Blog Archives
The Rules of Mate Brewing
(Photo by juanpol)
The world of mate is full of tradition and there are many details to keep in mind for this typical beverage to come out just right.
1. The preparation stage of the mate is crucial. To do so properly fill ¾ of the gourd with ‘yerba’ and then place the palm of your hand over the gourd and shake it. You should find some fine mate powder covering your palm. Once you have done this one or two times insert the mate straw on one of the sides of the gourd and don’t move it.
2. Rule of thumb: never brew a mate with boiling water. The water should be hot, between 85-95 C. If the water is boiling it will burn the yerba and destroy its flavor. Plus, if you’re around experienced mate drinkers they will never look at you the same again!
3. One of the most annoying things that happens when a mate isn’t well prepared is that the straw gets clogged. This usually happens when the dust isn’t shaken out (step 1) or when the straw is moved around once its been placed. The straw should be still, in the same place from start to finish.
4. Another thing to avoid is blowing on the straw to cool it or unclog it. This is inconsiderate to others in the mate round and not very hygienic. The same goes for salivating the straw. Placing your dry lips on it should be enough to enjoy the beverage.
5. Finally, change the ‘yerba’ once its lost its taste , don’t insist on drinking a washed out mate, and never pass a washed out mate on to the next person unless you wish to insult them!
A few things to keep in mind:
The mate gourd must be cured before it can be used or it will tinge the mate with a foul taste. To do so wash it out well with hot water until the water is clear and free of pigments from the wood. Then fill the gourd with yerba up to the top and pour hot water on it. Leave it overnight and wash again well.
When sharing mates with others a few basics must be taken into account; the mate brewer, who must brew the mates for everyone in the round, must drink the first mate to make sure it’s ok, the mate should never be passed on once water has gotten cold and everyone’s turn must be respected.
The Argentine Flag
(Photo by franciscocellini)
On Monday the bicentennial anniversary of the creation of the Argentine flag will be celebrated around the country.
General Manuel Belgrano first raised the eye-catching light blue and white national symbol, inspired by the Argentine cockade, on The 27th of February of 1812 in Rosario during the independence war. Although the first triumvirate did not approve the flag, it was allowed as a war flag until 1816, when it was finally made official after the declaration of independence.
There are different theories regarding the symbolism behind the choice of colors of both the cockade and the flag. On one hand it is said to have been taken from the blue and white colors of the Spanish Borbon family, whilst another explanation associates the choice of colors with the Virgin Mary. The most popular explanation is that it was inspired by the sky. Allthough the Inca sun symbol Inti might lead to think that this last explanation is the correct one, it was a later addition to the flag.
Below we share Aurora, a himn to the flag and Marcha de la Bandera, or march of the flag.
Wine Regions of Argentina: La Rioja
(Photo by pablodf)
Although Mendoza is Argentina’s top wine region, La Rioja, is one of the oldest and has the longest continued history of wine production in the country. The Spanish-named province was planted with grapes by Jesuit missionaries who settled there in the 16th century, and is the main producer of our white, crisp Torrontés Riojano, an indigenous grape from which truly local wine is made.
The main winemaking area in La Rioja is Chilecito where the Famatina Valley is located. The high altitude, low humidity, the sandy loam soils and sunny weather make this an ideal place for viticulture with Torrontés Riojano and Bonarda as the main cultivated varieties, although Muscat of Alexandria, Pinot Grigio, Malbec and Syrah are also thriving in the area. Other interesting wine producing areas are Nonogasta, Vichigasta, Anillaco, and Famatina, representing roughly 3,7% of the total area with vineyards in Argentina.
For a special sample of Argentine wines, accompanied by snacks from HG Restaurant, don’t miss our weekly tastings every Thursday starting at 7PM at Fierro Hotel. Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220 6800. recepcion@fierrohotel.com.
This Week in Buenos Aires
Monday
(Photo by Luis Muñoz)
Head to La Rural in Palermo to check out Expotrastiendas Art Fair, organized by the Argentine association of art galleries.
In the evening don’t miss out on La Bomba del Tiempo a percussion orchestra that has become one of the local absolute musts. For some great post dancing pizza, head to nearby Los Cocos and order a fugazetta pizza, an onion and mozzarella local specialty.
Av. Santa Fe 4201, Palermo
La Bomba del Tiempo at Centro Cultural Konex
Sarmiento 3131, Abasto
4864-3200
Los Cocos
Córdoba, Av. 3303, Almagro
4963-0457
Tuesday
(Photo by reflectification)
Take a guided tour in English at 11am or 4pm of the spectacular Congress Palace.
In the evening the centric and hip Le Bar is serving some of the best drinks in town, and also showcasing a interesting photography exhibit by Pix Talarico.
Palacio de Congreso
Hipólito Yrigoyen 1849, Downtown
Tours available Mon, Tue, Thus, Fri at 11am and 4pm.
Tucuman 422, Downtown
5219-0858
Wednesday
(Photo by Mellagi)
ANDA Responsible Travel is a tour agency that promotes social and environmentally friendly tourism. One of the alternatives they offer is booking one of their experts to discuss in-depth economy, politics, history and culture of Argentina over coffee. Choose one of the city’s historical cafes and get into context. More information here.
In the evening get your dose of tango at Centro Cultural Torquato Tasso where orchestra Ojos de Tango will be playing at 21.30.
Centro Cultural Torquato Tasso
Defensa 1575, San Telmo
4307 6506
Thursday
(Photo by Luciano Belviso)
For those of you interested in economics and Argentine economic history, head to the Museum of External Debt where you can find out more about the economic evolution of the country. Audio guides in English are offered.
Later on Book your place for the Fierro Hotel’s Thursday wine tasting and sample some great Argentine wines, chosen by the president of the Argentine sommelier association Andres Rosberg and in-house Sommelier Martin Bruno. Tastings cost 25 USD per person and are limited to 7 people.
Jazz fans will get a special treat on Thursday evening as the John Scofield Quartet will be playing at the Gran Rex Theatre starting 9.30pm. Tickets available here.
José E. Uriburu 781, 1st floor, Downtown.
4374-4448
Open: Mon-Fri 11am-7pm
Soler 5862, Palermo
3220-6800
Teatro Gran Rex
Corrientes 857, Downtown.
4322-8000
Friday
(Photo by Jackie_oh)
Weather forecasts anticipate a warm sunny day, ideal for a walk in the ecological reserve in Puerto Madero where you can get the best view of the city!
In the evening head to aphrodisiac restaurant Te Mataré Ramirez where a free temporary exhibit of contemporary art is being displayed from 8.30pm onwards. Staying for a rather expensive dinner with an erotic puppet show is also an option.
Ecological Reserve
Av. Tristán Achával Rodriguez 1550
4315-4129
Open: Tue-Sun 8am-6pm
Saturday and Sunday
Gorriti 5054, Palermo
4831-9156
Saturday and Sunday
(Photo by capitanbar)
Head to the off the beaten path Caballito neighborhood where you can visit the natural sciences museum, a large market (Mercado del Progreso) and take a ride on antique trams.
Wine Regions of Argentina – Patagonia
(Photo by ARACELOTA)
The Patagonian landscape is well known for it’s beauty, and tales of dwarfs, gnomes and fairies. More recently however, the country’s Southern region is becoming increasingly known for brining promising new wines to the country’s viticultural industry.
Due a lower latitude and altitude, the area is very different from the northern Mendoza, San Juan and Salta regions and much cooler. Additionally many of the vineyards lie on the Patagonian dessert which receive irrigation from the a canal system providing water from the Colorado, Rio Negro and Neuquen rivers.
The two main wine making areas in the South, Rio Negro and the more recently developed Neuquen, are acquiring a name for producing the exclusive Pinot Noir grape, as well as other grapes such as Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Semillon which are also acquiring a great reputation.
This unique wine making area of Argentina is undoubtedly very different from the traditional viticulural regions, however and although it is still developing, it is proving to be a promising land for top quality wine production.
For a special sample of Argentine wines, accompanied by snacks from HG Restaurant, book your place at our exclusive weekly tastings every Thursday starting at 7PM at Fierro Hotel. Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220 6800. recepcion@fierrohotel.com.
Jorge Luis Borges
(Photo meetaires)
Jorge Luis Borges was one of Argentina’s most prolific authors. His writing is centered on themes such as time, infinity, mirrors, mythology, identity, the labyrinth and the city amongst others.
His bilingual background, the origins of his family and his time spent living in Europe and then returning to his native Buenos Aires reflect in his writing where there is a confluence of European influences and the native imagery and characters. This combination perfectly expresses the local social and cultural construct whilst his metaphysical influences draw you into a dreamlike abstract tour of the city he both knew and imagined.
For more on Borges you can visit the Centro Cultural Borges where a new permanent exhibit was inaugurated commemorating the 25th anniversary of his death. Included in the display are some of his drawings, his books and creative process, a map of the places in Buenos Aires which influenced him, photographs, and other elements of the Borgean imagery.
To get some of his books in English, head to the Kel bookstore in Recoleta.
Viamonte 525, downtown
5555 5358
Marcelo T. de Alvear 1369
4814-3788
Whats up with Fernet?
(Vintage Fernet Branca add. Photo by stolen w-heels)
Those of you who have already gotten a taste of the local nightlife may have noticed the popularity of “Fernet con Coca”, a strange alcoholic beverage made up of, you guessed it, Fernet and Coke. If there is a classic nightlife Argie drink, then this is definitely it.
The origins of Fernet are unclear. Some say it was originally concocted by a Swedish doctor as a medicine for cholera, others rumor it was invented by an apothecary who was looking for a cure for menstrual cramps, and yet another theory (from an unreliable drunk source at a bar) states that it was prepared by an medicine woman in Sicily to expel demons from haunted widows. In any case, although the last theory sounds a bit dubious, we are almost certain Italian immigrants imported the beverage to Argentina.
Made of herbs and spices, there is a general consensus that the unique taste of Fernet is to be paired with Coke, and although many claim it to be an acquired taste, there are many more locals that love it. Our recommendation is to try it and see what its about. After all, even if you don’t like it it’s still a great digestive, and anyway, clubbing doesn’t start until 2-3am so there’s plenty of time to drink up!
This Week in Buenos Aires
As the chill of winter approaches, indoor activities become the choice pastimes. Visiting art exhibits, visiting the Colon Theatre or attending special film screenings, such as the 8th exhibition of European Film which is on this week, are great ways to enjoy the city when it’s cold.
Monday
This is the last week to visit the exhibit of Argentine artist Oscar Grillo’s drawings of people from London at the Centro Cultural Recoleta. Stop by traditional bar La Biela afterwards for an afternoon snack.
In the evening head to Mundo Bizarro for great drinks in a quirky 40s-50´s ambiance.
Mon- Fri 2pm-9pm
Sat-Sun 10-9pm
Junin 1930, Recoleta
4803 1040
Av. Quintana 596, Recoleta
4804-0449
Serrano 1222, Palermo Viejo
4773-1967
Tuesday
(Mamba museum by Juanele)
Check out French video artist Pierrick Sorrin´s exhibition at the recently reopened MAMBA (Museum of Modern Art). For a great meal just a few blocks away head to Cafe San Juan.
In the evening 20´s style Virasoro Bar in Palermo is screening “Paycheck” directed by John Woo at 9.30pm.
Mon-Fri 12-7pm
Sat-Sun 11am-8pm
Av. San Juan 350, San Telmo
4342-3001
Cafe San Juan
Av. San Juan 450, San Telmo
4300-1112
Tue-Sun 12-4pm and 8pm-closing
Guatemala 4328, Palermo
4831-8918
Wednesday
(La Manzana de las Luces by clixyou)
Guided tours at 3pm of The Manzana de las Luces, an old Jesuit residence from the 1700’in the San Telmo area, are worth taking.
Later on at 7.30pm get a glimpse of an imaginary future at La Fabrica where artists Federico Lamas and Monica Hellers exhibt their video installation “Brutal.”
Top off a great day by having a savory dinner at El Baqueano where you can taste native meats such as quail, chinchilla and llama amongst others.
Mon-Fri 3pm
Sat- Sun 3pm, 4.30pm and 6pm.
Starting at Peru 272, San Telmo
4342-3964
La Fabrica
Peru 442, San Telmo
El Baqueano
Chile 495, San Telmo
4342-0802
Opening Hours: Tue- Sat 8pm-12pm
Thursday
(Mercado del Progreso by blmurch)
Take an off the beaten path day in the Caballito neighborhood where you can visit the natural sciences museum, a large market (Mercado del Progreso) and antique trams.
For a great lunch or dinner in the area check out Lo de Cholo, an apparently low key canteen which offers top quality local food with a gourmet twist.
In the evening the Wayne Shorter Quartet is playing at the Gran Rex Theatre. Tickets here.
Natural Science Museum
Open everyday from 2-7pm
Av. Angel Gallardo 470, Caballito
4982-6595
Mon-Sat 8am -1pm and 5pm- 8.30pm
Av. Rivadavia 5430, Caballito
4901-3038
Emilio Mitre 500, Caballito
Lo de Cholo
Av. Gaona 1699, Caballito
4584-7601
Friday
(Orchid by richardoyork)
If you like orchids you wont want to miss the Fiesta de las Orchideas being held until Sunday.
In the evening top the week off with a visit to the Colon Theatre to watch Il Tritico.
Fiesta de las Orquideas
Fri10-Sun12 – 10am-7pm
Centro Okinawense
Av. San Juan 2651
Cerrito 628
4378 7100
Saturday and Sunday
(Japanese gardens in Palermo by Rafaelgomez)
All June Saturdays- Samba and Feijoada at 1pm in Notorious.
The Dance and Movies party on Saturdays invites you to enjoy movies that inspire dancing. Jorge Newberry 3663, first floor. 7pm.
Sunday is a great day to visit the Palermo parks and while your there, stop by the Japanese Park and watch the Sumo wrestlers!
Shhh…
(Photo by pieceofplastic)
Back in the days of prohibition, speakeasy bars popped up in New York attracting their clientele by the word of mouth of trusted customers. Taking this same approach, Frank’s Bar recently opened in Palermo Hollywood promising an invite-only upscale clandestine night out. To get in you need to dial a password into a faux-telephone booth which opens the secret door. Once inside you will surely be seduced by the superb drinks and the cool atmosphere with an in house erotic shop and international djs . A must find.
10 Things We Love About Buenos Aires
1- The Pulsing Energy
(Av. Corrientes by bimurch)
One thing Buenos Aires isn’t is dormant. This is not only a by-product of city life in general, but part of the local character. Late night partying (meaning it starts at 2 am), frantic driving, bright lights, loud energetic voices, and the countless things to do and see, make this city a full-blown life force.
2-The Delicious Food
(Alfajores filled with dulce de leche. Photo by jamieanne.)
Argentine meat is famous worldwide, and indeed, the asado is one of the national stars, however the local indulgences don’t stop there. Try the dulce de leche, ice cream, pizza, alfajores, and the pastries and you will be pleasantly surprised. Additionally you can count on variety, quality and freshness of produce all year round, which promises palatable dining.
3- The Charming Café’s
(Cafe Tortoni. Photo by J.)
A big part of the city culture, there’s a special allure in the traditional cafes, whether they’re well known or anonymous barrio relics. Stopping for a quick cup of coffee with medialunas whilst on the go, or for a warm submarino (chocolate bar dipped in hot milk) with churros on a winters day is a must.
4- The Flower Shops and Verdulerias
(Verduleria in Palermo. Photo by iggykaser.)
Step out on the streets and you will find the city is ornamented with perfumed flower shops and colorful verdulerias exhibiting their variety of fruits and vegetables.
5- The Shady Trees and Parks
(The Jacaranda trees in bloom. Photo by q.crescente)
Contrasting with the traffic and the conglomerate of people are the large parks and the shady trees that line even the busiest avenue. The Jacaranda tree, which is spread around the city, is known to pave the streets with purple flowers in spring and the ombú trees, display their grandiose roots in many of the city’s lush parks.
6-The Amazing Architecture
(Puente de la Mujer. Photo by S.Amrit)
From the French sumptuousness of the Colon Theatre and the city palaces to the more humble but colorful buildings in La Boca, from the Colonial structures to modern day skyscrapers, the city is filled with a variety of architectural styles of great beauty.
Some architectural must-sees include the Palacio Barolo, the Cavannagh building, the Colon Theatre, and the Puente de la Mujer in Puerto Madero, amongst others.
7- The Diversity
(La Boca by jodastephen.)
Buenos Aires is a city defined by the merging of different influences. Spanish, Italian, French, British, and German backgrounds meshed with the native traditions and people making for a unique social construct with a very peculiar identity. This diversity is reflected in the cuisine, the architecture, the art, the customs, the styles and the ethnic make up of the city’s inhabitants.
8- The Cultural Buzz
(Teatro Porteño. Photo by Luis Fdez.)
Theatres, galleries, and stages of all sizes plague the city providing for a lively cultural and artistic scene. Live music can be heard everyday in many places and range from traditional and remixed tango, to local rock, to folkloric music, to jazz, to funk, to classical, to a percussion orchestra. The same variety and quantity of theatre productions and art exhibits can also be found everywhere, making Buenos Aires a very lively city, culturally speaking.
9- The Literary Flavor
(El Ateneo bookstore. Photo by una_cat.)
From the nostalgia present in tangos and the stories of immigrants, to the crazy quirky characters that roam the labyrinth like streets, to the political history, the intercultural influences and the cat filled botanical garden, its no wonder that such great literature has come out of Buenos Aires. Filled with bookstores and avid readers in the trains and buses, the city was named the international book capital of the year for a reason!
10-The Passion of the People
(Argentine Tango. Photo by gwilmore)
Gesticulation is something that every ‘Porteño´ expertly carries out when cheering for their football team, whilst having singsong conversations over coffee, or temper tantrums whilst driving. Whether they’re mourning for their long lost past or seducing a lady in a tango, raising they’re voices in a heated political argument or celebrating a victory, their passionate personalities shine through for better and worse, making them a very lively crowd.
Anything you would add?
