What is St. Germain Spritz? 

Ingredients 

• 2 oz Prosecco or other sparkling wine 
• 1 oz St. Germain liqueur 
• 1/2 oz soda water 
• Lemon twist, for garnish 

Crafting St. Germain Spritz 

A tall glass of bubbly is already a feast for eyes and tongue, but a dash of creativity never disappoints, especially when it’s some sweet liqueur. We are talking about the luxurious concoction of Champagne and Crème de Cassis, Kir Royale, that signifies premium urban exploration in its every sip. 

Let’s craft the royal drink, Kir Royale… 

What is Kir Royale? 

Originating from France, Kir Royale is a classic cocktail that exudes elegance and simplicity. This delightful concoction is a variation of the traditional Kir, which typically consists of white wine and crème de cassis. The Royale version, however, replaces the white wine with sparkling wine or Champagne, giving it a festive and effervescent twist. 

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll require to bring this classic cocktail to life: 

• 1 chilled bottle (750 ml) of Champagne or Sparkling Wine 
• 3 to 4 tablespoons of Crème de Cassis 
• ¼ cup of fresh blackberries or raspberries 

Crafting Kir Royale 

Before pouring the ingredients, ensure that your white wine glass or champagne glass, whichever you are using, is properly chilled to enhance the effervescence of the sparkling wine. 

Add a small amount of Crème de Cassis based on your preference for sweetness. 

Gently pour the chilled Champagne or sparkling wine over the Crème de Cassis and allow the bubbles to mingle with the liqueur. 

Add the berries and serve immediately to savor the freshness of the cocktail. 

Lucaris Crystal Champagne Glasses 

Lucaris Crystal Lavish Champagne 

Lucaris Crystal Hong Kong Hip Champagne 

Lucaris Crystal Shanghai Soul Champagne 

Lucaris Crystal Tokyo Temptation Champagne 

Lucaris Crystal Bangkok Bliss Champagne 

Wine enthusiasts often find themselves immersed in a rich tapestry of flavors, aromas, and textures. One aspect that stands out in this intricate mosaic is the concept of “wine body.” Understanding the nuances of the wine body can elevate your tasting experience, allowing you to savor the complexities that each sip has to offer. 

In a formal manner, the wine body refers to the weight, mouthfeel, and overall structure of a wine. It’s the sensation of fullness and richness that a wine imparts to the palate. Much like the varying strokes of a painter’s brush, the body of wine paints a unique picture of your taste buds, leaving a lasting impression. 

Let us figure out different factors, types, and determinants of the wine body with the help of this guide by Lucaris Crystal.

Factors Influencing Wine Body 

Wine body is majorly influenced by four factors: 

• Alcohol Content and Viscosity 
• Tannin Structure 
• Residual Sugar and Sweetness Level 
• Grape Variety

Let us dig a little deeper into this. 

Alcohol Content and Viscosity 

One of the primary influencers of the wine body is alcohol content. As a general rule, the higher the alcohol percentage, the fuller the body of the wine. Full-bodied wines typically boast a dark red hue, signaling both a higher alcohol content and a thicker mouthfeel. For example, a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah/Shiraz often falls into this category. 

Tannin Structure 

Tannins, compounds found in grape skins, seeds, and stems, play a crucial role in a wine’s body. They contribute to the astringency, bitterness, and overall structure of the wine. Full-bodied wines tend to have higher tannin levels, providing a more pronounced and lingering finish. A classic example is a tannin-rich Bordeaux wine. 

Residual Sugar and Sweetness Level 

While sweetness is not always directly proportional to the body, it can influence the overall perception. Sweeter wines may feel fuller-bodied due to the perceived weight of the sugar. Consider a German Riesling or an off-dry Chenin Blanc as examples of wines with varying sweetness levels. 

Grape Variety 

Different grape varieties contribute distinct characteristics to a wine’s body. For instance, Pinot Noir is known for producing light to medium-bodied wines, while Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon are often associated with fuller-bodied expressions. The grape’s inherent traits, coupled with winemaking techniques, play a pivotal role in shaping the final product. 

Types of Wine Body 

How to Determine Wine Body 

Reading the Wine Label for Alcohol by Volume (a.b.v.) 

Next time you peruse a wine label, pay close attention to the alcohol by volume (a.b.v.) percentage. This numeric value provides a clear indicator of the wine’s potential body. Wines with higher a.b.v. are likely to fall into the full-bodied category, while lower percentages suggest a lighter body. 

Observing the Wine’s Viscosity in the Glass 

Take a moment to observe the way the wine clings to the sides of the glass after a gentle swirl. A wine with higher viscosity will leave “legs” or “tears” that slowly drip down. This characteristic is often associated with fuller-bodied wines. 

The Role of Glassware 

To experience the wine’s body to the fullest, the choice among the types of wine glasses plays a crucial role. Especially, the impact of crystal wine glasses on the body of wine transcends the ordinary sipping experience. Lucaris, as a purveyor of premium lead-free crystal glassware, understands that the vessel matters as much as the liquid it holds. Crystal glasses, with their fine craftsmanship and clarity, enhance the sensory journey. They allow the wine to breathe, showcasing its body with elegance. 

Are you the proud owner of a set of exquisite crystal glassware?

Do you love to flaunt your crystal wine glasses on special occasions, but cringe at the thought of cleaning them?

To all our fellow crystal lovers, we are here to demystify the art of cleaning and polishing crystal glassware!

No more panicking at the sight of water spots or cloudy glasses – with this guide by Lucaris Crystal, you’ll be able to restore the sparkling glory of your crystalware glasses in no time.

Let’s clean your precious crystals to get crystal-clear perfection!

How to Care for Your Crystal Glassware

Cleaning your crystal stemware and glasses can be accomplished with ease through the use of these general guidelines:

• Residue Removal: Thoroughly wipe off residues like lipstick stains, etc. before cleaning.
• Loading the Dishwasher: While most crystalware utensils are not recommended to put in the dishwasher if you own Lucaris Crystal, they are resilient to the dishwasher and can easily accommodate the same (except the artfully made handblown Lucaris crystalware). In the dishwasher, place similar-sized glasses together on the top rack. Ensure proper distance between each glass based on height and width for stability during washing.
• Dishwasher Cycle: Choose a dishwasher cycle with minimal heat and labeled as “glass-friendly” to wash the glasses.
• Post-Cycle Care: After the cycle is complete, open the door to allow steam to escape, and let the glasses cool naturally.
• Polishing: We recommend polishing the glasses after removing them from the dishwasher to eliminate unwanted water spots. Glasses should still be slightly damp for the best results.

Removing Stubborn Residues and Cloudiness

For stubborn residues or cloudiness, follow these general steps:

• Water Spot Removal: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on water spots, let it sit, and wipe gently with a soft cloth.
• Cloudiness Restoration: If cloudiness persists, consider dissolving an antacid tablet in warm water inside the glass. Wait for the fizz to clear cloudiness, then apply baking soda for any remaining spots.

Restoring the Sparkle: Polishing Your Crystal Glassware

To restore the sparkle of your crystal glassware, follow these general steps:

• Glass Cleaner Solution: Make a solution with a small amount of white vinegar and a teaspoon of salt.
• Application: Rub the solution inside-out the glass with your hands and wait for 10 minutes for the vinegar and salt to break down the residue.
• Polishing: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to polish the glasses. Avoid paper towels or rough cloths, as they can scratch the surface.
• Final Touch: Rinse the glasses with warm water and dry them immediately. For extra shine, use a microfiber cloth or a coffee filter to buff the glasses gently after drying.

Additional Tips for Crystal Glassware Care

• Avoid abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or scrubbing pads to prevent scratching. 
• Handle crystal glasses with care, avoiding knocking against other objects or surfaces.
• Many types of wine glasses possess a shape that includes hard-to-reach areas due to stems, for instance, RIMS Nick & Nora by Lucaris Crystal. Use a soft-bristled brush or cotton swab to reach these areas instead of a scrubber.
• If unsure, refer to the instruction manual for specific cleaning guidelines. 

Make a Better Statement

In conclusion, caring for your crystal glassware is a simple and rewarding process. With these guidelines, you can ensure that your crystals remain in excellent condition, maintaining their elegance and beauty for years to come.

However, if you’re a lover of luxury and cannot compromise your convenience, the dishwasher-safe crystalware by Lucaris Crystal is a must-have in your collection because of their superior quality and resilient craftsmanship.

Shouldn’t whisky aficionados have glassware as specialized as wine enthusiasts do? This simple yet vital question emerged before Lucaris in 2019.

Indeed, they deserve it.

“Not all whiskies perform the best in the same glass.” – Matthew Fergusson-Stewart

Before the advent of the Lucaris Gran Collection, whisky enthusiasts often resorted to one-size-fits-all vessels for tasting, sometimes settling for the less-than-ideal tumbler, and at other times, using a sherry glass.

It wasn’t until mid-2020, when Lucaris decided it was time to make a difference – recognizing that every drop of whisky tells a story, whispering secrets of age, craftsmanship, and tradition. For discerning premium urban explorers, the journey from grain to glass is a ritual, and every detail matters.

Travel back with Lucaris to celebrate this seductively aromatic and exquisitely aged drink –WHISKY.

A Whisky Revelation

The whisky-tasting landscape pre-Lucaris was nothing short of a compromise for true whisky appreciators. Limited options forced them to make do with a single glass, a disservice to the intricate nuances and complexities of this extraordinary spirit.

This very struggle led to the collaboration between Lucaris Crystal, the first and only Asian premium crystal glass maker, and the renowned ‘Son of Whisky,’ Matthew Fergusson-Stewart.

Matthew, a whisky brand ambassador, author, and the driving force behind the Dram Full whisky community possesses a passion for whisky that extends far beyond the liquid itself. His enthusiasm encompasses the history, production, ingredients, community, and the art of consuming this golden nectar.

When he embarked on the project with Lucaris, it was with a resolute intention – to craft something exceptional. Something more than just a vessel for whisky, but rather an instrument to elevate the entire whisky-tasting experience.

Listen to it from the mind itself – GRAN, The New Handmade Whisky Glass Crystal Collection

From Grain to Glass: The Birth of the Gran

Drawing inspiration from the very essence of whisky – the grain, the base ingredient – the Gran Collection was born. This also evokes the historical language of Ireland and Scotland, the birthplace of this iconic spirit.

It represents a unique approach to crystal whisky glass, challenging the conventional wisdom that a single glass can do justice to the wide spectrum of whisky flavors.

Awarded the iF Design Award in 2021, a symbol of design excellence, the Gran Collection offers four distinct tasting glasses, each optimized for key distinctions in whisky profiles.

Let’s take a closer look at these remarkable glasses.

Tailored to Complement the Different Styles of Whisky

Classic: Perfect Balance

The Classic glass is a timeless masterpiece, featuring a stemmed and tulip-shaped design that perfectly complements balanced whiskies. It’s the ideal companion for high-end whisky venues.

Unveils full potential of: Blends including Johnnie Walker, Ballantines, Chivas, and balanced single malts such as Glenrothes, and classic Bourbons.

Delicate: Fruity, Floral, and Grassy Notes

The Delicate glass takes a unique approach with an angled rim designed to emphasize the light fruity and floral notes in more delicate whiskies. It elevates the nosing experience, allowing you to uncover the subtlest of aromas.

Unveils full potential of: Classic Irish whiskies, lowland Scotch whiskies, and more delicate Speyside whiskies such as Glenfiddich and Glenlivet.

Sherried: Bold and Bulged

For those who revel in the deep-dried fruit and chocolate notes of sherry cask whiskies, the Sherried glass is a game-changer. Its wider bowl increases the interaction between whisky and air, unlocking the hidden flavors.

Unveils full potential of: Sherried whiskies including Aberlour, Glendronach, Macallan, The Yamazaki, and Glenfarclas.

Peated: Captured Heart of Peat

Finally, the Peated glass is designed to capture the richer, earthier notes of a peated whisky. With a narrow rim, it offers a unique perspective on distinctive drams.

Unveils full potential of: Peated whiskies including Lagavulin, Laphroaig, Port Charlotte, Ardbeg, and Talisker.

The One of its kind Glassware Innovation

Matthew and the Lucaris team faced the challenge of accommodating the vast range of whisky profiles, aromas, and flavors within a manageable collection. While science played a significant role in the initial design, the refinement process was a laborious one. The making journey was full of rigorous trial and error, along with comparative tastings involving whisky connoisseurs from around the world.

Harmony with the Planet, Harmony with Health

However, it doesn’t stop there. What truly distinguishes this collection is its meticulously crafted, hand-blown design with tight curves, offering both strength and sustainability by using fewer raw materials and reducing the carbon footprint. 

What’s more, these glasses are crafted from lead-free crystal, further enhancing overall well-being and health safety. 

Elevating Whisky Tasting to an Art Form

In a world where the premium urban explorer seeks passionate life experiences that elevate their modern lifestyle, Lucaris Crystal’s Gran Collection is a bridge between tradition and innovation, history and modernity, and, most importantly, between the whisky and the enthusiast.