Willkommen in Wien!

A picture of the dome in front of Heldenplatz and the grounds of the Imperial Palance

Today, I landed in Vienna! And I am so pumped for this trip!

For those of you who do not know, I have significant ties to Germany and I am proud of it! So when the chance came to participate in an international commercial arbitration competition in Germany's closet neighbor (Austria of course) - I jumped for it!

The group landed this morning and to kill time before check in we walked around. We walked through Stephansdom (or

St. Stephan's Cathedral

). This is one of the most important Gothic buildings in Austria. Construction for the first church was completed around 1147 and it has grown ever since. It currently is the home of the Metropolitan Archbishop of Vienna. Then, we walked through Heldenplatz, viewed the extensive grounds, and snapped the picture featured above. 

The streets are also lined with a few street markets which featured two drinks that I am interested in learning more about: (1) Glühwein and (2) Eiergrog. 

Glühwein (or mulled wine) I have had before - actually my Oma made it! It is a hot alcoholic drink typically made during the Christmas season. It can be made with red or white wine (I've typically seen red) and includes a variety of spices like: cinnamon, cloves, lemon peel and star anise. A must try! I had never heard of eiergrog - but some quick research suggests its just an eggnog type drink. Not my usual cup o' tea - but if I convince one of my travel buddies to try it - I will let my readers know how it tastes!

Last but not least - the real reason to visit Austria - sandwiches!! Some of you may be thinking - whats the appeal?? We can get that in the U.S. - but it is not the same! The bread is fresh! The meat is awesome! And there is a cheese/butter spread used instead of mayo! I know - I am getting a little sandwich crazy - probably because it just reminds me of the good times I spent around the table with my Oma and German cousins - but you should definitely try it if you are in Vienna.

More details on life in Vienna, wine pairings and featured wines generally to come!

Cheers!