Apfelwein, since it is usually (a bit) cloudy, is often served in the "Geripptes" (a glass with a lozenge cut that refracts the light).
At any rate, the size of the Geripptes glass is usually 0.25 litre , although there is a larger variant that holds 0.3 litre, as well as a glass that holds the doubled amount of 0.5 litres. Delivered by major pressing-houses in 1-litre bottles, it is considered rude and unrefined to drink Apfelwein directly from the serving vessel, whether it be a bottle or a pitcher (Bembel).
Traditional Apfelwein restaurants and their habitual guests generally hold to the 0.3-litre standard. Therefore a 0.25l glass is often named a Beschisserglas (rip-off glass) as it contains less Apfelwein for the same price. The serving of Apfelwein in other types of glasses (for example, Longdrink glasses) is rare. A "Geripptes" filled with Apfelwein is also called a "Schoppen". The serration of the Apfelwein glasses is common not only for the pleasing refraction of incident light, but also because in former times one often ate without cutlery—and smooth glasses slide from greasy hands rather more easily than do serrated ones.
Apfelwein is also available in the Bembel (a jug) and is ordered in this form when one is significantly thirsty or with company. The paunchy jar (made from salt-glazed stoneware) usually has a basic grey colour with blue detailing. The different sizes are usually designated after their contents in glasses (for example 4er (vierer) or 8er (achter) Bembel, the small 0.25 litres or the 0.3 litres of glasses are taken as a basis depending upon place of use. Accordingly a 4er Bembel can contain 1 litre, or 1.2 litres of Apfelwein). In the Eifel region, near Hunsrück, around Moseltal, along the lower Saar, and in Trier, the drinking container is called "Viezporz", which consists of white porcelain or stoneware.
Hot Apfelwein is commonly taken as an old household remedy against colds, or as a warming beverage in the cold season. The Apfelwein is heated (not cooked!) and served with a cinnamon stick, possibly with cloves, and/or a slice of lemon. |
