STARGUEST Kosher Luxury Magazine (Winter)

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L UST X URO R Y NO L I F E M Y - PR EST IG IO US CO L L EC T IO NS LU X U RY LI F EST Y LES - E LEG A NT G A

starguest ThE kosher luxury magazine

«Best of Kosh er »

Issue 4. United Kingdom - All Rights Reserved by STARGUEST Ltd

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SWITZER LAND › S MO ST I MP R ES S I V E HOT E L G O ES KO S HE R The Kempi n ski G ra n d Hotel d es Ba i n s

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TOP O F T HE WO R LD S t. Mor i tz

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CO LLEC TO R I T E MS Th e Ar t of J u d a i ca

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WELCOME

contact details

to kosher luxury, J E W I S H lifestyles & I ntelligent giving

United Kingdom STARGUEST Ltd. 103 Leeside Crescent London, NW110JL info@StarGuest.com

Kashruth Summer & Winter in St.Moritz at The Kempinski is Under the Kosher Supervision of Rabbi B.Z.Rabinowitz Of Biala, Chief Rabbi of Lugano, Switzerland. Arieh Wagner Kosher Hotels & Catering in London is Under the Kosher Supervision of The Federation of Synagogues, London - (KF)

website www.StarGuest.com email info@StarGuest.com phone +44 (0) 20 8458 7708

Welcome to the Winter Edition of STARGUEST. This magazine is a culmination of a lifelong mission and was founded with one aspiration: to demonstrate that keeping Kosher does not mean compromise. In following the 2500 year old divine rules of Kashrut, Jews subscribe to a higher authority. However, beyond the religious aspect much of Kashrut is in line with modern quality control and health and safety. Many hundreds of years before we had governmental health & safety inspectors (or the FDA in the USA), the Kosher kitchen separated meat and fish. Today Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACAP) dictates the assigning of white chopping boards for raw fish and red for meat. Further Kashrut laws specify exactly how food should be shipped, today we call this traceability. Recently, the UK and mainland Europe were shocked by the “Horsemeat scandal,” which saw horsemeat hidden in a number of supermarket staples, whilst Kosher butchers were safe in the knowledge that the steak on the shelf never competed in any Olympic dressage competition. So as winter approaches once again, we want to shine some light on the fantastic array of spectacular Kosher cuisine available around the world. In this edition, we are proud to introduce you to our newest Kosher luxury partner, The Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains. The Kempinski in collaboration with my STARGUEST Team will offer discerning holidaymakers the opportunity to savour gourmet Kosher cuisine combined with uncompromising “Luxury Beyond 5 stars”!

facebook.com /wagnerarieh

twitter.com /ariehwagner

instagram.com /ariehwagner

Looking forward to seeing you at Simchas! Arieh Wagner

youtube.com /starguest613

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contents

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magnificent C A N A P E S

PR IVAT E A IR C H A RT E R

The most important part of any event

Arrive in style at Europe's highest airport

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s w i t z e r l a n d › s m o st i m p r e ss i v e h o t e l goes kosher

M AG IC A L D ESSE RTS

Kosher Luxury - Beyond 5 stars!

Sweet dreams are made of these...

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top of the world

T H E M O ST CO M PL IC AT E D WATC H E V E R M A D E

St. Moritz - the magnificent Swiss alpine resort with the Champagne climate

Vaceron Constantine's Reference 57260

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love on park lane

M A INTA INING T H E L EG AC Y

International photographer Blake Ezra talks about luxury Kosher weddings at the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane

The Montefiore Winery: celebrating 150 years of Montefiore influence in Jerusalem

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COLL EC TO R › S I T E M

D ISH O F T H E SEA SO N

Judaica and Fine Art expert Aron Orzel writes about his passion

Our Chef's little secret recipe

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Magnificent Canapes

Tex t : H e l en a B a ke r C ate r i n g: A r i e h Wa gn er

No.1

crostini Influenced by the cuisine of Italy, these visually stunning canapĂŠs act as a rich enhancement to any summer reception. Creamy hass avocados are perfectly complemented by homemade sun dried Santorini tomatoes, with fresh toasted pine nut and basil pesto acting as a flavourful dressing to finish off this truly tantalising canapĂŠ.

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No.2

quail egg, black truffle This luxurious canapĂŠ adds a touch of indulgence to any event. Flaky pastry encases creamy leeks, a soft-boiled quail egg and sumptuous, freshly shaved black truffles from the Perigord region. Wickedly decadent, it is a delicious nod to French cuisine.

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«the quality is second to none»

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No.3

seared tuna This Asian-inspired canapé offers a clean and elegant enhancement to any reception. Pan-seared tuna sits atop cucumber spaghetti and is garnished with pickled ginger and homemade wasabi mayonnaise. This classic combination allows the exquisite flavour of the fresh tuna to shine.


U XX U U RR YY LL II FF EE LL U

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LL U U XX U U RR YY LL II FF EE

No.4

OAK SMOKED salmon A canapé infused with traditional flavours, this colourful dish sees sweet cured salmon complemented by lemon chutney and fresh micro herbs combine to form a tantalising canapé that can be prepared in advance. A rich and vibrant canapé, it is a popular option that never fails to please.

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No.6 (top left)

No.5

Foie gras, Gewürztraminer jelly

risotto, salmon & peas

This contemporary canapé is a unique take on French cuisine. Hot seared foie gras and Gewürztraminer jelly on sweet brioche provide a sensational taste that, thanks to the alcoholic base of the jelly, leaves a warming aftertaste of semisweet wine.

Simple ingredients that have been freshly picked and exquisitely prepared combine to create this luscious dish. Buttery Arborio risotto is deliciously balanced by semi cured salmon, petit pois and herb oil for a miniature bowl of warmth and comfort.

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No.7 (top right)

pate foie, figs Luxury foie gras pâté provides a creamy, indulgent base for lightly caramelised Moroccan figs, that work together to create this taste sensation. Rich and indulgent, this sublime flavour combination adds a touch of extravagance to any event.

«fantasy, textures, a taste of paradise»

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switzerland›s most impressive hotel goes kosher profile

by: michael scott

Originally known for its mineral springs, St. Moritz has been a popular tourist destination for over 3,000 years. Nestled in the inspiring high-lying valley of the Engadin. St. Moritz is the most breathtaking mountain resort in the world. Celebrating winter with style, charm and cosmopolitan flair, tourists can relax surrounded by beautiful scenery whilst the team at Starguest offer a luxury, kosher experience. With a dedicated restaurant boasting an extensive wine list, as well as a kosher menu at the elegant hotel bar, Starguest offers sumptuous delicacies for a uniquely kosher 5 star experience.

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ÂŤluxury, privacy; we call it paradiseÂť

From left to right: One of the many saunas at The Spa; the fine dining restaurant; one of the comfortable bedrooms.

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What makes a hotel five star? It creates and maintains traditions. The Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains is a magnificent establishment with rich traditions. Guests are greeted by a bright and welcoming lobby with a refreshingly relaxed atmosphere. The interior of the hotel harmoniously combines tradition with contemporary design, creating a stunning contrast that can be seen in the simple wooden furniture, bright colours and exceptional antiques. Modern photographs and historical prints tell the history of this fascinating mountain region. Carefully selected stylistic elements of the Engadin valley and natural materials create a simple yet elegant look. In addition to the 184 rooms and suites and the 27 residences, the hotel features four restaurants, a bar, a cigar lounge, four meeting rooms, a 2,800 sq m (30,000 sq ft) fitness and spa area, a fabulous duplex kids club, a ski school, a ski rental shop and even a casino. The Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains is located near the lake of St. Moritz with the famous “Hahnensee” ski-piste ending right outside the hotel. The “Signalbahn” aerial tramway is just a few metres away from the hotel, transporting skiers in the winter, and hikers and mountain bikers in the summer directly to the Corviglia region. With vast expanses of snow-white slopes, trails and paths there is an option for every level of expertise.

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Those who prefer cross-country tracks or have ambitions of finishing a marathon will have access to the vast network of cross-country ski tracks or the marathon route around the expansive lake districts beginning right outside the hotel. The close cooperation between the Ski Service Corvatsch and the ski shop in the hotel enables guests to securely store their equipment at the station and pick it up the next day. The snow, the light, the gourmet food and life in St. Moritz are beyond compare. The stunning Alpine landscape is both breathtaking and inspiring, offering spectacular views that will stay with you long after you have returned home. During winter in particular, when St. Moritz is covered in thick, white snow, the fresh air and dazzling landscapes offer an utterly unique experience. That is surely how paradise looks.


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Left: The pool at The Spa Right: The Lobby Bar

Staying at the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains is the perfect complement to the rich Alpine landscape. The staff are warm and friendly, always happy to help and ensure a seamless stay for each guest. The Kosher chefs create enticing delicacies, drawing on international influences from Switzerland, Italy and traditional Jewish heritage, whilst the exclusive Kempinski Spa promises the very best in relaxation and indulgence. And, should you decide to linger a little longer, you can observe how the winter-white turns into an amazing blaze of color before your eyes, whilst the village remains sparkling and glittering as always. Now, as spring awakens, the sunny terraces of the mountains huts beckon you to stay, not to mention the great variety of exclusive shops offering their new collections. There are also a number of special events to look out for, such as the Polo Tournament on the still-frozen lake, amongst other highlights and of course, the choice of outdoor sport activities simply abounds.

«beyond 5 star luxury» Next Kosher Dates: Winter & Chanukah Break 7 - 24 December 2017 Summer Vacation July & August 2018

Enjoy St. Moritz – Kosher Luxury beyond 5 stars! To book call +44 (0) 20 8458 7708 Or Email: info@StarGuest.com

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destination

top of the world

by: james M AY

St. Moritz, the most scintillating mountain resort in the world. Nestling in the inspiring high-lying valley of the Engadin, St. Moritz celebrates winter with style, charm and cosmopolitan flair amidst delightful picture-book surroundings.

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the resort

the glaciers

St. Moritz is not simply a holiday resort. With its spectacular The Engadin is an impressive landscape where 173 glaciers snowy landscape it spearheaded winter tourism in the Alps in cover an area of 40 sq. metres. The most evocative is the 1864 and has also hosted two Winter Olympics. Morteratsch Glacier, which at around seven kilometres is the longest glacier in the Engadin, whilst Roseg, Tschierva, However, St. Moritz owes its importance to its mineral Sella and Pers also offer an equally striking view, including a springs, which have attracted tourists for over 3,000 years and number of crevasses where it is possible to see the magnificent helped establish the village as a summer health resort. Today, blue hues within. St. Moritz is the premier location for an Alpine holiday. Equally mesmerising are the ice caves, which are created in In St. Moritz it is impossible to be bored, with the countless the summer when the relatively warm water makes its way out leisure and sporting activities, cultural events, as well as a into the open air. wide variety of shopping facilities. The resort is also home to some fantastic luxury boutiques from Asprey to Missoni and Vitton to Valentino.

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raetische bahn

Horse and Carriage rides

Giddying viaducts, twisting tunnels and other spectacular feats of engineering all blend harmoniously into the wild and rugged landscape along the 122 beautiful kilometres of the Rhaetian Railway's Albula-Bernina line. Along its way from Thusis via St. Moritz to Tirano, the line runs past 20 municipalities, through 55 tunnels and over 196 bridges – including the highlight, the world-famous Landwasser Viaduct near Filisur, an elegant curved structure of dark limestone 65 metres tall.

A romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride across the frozen lake, through the snow-blanketed Staz forest or through the glamorous St. Moritz is one of the highlights of any stay. Snugly wrapped in furs and blankets, you can gaze past the majestic horses at a landscape of exquisite beauty. Val Roseg: It only takes a little horsepower before you are on your way to the Hotel Roseg Gletscher (“Roseg Glacier”) at the far end of the Val Roseg. Of course, you could tackle the seven kilometres (4.5 miles) on foot, but a romantic carriage ride is the perfect complement to the winter charm of this enchanting valley, as well as the sublime views of the nearby glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the impressive Bernina mountains. Val Fex: In the village square of Sils Maria, the horsedrawn sleighs are lined up, ready for the ride into the Val Fex, one of the highest valleys in Switzerland that is inhabited year-round. Only a couple of houses make up the hamlets along the way: Crasta at 1,951 metres (6,401ft), and Curtins at 1,973 metres above sea level (6,473ft).

At the line's steepest point, trains conquer a gradient of 7 per cent without the benefit of cog traction. In 2008, UNESCO added the "Rhaetian Railway in the Albula/Bernina landscape" to its list of World Heritage Sites, making the Rhaetian Railway only the third in the world judged to be of "outstanding universal value".

Left: Snow walking above St. Moritz Top: Romantic horse-sledge ride

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SkIING Famous for its ski slopes, St. Moritz really is the perfect destination for skiers from beginner to advanced. With fluffy, luscious snow that glistens and sparkles in the bright Swiss sun there really is no better place in which to don your skis. And with runs spanning most of the village, plus a phenomenal 350 KM of piste as well as countless slopes, you will be spoilt for choice as you twist and turn along the Engadin valley.

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«It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves» edmund hillary

SLEDGING St. Moritz boasts a variety of sled runs, both large and small. Switzerland’s most famous sled run is just around the corner: a 20-minute train ride is all it takes to reach the top of the run from Preda to Bergün. The 6 km route follows the Albula railway line. Around 2,000 rental sleds are kept at the Preda mountain railway station and can be returned afterwards in Bergün. A permanent snow-making machine ensures the sled run can be used throughout the entire winter.

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L LUUX XUUR RY Y L LI FI FE E

Love on Park Lane by: B L A K E E Z R A

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International photographer Blake Ezra talks about luxury Kosher weddings at the Park Lane Hotel (now renamed The Sheraton Grand London), one of London’s most prestigious addresses In a city full of style, tradition and glamour, it can sometimes be difficult for a venue to differentiate itself, to stand out from the others.

now, after being involved in so many breathtaking events there, it remains as impressive as the first time I walked through the art-deco doors.

For our team, The Sheraton Grand does that – especially when it comes to Kosher weddings. This is why we get so excited whenever the opportunity arises to create imagery in this iconic space. Walking through the Ballroom entrance, with an instant feeling of ‘vintage chic’, you know you have arrived somewhere sophisticated and elegant.

Jewish weddings in this magnificent space are something to behold, of course with exceptional hospitality and cuisine from Arieh and his fine team. There is always a choice of impressive spaces for every part of the Jewish wedding day – the Bedeken, the Tisch, and the Yichud room, not to mention the many other areas in which to eat, drink, Daven, and celebrate.

As you descend towards the Ballroom level, the excitement builds until you finally enter one of the most stunning event spaces in central London. Even

Photographically, there are so many elements that make this venue one that we are excited by – the proximity to

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London’s Royal Parks, the sense of style including so many original features, the galleried Ballroom, the mirrored walls, the sweeping art-deco staircases, and the stunning public areas of the hotel. The Sheraton Grand London oozes quality in an effortless manner, and this sense of class is given to any wedding it hosts. We have decided to show readers a selection of images from one wedding, as opposed to a portfolio or collection from styled shoots, in order to get a true feel for this wonderful venue.

Photos pages 26-31 by Blake Ezra


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ÂŤevery step inside this ballroom unveils snippets of long-gone londonÂť

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judaica & history

collector items C urated by: aron orzel ju D aica & art expert B asel A rt ltd - L O N D O N

kesser / torah crown Until quite recently there was no concept of Judaica design. As Jews were scattered in different countries across the diaspora there was a lack of Jewish silversmiths, which meant each piece of Judaica was influenced, not only by Jewish tradition, but also by the design, material and culture of the local area. This Italian crown is both stylistically and, from a design perspective, extremely similar to Italian works of art from the same period. Comparatively, German Judaica varies according to the customs of the area where it was produced. Thanks to these nuances an expert can pick up a spice box and tell if it is German, South German, Polish, Galician or Italian without even looking at the maker’s marks. A number of collectors are interested only in design and so specialise in Torah crowns, spice boxes, rimonim or chanukiahs whilst some collectors will specialise in the Judaica from a certain geographical region. This adds an additional dimension to collecting and is one reason why it is so important to have real knowledge of the field. As an example, if a crown has a German mark it is not genuine. The page opposite shows an important Italian crown – ca. 18th century.

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Three Men on a bench

These 3 Jewish men are from Carlsbad, which was a spa resort in Czechoslovakia. Carlsbad - like St. Moritz today - was a very popular holiday resort for the elite, including many Jews. These pieces were produced as a souvenir, a satire on Jewish holiday makers. They were produced around 1920 when the style was humorous; later pieces, moving into the 1930s, become less tasteful.

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ÂŤsmooth lines, pure styleÂť

George Jensen Silver Grapevine Tazza Large sterling silver tazza, design #264A designed in 1918 by George Jensen This is the second largest tazza standing 10 3/4" in height, with a diameter of 10inc This in one of George Jensen’s most popular vintage items. Made entirely by hand, including the intricate grapevines, it achieves a natural aesthetic that is lacking in modern day, machine manufactured Judaica. Purist Jensen collectors only collect items dated before 1945, even if the model is only produced after 1945. This decorative centrepiece can be used to hold fruit; however beyond being of practical use it also acts as a magnificent work of art. Contact information: Aron Orzel, Basel Art - London, +44 (0) 7974 575 673

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private Air charter ÂŤ from London to paradise in 2.5 hoursÂť From left to right: 1.Private jet stationed in Samedan 2. Drive in style to the hotel 3. Aerial view of the approach to the airport

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Offering the ultimate in luxury, a private jet to St. Moritz is an extraordinary alternative to traveling by regular airway. Allowing you to avoid any tedious queues, it means that rather than arriving at Zurich airport – 210 km from St. Moritz and around a 3 hour drive away – you can arrive in style at the private Samedan Airport, in the stunning Engadin valley, a 10 minute drive from The Kempinski Hotel in St. Moritz. Built in 1936 and serving over 20,000 aircrafts per year, the airport has decades of experience in refining departures and arrivals even during the snow season. With a runway length of 1800m, and the ability to land even the largest private jets, it welcomes passengers from all over the world. Fully equipped with a range of de-icing equipment as well as the ability to clear snow, it is the perfect option in the winter, when even the thickest Swiss snow won’t prevent a safe arrival into the airport. It is also Europe’s highest-elevated airport, and you can be certain that a vast number of politicians and celebrities have passed through it and continue to make use of this convenient facility. A private jet, as well as offering a premier travel experience where you can enjoy plush chairs, highend cuisine and an exceptional level of service, also offers stunning panoramic views of the breath-

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taking St. Moritz skyline, and the very best of Switzerland in the winter. Ensconced in a true lap of luxury you will have the opportunity to enjoy tremendous views – rolling hills, crystal blue lakes, shimmering snow – as the sun beats down upon Switzerland, giving you a clear view of some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. And with an average of 322 days of sunshine a year, you are almost guaranteed a true bird’s eye view of this winter wonderland. You will also be able to see the mesmerising Piz Bernina, a mountain which is raised 4,084 metres above sea level, making it the highest point in the Eastern Alps. Not only that, but the stunning Silvaplauna and Silsersee lakes with their vivid blues as well as their traditional surrounding villages will also offer beautiful views and an insight into Alpine culture. For those who want a more conventional route into St. Moritz, but still desire to view those stunning panoramic views, HeliBernina offer private helicopter rides. This renowned brand allows you to touch the sky and gain a bird’s eye view of the Engadine mountain range, including snowcapped mountain peaks, stunning glaciers and rugged cliffs. Breath-taking and captivating, it is an experience you will never forget.


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magical desserts A com p i l ati on of ou r mo st st u n n i n g d e s s er t s , t h es e eye- catc h i n g a n d d el i ci ou s opti ons a re t h e p er fe c t way to f i n i s h a m ea l .

chocolate, coffee jelly A chocolate lover’s dream, this multi-textured dessert features deep, rich and sumptuous chocolate ganache that is given an added kick from miniature pieces of coffee jelly. The ultimate pick-me-up with an intense flavour, it not only looks beautiful, but tastes heavenly.

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ÂŤIt is the sweet, simple things IN life which are the real ones after allÂť

deconstructed eton mess This innovative take on a classic sees rich Chantilly cream complemented by an assortment of vibrant berry flavours including strawberry sauce, raspberry jelly, and raspberry sorbet, all held together by light and airy meringue. Sumptuously decadent, this dish looks refined and tastes exquisite.

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unusual locations

A com p i l ati o n o f u n u s u a l ven u es we we re p r i vi l eged to cater at i n c l u d e T h e Towe r o f Lon d on (a b ove & fa r r i g ht ) , L a n ca ster H o u s e (top r i g ht) a nd No . 1 0 D own i n g St re et ( r i ght ) .

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The most complicated watch ever made profile

The Hebrew perpetual calendar can rightly be considered one of the greatest contributions to modern mechanical watchmaking. From a mathematical and technical point of view, it is a highly complex system.

Combining traditional watchmaking principles with the latest technological advances, the Reference 57260 watch is a wholly original creation with a total of 57 complications, some of which are unique, including multiple calendars and a double retrograde splitseconds chronograph. In order to synchronize the year of 12 lunar months with the solar year, a thirteenth intercalary month (Adar I) must be added seven times over the 19-year cycle. In the Reference 57260 timepiece, the ingenious mechanism performs this synchronization by specifying whether the current year has 12 months (common year) or 13 months (embolismic year), via a 12/13 indicator with a concentric hand on the minutes totalizer of the chronograph at 9 o'clock.

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«grand - in every senSe» KO SH E R SUPE RVISE D - t he federat io n of syn ag o g ues - ( KF ) Dina Cohen - Kosher Even ts Man ag er +4 4 ( 0) 208 4 5 8 7 708

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wines

Maintaining the legacy text: A dam sebag montefiore photos : ariel ariav

Sir Moses Montefiore's seal related to an 1886 land purchase in Jerusalem

montefiore winery - israel Kerem Montefiore is a small boutique winery, founded to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the creation of Mishkenot Sha’ananim by Sir Moses Montefiore. This was the first neighborhood built outside the Old City Walls of Jerusalem and it was to become the cornerstone of modern Jerusalem. When the land was originally purchased by Moses Montefiore in 1855, it was known as ‘Kerem Moshe Montefiore v’ Yehudit’ – Moses and Judith Montefiore’s Vineyard. The area was later divided into two neighborhoods, Mishkenot Sha’ananim and Yemin Moshe.

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Arnon Geva was brought up in the neighbourhood of Yemin Moshe and grew up in the shade of the Montefiore Windmill. Yemin Moshe was the district named by Englishman Sir Moses Montefiore, and alongside Mishkenot Sha’ananim, it was the first Jewish neighbourhood to be built outside the Old City of Jerusalem, eventually becoming the cornerstone of modern Jerusalem. The windmill built in 1857 is one of the most recognizable icons of the Jerusalem skyline. From an early age, Geva had strong feelings for Jerusalem, and a certain awareness and respect for the life and achievements of Sir Moses Montefiore. But he didn’t give it too much thought. “This was my childhood," he explains. "At the time, I didn’t really appreciate any of it.” He entered the wine business by marriage, becoming an integral part of Israel’s most famous boutique winery, Domaine du Castel. As a family member, he was involved in creating the winery, building the brand and turning the hobby into a business. Upon becoming CEO and taking charge of exports to America, Geva soon became known to the wine world as a great businessman and a "wine mensch". During the latter part of his time at Castel, he became Chairman of the Judean Wine Route, establishing a base for wine tourism and uniting all the wineries in the Judean Foothills and Judean Hills together no mean feat given the dismal record of Israeli wineries working together. He also organised wine festivals to market the region. This was a pioneering move in wine tourism, and is still held up as an example for other wine regions to follow. After playing his part in establishing Israel’s finest boutique winery, he joined Israel’s largest and most historic winery, Carmel, founded by the Rothschilds in the 19th century. There he was the International Business Director, a role which utilised his management skills and expertise in overseas markets.Under his direction, he was able to turn around the export fortunes of Carmel Winery and their exciting new boutique winery, Yatir, making more profit than they had achieved until then or have achieved since. At that stage, with twenty years’ wine trade experience under his belt and inspired by a second marriage to the lovely Hagar, he decided to follow his dream; after working for others for so long, he left the company to create his own winery. Inspired by his heritage, Geva founded the Montefiore Winery in 2010 to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the founding of Mishkenot Sha’ananim, cementing 150 years

«Sir Moses MonTefiore apart from being the most famous jew of the 19th century, was also a wine connoisseur.»

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«Montefiore was knighted by Queen Victoria in 1838, only a year after being named sheriff of London.» Sir Moses Montefiore

top wine shops in Israel and are already exported to over 10 countries. Geva, who acts as CEO of the winery, is one of the elder statesmen of the Israeli wine industry. At wine events he can be seen, dressed immaculately, standing back and observing the scene, only offering an opinion if asked. But when he does speak, you can be certain it will be wise words of value. The Montefiore winery offers two entry level Mediterranean blends, three reserve wines, and the prestigious "Kerem Moshe". This name carries with it all the history of the winery. “When Montefiore bought the land," Geva explains. "He called it Kerem Moshe – Moses’ vineyard – and for sure there were vines all over.” It was only later that the area was renamed Yemin Moshe and Mishkenot Sha’ananim. “We are looking to make wines that are appropriate to the culture and climate of the land of Israel, which are drinkable and go well with food," says Geva. "I really feel I am continuing the legacy of Moses Montefiore”. Taste the wines, and you will feel the history not only of Israel but also of her wine. Lechaim!

of cooperation between Britain and Israel. “I dreamed of founding a winery using the name Montefiore for years,” he explained. The new winery honoured the person, the place and the vision. He chose as his partners members of the Montefiore family; siblings Rachel and David Montefiore, the first Montefiores ever to make Aliya to Israel, became Arnon’s partners in this project, thereby perpetuating the memory and legacy of their distinguished ancestor Sir Moses Montefiore. Apart from arguably being the most famous Jew of the 19th Century, Montefiore was also a wine connoisseur. He drank a bottle of wine each day and loved the vineyards of the Judean Hills, which he wrote about in his diaries. He was also the very first to recommend that Jews should plant vines. As Geva puts it: “He didn’t just love the wine. He loved the entire process, especially the agricultural aspect. Combining wine with his Zionist ideals was the perfect expression of his values.” The first wines were launched in 2013 to immense acclaim from critics including Robert Parker as well as a number of other notable wine connoisseurs worldwide. They are listed in many of the leading restaurants and

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E V E N T by A R I E H WA G N E R L I G H T I N G : S imon cow E N V enue : T he P illar , london P hoto : D aniel M orris

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EVENT MANAGEMENT

I n t e r n at i o n a l k o s h e r c at e r i n g o n ly f o r t h e m o s t i m p o r ta n t o c c a s i o n s

We cater events, in Scotland, France, Italy, Gibraltar, Spain, Poland, Holland, Croatia, Russia, Switzerland, & will go as far as Mauritius & Thailand for you! Enquiries please email: info@starguest.com

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I N T E R N AT I O N A L E V E N T S

beach Wedding Marbella, Spain

E V E N T catering by A R I E H WA G N E R band : T otem V enue : M arbella , P uente romano P hoto : chiko ashkenazi

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RECIPE

DISH OF THE SEASON

Seared salmon salad Lightly seared salmon is toasted with black and white sesame seeds, to create a rich flavour that is perfectly complemented by the crunchy textures of fennel and radish. The canapĂŠ is then finished with a garnish of coriander cress, sesame oil and a dash of chilli. This is a simple dish that can easily be replicated at home for Shabbat lunch. Alternatively just contact the STARGUEST Catering Team! We cater and plan your event in almost any location Internationally. Call +44 (0) 20 8458 7708 or Email: info@StarGuest.com

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LUXURY LIFE

ARIEH WAGNER PRESENTS

h a k u n

Y O J EN

a h C

IN ST.MORITZ

limited availability

7 - 23 December 2017

“Kosher Luxury Beyond 5 Stars” FOR RESERVATIONS CALL +44 (0) 208458 7708

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LUXURY LIFE

Kosher

Luxury Beyond 5 Stars +44 (0)20 8458 7708 catering At leading hotels & ven ues

lo ndon, M Ar b e l l a , St.Moritz , turnberry, Davos, g ib raltar, maurit ius 56

Photo: chikophotography.com


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