosophieren”, erklärt Charles Rolls. „Absolut richtig, denn der Gin ist die alkoholische Grundlage des Drinks. Wenn Sie es sich aber genau überlegen, bestehen dreiviertel eines Gin & Tonics eigentlich aus dem Mixer, dem Tonic. Und das war unser Ansatzpunkt.” Künstliche Aromen und Süßstoffe hinterlassen oftmals einen unangenehmen Nachgeschmack am Gaumen und zer22 | Issue 63 | June 2018
stören die feinen Aromen hochwertiger Spirituosen. Um dies zu vermeiden, bedarf es eines Tonics mit erlesenen und vor allem natürlichen Zutaten, die unterstützend und harmonisch im Drink agieren. Auf der Suche nach den besten Zutaten für ihr Premium Tonic Water, Ginger Ale und Bitter Lemon reisten die beiden Gründer dann auch um die ganze Welt. Das Chinin zum Beispiel stammt von Chinarindenbäumen aus einer Grenzregion zwischen
dem Kongo und Ruanda und ist gleichzeitig Namensgeber der Marke. Denn der Chinarindenbaum wird umgangssprachlich auch Fieberbaum genannt, da das Chinin in der Rinde eine fiebersenkende Wirkung hat. Die Zitronen kommen aus Sizilien, die Bitterorangen aus Mexico und für das FEVER-TREE Ginger Ale kommen
Auf der Suche nach frischem grünen Ingwer.
Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | FEVER-TREE
gleich drei verschiedene Ingwersorten zum Einsatz, aus Nigeria, Kochi und von der Elfenbeinküste. Es ist dieser bedingungslose Wille, die besten Zutaten aufzuspüren, auf dem die Erfolgsgeschichte von FEVER-TREE gründet. Mittlerweile sind die Produkte der britischen Marke in 65 Ländern zuhause und die besten Bartender weltweit setzen für ihre Drinks auf FEVER-TREE. Im Rahmen des ‚Brand Report 2018‘ von Drink International wurde FEVER-TREE zum vierten Mal in Folge zur Nr.1 ‚Best Selling‘ und Nr.1 ‚Top Trending‘ Tonic Water Marke gewählt. Auch in den renommierten
Die FEVER-TREE Gründer Charles Rolls (links) und Tim Warrilow (rechts).
Restaurants der Welt ist FEVER-TREE zu finden, wie zum Beispiel im Mugaritz in San Sebastián, im Eleven Madison Park in New York oder im Steirereck in Wien. Und so verwundert es nicht, dass auch außerhalb der Bar- und Gastronomieszene die FEVER-TREE Fangemeinde weltweit anwächst. Denn die konsequente Fokussierung auf erlesene, natürliche Zutaten und eine erstklassige Produktqualität machen FEVER-TREE zum perfekten Mixer auch für den Cocktailliebhaber zuhause. In diesem Sinne: Cheers! www.fever-tree.de
Eine Chinarindenbaum-Plantage im Kongo.
Die komplette FEVER-TREE Tonic Range.
Frisch geernteter Ingwer.
Chinarindenbäume wirken fiebersenkend und sind die Namensgeber von FEVER-TREE.
FEVER-TREE Mediterranean Tonic Water.
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 23
Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | Restaurant of the Month
RE STAU RANT OF TH E MONTH
Eine Oase für Seele und Gaumen Die Seele baumeln und sich kulinarisch so richtig verwöhnen lassen – das erwartet die Gäste in der hannöverschen Vietal Kitchen. In der entspannten Atmosphäre des vietnamesischen Landhauses im Stil der Kolonialzeit wird gesunde und extrem leckere Küche serviert und dabei kann man sogar den Köchen direkt bei der Arbeit zusehen. TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I FOTOS: DYKJU BUI (FOUNDER OF VIETAL KITCHEN)
Wie der Name schon verrät geht es bei der Vietal Kitchen um vitales Essen mit vietnamesischen Wurzeln. „Während meiner gastronomischen Laufbahn nach meinem Kommunikationsdesign Studium habe ich mich zunehmend mit dem Thema ‚gesunde Ernährung‘ und der Kombination mit vietnamesischer Küche auseinandergesetzt“, erinnert sich Gründer Dykju Bui wie alles begann. „Voilà, so entstand mein neues kulinarisches Baby: Vietal Kitchen. Des Weiteren übte meine Fitnessbegeisterung und das daraus resultierende Ernährungsbewusstsein einen großen Einfluss auf meine Kocherfahrungen aus.” Das Konzept wurde in Stuttgart und in Hannover brillant umgesetzt und die kulinarischen Kreationen verbinden traditionelle Gerichte aus Südostasien mit inter24 | Issue 63 | June 2018
nationaler Küche und natürlich mit den sogenannten Superfoods. „Unser kulinarisches Angebot ist wortwörtlich ein ‚gesunder Mix‘ aus traditionellen Rezepten gepaart mit internationalen Einflüssen und deren gesundheitsfördernden Zutaten“, erklärt Dykju Bui. „Die traditionellen vietnamesischen Gerichte habe ich mit Superfoods wie zum Beispiel Avocado, Goji-Beeren, Vollkornprodukten und Hülsenfrüchten verbunden. Dabei lege ich viel Wert auf Bio-Qualität und Nachhaltigkeit unserer Zutaten, denn die Gesundheit ist mir ebenso wichtig wie guter Geschmack.” Dass hier nicht nur Veganer und Vegetarier glücklich werden, ist selbstverständlich. Bei allem gilt: Vitalität ist die oberste Pri-
orität in der Vietal Kitchen. Viel Rohkost, Wurzelgemüse und kalorienarme Süßungsmittel wie Kokosblütenzucker und natürlich eine Reihe toller Smoothies sind hier Programm. Frischer Fisch, Vollkornreis und rote Quinoa, aber auch Ente wird hier köstlich leicht zubereitet. „Gäste dürfen sich auf eine bunte, kreative und gesunde kulinarische Mischung aus Vietnam und Südostasien freuen, die den Bezug auf die traditionellen Rezepte schätzt und gleichzeitig auf die Bedürfnisse der modernen Zeit eingeht“, so Dykju Bui. Inspiration sammelt Dykju Bui während vieler Reisen, aber auch durch sportliche Aktivitäten. Gesunde, ausgewogene Ernährung spielt für ihn grundsätzlich eine wichtige Rolle und ist nicht nur das Konzept seines Restaurants, sondern sein Lebensmotto. „Die Muse für meine Rezepte ist allerdings Mamas Küche!“ fügt er mit einem warmen Lächeln hinzu. In der Vietal Kitchen tut Gesundes nicht nur gut, es schmeckt auch fantastisch. www.vietal-kitchen.de
ef fe c t- e n e r g y | w w w.ef fe c t- e n e r g y.c o m
SPECIAL THEME: LET’S BBQ!
Summer’s little helpers As barbeque season is in full swing, we thought it might be helpful to introduce some of Germany’s top products and companies that will elevate every barbeque to the next level. Whether innovative coal, great barbeque shops or more, we have got you covered. Get inspired for this summer! PHOTOS: PIXABAY
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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Let’s BBQ!
Warum ist Kokoskohle so viel besser als gewöhnliche Grillkohle? Die Kokosnuss findet in Form von Kokoskohlebriketts immer öfter den Weg in den heimischen Grill, und das nicht nur, weil sie umweltfreundlicher ist als Holzkohle, sondern auch viel effizienter und ergiebiger. TEXT & FOTOS: MCBRIKETT GMBH
Um etwas sehr Gutes herzustellen, braucht man ein ausgezeichnetes Ausgangsmaterial. Die harten Schalen einer Kokosnuss bringen diese Voraussetzung mit. In ihr steckt von Natur aus mehr Energie als in Eichen- oder Buchenholz. Das hochwertige Ausgangsmaterial wird nun weiter veredelt, in diesem Fall werden die Schalen verkohlt. Die Tatsache, dass Kokosnussschalen immer gleich dick, bzw. dünn sind macht das Ausgasen, wie das Köhlern auch genannt wird, schnell, präzise und immer gleich hochwertig. Im Vergleich zu Holz, deren Äste und Stämme sehr unterschiedlich dick sind, ist das Veredeln von 2 Millimeter dünnen Schalen
wesentlich genauer und gleichmäßiger. Das führt dazu, dass Kokoskohle immer einen Reinheitsgrad von grandiosen 75 bis 85 Prozent Kohlenstoff hat. Wer sich Briketts aus Holzkohle kauft, muss sich im Klaren sein, dass der Löwenanteil Ausschuss der Holzkohleproduktion ist. Alles, was beim Förderband auf den Boden fällt, wird noch gepresst und zu Holzkohlebriketts verwertet. Das Rohmaterial für Grillbriketts aus Kokosnussschalen ist immer erste Wahl, die verkohlten Schalen werden hierfür zu Briketts gepresst.
kann, mit dem Ergebnis, dass die Briketts hoch verdichtet sind, somit weniger Feuchtigkeit ziehen und wesentlich länger glühen. Mit Kokoskohle kann man problemlos über mehrere Stunden grillen ohne nachzulegen. Und dank der besonderen Reinheit von Kokoskohle stinkt und qualmt es nicht, was das Grillen auf dem Balkon ermöglicht und mit Sicherheit Ihre Nachbarn freut. Ein weiterer Vorteil von Kokoskohle ist, dass sie in stabilen Kartons verpackt ist. Das reduziert den Abrieb auf ein Minimum, vereinfacht das Stapeln und ist dadurch enorm platzsparend beim Lagern und Transport. Als besonders gut hat sich die KOKOKO von McBrikett erwiesen und kann uneingeschränkt empfohlen werden. Es glühe die Kokosnuss.
Verpresst wird in der Extruderpresse, mit der viel höherer Druck aufgebaut werden
www.mcbrikett.de Issue 63 | June 2018 | 27
A classic look in the past - in the meantime, Feuerhand’s lanterns come in many individual colours.
Happy Birthday, Feuerhand!
125 years of burning passion, craftsmanship and innovation The absolute legendary brand Feuerhand, which is behind the timeless and iconic Hurricane kerosene lamps with fireproof borosilicate glass, celebrates its 125th anniversary with a limited anniversary edition: their Hurricane Lantern Baby Special 276 in Pearl Gold.
iously simple design and the automated production promoted the success of the Nier brothers. In the 1930‘s, Feuerhand supplied a large part of the world‘s need.”
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: FEUERHAND
In 2014, the two young entrepreneurs Dr. Pia and Jonas Taureck acquired the trademark and began to revive and manufacture the legendary lantern again, as part of the Petromax group in Magdeburg and hence managed to keep up this skilful tradition made in Germany. Merging tradition with innovation and quality whilst never stopping to follow their own instincts can be seen as the Taurecks’ successful credo.
It was 125 years ago when the engineers Herman and Ernst Nier established a small manufactory for kerosene hurricane lanterns in Saxony’s Beierfeld. “That was the birth of the legendary Feuerhand Hurricane Lantern which, thanks to its classic design and warm, safe light, was part of people‘s everyday life for many decades,” explains today’s Feuerhand manufacturer Dr. Pia Taureck. Through tremendous innovative drive back in the day, the Nier brothers managed to develop a highly engineered product 28 | Issue 63 | June 2018
which would revolutionise the hurricane lamp scene and simply change the game throughout. To this day, the Hurricane Lantern Baby Special 276 is fabricated in the highest quality and in many individual colours in the state of Schleswig-Holstein. “Herman and Ernst Nier created a product which became an integral part of everyday life: Whether in the stable and on the field, in the garden, on the construction site, in traffic and on high seas, the classic lamp – sold a million times over – provided a warm, reliable and safe light. The ingen-
To celebrate the anniversary in style, Feuerhand has designed a limited edition of the Hurricane Lantern Baby Special 276 in a lovely pearl gold colour. The handy lamp is as simple as it is versatile in use. It
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Let’s BBQ!
is not only a great addition to any garden or terrace, it is also an absolute must-have for any camping trip, excursion or evening outdoor activity. “Reflecting the anniversary, Feuerhand offers a further 125 limited wooden boxes for storage, each engraved with an individual number,” Taureck adds. “As all Feuerhand Hurricane Lanterns, the anniversary edition is produced in Germany and proudly carries the quality label“Made in Germany.” The famous Feuerhand logo itself is receiving an anniversary makeover and is presented in a new context. The new design unites the traditional past and the modern future, which Feurhand is taking by storm.
There is, for example, the Feuerhand Pyron and Pyron Plate. Featuring a rustic design, it sets new standards with its unique, double-walled construction with elaborated ventilation, wood boiler principle and a chimney effect. The Feuerhand Pyron Plate, as extension of the fire barrel, is a plancha grilling plate, which stands out through its functionality. Different temperature zones of up to over 500 degrees and a cooking support allow for perfect, culinary experiences. “The combination of Feuerhand Pyron and Pyron Plate provides a new quality of grilling over the open fire: A barbecue chef is no
longer needed,” Taureck explains. “Everybody can prepare their dishes simultaneously and conjointly thanks to the smokefree combustion and isolation of the Pyron, creating an entirely new barbecue experience with friends and for the entire family.” Feuerhand products are available at specialised retailers in more than 50 countries and can also be easily ordered directly in the online shop. Whether you are a fan of its functionality, a retro-design lover or simply fell in love with the iconic lamp itself: Feuerhand is the ideal brand for you. www.feuerhand.com
With a high degree of manual work, hundred thousands of classics still gets manufactured.
But the burning passion for the outdoors continues with many other products made by Feuerhand. “To date, the flame is in the centre of all Feuerhand products. Feuerhand provides for convivial and enjoyable moments that become unforgettable through crackling fire and red embers as well as cosy warmth and light,” says Taureck. “The focus is set on products that inspire friends and family and are well suited in the garden or on the terrace. Functionality and aesthetics at best workmanship are characteristics of the Hurricane Lantern and are the guiding principle for the development of new products.”
The garden and terrace portfolio grows steadily.
The production process has barely changed in the last several decades.
The simple, yet clever principle of the hurricane lantern has remained unchanged.
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 29
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Let’s BBQ!
Grillstar.de Das legendäre Komplett-Paket für Grillbegeisterte Mit über 6,000 Artikeln aus dem Grill- und Outdoorbereich und einer tollen Auswahl an hochwertigem Fleisch und Wein bleiben bei Grillstar.de keine Wünsche offen. Grillbegeisterte können hier ganz bequem alles einkaufen, was man für ein gelungenes BBQ braucht. Einfacher geht’s nicht. TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I FOTOS: GRILLSTAR.DE
Ob im Grillstar.de Onlineshop oder im 1,000 Quadratmeter großen Showroom in Gütersloh: Kundenberatung wird hier groß geschrieben – bequem online, direkt vor Ort, per Email oder auch am Telefon. Für GrillStar.de ist es das oberste Ziel, dass jeder Kunde und jede Kundin den individuell passenden Grill findet, damit das Grillen nicht nur gelingt, sondern auch richtig Spaß macht. „In der Ausstellung haben wir wirklich alles rund ums Grillen, Outdoorküchen und für den Garten“, erzählt Jana Reuter von Grillstar.de. „Vor allem bieten wir auch hochwertiges regionales Fleisch, sowie Wein aus Südafrika an, so dass der grillbegeisterte Kunde ein Komplettpaket geboten bekommt. Dazu bieten wir all unseren Kunden auch Grillseminare an, in denen sie ihre Grillkünste noch vertiefen können. 2018 werden wir hierfür auch eine eigene große Grillschule eröffnen.“ 30 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Laut Frau Reuter geht die Grill-Tendenz mometan weg vom einfachen Holzkohlegrill und hin zum schnelleren und besser regulierbaren Gasgrill. Um die Nase grilltechnisch immer vorn zu haben, besucht Grillstar.de die jährlichen Messen und BBQ Events. „Eine komplette Grillküche verschönert jeden Garten. Aufgrund der immer mehr werdenden BBQ-Leidenschaft in Europa, sind diese schon fast ein Must-have“, sagt sie. „Komfortabel und stylisch kommen diese mit großartigen features für perfekte Grillergebnisse. Der Trend geht weiter in Richtung Pelletsmoker und Keramikgrill. Natürlich auch ganz groß sind die Gasgrillstationen.“ Und weil gute Qualität beim Grillen einfach ausschlaggebend ist, führt Grillstar.de dementsprechend qualitativ hochwertige Marken wie zum Beispiel Napoleon, Broil
King, Weber, OFYR, Firemagic, Beefeater, BigGreenEgg und viele mehr. „Ganz neu bieten wir das gereifte Dry Age aus örtlicher Zucht an. Mehr regionales denken geht nicht und das spiegelt sich in der Qualität wieder”, fügt Frau Reuter hinzu. „Neu in unserem Sortiment sind außerdem die hochwertigen Produkte der Marke OFYR: Das natürliche Grillen auf hohem Niveau, in einem Design aus Cartenstahl.“ Ganz egal in welcher Größenordnung man grillen möchte, Grillstar.de ist einfach die beste Adresse sich rundum auszustatten und mit diversen Grillzutaten einzudecken. Da kann der Sommer kommen! www.grillstar.de
SPECIAL THEME: CULINARY INDULGENCE AND LIFESTYLE – MADE IN SWITZERLAND
Discover the taste of Switzerland Switzerland is known for tasty treats like chocolate or fondue - but there is far more to discover as entrepreneurs across the country work hard to bring tasty new products and culinary treats to the market. Find out more in the following special theme where we showcase some of Switzerland’s innovative delicacies and the entrepreneurs behind the products. PHOTOS: PIXABAY
32 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Culinary Indulgence and Lifestyle – Made in Switzerland
Left: From cocoa beans... Top right: ... to fine chocolate. TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I PHOTOS: LÄDERACH (SCHWEIZ) AG
Discover the secrets of pure Das Geheimnis Schweizer Swiss chocolate pleasure Schokoladengenusses entdecken Swiss chocolate is world-renowned and the Chocolate Experience tour in Bilten allows visitors to discover the secrets of Läderach chocolate – from the cocoa bean to the smooth chocolate mixture. The Glarus-based company, founded in 1962, not only holds the patent for the thin chocolate hollow spheres for Truffes, but also invented the unique FreshChocolate.
Schweizer Schokolade ist weltbekannt und der SchoggiErlebnis-Rundgang in Bilten erlaubt Besuchern spannende Einblicke in die Welt der Läderach Schokolade – von der Kakaobohne zur feinen Schokoladenmasse. Das 1962 gegründete Glarner Unternehmen patentierte nicht nur dünnwandige Schokoladenhohlkugeln für Truffes, sondern erfand auch die einzigartige FrischSchoggi.
The Chocolate Experience tour begins at the origin of the cocoa bean, the tropical forest. During the tour, suitable for the whole family, visitors will get to, among other things, experience how the cocoa bean is turned into chocolate mixture. Last stop is the pleasure trail, where visitors can discover how the Läderach specialities are handmade in the manufactory in Ennenda and try out the different varieties. “One highlight is certainly the guided tour, where a lot of background information can be gained,” says Réka Szalay, responsible for the Chocolate Experience. “And of course the chocolate fountain is very popular.” Milk, dark and white chocolate can be tasted here with a small spoon.
Am Ursprungsort der Kakaobohne, dem Regenwald, beginnt auch der SchoggiErlebnis-Rundgang. Auf dem Rundgang für die ganze Familie erleben Besucher zum Beispiel, wie die Kakaobohnen zur Schokoladenmasse verarbeitet werden. Letzter Stopp ist der Genussweg, wo Besucher erfahren, wie die Schokoladenkreationen in der Manufaktur Ennenda in aufwändiger Handarbeit gefertigt werden, und die verschiedenen Spezialitäten probieren können. „Ein Highlight ist sicherlich die Führung mit dem Schoggi-Guide, bei der man viele Hintergrundinformationen erfährt“, sagt die Erlebnis-Verantwortliche Réka Szalay. „Zudem ist der Schokoladenbrunnen sehr beliebt.“ Mit kleinen Löffeln kann man hier Milch-, dunkle und weiße Schokolade probieren.
Whoever wants to take some chocolate home after the tour, might like to pay a visit to the Chocolaterie. Here, they can even have their own FreshChocolate made according to individual taste, in milk or dark chocolate and in two different sizes.“Eight different ingredients are available: among them, caramelised hazelnuts and almonds, creamy caramel pieces, fruity strawberry bits and crunchy corn flakes.” If required, the confectioner can also add an individual inscription.
Wer am Ende des Rundgangs Schokolade mit nach Hause nehmen möchte, für den lohnt sich ein Besuch in der Chocolaterie. Hier können sich Schokoliebhaber sogar ihre eigene FrischSchoggi ganz nach eigenem Geschmack anfertigen lassen, in Milch- oder dunkler Schokolade und zwei verschiedenen Größen. „Es stehen acht Zutaten zur Verfügung, darunter karamellisierte Haselnüsse und Mandeln, cremige Caramelstückchen, fruchtige Erdbeerstückchen und knusprige Corn Flakes.“ Auf Wunsch versehen Confiseure die Schokolade mit einem individuellen Schriftzug. www.schoggi-erlebnis.ch Issue 63 | June 2018 | 33
Transported tradition.
Inspiring history and the world’s highest whisky trek For a traditional brewery of the Alpstein region, century-old beer barrels have become a family asset, eventually resulting in one of the most stunning whisky tours worldwide. TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI I PHOTOS: BRAUEREI LOCHER AG
In 1998, Karl Locher, owner of the Locher brewery at Appenzell, wondered how to make use of the matured aromas and beer extracts contained in his ancestors‘ beer casks. Up to 120 years old, these traditional transport casks had been used to deliver beer to regional pubs and restaurants until the beginning of the seventies. The oak casks were sealed on the inside with pitch to prevent the beer tasting of wood and to avoid carbon dioxide leakage. However, the tar-like layer often became cracked so that over the decades, traces of beer soaked into the barrel staves. The barrels were always resealed and, as a result, the beer extracts were locked into the staves. 34 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Merging the old and the new Locher, who manages the family business in its fifth generation, was well aware of the fact that in 1999, an old law from World War II prohibiting the distillation of barley in Switzerland would finally be amended. The brewer was eager to find out if his idea to use old beer casks for new, unique whisky creations was feasible. However, before filling the oak casks with the first batch of distilled barley, they had to be repaired and the old layer of pitch was removed. Soon it became apparent that, over the years, the beer had soaked into the staves up to a depth of one centimetre. These century-old aromas and beer extracts are released from the casks in the same way
as they are released at other whisky producers, from sherry, port or bourbon casks. Thanks to Karl Locher‘s idea of breathing new life into his ancestors‘ traditions, the Locher brewery today produces a whisky that is unique throughout the world – the award-winning Säntis Malt. Breathtaking views and collectors‘ items – the Whisky Trek The Appenzell Whisky Trek through the Alpstein mountains is designed to fill the Cask meets taste.
Discover Germany | Special Theme | Culinary Indulgence and Lifestyle – Made in Switzerland
heart of every whisky and nature enthusiast with joy. For connoisseurs and collectors alike, it has now become possible to enhance a beautiful hike in the Alpstein Mountains with a certain something. Each mountain inn is storing its own special whisky on site. The in-house whisky is available straight from the barrel and visitors can buy their own bottles to take home – signed by the innkeeper. The merits of success and community spirit(s) Ever since the initial idea in 1998, Säntis Malt has made a name for itself faster than anybody thought possible. For example, the Locher brewery has gained high recognition at last year‘s International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) in London again, with Silver and Silver Outstanding awards for three selected Säntis Malt Whiskys. As a result, all of the 26 Appenzeller mountain innkeepers like to serve Säntis Malt to their guests. However, it was thanks to the ‘Gwonder’ (curiosity) of one Appenzeller that an even larger success story came to pass. Sepp Manser, the innkeeper of the Meglisalp mountain inn, had discovered that every now and then, there are special editions of Säntis Malt whiskies available. He immediately asked for one of the uniquely stored whiskies for his own mountain inn. Brauerei Locher AG has always been open to new ideas, and soon the Meglisalp
mountain inn was able to serve is own exclusive whisky, as of summer 2012. The concept quickly spread, resulting in unexpected, yet great success. Fired up by the enormous demand at the Meglisalp inn, there was suddenly plenty to think about – both for the Brauerei Locher AG brewery and innkeeper Sepp Manser himself. They sat down together and figured out a way to turn the success story at the Meglisalp into a success story for the whole of Alpstein and the Appenzeller Mountain Innkeepers’ Association. It has been known in Appenzell for a long time that the individual will be better off if everyone else is also doing well – and thanks to this communal spirit, the Whisky Trek was born. For those eager to come by one of the limited bottles, there are two collectors’ tours available: The nine-stop tour, on
which nine mountain inns of your choice are included with their relevant whisky – or the complete tour with 26 stops and whiskies, including a finisher trophy. A compact collectors’ box is also available, exclusively at Brauquöll. A stay in the Alpstein region will appeal to all your senses. It is an area where whisky is matured in an unparalleled way – made possible by both its history and its unique environment. www.appenzellerbier.ch www.brauquoell.ch www.saentismalt.com Get a taste of Säntis during the next stopover in Zurich at the duty free shop, or check out the website for one of the worldwide Säntis malt distributors near you: www.saentismalt.com
Stunning environment, unique creations.
Individual storage conditions.
Community spirit(s).
Stunning sites.
Special editions.
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Discover Germany | Special Theme | Culinary Indulgence and Lifestyle – Made in Switzerland
Guided tour through the hops garden.
Hops garden. Photo: © Christian Zürcher
Brewing beer. Photo: © Christian Zürcher
Picturesque beer garden.
Specialities made of hops and malt.
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | PHOTOS: B. REUTIMANN
Stammheimer Hopfentropfen
Stammheimer Hopfentropfen
Brewing seminars, culinary Schaubrauen, Kulinarik und delights and much more vieles mehr On the beautiful farm in Swiss Stammheimertal it is all about malt and hops. In an idyllic atmosphere, guests can take guided tours, seminars or play team building games and indulge in tasty hops specialities.
Auf dem wunderschönen Hof im schweizerischen Stammheimertal dreht sich alles um Hopfen und Malz. In idyllischem Ambiente können Gäste an Führungen und Seminaren, sowie spannenden Teambildungs-Spielen teilnehmen und sich kulinarisch mit außergewöhnlichen Hopfenspezialitäten verwöhnen lassen.
Regardless of whether it is for a company trip, a family occasion or a hiking club, the Stammheimer Hopfentropen is a fabulous location for an exciting trip for all ages.
Egal, ob es ein Firmenausflug ist, ein Familienanlass oder Ziel einer Wandergruppe, der Stammheimer Hopfentropfen ist eine fantastische Adresse für einen spannenden Ausflug für alle Altersgruppen.
During the brewing seminars and guided tours, you learn a lot about beer, but you can also brew it yourself. Six weeks later, you then receive 160 bottles with your own label. Whisky seminars and a series of interesting facts about hops complete the overall programme. For foodies, the Stammheimer Hopfentropfen offers a culinary journey through the year of the hops. That this plant is not only great for beer becomes obvious during a visit to the farm shop: There is a wide range of products from liquors and wine, cheese and chocolate to cosmetics and even snuff.
Bei den Brauseminaren und Bier-Führungen lernt man nicht nur theoretisch viel, man kann auch selber Hand anlegen und brauen. Sechs Wochen später bekommt man dann 160 Flaschen mit eigener Etikette. WhiskySeminare und Wissenswertes über die Hopfenpflanze runden das Angebot ab. Kulinarisch bietet der Stammheimer Hopfentropfen unter anderem eine spannende Reise durch das Hopfenjahr. Dass sich aus Hopfen nicht nur Bier brauen lässt, wird bei einem Besuch des feinen Hofladens schnell klar. Von Likörspezialitäten und Wein, über Käse und Schokolade, bis hin zu Kosmetik und sogar Schnupftabak, ist hier alles vertreten.
Various team building games such as the beer Olympics are particularly great for companies and clubs. For families with kids, the farm animals and the big playground are excellent highlights. Whether enjoyed outdoors or in the brewery, the Hopfenstübli or the Whisky-Lounge, the Stammheimer Hopfentropfen is a great deal of fun for everyone. 36 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Diverse Spiele zur Teambildung, wie die Bier-Olympiade, sind besonders für Firmen und Vereine zu empfehlen. Für Familien mit Kindern sind die Hof-Tiere und der großzügige Spielplatz ein Erlebnis. Ob unter freiem Himmel oder in der Braustube, dem Hopfenstübli oder der Whiskylounge, der Stammheimer Hopfentropfen bietet für jeden etwas. www.hopfentropfen.ch
The only thing repeated here is great taste. 100% ED C E R T IFI L E NAB SUS TA I A CO CO
www.ritter-sport.com
SPECIAL THEME: FIRST CLASS – WINE WORLD SWITZERLAND 2018
The secret of Swiss wine Not widely known as a wine-producing country internationally, Switzerland has nevertheless some fine wines on offer. Their secret is their innovative mix of exclusivity, intricacy and superb taste. We take a look at some interesting facts about the country’s wine industry. TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF I PHOTOS: PIXABAY
38 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Discover Germany | Special Theme | First Class – Wine World Switzerland 2018
First of all, why is Swiss wine rather unknown on an international level? Well, according to the federal agriculture office (BLW), only around one percent of Swiss wine is exported – and that mainly to the neighbouring country of Germany. Thus, the answer for why Swiss wines may be unknown seems quite straightforward. Reasons for the low exportation rates include the strong Swiss currency which makes prices in foreign markets too high, high labour costs, as well as limited production. Nevertheless, Switzerland grows around 240 different grape varieties – although only four constitute almost three-quarters of the harvest (Pinot Noir, Chasselas, Gamay and Merlot). The most popular varieties are white Chasselas, an old native Swiss grape variety that originated around Lake Geneva, and Pinot Noir which comprise 27 and 29 per cent of the total production respectively.
body Swiss Wine Promotion, this number puts the country tenth in the world in terms of vineyards to country-surface-area ratio. Despite a large volume of wine production, the Swiss drink nearly all the wine they make themselves. In total, the country has six grape-growing regions with Valais being the largest. This is followed by Vaud, German-speaking Switzerland, Geneva, Ticino and the Three Lakes region. By far the most famous wine-growing region of Switzerland is the
UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lavaux in Vaud. But regardless of the area, all of these are good reasons why you should head to the country yourself to experience some of the fine wines the country has to offer first-hand. What are you waiting for?
In the following special theme, let us take a look at some of Switzerland’s innovative wine estates and their intricate wines, as well as great wine restaurants that are well worth a visit.
In total, Switzerland produces around 100 million litres of wine per year and 15,000 hectares of the country are covered with vines, which is a mere 0.4 per cent of Switzerland’s total surface. This might sound small but according to the industry Issue 63 | June 2018 | 39
Grotto Bundi, exterior.
TEXT: CORNELIA BRELOWSKI | PHOTOS: GROTTO BUNDI
Ticino cuisine, family style At the Grotto Bundi country inn, guests can indulge in the culinary traditions of the Mendrisiotto region. However, the crowning experience is the homemade Grotto Bundi Polenta, based on a family recipe. “For us, the polenta is the queen of meals,” Stefano Romelli, chef and owner of the Grotto Bundi states proudly. He took over the restaurant 25 years ago together with his wife Sandrine and immediately began experimenting with variations of the traditional polenta, his own favorite food since childhood. Today, Romelli‘s refined recipe is the biggest asset of the restaurant and draws visitors from all over the region. Alpine cheeses, delicious salame and a variety of Merlot wines from the region complete the palatal experience. The simple yet special recipe consists of a special corn and grain mix with added salt and water. Cooked gently on long burning robinia wood, the Grotto Bundi polenta is not only delicious, but also profoundly healthy and additive-free. It can be enjoyed 40 | Issue 63 | June 2018
with gorgonzola, salami, roasted onions, garlic butter, sage, parmiggiano or fried eggs. “80 percent of my guests don‘t even need to see the menu!” reveals Romelli. The well-known traditional restaurant is set near the town of Mendrisio in the Ticino and its culinary specialties reflect the flavours and scents of the region. Typical local cuisine and, most of all, the homemade polenta, make a trip to the Grotto Bundi a must while visiting the area. Here, having lunch or dinner equals a plunge into the authentic soul of the Mendrisiotto with its untouched natural surroundings, where time itself slows down. Each day at ten in the morning, and then again at five in the evening, Stefano Romelli fires up the big kettle to create his
special polenta, of which an average of 45 kilogrammes is consumed per day. The essence is in the mix: The aromatic variation at the Grotto Bundi is a touch different from the classic yellow polenta. Romelli experimented for a long time using different grinding degrees and drawing inspiration from regional variations, for example, from the Veltlin buckwheat polenta. The resulting recipe consists of a certain percentage of corn, buckwheat and bran – but its details remain a family secret. A neighbouring mill delivers the special mix directly to the restaurant. The Grotto Bundi looks back on a hundred years of history. About 80 years ago, a certain Abbondio Calderari named the traditional restaurant after himself (‘Bundi’). Then, as now, guests enjoyed both a good meal and the natural beauty of the Monte San Giorgio and Monte Generoso area. A small paradise, the Mendrisiotto region is marked by vineyards and natural parks fea-
Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | First Class – Wine World Switzerland 2018
Tessiner Küche in familiärer Atmosphäre Im Landgasthaus Grotto Bundi genießen Gäste die kulinarischen Spezialitäten des Mendrisiotto. Das krönende Erlebnis ist hier jedoch die hausgemachte Polenta nach bewährtem Familienrezept. „Für uns ist die Polenta die Königin”, erklärt Stefano Romelli stolz. Er übernahm das Restaurant vor 25 Jahren zusammen mit seiner Frau Sandrine und verlegte sich auf die Verfeinerung des Lieblingsgerichtes seiner eigenen Kindheit. Heute macht sein ausgereiftes Geheim-Rezept die größte Anziehungskraft für die Besucher aus der gesamten Region aus. Dazu gibt es Tessiner Alpenkäse oder Salami aus der Region, und zusammen mit verschiedenen Merlots und anderen Weinen von lokalen Winzern lockt das Grotto Bundi mit einem perfekten Geschmackserlebnis. Das einfache und doch ausgefeilte PolentaRezept aus einem speziellen Mix aus Mais
Polenta Kessel.
Stefano Romelli.
und Getreide, Salz und Wasser, siedet nach anfänglichem Aufkochen auf kleiner Flamme über Robinienholz. Die Grotto Bundi Polenta ist frei von Zusätzen und von gesunder Nahrhaftigkeit. Sie kann wahlweise mit Gorgonzola, Salami, Röstzwiebeln, Knoblauchbutter, Salbei, gereiftem Käse oder sogar Spiegeleiern genossen werden. „80 Prozent meiner Gäste brauchen noch nicht einmal die Speisekarte zu sehen”, freut sich Romelli. Das bekannte Traditions-Restaurant liegt in der Nähe von Mendrisio im Tessin und die kulinarischen Spezialitäten im Grotto Bundi spiegeln die Aromen und Düfte der Region. Ortstypische Spezialitäten und vor allem die
Bundis Polenta.
hausgemachte Polenta machen den Besuch zu einem Muss für alle Besucher der Region. Hier bedeutet eine Mahlzeit das Eintauchen in die Seele des Mendrisiotto selbst, wo unberührte Natur zu Wanderungen und Ausflügen einlädt und die Uhren langsamer gehen. Jeden Tag um 10 Uhr morgens und Nachmittags ab 5 feuert Stefano Romelli den Kessel über dem offenen Feuer an. Hier kreiert er seine Polenta, von der im Schnitt bis zu 45 Kilo amTag genossen werden. Das Geheimnis liegt in der Mischung: Die aromatische Note der Grotto Bundi Polenta unterscheidet sich leicht vom allseits bekannten, typisch goldfarbenem Maisbrei. Romelli experimentierte mit verschiedenen Mahlgraden und ließ sich unter anderem auch von Varianten wie der Veltliner Buchweizen-Polenta inspirieren. Das Ergebnis ist ein Mix aus Mais, Buchweizen und Kleie in
Eingang.
Tessiner Architektur.
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 41
Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | First Class – Wine World Switzerland 2018
turing breathtaking gorges. The rack railway going up the Monte Generoso shows all the impressive sights in one go – the perfect trip for a great first impression. As for enjoying the direct environment on foot, a hike at nearby Monte San Giorgio offers a unique experience as well as rare finds for hobby archaeologists. For those who enjoy cultural delights and city life, there are countless sights and events to see and attend in the nearby towns of Chiasso and Mendrisio throughout the year. Music, theatre and film fans can also get their fill, and for those who enjoy combining culture with fun, the Swissminiatur theme park is just the right place. Here, you can experience the entire country in one day and enjoy reproductions of its nicest sights Regional foods, salame.
42 | Issue 63 | June 2018
along the way. Shopping enthusiasts and bargain hunters are invited to Mendrisio‘s Fox Town, Europe‘s largest factory outlet centre. The multiple treats and surprises of the Mendrisiotto can all be reached easily from the Grotto Bundi. Encouraging the modern spirit of nurturing regional food, the Ticinese cuisine is as simple as it is enticing. Accompanied by local wines, it rounds up a trip to the region by turning it into a combined experience of natural, cultural and culinary delights. As for a visit to the Grotto Bundi, allow yourself to sit back and take in the wonderful surroundings along with a delightful traditional meal, made with love and enjoyed in good company.
100 years of tradition.
Discover Germany | Wine & Dine | First Class – Wine World Switzerland 2018
Regionale Weine.
verschiedenen Anteilen, doch die Details bleiben Familien-Geheimnis. Eine benachbarte Mühle versorgt das Restaurant direkt mit der nötigen Getreide-Mischung. Das Grotto Bundi blickt auf eine hundertjährige Tradition zurück. Vor etwa 80 Jahren benannte ein gewisser Abbondio Calderari das Restaurant leicht abgewandelt nach sich selbst (‚Bundi‘). Schon damals genossen die Gäste die Kombination guter regionaler Küche mit atemberaubender Natur am Fuße der pittoresken Berge des Monte San Giorgio und des Monte Generoso. Das ‚kleine Paradies‘ des Mendrisiotto ist von Weinbergen, Naturparks und atemberaubenden Schluchten geprägt. Die Zahnradbahn hinauf zum Monte Generoso bietet einzigartige Ausblicke, perfekt für einen ersten Eindruck der gesamten Region. In direkter Umgebung des Grotto Bundi lädt der Monte San Giorgio zu interessanten Wanderungen ein, wo weltweit unvergleichbare
Funde auf Archäologie-Fans warten. Für Gäste, die kulturelle Eindrücke und das städtische Treiben bevorzugen, gibt es in den nahegelegenen Städten Chiasso und Mendrisio ganzjährig viel zu erleben: Musik-, Theater und Filmfans kommen hier auf ihre Kosten, und der Swissminitiature Themenpark wartet auf Besucher, die gern Spaß und Kultur miteinander verbinden. Hier kann man an einem Tag die gesamte Schweiz kennenlernen und dabei Reproduktionen der wichtigsten Sehenswürdigkeiten bestaunen. Im größten europäischen Outlet-Center Fox Town gibt es außerdem allerhand an Beute für Schnäppchenjäger. Die vielen Attraktionen des Mendrisiotto sind vom Landgasthaus Grotto Bundi aus leicht zu erreichen.
reiche Rezepte, Alpine Produkte und einfache, gesunde Zutaten ein geschmackliches RundumErlebnis. Gleichzeitig genießt der Gast Panoramen von unberührter Natur und die klassische Kultur des Tessins. Und was die Polenta im Grotto Bundi anbetrifft: Hier darf sich ein jeder Gast gemütlich zurücklehnen, und bei einer typisch traditionellen Mahlzeit in guter Gesellschaft die Seele baumeln lassen. www.grottobundi.com Sich Zeit lassen und entspannen.
Im Zuge des gerade angesagten Trends zur regional geprägten Cuisine zählt die Tessiner Küche in all ihrer Einfachheit zu einer der verführerischsten Varianten. Von den Weinen der Region abgerundet entsteht durch traditionsIssue 63 | June 2018 | 43
Discover Germany | Special Theme | First Class – Wine World Switzerland 2018
Siggi Tschurtschenthaler.
TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I PHOTOS: RESTAURANT ADLER FLÄSCH
Outstanding South Tyrolean cuisine with finesse and passion The picturesque wine village Fläsch, in the Alpine canton Grisons, in Switzerland, is already a household name for many wine connoisseurs. The restaurant Adler cements that position which Fläsch holds on the map of top gourmet locations: The South Tyrolean top chef Siggi Tschurtschenthaler combines classic and innovative South Tyrolean dishes with influences from the Grisons region. In the historic and atmospheric restaurant Adler, the young top chef Siggi Tschurtschenthaler cooks a melange that skilfully combines tradition and a modern approach with seasonal produce, like he does with the traditional ‘Kaiserschmarrn’. And in keeping with tradition, lederhosen are the chef’s personal trademark. What inspires the head chef are original Alpine dishes, but he is also influenced by Mediterranean cooking and various other excellent international kitchen styles and traditions. He combines all these inspirations with his own brand of unorthodox flavours and passion. Siggi Tschurtschenthaler discovered his passion and love for cooking quite ear44 | Issue 63 | June 2018
ly in his life: Growing up on a farm with a mountain restaurant, by the age of ten he was already helping his mother in the kitchen. After an apprenticeship as a cook, Siggi Tschurtschenthaler trained with some of the best cooks in Europe, with, for example, Eckart Witzigmann in Munich, the head chef of Hangar 7 in Salzburg, and Dieter Koschina in the Vila Joya in Portugal. In Tubladel in Gröden, Siggi Tschurtschenthaler cooked his way up to one of the top spots in Italy’s gourmet guide Gambero Rosso. The top gastronomy in the restaurant Adler forms a symbiosis with the region’s heartfelt hospitality and wine culture. Next to various treasures from the Grisons
region, the wine menu includes some rare wines from notable wine areas in Europe. Deep beneath the building lies the restaurant’s own wine cellar, a stone vault with a unique ambience which guests can experience during degustations and aperitifs. It also houses a lounge for cigar lovers. Siggi Tschurtschenthaler’s creativity and the close connection to the village with its wine-growing tradition is also reflected in the various events the restaurant Adler organises – from fish weeks to international guest chefs and top vintners or themed cooking courses. Wine events with monthly changing, local vintners, starting with a wine and dine on a Saturday evening, are among the regular highlights. Together with the chosen vintner, Siggi Tschurtschenthaler develops dishes befitting the selected wines, matching their flavours and nuances. All month long, these wines then remain available for guests to sample.
Discover Germany | Special Theme | First Class – Wine World Switzerland 2018
Hochklassige Südtiroler Küche mit Finesse und Leidenschaft Das malerische Weindorf Fläsch im Alpenkanton Graubünden in der Schweiz ist für Weinkenner bereits ein fester Begriff. Das Restaurant Adler bestätigt den festen Platz, den Fläsch auf der Gourmetlandkarte einnimmt: Der Südtiroler Spitzenkoch und Patron im Gourmetrestaurant Adler, Siggi Tschurtschenthaler, verbindet in seinen Gerichten klassische und innovative Südtiroler Gerichte mit Einflüssen aus der bündnerischen Küche.
bieten Europas. Tief unterhalb des Gebäudes lagern die Weine im hauseigenen Weinkeller, ein steinernes Gewölbe, dessen außergewöhnliches Ambiente Gäste bei Degustationen und Apéros erleben können. Für Zigarrenliebhaber steht zudem eine Lounge bereit.
er bereits mit zehn Jahren seiner Mutter in der Küche. Nach einer Ausbildung zum Koch lernte Siggi Tschurtschenthaler bei den besten Köchen Europas, beispielsweise beim Jahrhundertkoch Eckart Witzigmann in München, im Hangar 7 in Salzburg ober bei Dieter Koschina in der Vila Joya in Portugal. Im Tubladel in Gröden erkochte sich Siggi Tschurtschenthaler einen Spitzenplatz in Italiens renommiertem Gourmetführer Gambero Rosso.
Siggi Tschurtschenthalers Kreativität und die enge Verbindung zum Ort mit seiner Weintradition spiegelt sich auch in den verschiedenen Veranstaltungen, die das Restaurant Adler organisiert – von Fischwochen zu internationalen Gastköchen und Topwinzern oder thematischen Kochkursen. Wine-Events mit monatlich wechselnden, ortsansässigen Winzern, eingeleitet durch ein ‚Wine and Dine‘ am Samstagabend, gehören zu den Highlights. Gemeinsam mit dem entsprechenden Winzer entwickelt Siggi Tschurtschenthaler Gerichte, die exakt auf die ausgewählten Weine, ihre Aromen und Nuancen abgestimmt sind. Den ganzen Monat über sind diese Weine dann auch im Flaschenausschank erhältlich.
Seit 2014 kocht der junge Spitzenkoch Siggi Tschurtschenthaler im geschichtsträchtigen und malerisch anmutenden Restaurant Adler eine Mélange, die Tradition, Moderne und saisonale Produkte gekonnt verbindet, wie beim ‚Kaiserschmarrn‘. Sein privates Markenzeichen ist die Lederhose. Den Küchenchef reizen dabei die ursprünglichen Gerichte der Berge, ebenso wie er sich inspirieren lässt von mediterraner Küche und Einflüssen aus aller Welt. Die Inspirationen aus verschiedenen Küchentraditionen kombiniert er mit eigenwilligen Akzenten und Leidenschaft. Siggi Tschurtschenthaler entdeckte seine Leidenschaft und Liebe fürs Kochen recht früh: Aufgewachsen auf einem Bauernhof mit Berggasthaus im Südtiroler Pustertal half
Die Spitzengastronomie geht im Restaurant Adler eine Symbiose ein mit herzlicher Gastlichkeit und der für die Region typischen Weinkultur. Die Weinkarte umfasst neben verschiedenen Schätzen aus der Bündner Region auch Raritäten aus namhaften Weinge-
www.adlerflaesch.ch
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 45
Discover Germany | Special Theme | First Class – Wine World Switzerland 2018
Martin Wolfer. Foto: © Weingut Wolfer
Presswein.
Pinot Noir Grand Vin. Foto: © Hanspeter Siffert
Aussicht über den Weinberg.
Wassertropfen auf den Trauben.
Aus Liebe zum Wein Bereits seit vier Generationen ist das Schweizer Weingut Wolfer aus Weinfelden in Familienhand. Ursprünglich handelte es sich um einen reinen Rebbaubetrieb, aber seit zwei Generationen wird der Wein selber gekeltert: Weiß- und Rotweine der Spitzenklasse und fein gebrannte Edeldestillate.
Sierre erzielten drei aufeinander folgende Jahrgänge die höchste Punktzahl, welche zum Weltmeistertitel der Pinot Noir Produzenten führte.
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE | FOTOS: MARTIN WOLFER
Es lohnt sich auf dem Weingut inmitten der Reben vorbeizuschauen. Während einer spannenden Degustation schweift der Blick über das Thurtal in den nahen Alpstein.
Alfred Wolfer sen. machte sich mit seiner Frau Hedi 1963 im Waidli selbstständig und begann so die erfolgreiche Weingutgeschichte der Familie Wolfer. Die Reblagen Waidli und Bründlerberg bilden zusammen das Weingut Wolfer, inmitten einer abwechslungsreichen Landschaft zwischen Tannzapfenland und Bodensee. Seit Januar 2012 leitet sein Enkel Martin Wolfer das Weingut. Er ist gelernter Winzer und Weintechnologe, der in verschiedenen Betrieben in der Bündner Herrschaft und auf einem Weingut in Tasmanien viel Erfahrungen gesammelt hat. Dies spornt Martin Wolfer an, auch auf dem heimatlichen Weingut wegweisende Innovationen einzuführen.
ihren filigranen, eleganten Charakter aus, während die Roten dicht, ausgewogen und von großer Noblesse sind.
Heute stellt das Weingut Wolfer interessante Weiß- und Rotweine her. Die finessenreichen Weißen zeichnen sich durch
Das grösste Echo löste 2013 der Titel „Champion du Monde des Producteurs de Pinot Noir“ aus. Am Mondial des Pinots in
46 | Issue 63 | June 2018
„Der Pinot Noir ist unsere bekannteste Spezialität. Mit dieser traditionellen Rebsorte konnten wir schon die meisten Erfolge feiern“, erzählt Wolfer. „Aber auch unsere Weißweine Müller-Thurgau, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris und Chardonnay sind sehr gefragt und oft früh ausverkauft.“ „Mein persönlicher Favorit ist unser Pinot Noir Grand Vin“, verrät Wolfer. „Es handelt sich um einen dichten, langlebigen Wein, welcher mit 93 Parker Punkten ganz vorne dabei ist.“
Weinfelden bietet zudem zahlreiche kulinarische Höhepunkte. Die Nachbarin Rosmarie Brenner, zum Beispiel, kocht wunderbare Gerichte für Gruppen auf ihrem schön gelegenen Hof. Wer es nicht gleich schafft vorbei zu schauen, kann sich auch online informieren und inspirieren lassen. www.wolferwein.ch
Pinot Noir Grand Vin.
DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY SINCE 1884.
Discover the historical timepiece in our museum.
IWC Tribute to Pallweber Edition “150 Years”. Ref. 5050: The digital age began in Schaffhausen back in 1884. That was the year IWC manufactured its first Pallweber pocket watches, as they were known. These revolutionary timepieces displayed the hours and minutes in digital format with large numerals on
rotation discs. For the Jubilee Year, the company acknowledged this pioneering achievement with the IWC Tribute to Pallweber Edition “150 Years”. The sight of the display discs jumping instantaneously to the next position in no less fascinating a spectacle that it was back in 1884. IWC . E N G I N E E R E D FO R M E N .
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Authenticity is everything With a passion for its roots, the prestigious, family-owned wine estate Tenuta San Giorgio stands for artisanship, dedication and technical expertise. The estate’s outstanding location in Ticino’s Malcantone can be tasted in their intricate wines - and so can the great deal of passion that is involved in the wine-making process here. TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTOS: TENUTA SAN GIORGIO
Bought by great-grandmother Emma Rudolph-Schwarzenbach in 1940, Tenuta San Giorgio’s land was primarily used for agriculture at first. “When my dad took over the estate in 1990, more vines started to be grown and people quickly recognised the location’s potential. The idea to make more out of it was born,” smiles Mike Rudolph who moved to Ticino in 2001 to establish a viticulture and vinification entreprise on his great-grandmother’s land. Today, Tenuta San Giorgio cultivates around seven hectares of vines in unique locations, produces around 30,000 bottles 48 | Issue 63 | June 2018
annually and belongs to Switzerland’s 100 best wine-growing estates, according to Gault Millau. The recipe for success “Our enthusiasm for wine and the allnatural cultivation of grapes, as well as thriving for the best, drives us every day. Of course, the unique location at Lake Lugano with its unique microclimate also helps us to pursue our goals,” explains Rudolph. The wine estate’s vineyards are situated in outstanding locations at an altitude of between 320 and 520 metres abo-
ve sea level, extending between Agno and Pura. The different plots are all comprised of unique microclimates that produceexcellent grapes year by year. Tenuta San Giorgio’s vineyards are almost exclusively situated in sandy, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic – moraines from millions of years ago. The sunlight exposure from the southeast and the southwest allows the wine estate to experiment with a range of vine species. “Therefore, we also grow Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Marselan in addition to Merlot. Sauvignon blanc, Chardonnay, Kerner, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Albarinho are white wines we experiment with. This gives us new experience and allows us to further develop our wines. Besides experimenting in the vineyards, we also break new grounds in the cellar to refine our wines,” explains Rudolph.
Discover Germany | Special Theme | First Class – Wine World Switzerland 2018
Focus on high quality standards “Only healthy grapes produce good wines. Thus, our focus is on viniculture and because we primarily press our own grapes we can uphold our high quality standards,” says Rudolph. During pressing and fermentation, great care is taken with handling and wine production. Rudolph explains: “The vinification of the wines is the essential thing of the respective vintage. Each grape variety and location are matured separately and only at the end the assemblage of our wines are defined. Each year, we strive for independent, vintage-specific wines that reflect our terroir and year. Our ultimate goal is to offer wines that are authentic.” Therefore, the small, dedicated team of long-term employees is constantly on the go, aware of the latest innovations and knowing how to handle the vagaries of nature and each vine’s unique character. After meticulous fermentation and pressing, the wines age in large wooden containers and barrels, while
new and used barriques bring out the character of the wine and lend it its penetrating structures. For their white wines, the wine estate utilises low-temperature fermentation with limited use of new wood in order to bring out the fruity bouquet, freshness and mineral qualities. The outcome is intricate wines that perfectly express their origins. Rudolph says: “We only produce small amounts of wines that all are very popular with our clients: three different white and red wines, one sparkling wine with classic bottle fermentation and, depending on the year, our limited edition. Furthermore, we offer small amounts of grappa and nocino – a delicacy from Ticino that is produced according to an old family recipe.” The meticulous, all-natural cultivation of the vineyard, the unshakable commitment to obtaining the best grapes possible, the care given and the work in the wine cellar that reflects respect for tradition and a desire to expe-
riment, translates into a limited selection of genuine wines of extraordinary quality. www.tenutasangiorgio.ch Visit Tenuta San Giorgio If you want to learn more about Tenuta San Giorgio and its gorgeous wines, why not take part in a guided tour, followed by a wine tasting in the middle of the vineyards? On request, visitors can book a tour and tasting in the wine estate’s tasting room – a modern, renovated former barn in the vineyards which comprises breathtaking views of Lake Lugano. Your stay at the Tenuta In the heart of the old settlement, directly above the Tenuta San Giorgio wine cellar, is the small stone ‘Rustico’ apartment. In a quiet section of the settlement, it is the ideal home base for visiting the Malcantone and Lugano area. Come discover the world of wine, nature and the culture of the Sottoceneri area of Ticino! The Agno airport is only ten minutes away by car.
Photo: © Susanne Scherrer
Photo: © Paul Nicol
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 49
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Discover Germany | Star Interview | Daniel Rodic
Daniel Rodic “I can’t imagine a better job” You might know the young actor Daniel Rodic from films and TV series like So viel Zeit, Der Lehrer or SOKO Leipzig. Recently, he finished filming the ARD comedy Die Drei von der Müllabfuhr alongside Uwe Ochsenknecht. Discover Germany met up with him to talk about his love for Berlin and Cologne, why acting is his absolute dream job and much more. TEXT: NANE STEINHOFF | PHOTO: KEREM BAKIR
You were born in Mainz and currently live in Cologne and Berlin. What does the term ‘home’ mean to you? D. Rodic: I must say that ‘home’ is the place where my family is for me – and for all I care that could be everywhere. The majority of my family lives in Cologne but I also spend much time in Berlin because I simply have grown to love this city. Of course, the friendships that I have there play a crucial part in this. And the absolutely delicious smoothies that I get there all the time. Why are Cologne and Berlin your adopted homes? What is so special to you about these cities? Do you have any favourite places in them? D. Rodic: I connect a lot with Cologne because I went to drama school there and people from Cologne are really sincere and warm. What I also like about Cologne is its manageable size. The city is basically a large village. Everything is within quick reach but well, I mostly take the motorbike… so that makes it easier, of course. I love to be in the city centre to drink coffee or at the Rhine when the weather is good. When I’m
in Berlin, I’m mostly in Friedrichshain because one of my best friends lives there and the area is really beautiful. Furthermore, Berlin is the city in which I also filmed many projects which led to colleagues becoming close friends. You have been seen in So viel Zeit, SOKO Leipzig, Der Lehrer and Bad Cop, amongst others. Which role do you remember most and why? D. Rodic: Der Lehrer is definitely the series that has stuck in my memory the most. Primarily because my role as Cem was solely meant as a leading role for one episode at first but then it ended up taking up a bigger space in the series. It even ended up being the character – besides the main characters, of course – that appeared the most. Actor – has that always been your dream profession or did others ever exist? D. Rodic: Quite frankly, yes! I can’t imagine a better job. The beautiful thing about acting is that we are able to experience different jobs depending on the role
and thus, can gain a wide variety of insights. For the latest shooting, I was able to play a garbage man and accompanied Berlin’s city cleaning department for one day as preparation for the role. Speaking of which, you have just finished filming the ARD comedy Die Drei von der Müllabfuhr alongside Uwe Ochsenknecht. What else can we look forward to from you in 2018? D. Rodic: This year, the movie So viel Zeit will come to the cinemas, in which I play a rapper. And if the ARD comedy goes down well with the viewers, it will be carried on. You can definitely look forward to that and also to further projects that are planned – but I can’t reveal more about these at the moment. Does the one, absolute dream role exist for you? D. Rodic: I think that it could become boring at some point for an actor if the one, absolute dream role would exist because you would achieve your goal when you finally get it. That’s why my motto is: “The journey is the reward”. What other wishes and dreams does Daniel Rodic have? D. Rodic: My wish has always been to become an actor, so I can already tick this off. Now it has to continue like this so that my dream of playing more and more ‘dream roles’ can also come true. #Dreambig! Issue 63 | June 2018 | 51
Discover Germany | Culture Feature | Neuzelle Abbey
Neuzelle Abbey. Photo: © Bernd Geller
Close to heaven at Neuzelle Abbey Sometimes called the ‘Baroque marvel of Brandenburg’, Neuzelle is one of the few completely preserved abbey complexes in Europe. Offering a dazzling blend of architecture, culture and garden art, the Cistercian monastery turns 750 this year. TEXT: WIBKE CARTER
The story begins in 1268 when Henry the Illustrious, Margrave of Meissen and Lusatia, founded a Gothic style abbey for the benefit of the soul of his deceased wife Agnes and called it Nova Cella. Over time, it was destroyed on numerous occasions, most notably in the 15th century by the Hussites as the monks in residence refused to follow the teachings of Jan Hus. Neuzelle Abbey was rebuilt around 1500, and again, religious men, mostly from Bohemia and studying at the Charles University in Prague, settled here. It was these monks who initiated the south German and Bohemian style Baroque reconstruc52 | Issue 63 | June 2018
tion and extension of Neuzelle Abbey in the 17th and 18th century. When the monastery fell to Saxony as a consequence of the Thirty Years War, the Emperor closely attached the complex ecclesiastically to Prague. In 1817, the abbey was finally secularised by the order of Prussian King Frederick William III. For more than 200 years, the main buildings have been used for educational and administrative work whereas the two churches continue to serve as Roman Catholic parishes. What makes Neuzelle so unique is that it is a baroque style abbey which is up to this
day an oddity in Brandenburg. It is regarded as one of the most significant monuments of this architecture style in the north of Germany thanks to the whole monastery complex, consisting of several churches, cloister, cloister garden and a brewery, being immaculately preserved. Gothic elements of the original building can still be found in the cloister and enclosure such as cross-ribbed structures, sculptures, corbel decoration and late medieval paintings. The famous Baroque redesigning of the abbey, now sparkling in white and yellow coloured exterior walls, complemented by red roof tiles, commenced in 1650. The enclosure buildings, church and administrative building – with its ‘Princely wing’ – are located to the north of the central courtyard. To the west is an arcade, with the entrance portal and the foundation
Discover Germany | Culture Feature | Close to Heaven at Neuzelle Abbey
registry. The ‘coach stalls’ are located in the south, while the cloister garden extends to the east. There are two churches: the foundation church and the ‘people’s church’, both representing the significance of the abbey in the 18th century. The altar of the Divine Infant at Neuzelle Abbey church is dedicated to John of Nepomuk (John Nepomucene), Saint of Bohemia, and The Infant Jesus from the Church of Santa Maria de Victoria in Prague is considered to have been the model. Apart from the spectacular buildings, the Baroque monastery garden, a unique horticultural monument for Brandenburg, is also a masterpiece. It was laid out by the Neuzelle abbots and monks around 1760 and contains a variety of original Baroque stylistic elements. These include, in particular, and in addition to the original stock of trees and plants and the structure of the space and the paths, the water
Abbey church inside. Photo: © Andreas Tauber
Neuzelle Abbey Museum Heavenly Theatre. Photo: © Monika Sobczak
reservoir, the Baroque orangery and the elongated terrace. In the past three years, extensive restoration and renovation work, both on the buildings and the garden, have taken place at Neuzelle Abbey. Now shining in all its glory on the 750th anniversary, the abbey is hosting an exquisite programme of cultural events in 2018 entitled ‘Close to Heaven’. A highlight will be the display of the original abbey atlas which will arrive from the Berlin State Library at Neuzelle (6 - 14 October only). “We are happy to be able to present these unique documents relating to the history of the abbey to the public during the anniversary year and to make them accessible to everyone,” says Tilman Schladebach, head of cultural projects foundation, Abbey Neuzelle. Other celebrations include concerts, artistic installations, a new exhibition in
Heavenly Theatre. Photo: © Bernd Geller
the cloister and the Abbey Museum, the spectacular, alternating scenery in the Museum of the Heavenly Theatre, the illuminated baroque gardens, or commemorative church services, devotional prayers and concerts in the churches. Food connoisseurs and music lovers will also be in their element at Neuzelle Abbey: beer and spirits are produced here, and the annual festival ‘Oper Oder-Spree’ (19 July – 19 August) fills the sacred walls with weeks of musical events. Many visitors feel very spiritual at Neuzelle Abbey, amidst the ancient structures and picturesque landscape. The monks agree and are returning to the river Oder after 200 years. Eight Cistercian monks of the Holy Cross Order plan to reoccupy Neuzelle Abbey from September 2018. www.750jahre-klosterneuzelle.de
Neuzelle Abbey Museum Heavenly Theatre. Photo: © Monika Sobczak
Evangelical church. Photo: © Andreas Tauber
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 53
Discover Germany | Travel Feature | Nature in Flux
Riederalp. Photo: © aletscharena.ch
Nature in flux
Experience ‘Geology live’ at the biggest glacier in the Alps In a recent announcement, Swiss researchers stated that “the glaciers in the Alps are beyond saving”. In this context, it is unfathomable that even a giant such as the Aletsch Glacier in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Swiss Alps Jungfrau Aletsch, and at a length of 23 kilometres the biggest glacier in the Alps, will have disappeared by the end of the century. However, the signs are all there: As the glacial titan is melting, the mountainside above it loses its support, consequently subsiding downhill. TEXT: C.C. SCHMID, TRANSLATION: BARBARA GEIER
The area affected is fortunately uninhabited and has been cordoned off. New trails have been built so that hikers can safely watch the forces of nature at work. The Aletsch Arena’s cable cars have been prepared for this kind of large geological movement for some time now: for example, with the world’s first cable car station which moves with the ground. It is located on the Moosfluh viewpoint and, as expected in a meticulous country such as Switzerland, a standout monitoring sys54 | Issue 63 | June 2018
tem ensures that the Aletsch Arena cable cars can even claim to be “Switzerland’s safest mode of transport”. “Think of it as a slightly opened book that is standing on its back,” geologist Michael Ruppen describes the situation. “The pages stand for our slope that is made up of layers of gneiss and granite. For the book to remain standing, it needs very solid book covers, i.e. the Aletsch Glacier and once also the Rhône Glacier.”If the glacier melts,
the support gets lost and the slope slides down in places where geological conditions favour such occurrences. This depends on the rocks that the slope is made up of and its gradient. Where once was the Rhône Glacier, a similar process happened already a good 10,000 years ago. It resulted in the formation of the Aletsch Arena’s high plateau, now home to the idyllic and car-free mountain villages of Riederalp, Bettmeralp and Fiescheralp. Let us talk about the other book cover now: On the Moosfluh’s north side, parts of the slope are subsiding towards the glacier. In autumn 2016, the movement was particularly strong, with the rocks at the glacier tongue sliding up to 70 centimetres per day. By now, this area has largely become stable again. Down at the glacier there is a movement of 20 centimetres per day, however, up at the Moosfluh ridge we are at the moment talking one to two millimetres per day.
Discover Germany | Travel Feature | Nature in Flux
Expert for natural hazards signals: “Hiking trails are safe“ Despite the recent heaving and the unstoppable melting of the glacier, the situation is fortunately not dangerous for people, says Peter Schwitter who acts as an expert for natural hazards on behalf of the Canton of Valais where the Aletsch Glacier is located. Reminding of the golden rule that applies in the mountains (always stick to the hiking trail!), he says: “If you stay on the trails, you have nothing to worry about: Firstly, this mass movement does not affect populated areas and secondly, the endangered area is very clearly cordoned off.” Flexible cable cars, moving with the mountain A GBS-based system is continuously sending data from the glacier cable car to the responsible geologists. Webcams and satellites monitor the area and geophones measure microtremors deep down.“Because of this type of monitoring, the Moosfluh glacier cable car is one of Switzerland’s safest modes of transport,” geologist Ruppen stresses. A conventional cable car could hardly cope with the geological mass movements in question here. Therefore, the appropriate provisions have already been made years ago: “We started to notice
minimal movements while we still had the old glacier cable car in operation until 2015,” says Valentin König, CEO of Aletsch Bahnen AG. “Geological surveys undertaken in this area confirmed our observations.”Plus, the conditions for this type of mass movements were known, i.e. the type of rock and the way it is layered; the glacial melting causing the mountain to lose its support as well, as the changing climate with more rain and less freezing deep down in the ground. Hence, it was clear that a new cable car construction would have to fulfil specific requirements. Essentially, it needed to be able to move with the mountain – and there were no models for this anywhere in the world. The Swiss construction is a first. Valentin König explains the concept, saying: “The mountain station and the supports at the top stand in a concrete tank that can move along – up to 11 metres horizontally and nine metres vertically, just like a boat on the sea moves with the current and the wind.”
Albrecht, who heads the Pro Natura Centre Aletsch. The Aletsch forest, featuring up to 1,000-year-old Swiss stone pines, is, of course, never a very busy, let alone noisy place, no matter the circumstances. However, if part of the forest does not see any humans for months or even years on end, wildlife can exist completely undisturbed. Albrecht mentions chamois and red deer that he has seen in the cordoned off area, saying “Should there be any danger for them, they’d notice in good time. The only thing sometimes disturbing the animals are helicopters that scientists use to fly into the prohibited zone to carry out surveys. For them – just as for us – what’s currently happening is an incredibly exciting research project.” Geologist Ruppen agrees and says: “This is ‘geology live’, and also interesting for visitors: As long as you stay out of the exclusion zone, you can move around in a geologically active area without being in any danger.”
Wildlife benefits from new ‘quiet zone’ It is wildlife, such as black grouse, snow grouse, red deer or chamois, that profits in particular from the fact that parts of the mountain have become a ‘no go area’: “For animals, such a quiet zone is naturally a very positive thing,” says Laudo
For the entire family. Photo: © aletscharena.ch
Glacial cave, Aletsch Arena. Photo: © Ed Kummer
Aletsch Glacier. Photo: © Andrea Wurth
Hiking in the Aletsch forest. Photo: © aletscharena.ch
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 55
Discover Germany | Travel | Top Spa Destination Infinity pool overlooking the lake in the generously sized outdoor area (Düsseldorf).
Gentle cool down in the big indoor pool (Düsseldorf).
An oasis of relaxation right in the heart of the city (Berlin).
Heated water beds to relax after the sauna (Düsseldorf).
TO P SPA DESTI N ATI ON
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: VABALI SPA
Like a day trip to Bali
Ein Tag Urlaub wie auf Bali
Leave the hustle and bustle of your daily life behind and just relax with all your senses. Drift in a pool, let your mind wander, sunbathe on comfy loungers and gently cool down, enjoy a refreshing drink or a vitalising visit to the sauna. The vabali concept is based on a holistic experience of the senses and offers various, individual dimensions of relaxation.
Einfach mal den Alltag hinter sich lassen, die Hektik vergessen und mit allen Sinnen entspannen. In einem Pool treiben, den Blick schweifen lassen, sich auf gemütlichen Liegen sonnen und sich sanft abkühlen, einen erfrischenden Drink genießen oder einen belebenden Saunaaufguss erleben. Das vabali-Konzept basiert auf dem Ansatz einer ganzheitlichen Sinneserfahrung und bietet viele verschiedene, individuelle Dimensionen von Entspannung.
The generously-sized indoor area with relaxation rooms, lounges and heated waterbeds as well as various pools, hot tubs and, of course, the diverse sauna area, add up to an overall carefree relaxation experience for body and soul. Both locations convince with their impressive architecture, interior design with Balinese materials and with their striking spacious area.
Der großzügig gestaltete Innenbereich mit Ruheräumen, Lounges und beheizten Wasserbetten lädt zusammen mit mehreren Pools, Wasserbecken und natürlich der variantenreichen Saunalandschaft zu einem unbeschwerten Entspannungserlebnis ein. Beide Häuser bestechen durch ihre imposante Architektur, eine Inneneinrichtung aus erlesenen balinesischen Materialien und durch ein beeindruckend weitläufiges Areal.
The restaurant focuses on fitness and power food with an Asian touch – it perfectly complements the sauna experience.
Die Küche setzt ihren Schwerpunkt auf Fitness- und Powerfood mit asiatischem Touch – eine ideale Ergänzung zum Saunieren.
Take some time out for precious moments of relaxation. The unique vabali-feeling gives you a sense of a soothing slower pace, even during a short visit, and will leave you feeling empowered and energised, ready to master your daily challenges with ease. 56 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Nehmen Sie sich Zeit für kostbare Momente der Entspannung. Das unverwechselbare vabali-Feeling sorgt selbst bei einem kurzen Besuch – ob in Düsseldorf oder Berlin – für ein Gefühl wohltuender Entschleunigung und schenkt Ihnen Kraft und Energie für die Aufgaben des Alltags. Original Balinese details for a special atmosphere (Berlin).
www.vabali.de @vabalispa | @vabaliduesseldorf
E X C L USIV E BUSI NESS PROFI LES
The DACH region’s innovators On the following pages, find out what the countries of the DACH region can offer on the business front this month. PHOTOS: PIXABAY
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 57
Discover Germany | Exclusive Business Profiles | Dr. Koch Traumrealitäten
High-value properties at beautiful sites in Vienna, Croatia and Mallorca TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN | PHOTOS: S. SVALINA
For more than 40 years, Dr. Koch has been a leader in the luxury real estate market in Vienna and its affluent suburbs, offering old-style apartments, penthouses and villas, as well as plots for new developments. The company also sells good-value properties and hotels in Croatia and Mallorca. As one of the leading real estate agents in Vienna, Dr. Koch advises sellers on how to market their properties most successfully in, for example, a bidding process. With many years of experience and a wide network, the real estate agents have become specialists in, among other things, exclusive properties in Vienna. The company also has a good reputation internationally. Dr. Koch offers investment in secure countries with land register systems similar to Austria or Germany. All properties sold internationally lie directly at the beach or at least have an ocean view. They are in close proximity to an airport and in quiet neighbourhoods with good infrastructure.
Dr Koch Mai 2018.qxp_Layout 1 05.05.18 18:38 Seite 1
In Croatia, Dr. Koch focuses on the Dalmatian Coast between Split and Zadar, Krk and Opatija. Here also lies one of the current highlights in Dr. Koch’s portfolio: The five-star hotel near Opatija in Istria promises a high return of investment (gradable six per cent). Croatian lawyers, assessors, developers and tax consultants are available on site. In Mallorca’s south west, Dr. Koch’s local partners – among them lawyers, developers and architects – also advise on how to find and then buy properties and hotels of good value or even at a bargain price. www.kochreal.at
1190 VIENNA - Solitaire:
CROATIA:
CROATIA:
Alone, quiet winegrower's house, dream south facing in the midst of their own vineyards (about 16000m² contiguous) with unobstructed panoramic views over Vienna. Unique and rare! The more than 100-year-old winegrower's house (about 600m²) was ecologically minded in 2007 converted into a luxury home and expanded. The energy supply of heating and cooling is ensured by geothermal energy. Obj. 7783
Fantastically quiet plots (3.000-6.000qm) with building permission for 6 villas + 10 apartments 1st sea line with stunning views of SPLIT, 5 minutes to Airport, 1,15 hours from Germany. Obj. 7560
Luxury villa resort with 7 quiet designer villas and 2 apartment houses in sunny Dalmatia. All with the best amenities, indoor pools and large outdoor pool with breathtaking sea views. With pick-up service from Split airport. The 4% yield can be further increased. Obj. 8116
58 | Issue 63 | June 2018
BARGAIN in KRK - 11.000 sqm dream plot 1st line at crystal-clear sea with no neighbors for a glamping project, beach bar and/or villas, 10 minutes to RIJEKA airport. Obj. 7550
HOTELBARGAINS in booming Croatian tourism partly reduced by 2/3 from € 5 Mio to 35 Mio on request.
Discover Germany | Exclusive Business Profiles | eyeo GmbH
BEFORE
AFTER
BLOCK ANNOYING ADS
AD
Take back control of your internet
Blocks annoying ads.
Adblock Plus: before and after.
TEXT & PHOTOS: EYEO GMBH
An ad blocker promoting better ads?!
Online-Werbung neu gedacht
An ad blocker that show ads? Is it broken? Actually, no! This is not what you would call an epic failure, but instead, it is a case of using counterintuitive logic that makes a lot of sense. Ads are, after all, still the main source of money for the majority of websites.
Ein Adblocker zeigt Werbung an?! Ist der etwa kaputt? Was auf den ersten Blick kontraintuitiv wirkt, ist bei näherer Betrachtung extrem sinnvoll. Werbung ist schließlich immer noch eine der unkompliziertesten Möglichkeiten für Verlage und Inhalte-Ersteller um im Netz Geld zu verdienen.
More than 90 per cent of all ad blocking users do not mind seeing non-intrusive ads. Constructive ad blocking allows publishers to monetise their traffic with ads without destroying user experience.
Gut, dass über 90 Prozent der Internetnutzer unaufdringliche Werbeformate vollkommen in Ordnung finden und nur die wirklich störende Werbung ausblenden wollen. Publisher und Nutzer möchten beide, dass Inhalte im Internet kostenfrei erreichbar sind.
The Acceptable Ads initiative, developed by Adblock Plus makers eyeo GmbH, is a solution that lets users see unobtrusive ads, and blocks everything that internet users might perceive as annoying. This approach allows eyeo to create a win-win situation for everyone on the web and establishes a healthy new ecosystem. Publishers and website operators can still monetise users with ads that work better than traditional online ads. Users can browse the web on their own terms, without being exposed to annoying ads. The suceyeo team. cess of Acceptable Ads speaks for itself: Today they are seen by more than 150 million users worldwide and are integrated on more than 250 of the world’s most popular websites.
Ein Adblocker, der bestimmte, akzeptable Werbeformate durchlässt ist also nicht kaputt, sondern eine eher geniale Idee! Die eyeo GmbH aus Köln entwickelt den Werbeblocker Adblock Plus und ist der Vorreiter auf dem Gebiet des konstruktiven Adblockings, das mit der Acceptable Ads Initiative für eine Win-Win-Situation für alle sorgt. Webseitenbetreiber können sich trotz Adblocker-Nutzung ihrer Besucher auf Werbeeinnahmen verlassen, die meist höher sind, als die Einnahmen aus“traditioneller” Online-Werbung. Nutzer können sich darauf verlassen, dass die angezeigte Werbung unaufdringlich ist, den Lesefluss nicht unterbricht und ganz klar als Werbung gekennzeichnet ist. Der Erfolg des konstruktiven Adblockings spricht für sich: Mittlerweile sehen mehr als 150 Millionen Nutzer auf der ganzen Welt Acceptable Ads, die auf über 250 der weltweit größten Webseiten integriert sind. www.adblockplus.org Issue 63 | June 2018 | 59
Discover Germany | Exclusive Business Profiles | MUZ
MUZ GmbH auf internationalem Erfolgskurs Die MUZ GmbH begeistert sich für den Umgang mit neuen Technologien und investiert laufend in neue Fertigungsmöglichkeiten. Zufriedene und erfolgreiche Kunden sind die Zukunft für ihre Technologieorientierung. TEXT & FOTOS: MUZ GMBH
Ganz nach diesem Motto wird bei MUZ gearbeitet und gedacht. Die Firma MUZ GmbH ist ein familiengeführtes Unternehmen und wurde 1999 von Herrn Markus Wegrzyn gegründet. Damaliger Standort war in einer alten Hutfabrik in Egg (Vorarlberg/Österreich). 2001 übersiedelt MUZ an einen größeren Standort nach Alberschwende um den Wünschen der Kunden gerecht zu werden. Jährlich wächst die Firma zwischen 10 und 15 Prozent. Mittlerweile umfasst der Maschinenpark von MUZ 14 CNC-Maschinen (drei Langdreher (16-Achsen) mit der Möglichkeit Teile bis zu einer Länge von 60 | Issue 63 | June 2018
950 Millimeter und Ø30 Millimeter zu bearbeiten, zwei Horizontale Fräszentren mit Palettenwechsler und mehrere Drehautomaten und Dreh-Fräszentren mit bis zu 12 Achsen und Bearbeitungsdimensionen bis zu Ø450 Millimeter). Damit MUZ weiter wachsen kann und der derzeitige Standort in Alberschwende (Vorarlberg/Österreich) zu klein ist, wird MUZ noch dieses Jahr im Oktober an einen neuen Standort nach Hittisau übersiedeln. Hier baut MUZ gerade eine neue Fertigung die etwa drei mal so groß sein wird wie der derzeitige Standort in Alberschwende.
MUZ hat sich in der Metallbranche bereits einen Namen gemacht. Die Firma beliefert ihre Kunden mittlerweile weltweit. Stark vertreten ist MUZ in den Ländern Österreich, Schweiz, Lichtenstein und Deutschland. Zu den namhaftesten Kunden gehören Firmen wie WIKA Alexander Wiegand SE & Co. KG und die Schweizer OC Oerlikon Gruppe. Besonders mit unserer ISO 9001:2015 Zertifizierung können wir bei vielen unserer Kunden punkten. Eine besondere und von den Kunden sehr geschätzte Stärke ist die Kundenorientierung. Ebenfalls die kurzen Reaktionszeiten bei Wünschen oder bei Anfragen für neue Produkte und Prototypen. MUZ ist stets bemüht, alle Wünsche der Kunden zu erfüllen und verarbeitet alle Materialien. Beispielsweise hat die Firma die Möglichkeit sowohl Kunststoff, als auch Aluminium, Edelstahl, Messing, Kupfer usw. zu bearbeiten. MUZ
Discover Germany | Exclusive Business Profiles | MUZ GmbH
fertigt Teile auf Kundenwunsch nach ihrer Zeichnung. Zusammen mit ihnen versucht MUZ auch eine Lösung für die Fertigung von komplexen Teilen zu finden an denen womöglich andere potentielle Lieferanten scheitern könnten. MUZ hat eine Montageabteilung in der die Firma ganze Baugruppen für Kunden montieren kann. Daher erhalten Kunden ihre komplette Baugruppe vom ersten bis zum letzten Schritt von MUZ und sparen sich so mehrere Lieferanten und Unterlieferanten und können alle ihre Teile bei einem starken Partner erhalten. Die MUZ GmbH erledigt auch Schweißarbeiten, Sandstrahlarbeiten und Gleitschleifarbeiten. Damit Kunden immer saubere Teile bekommen, werden ihre Teile auf Wunsch auch bei MUZ Ultraschall gereinigt. Zudem gibt es die Möglichkeit für Kunden Verpackungslabel mit ihrem Logo zu erstellen. Qualitätstechnisch ist MUZ mittlerweile sehr gut aufgestellt. Mit einer 3DMessmaschine von Zeiss, einem Messmikroskop von Mitutoyo und mehreren SPC Plätzen wird unsere Fertigung verstärkt überwacht. Damit die Firma MUZ Kunden noch vielfältigere Lösungen anbieten kann, wird der
Maschinenpark erweitert. MUZ investiert in die Zukunft und wird kommendes Jahr die Fertigung um eine 2D-Laserschneidmaschine und eine Laserschweißmaschine von der Firma Trumpf erweitern. Somit hat MUZ erstmals die Möglichkeit auch Laserzuschnitte mit einer Blechdicke von 1 bis 12 Millimetern selber herzustellen. Mit Hilfe der Laserschweißmaschine hat MUZ künftig die Möglichkeit dünnwandige Bauteile einfach und schnell zu verbinden. Zudem können Sichtkanten Nachbearbeitungsfrei gefertigt werden, was den Fertigungsprozess beschleunigt.
in der Fertigung von komplexen Bauteilen und Baugruppen kann MUZ Kunden bei allen Anliegen tatkräftig unterstützen und das Know-How bei der Fertigung von Kundenprodukten einsetzen. www.muz.at Facts zum Neubau von der neuen MUZ Fertigung - Investitionssumme 2,6 Millionen Euro - Grundstücksgröße 2,500 Quadratmeter - Gebäudegröße 1,300 Quadratmeter
Da MUZ immer mit den Fortschritten der Technik wächst wird zeitnah in die additive Fertigung investiert. MUZ befasst sich zurzeit intensiv mit dem Fertigen mittels Metall 3D-Druck. Auch hier wird in naher Zukunft in einen 3D-Lasersinterverfahren investiert. Der Metall Laser ermöglicht es selbst komplexe Innenraumstrukturen zu generieren. Der Laser schmilzt die gewünschte Teilekontur schichtweise im Pulverbett auf, wodurch jede erdenkliche Geometrie möglich ist. Sie suchen einen Starken Partner für die Zukunft? Dann sind Sie bei MUZ genau richtig. Durch die 20-jährige Erfahrung
- Planungsbüro / Generalunternehmen: Goldbeck / Rhomberg - Alle Maschinen werden im Neubau mit Umweltfreundlicher beziehungsweise mit zu 100 Prozent biologisch abbaubarer Kühlemulsion betrieben - Mit der eigenen Photovoltaikanlage am Dach des Neubaus wird MUZ seinen kompletten Strom für den Betrieb selber erzeugen können (150Kwp / 80KW Speicher für Strom) - Zwei E-Tankstellen für die Firmenfahrzeuge und unsere Kunden - Erweiterung Maschinenpark 2018/19, neue Fertigungstechnologien 1,0 Millionen Euro
Neubau: MUZ Fertigung.
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 61
Discover Germany | Exclusive Business Profiles | DIGITTRADE GmbH
Externe Festplatte mit BSI-Zertifizierung Mit der HS256 S3 hat DIGITTRADE GmbH eine hochsichere externe Festplatte mit starker Verschlüsselung und zuverlässiger Zugriffskontrolle auf den Markt gebracht, die Daten auch auf Reisen sicher verwahrt. TEXT: JESSICA HOLZHAUSEN I FOTO: DIGITTRADE GMBH
Für den hohen Sicherheitsstandard hat das Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik (BSI) der HS256 S3 Festplatte das Deutsche IT-Sicherheitszertifikat erteilt. Damit geht die Speicherung hochsensibler und personenbezogener Daten auf der Festplatte mit bestehenden Datenschutzrichtlinien konform – egal ob es sich dabei um Unternehmen oder Behörden handelt. „Zu den wichtigsten Alleinstellungsmerkmalen der HS256 S3 gehören eine Zwei-Faktor-Authentisierung mittels Smartcard und PIN sowie die Verwendung von zwei Kryptoschlüssel mit jeweils 256Bit und AES-Algorithmus im XTS-Modus für die Verschlüsselung von Daten“, erklärt DIGITTRADE-Manager Leonid Gimbut. „Zudem werden die beiden Schlüssel auf einer Smartcard getrennt von der Fest-
platte gespeichert.“ Der Nutzer kann diese Schlüssel selbst erzeugen und verwalten. Die Mitarbeiter des Unternehmens besitzen langjährige Erfahrungen in der Erstellung von Sicherheitskonzepten und Entwicklung komplexer Kryptoverfahren. DIGITTRADE GmbH mit Sitz in Teutschenthal entwickelt und produziert seit 2005 externe, verschlüsselte Festplatten und USB-Sticks mit dem Ziel, sensible Daten von Kunden auch unterwegs besser zu schützen. In den letzten Jahren entwickelte das Unternehmen außerdem die Kommunikationsplattfort Chiffry. Das System ist im besonderen Maße an die Bedürfnisse von Sicherheitsbehörden und Unternehmen angepasst und beinhaltet die Installation des Servers in der IT-Umgebung des Auf-
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traggebers. Mit Chiffry können Anwender abhörsicher telefonieren und ihre Bilder, Videos, Kontakte sowie Sprach- und Textnachrichten vertraulich versenden. Die Chiffry Basis-Version ist zudem für jedermann über AppStore oder Google Play Store erhältlich. www.digittrade.de www.chiffry.de
Discover Germany | Exclusive Business Profiles | Augmented & Virtual Reality
Training simulation with Microsoft HoloLens.
Augmented Reality and 3D solutions for industrial applications The successful Munich-based start-up VISCOPIC develops augmented and virtual reality solutions for training purposes, the marketing and sales sector, as well as individual projects. It is their ongoing mission to bring virtual content alive and they are currently right on track.
gramming skills. “Our base client group are mostly industrial companies, mainly from the automobile and engineering sector,” explains Maier.
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE I PHOTOS: VISCOPIC
VISCOPIC is currently working with DB Netz AG, a subsidiary responsible for the German railway network, to virtually recreate part of the railway’s infrastructure with all its switches, crossings and signal boxes in order to make a virtual training process possible. This is important for Deutsche Bahn as half of the 8,000 technicians will retire within the next decade and this new training method improves security of action, quality assurance and the interconnection of theory and practice.
It all began in 2014 when Felix Meißgeier had the idea to establish augmented reality in the industrial sector. He teamed up with Marco Maier and Thomas Knauer-Arnold, and together they founded VISCOPIC in May 2016 as part of the EXIST founder bursary. “One of our first big clients was Deutsche Bahn (German railway). We help them in digitising some of their training schemes through augmented reality,” says Maier. “After Deutsche Bahn, we started working with various renowned companies such as BMW, Daimler, Audi, Siemens, Tetra Pak and Volkswagen.” Today, VISCOPIC has grown into an established expert with 15 employees constantly developing innovative augmented reality software solutions. As an official partner of Microsoft Mixed Reality, the
team at VISCOPIC has a significant track record of successes. They combine indepth technical expertise with economical knowledge and have a clear understanding of their customers’ individual needs. “This approach allows us to revolutionise the industry with innovative products,” adds Maier. “We support our clients from defining the initial idea and the evaluation of application areas, the development of the prototype and licensing, right up to implementing scalable mixed reality solutions,” he explains. “We favour simple, pragmatic solutions, which add significant long-term value and also help companies to digitise their processes.”
www.viscopic.com Marco Maier, Managing Director of VISCOPIC, explains Augmented Reality solutions with the Microsoft HoloLens.
The software solutions can be applied in various fields from training to sales and VISCOPIC’s clients are able to create 3D / mixed reality content without any proIssue 63 | June 2018 | 63
Discover Germany | Business | Solicitor Column
The envy of the world? TEXT & PHOTO: GREGOR KLEINKNECHT
We are often told that the British criminal justice system is the envy of the world. Oliver Mears might disagree. The Oxford student was accused of rape before the case against him was effectively dropped at the last moment when it transpired that crucial evidence that supported his version of events had not been disclosed to the defence. The issue was not a new one but it has since hit home with the public that there is a widespread and systematic problem. Looking at the upside, the public outcry prompted by this episode has now forced the Crown Prosecution Service to launch a wide-ranging review of criminal cases where evidence may have wrongly been withheld. The disclosure of evidence uncovered by police is an essential part of the criminal justice process and surely a basic principle of procedural fairness. Mr Mears’ life may have been thrown into turmoil for two years but, in the grand scheme of things, he was lucky. Sam Hallam served seven years for murder, and Victor Nealon spent 17 years in jail for attempted rape before their convictions were quashed by the Court of Appeal. There is a not inconsiderable (and growing) list of criminal convictions which are ruled unsafe. To be fair, that may in itself be thought of as the sign of a functioning justice system. When these types of miscarriage of justice occur, we do not necessarily get an answer to the question of innocence or guilt but where the evidence against a defendant no longer supports a conviction beyond reasonable doubt, that defendant must be freed. Mr Nealon’s conviction was overturned by the Court of Appeal after fresh DNA evidence indicated someone else had been the attacker. 64 | Issue 63 | June 2018
Criminal justice legislation provides for compensation to be paid in certain cases of wrongful conviction. Neither Mr Hallam nor Mr Nealon have so far received compensation. Until now, astonishingly, defendants have to prove that they are actually innocent in order to qualify for compensation. This amounts to a reversion of the burden of proof which, at least to my mind, runs contrary to basic justice principles and the presumption of innocence. Their case, supported by campaign group Justice, is now before the Supreme Court and I very much hope that English law will not permit the state to ruin somebody’s life by wrongly imprisoning them for years and then simply to dump them out on the street without any support or means of rebuilding what is left of their lives (other than £46 and a travel card, what is what they currently receive on release from prison). On the other side of the coin, criminal defence solicitors and barristers will also increasingly disagree, in particular, since the legal aid reforms introduced in 2013 - the latest in a long line of cuts in the Ministry of Justice budget. In some areas there are now so few duty solicitors that the President of the Law Society has warned that the justice system is “facing a cliff edge scenario”. The Criminal Bar Association describes a system “underfunded and in chaos” and has advised members to take part in strikes against the cuts. For the large majority of criminal defence solicitors and barristers, crime does not pay and many are leaving for other areas of the law. The justice system will not get better if people who need legal advice will no longer be able to access a lawyer and defend their rights.
I could go on and write about court closures and the impact they have on access to justice for local communities but I think you get the message by now. As the cradle of the common law system, and a country with an independent judiciary and a legal profession that seeks to uphold the rule of law, there is much that Britain can be proud of and we must be grateful for. However, it is easy to put the achievements of a functioning justice system at risk. We would all be suffering from the results and we should all be defending it. Gregor Kleinknecht LM MCIArb is a German Rechtsanwalt and English solicitor, and a partner at Hunters Solicitors, a leading law firm in Central London. Hunters Solicitors, 9 New Square, Lincoln’s Inn, London WC2A 3QN, E-mail: gjk@hunters-solicitors.co.uk www.hunters-solicitors.co.uk
Discover Germany | Culture | Language Column
It takes all sorts – the delights of the German and Italian vocabulary In this column, author Adam Jacot de Boinod explores the weird and wonderful world of German and Italian vocabulary and discovers some rather interesting terms. Let us take a look at what he has found. TEXT: ADAM JACOT DE BOINOD | PHOTO: DREAMSTIME
The German vocabulary is rich in depicting the different characters that inhabit our world: - Pomadenhengst: a dandy (literally, a hair cream stallion) - Pistenschreck: a skier you have to watch out for (literally, ski lane terror) - Spruchkasper: a fool full of wise sayings - die Fregatte: a heavily made-up old woman (literally, a frigate) - Seelenklempner: a psychiatrist (literally, a soul plumber) - ABC-Schütze: a pupil in first year of school (literally, ABC shooter) - Zaungast: a guest who looks over the fence to get at least the music of the party (literally, a fence guest) - Kiebitz: an onlooker at a card game who interferes with unwanted advice
- Trennungsagentur: a man hired by women to break the news to their men that they are dumped (literally, a separation agent) - Kerzlschlucker: (Austrian German) an insufferably pious person who never misses a mass (literally, a candle cormorant) - Tantenverführer: a young man of suspiciously good manners you suspect of devious motives (literally, an aunt seducer) Pure as the driven snow Italian idioms are full of colour and have a strong symbolic force. The colour white has an impressive range of connotations: - settimana bianca: a skiing vacation (literally, a white week) - mosca bianca: a rare thing which stands out (literally, a white fly)
- piu bianco non si puo: blameless, innocent (literally, more white you cannot) - mangiare in bianco: to eat lightly (literally, to eat in white) - pesce/carne in bianco: boiled fish or meat (literally, fish or meat in white) - passare una notte in bianco: to have a sleepless night (literally, to pass a night in white) - avere carta bianca: to have full authorisation to do what you want (literally, to have white card) - rendere l’occasione bianco: to spoil it (literally, to make the occasion white) - pretendere bianco por nero: to mislead (literally, to claim white for black) - andare in bianco: to go into the white (literally, to have no success with someone romantically) Adam Jacot de Boinod worked on the first series of the BBC panel game QI for Stephen Fry. He is a British author having written three books about unusual words with Penguin Press.
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 65
Zurich Festival, La Finta Giardiniera. Photo: © Nino Gloor
Culture Calendar June has arrived and with it comes that cool summer vibe we have all been waiting for. From football and science to open air festivals and a great deal of art, everyone can find plenty of fun things to do in the DACH region this month. Ludwigsburg Festival (3 May – 21 July) Ludwigsburg Festival is a creative music festival of international renown – both innovative and traditional. The motto of the coming season is ‘Das Ungewisse’ – ‘uncharted territory’ - where orchestral concerts merge with lieder recitals, dance theatre with chamber music, and classical works with traditional folk music. Disregarding conventional genre boundaries, well-known artists and new discoveries from all corners of the globe will embark on a mutual 66 | Issue 63 | June 2018
journey to the very essence of music – with unforeseeable results. www.schlossfestspiele.de
Zurich Festival (1 – 24 June) Every two years, this festival featuring theatre, art and music is organised by Zurich’s cultural institutions and shows what great cultural diversity the city has to offer. Over four fabulous sunny weeks, venues such as the Zurich op-
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE
era house or the Kunsthaus Zurich team up and bring a great variety of shows and events to the city. www.festspiele-zuerich.ch
Sommerszene, Salzburg (5 – 16 June) For 11 days, Salzburg becomes the absolute hotspot for contemporary performance art. The city of Mozart welcomes artists from all over the world and sees the festival as a triumph of modernism with a focus on contemporary dance, but with many events around theatre, music, film and visual arts. www.szene-salzburg.net
Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar
blues’n’jazz Rapperswil, Dana Fuchs. Photo: © blues’n’jazz Rapperswil, Dana Fuchs
Long Night of Science, Berlin (9 June) Also called ‘the smartest night of the year’, Berlin’s Long Night of Science gives access to laboratories, scientific institutions and libraries, which are usually closed to the public. Across Berlin and Potsdam over 70 science locations show their fascinating work from late afternoon to midnight. www.langenachtderwissenschaften.de
Berlin Biennale for Contemporary Art (9 June – 9 September) Every other year, this legendary art festival turns numerous locations of the German capital into intriguing art galleries. It is known for being an ‘open space’, allowing various creative influences to blossom and critical questions to be asked boldly. A must for every art lover. www.berlinbiennale.de
CEBIT, Hannover (11 – 15 June) From 11 to 15 June, Hannover will be a hotspot for business, leads and ideas, as the CEBIT - Europe’s business festival for innovation and digitisation – will be held once again. As a triple-punch event featuring exhibits, conferences and networking, CEBIT covers the digitisation of business, government and society from every angle. www.cebit.de/en
blues’n’jazz, Rapperswil-Jona (14 – 17 June) Swiss artists and international musicians make this open-air festival special every year.
The spectacular backdrop of Lake Zurich in Rapperswil-Jona contributes to this unique vibe. Festival goers can stroll along the lakeside promenade, indulge in a great variety of food at the market stalls, and enjoy the picturesque view of Rapperswil’s history-steeped Old Town. www.bluesnjazz.ch
Zurich Pride Festival (15 – 17 June) This vibrant event attracts thousands of friends and supporters to celebrate the LGBT+ community in Zurich. It is not only a great street party but also peacefully fights against discrimination and for LGBT+ rights. www.zurichpridefestival.ch
Edoardo Mortara (ITA) Venturi Formula E, Venturi VM200-FE-03. Photo: © Formel E
Zurich E-Prix – Formula E Championship (10 June) Starting right by the beautiful lake Zurich, racing drivers will speed through the city centre of Zurich in their quiet, lightweight racing cars for the very first time – as part of the 2018 ABB FIA Formula E Championship. Known E drivers such as Nelson Piquet, Sébastien Buemi, Edoardo Mortara and Nick Heidfeld will be in attendance. www.zuricheprix.ch Issue 63 | June 2018 | 67
Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar
Fete de la Musique. Photo: © Kai Bienert
National Opera for everyone, Berlin (16 June) This event is a true cultural highlight during Berlin’s summer. The open air classical concert under the baton of Daniel Barenboim takes place in the heart of Berlin and is free for everyone. This is a great event for anyone who enjoys classical music in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. www.berlin.de
FIFA World Cup 2018 - International Fan Fest, Berlin (17 June – 15 July) During the FIFA World Cup, the Brandenburg Gate turns into Germany’s largest public viewing area. Known as the ‘Fan-Meile’ this is without a doubt where you need to be if you are into 68 | Issue 63 | June 2018
CEBIT 2018. Photo: © DEUTSCHE MESSE
Discover Germany | Culture | Culture Calendar football. Celebrate this year’s champions with fellow football fans from all over the world. www.berlin.de
Fête de la Musique, Berlin (21 June) Each year, Berlin welcomes the summer with this free music festival, which actually also runs in around 340 other cities worldwide on this day. Musicians, bands, orchestras, soloists, DJs and choirs of all kinds fill the streets of the vibrant capital and turn every corner into a beautiful stage. www.fetedelamusique.de
Donauinselfest, Danube Island, Vienna (22 – 24 June) You can be certain that summer has started properly when the legendary music festival Donauinselfest happens. It is Europe’s largest free open-air festival and attracts tens of thousands of music enthusiasts to this picturesque setting by the Danube each year. www.donauinselfest.at
48 Hours Neukölln, Berlin (22 – 24 June) As the name suggests, this art festival takes place in the Berlin neighbourhood of Neukölln and was established in 1999. During these exciting 48 hours, about 300 cultural institutions and societies show the artistic potential of this diverse area. www.48-stunden-neukoelln.de
Sommerszene Salzburg, Stan´s Café: Of All The People In All The World. Photo: © Ed Dimsdale
Jewish Film Festival Berlin & Brandenburg (26 June – 5 July) This festival shows films with a Jewish or Israeli context and features some of the best recent productions from around the world. It is a lively forum for discussion and exploration, giving a glimpse into Jewish life and emerging talent. www.jfbb.de
Photo: © Ludwigsburger Schlossfestspiele
Sommerszene Salzburg, gold extra: Stranger Home. Photo: © gold extra
Issue 63 | June 2018 | 69
Discover Germany | Culture | Barbara Geier Column
Is the British royal family living in the wrong country? TEXT & PHOTO: BARBARA GEIER
By the time you read this, we will, of course, have survived another royal wedding. The excitement, the frenzy, the silliness, the gossip, the drama and, of course, the dress. Did you watch it? If you’re German, it’s quite likely that you did and maybe even in London – because based on figures released by Opodo in April, Germany was the number one country travelling to London at the time of the wedding. I’m not surprised. Actually, I know someone who was gifted a special ‘London Royal Wedding Trip’ by her husband. Ok, the wedding was maybe not the main reason for this city break but it was certainly timed accordingly. The excitement in the weeks ahead seemed to be bigger in Germany than here. You should have seen the amount of media coverage, with special programmes and documentaries and, of course, a close monitoring of the Meghan-father-will-he-will-he-notsituation. Then there was everyone asking “where are you watching it”, and you begin to wonder if maybe the British royal family is living in the wrong country... (Yes, I can hear what some of you are saying now – “But they are! German ancestors and all that!”) 70 | Issue 63 | June 2018
However, it’s not just the Buckingham Palace shenanigans that Germans are so fascinated by. It’s all things royal in general. A Spanish, Danish or Swedish royal wedding would have been of (almost) the same interest and German gossip magazines and celebrity TV programmes are always full of aristocratic ‘stuff’. Is it because we got rid of our own royals a long time ago and are secretly still craving the pomp and circumstance related to it? What’s the fascination? Or is it the German ‘romantic soul’ who can’t quite live without a fairy tale now and then? Whatever it might be, I think that we can definitely get more engaged, simply because it’s got nothing to do with us directly and we don’t really need to bother about the royal family otherwise. I’ve noticed that in the UK, it’s much more a conversation about being a royalist or not, with either side being very serious about their stance. Whilst as an outsider, it’s very easy to see the whole thing as nothing more than a bit of entertainment and fun, a distraction from everyday life and reason to get together in front of a screen to slag off the worst dressed people. Yes, I watched it and if
you ask me, no, I’m not a royalist. That is not a question that figures in my life. I’m just a German who simply doesn’t take certain things too seriously... Barbara Geier is a London-based freelance writer, translator and communications consultant. She is also the face behind www.germanyiswunderbar.com, a German travel and tourism guide and blog that was set up together with UK travel writer Andrew Eames in 2010.
ab 24.03.18
SAISONSTART im besten Freizeitpark der Welt! NEU IM SOMMER 2018
Spritziges Fahrvergnügen
europapark.de
Halloween im Europa-Park
Magische Winterwelt
Traumhafte Übernachtungen
GAIA
by Monica Armani