In 1752, a Latvian pharmacist by the name of Abraham Kunze developed a potent elixir from 24 different plants, roots, spices and oils that was said to cure just about anything that ailed you, from malaria to sword wounds. Kunze sold his herbal balsam in clay bottles priced to match the grandiose claims, around 60 euros […]
Beer and Wine
Drinking Bulls Blood Wine in Eger, Hungary
Imagine you are a Turkish soldier in the year 1552. You and 40,000 of your fellow warriors have been marauding across Europe, gleefully sacking towns and declaring victory for the Ottoman Empire. When you reach the gates of Eger, Hungary, you are expecting another easy win. Your large force lays siege to a castle defended […]
Belgian Beer and Chinese Deer Wine at Jackie’s Beer Nest
Shanghai is home to a delightful little bar by the name of Jackie’s Beer Nest. The small space centers around a beer hall-style wooden table with benches along all four sides, meant to encourage sharing and camaraderie. One wall is lined with floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with imported beer liquors and an impressive selection of Scotch. The back […]