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Wilma Fasola

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The Boy with the Jumpsuit

Between glitter and emotion – Benson Boone breaks with clichés and strikes a chord with his generation.

Benson Boone gave himself the best birthday present this year: a new album. «American Heart» was released on 20th June, and the American singer turned 23 on 25th June. And the young man with the unusual birth name had plenty to celebrate. The songwriter’s successes over the past year and a half are impressive. In 2024, he was nominated for «Best New Artist» at the MTV Music Awards and «International Artist of the Year» at the BRIT Awards, among others. In 2025, he was on the list of contenders for a Grammy as «Best New Artist.» He also achieved five-times platinum certification with the song «Beautiful Things.» In addition, he is considered an exceptional talent worldwide. And currently, it doesn’t look like his winning streak will end.

Making an impression
Most recently, he gave a performance at the legendary Coachella Festival last April that caused quite a stir. He performed a cover version of «Bohemian Rhapsody» with former Queen guitarist Brian May, complete with a somersault from a grand piano. And before that, his appearance at the Grammys in February was celebrated on social media. On stage, he had model mom Heidi Klum rip the suit off his body, revealing underneath a baby-blue, skin-tight glitter jumpsuit, which Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg later gave a second appearance at his wife’s birthday party. Benson Boone succeeds well in presenting himself as a unique individual. But where there’s a «wow,» there’s always another side.

Because what sounds, in such a short summary, like a wealth of self-confidence and suggests that here’s a young guy riding the wave of success and doing so very dominantly, isn’t quite the case. Benson Boone is also no stranger to self-doubt – especially when it comes to his looks. In an interview with «Rolling Stone,»he said: “Because I’m so incredibly hard on myself, and when I start thinking too much about how I look, it just wears me out because there’s always something else I could be doing.” More muscular arms, broader shoulders … the list is long, he concludes. And then he takes a short breath and becomes a realist again: «But I can’t afford to think that way because I’ll never be happy if I think that way.»

Understanding oneself
That sounds pretty mature for a young man in his early 20s. On the other hand, it also shows that being in the spotlight – and with incredible talent – isn’t all glitz and glamour. It’s hard work, including hard work on yourself. Listening to his songs, it quickly becomes clear that Boone sees life as a great opportunity, but also a challenge. He’s always been self-reflective, though. He participated in the 19th season of the talent show «American Idol.» Judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan were impressed, but he wasn’t. He left the show of his own volition, later explaining that «he preferred to develop his musical career independently and in his own way.» In other words, he wanted to continue choosing his own record label, songs, and outfits.

Boone’s first single, «Ghost Town,» was released in October 2021 and was an immediate success. It made the charts in several countries, including the USA, Norway, Germany, and Sweden. The first steps had been taken. In January 2024, the single «Beautiful Things» was released. Not a one-hit wonder, but the result of discipline and an understanding of individuality. Benson Boone isn’t trying to emulate others, hence the reinterpretation of «Bohemian Rhapsody.» But he knows he’s not the first stage hero, and that’s precisely what makes him so likeable. His music is characterised by emotional honesty and addresses love, loss, hope, and self-discovery. Boone himself cites artists such as Adele, Bruno Mars, and Twenty One Pilots as important influences on his work. And yet he remains authentic.

Healthy self-confidence
Boone repeatedly emphasises that he wants to make music that has meaning for him – without submitting to trends or expectations. With his talent, his passion, and his flair for timeless songs, the singer has the perfect opportunity to establish himself in the music world for the long term. His journey has only just begun, but one thing is already clear: Benson Boone is here to stay. He remains true to himself, even when the pressure is increasing – both from outside and within. In a world where likes and click counts often seem more important than artistic substance, he reminds young artists that real emotions and authentic storytelling still have their place. He is proof that vulnerability and strength are not mutually exclusive, but part of a new understanding of masculinity and expression. His lyrics are not showmanship, but a reflection of his inner self. Perhaps this is precisely what touches so many people: an artist who not only performs, but visibly lives what he sings.

Photos Copyrights: Dennis Leupold & David Roemer

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The next Generation

The Lamborghini Temerario opens a new chapter in the era of super sports cars

The brand-new Lamborghini Temerario combines uncompromising performance with groundbreaking electrification. With its hybrid powertrain, it not only sets new standards in electric mobility but also offers the ultimate driving experience worthy of the Lamborghini name. With its 920-hp V8 biturbo hybrid engine, it is a true masterpiece, and of course, a real eye-catcher. CEO Stephan Winkelmann was also given to eulogising: “The Temerario is truly unequalled: a car in a class of its own, an exceptional and innovative vehicle, both in technical and stylistic terms.” He then went on to point out the new strategy of all luxury sports car manufacturers, which has been on almost all of their radars in recent years: electrification. Or to put it in his own words: “With the Temerario, we have closed an important chapter in the electrification strategy of our Direzione Cor Tauri plan.”

Green high-performance cars
The electrification strategy of sports car manufacturers marks a profound shift in the automotive industry. Traditionally, sports cars were known for their powerful combustion engines, which offered impressive performance and, above all, a distinctive sound. Brands such as Porsche, Ferrari, and Lamborghini have already firmly integrated this shift into their future strategies. They are all pursuing a common goal: to combine the driving pleasure and performance their brands stand for with modern electric and hybrid technology. Of course, they also want to improve their carbon footprint at the same time, which is also due to the new regulations.

Porsche was one of the pioneers with its all-electric Taycan, demonstrating that electric sports cars can be not only powerful but also suitable for everyday use. Lamborghini has followed suit with its Direzione Cor Tauri plan, setting a clear roadmap toward electrification. The goal is to present the first all-electric model by the end of the decade and to electrify all existing model series. The foundation stone has now been laid with the Lamborghini Temerario.

Tradition versus innovation
For manufacturers, electrification represents a balancing act. On the one hand, they must meet expectations for lower-emission, more environmentally friendly vehicles, while on the other, the soul of the sports car – the emotional driving experience, the unmistakable sound, and pure performance – must not be lost. This has been skilfully implemented in the Temerario. The combination of a twin-turbo engine with three electric motors is unique and reduces CO2 emissions by up to 50 percent compared to previous models. CEO Winkelmann commented: “The Temerario is not only a technical marvel, but also a statement for the future of super sports cars.”

Nevertheless, let’s quickly look at a few numbers. 920 hp has already been mentioned, along with 10,000 rpm and a top speed of over 343 km/h, plus acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds. The braking distance from 100 to 0 km/h is 32 metres. This is roughly the average for the braking champions among sports cars. The Porsche 911 GT3 manages 30.7 metres, the Ferrari F430 33.5 metres.

Just looks good
The design of the Temerario is naturally striking, but also functional. Lamborghini engineers have equipped the vehicle with completely new aerodynamics, increasing downforce by 103 percent compared to the previous model. The aluminium chassis has been redesigned, significantly improving driving dynamics. Head of Design Mitja Borkert describes the Temerario as “bold, authentic, and unexpected.” The vehicle combines futuristic shapes with classic Lamborghini elements such as the hexagonal light signature and the bold shark nose, which creates an aggressive look. “With the Temerario, we are giving new form to the Lamborghini design language and taking a major step into the future,” says Borkert

In the interior, Lamborghini relies on the “Feel like a pilot” principle, where the driver feels as if he or she is sitting in a cockpit thanks to the low seating position and intuitive controls. Carbon fibre and leather, as well as the newly developed Lamborghini Vision Unit system, ensure an unparalleled driving experience. “The interior of the Temerario is the perfect interplay of digital and physical experiences,” Borkert continues. The fully customisable displays offer both the driver and passenger maximum control and overview. Lamborghini has also placed particular emphasis on comfort: the Temerario offers more space than its predecessors, making it suitable for everyday use. So: get in and step on the gas. The future of the automobile is electrified, we’re under no illusions about that – but without losing the healthy thrills and emotions that a true sports car such as a Lambo offers.

Photos Copyrights: Lamborghini

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EYE-catcher

«MC Eyewear» is a joint collaboration between the artist Michel Comte and Optiker Zwicker. Three eyewear models that can be worn as both aids to vision and sunglasses.

Actually, Michel Comte just wanted something to eat, but then he met Yves Saint-Laurent in the Kronenhalle in Zurich. Comte, then 18, was impressed. By Saint-Laurent himself, but even more by what he wore on his nose. The fashion designer’s glasses fascinated him so much that he went on to design his own model and had it made by the oldest optician in Zurich – Optiker Zwicker. Since then he has had many more custom glasses made, in different locations and in a variety of styles. But now he has created a joint collaboration with Optiker Zwicker: the «MC Eyewear» collection. Three models, designed by Comte and realised to perfection by Optiker Zwicker.

The highlight: each model can be made as both an aid to vision and sunglasses. The bottom line: Comte returns to his roots. And that makes him happy, as it does the owner of Optiker Zwicker, Daniel Halder: «It is a great pleasure to be part of its history and to offer these brilliant designs exclusively.» And Comte himself says: «Today I’m back in my hometown and am lucky enough to be working with Optiker Zwicker – where it all began – and launching a special eyewear collection.»

Uniqueness in view

For both Comte and Zwicker, glasses are more than just a visual aid. They are a reflection of the wearer’s personality and emphasises a person’s character. «The glasses in this collection are for people who want to make a statement,» emphasises the artist. «They are for everyone who knows that glasses not only improve vision, but also underline their personality.» The models are inspired by a pair of glasses that Comte himself wore for many years and which became an important companion. A pair of glasses that he discovered by chance in a vintage shop, but which captivated him just as much as Saint-Laurent’s glasses once did.

The glasses themselves are particularly impressive because of their frames – they are not delicate. They are eye-catching and distinctive. And they also have special names: Nearco, Luna and Bianca. The three models in the collection were named after important characters in Comte’s life: Nearco was his racehorse, Luna was his dog’s name and he called his cat Bianca, in tribute to social and human rights activist Bianca Jagger.

Photos Copyrights: Michel Comte, Optiker Zwicker

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La Bella Vita

«Rocco Forte» hotels are the epitome of luxury, elegance and uniqueness. And that, of course, also means providing guests with personalised experiences. 

Hospitality is deeply rooted in the Italian way of life. «Ospitalità» is literally the epitome of cordiality. It comes to no surprise that it is, of course, also lived to perfection in the «Rocco Forte» brand of hotels. Thus, the new season starts with the old imperative: Offering guests the best service in beautiful locations! And that also means taking people on a journey into the world of «la Dolce Vita».

Masseria Torre Maizza, Apulia

However, chef de cuisine Fulvio Pierangelini not only offers his guests culinary highlights in Florence, but also spends part of his time at the «Masseria Torre Maizza». The old farmhouse in the picturesque Apulian countryside has also been completely renovated and converted into a luxury hotel. 40 residential units, a 9-hole golf course and all this not far from the sea give those who decide to stay there a stylish break.
The resort offers a five-day gourmet tour, led by Fulvio Pierangelini himself, so that guests can consciously experience the flavours of local cuisine. This journey of discovery takes you along the Apulian coast, through sunny olive groves to local producers. Travellers can join the locals during production and see how things are made, and of course the products are then enjoyed over a hearty meal. The chef de cuisine himself will be present as a cook, sharing the little details of the country’s culinary secrets.

Hotel Savoy, Florence

«Fresh» is also the subject of the menu at the «Ristorante Irene» at the «Hotel Savoy» in Florence. The crockery at this «Rocco Forte» hotel is just as fresh. Together with the Florentine brand «Loretta Caponi», chef de cuisine Fulvio Pierangelini has created his own spring-inspired tableware. Artfully embroidered sets and napkins are now placed on every seat in the restaurant, beautifully setting the scene for the culinary experience on the plate.
The city palazzo in which the «Hotel Savoy» is located dates back to 1893. From there, just a few minutes on foot bring you to the famous cathedral «Santa Maria del Fiore» and the «Piazza della Repubblica». The rooms and suites were completely renovated just a few years ago and, thanks to Italian craftsmanship, they welcome guests in high-class Florentine style. Almost exclusively local works of art decorate the walls throughout the building.

Hotel de la Ville, Rome

In the shadow of the majestic Spanish Steps, in one of Rome’s most historic locations, the «Hotel de la Ville» welcomes its guests. Luxurious comfort paired with the history of the city make for a unique experience. The 18th century mansion has been extensively renovated, while care was taken to preserve the charm of the past. Both rooms and suites have all been individually designed and always offer a view of the city. Furthermore, the hotel is also host to several restaurants and bars, including «Mosaico», a place that is known far beyond the city limits and above all for its great wine cellar.

In addition to the perfect ambience, the luxury hotel also offers its guests customised experiences that exceed any normal city tour by far. Just in time for the 100th birthday of Italian actor Marcello Mastroianni, the «Hotel de la Ville» is now offering an evening tour in a restored vintage Fiat 500. Guests can go on a tour through the eternal city, which is a very special adventure, especially at night, and stop at places where famous film scenes were shot.

Verdura Resort, Sicily

The «Verdura Resort», which forms part of the «Rocco Forte» brand of hotels, also allows people to immerse themselves, in this case in the history and beautiful landscape of Sicily. This year, the hotel is offering its guests a morning excursion instead of an evening one. This takes guests on a journey through the «Valley of the Temples», one of the most important archaeological sites in Sicily. This is followed by a traditional Sicilian farmers’ breakfast. There, granitas are waiting with their sweet temptation. A granita is an icy refreshment made from water, sugar and various flavours. It goes well with a brioche, which is often served warm.

The Verdura Resort is an impressive retreat nestled on the southern coast of Sicily. There are views of the Mediterranean Sea from everywhere on the 230-hectare (568 acres) site. Guests are spoilt for choice between a classic double room, a large suite or their own villa. When it comes to culinary delights, Mediterranean specialities are on the menu in the «La Zagara» restaurant, while the «Amare», located directly on the beach, focuses on freshly caught fish from the sea.

Photos Copyrights: Rocco Forte-Hotels

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Extraordinary. Experimental. Exclusive.

«Bucherer exclusive» represents a special edition of the swiss luxury retailer and, at the same time, high-quality watchmaking. The timepieces from renowned manufacturers are available as special editions and are sometimes very limited.

Perfection and uniqueness are two of the cornerstones of the art of watchmaking. Something that the Swiss company Bucherer, a household name, values. Anyone looking for the perfect watch for them in Zurich will find it right here – in the five-storey building at Bahnhofstrasse 50. «Bucherer Exclusives» also stands for precision craftsmanship, unmistakable design and finesse. The exclusive pieces, almost all of which are limited editions, were created by Bucherer in an exclusive partnership with renowned manufacturers such as H. Moser & Cie. and Ulysse Nardin, to name just a couple. Around 40 very special models have been created so far and this is what gets lovers of beautiful timepieces in a really enthusiastic mood. Extraordinary, experimental and exclusive.

Girard-Perregaux

For now, let us start with the special edition of the Laureato chronograph made by «Girard-Perregaux». The over 200-year-old manufacture based in La Chaux-de-Fonds represents the fact that a timepiece is so much more than just what is needed to find out the time. The dial of this Special Edition features a silver «Clous de Paris» pattern and blue auxiliary dials, in other words, a colour scheme that echoes Bucherer’s signature colours.

However, the model naturally continues to display its characteristic features – such as the raised, octagonal bezel – in style; after all, it makes the Laureato collection, which has been available since 1975, one of the most popular of the «Girard-Perregaux» brand. The same applies to the seamless transition of the steel case and bracelet. This special model is definitely worth a second look for those who embrace extravagance on their wrist.

Breitling

Another masterpiece, this time from Breitling, has also been given a new look thanks to the «Bucherer Exclusive» collection. In this joint project between Bucherer and Breitling, the “Superocean” has been reissued as a stylish trio in three versions. The «Superocean Automatic 44» impresses with its light blue dial and ceramic inserts. So does its smaller sister, which, with a diameter of 36 mm, also fits somewhat narrower wrists. And the third watch in the collection is the «Superocean Automatic 42». It is a real eye-catcher thanks to its burgundy red-coloured minute scale and a bezel in red gold. However, there are only 88 pieces available of each, so Breitling fans should hurry.

The history of the «Superocean» is legendary, as it was the first diver’s watch that Breitling brought onto the market and has demonstrably shaped the company and its direction. Whether diving, swimming or sailing, the desire for a reliable companion for water sports was becoming increasingly important in the 1950s. And Breitling’s «Superocean» was able to fulfil said desire with style. Over the years, the model has been modified step by step. That, above all, meant more technology and even better readability. In the end, the «Slow Motion» version was born, which has lost none of its popularity to this day.

L’Epee 1839

And yes, when we talk about timepieces, we can also think of time travel. With the «Bucherer Exclusive Time Machine», Bucherer has brought this illusion known from science fiction films to life in the form of a table clock. Or in other words, brought them to life together with the L’Epée 1839 brand. The mechanical sculpture is very reminiscent of a time capsule. The fascinating look, futuristic design and moving elements of the sculpture are skilfully combined with all the refinements of watchmaking. The time capsule – glass tube, time display and the entire mechanical movement – can be set in rotation. This timepiece is definitely one of the most unusual items in the «Bucherer Exclusive» collection and one of the newest. The collector’s item is limited to 20 pieces worldwide.

Photos Copyrights: Bucherer

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Perfect IN FORM

For 150 years, «Zwiesel Glas» has been synonymous with impressive craftsmanship. A homage to a product that many of us have taken for granted.

Drinking from a glass – whatever the drink – is something we take for granted. However, very few people think about where it comes from and how it was created; we prefer to enjoy the content. The craftsmanship behind the production is exciting, impressive and, above all, it has a long history. The first glasses were made many centuries before Christ; the first official production record can be found on a clay tablet from the library of the Assyrian King Ashurbanipal. And even back then, in the 7th century BC, sand, ash and chalk were used. Little has changed in these substances to this day; quartz sand, potash, lime and metal oxides are still used today. The latter are primarily used for colouring.

A world leader, a world favourite

Today, around 39.5 million tons of glass are produced in Europe every year. In Germany, the company «Zwiesel Glas» is synonymous with modern, high-quality and beautiful glass variants – and has been for more than 150 years. This is appreciated by the catering and hospitality industry in particular. It’s no wonder that we were once again named «World Market Leader Champion» this year. And for the seventh time in a row. Zwiesel Glas produces up to 60 million glasses a year – with a very unique sound. Or as it is called internally: «Glasses with a special note». Glassmakers can recognise a Zwiesel glass by the sound it makes when it is hit discreetly.

In addition to quality, Zwiesel glass also focuses on design. And also very successfully. The «Symbiosis» decanter received the «Iconic Award: Innovative Interior 2024» in the product design category this year. However, resting on these laurels is not in the company’s philosophy. Or as company owner Dr Andreas Buske says: «We are very proud to have been recognised as world market leader again in 2024. This title is a nice confirmation for us, but at the same time further incentive to become the worldwide brand for all the moments that make life special.»

Nice motivation, because yes, even if we often unconsciously hold a glass in our hand, we have not forgotten many of the moments in which we toasted with it. «Cheers!» «Santé!» «Prost!» «Jámas!» «Skål!»

Photos Copyrights: Zwiesel Glas

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On the trail of nature

Learning from nature. IRÄYE products contain an active ingredient that regenerates the human lymphatic system.

The founding fathers, Professor Michael Detmar and Dr Epa Gousopoulos, carried out extensive research over a long period to reach their goal. It took around 20 years to develop the perfect skin care product that activates the lymphatic system and thus ensures a radiant complexion. Using external influences to highlight inner beauty, to simplify the
process somewhat. And no matter whether the product is «The Shaping Body Cream», the «Eye Revive Cream» or the «Radiance Firming Serum», the IRÄYE brand is revolutionising skin care.

Prof. Michael Detmar and Dr. Epa Gousopoulos

A real Booster

The human lymphatic system is our own internal vacuum cleaner. Unfortunately, as with all «devices», its performance decreases over the years. And that’s what happens here too. Keeping with our example, the by Detmar and Gousopoulos developed Lymphactive™ complex essentially performs a general overhaul. The products available under the name IRÄYE contain five plant-based activators that renew the lymphatic structures of the skin and therefore ensure the natural repair process. And in the long term. Harmful oxidants, metabolic waste and cell debris have no chance. Studies confirm this, because IRÄYE products with the Lymphactive™ complex increase lymph activation by almost 300 percent.

One for all

There are currently three products under the IRÄYE brand that, thanks to the new active ingredient, have been proven to tighten the skin and fight cellulite. And the best thing is: all the products are suitable for all skin types and either gender. «The Shaping Body Creme» provides moisture and at the same time reduces unwanted water retention. The «Eye Revive Cream» also has the same effect, making puffy eyes and dark circles a thing of the past. And the «Radiance Firming Serum» ensures an even complexion. Fine lines and wrinkles will disappear within a few weeks after the first and then regular use.

Demonstrably better

Professor Michael Detmar and Dr Epa Gousopoulos investigated more than 2,200 plant extracts to decide on the five that would create the perfect mixture and thus the revolutionary Lymphactive™ complex mentioned. But the effort was really worth it, because around 9 out of 10 people confirm that their skin feels firmer, healthier and looks brighter as a result of using the products.

The IRÄYE brand is revolutionising skincare. All the products are suitable for all skin types and either gender.

Photos Copyrights: IRÄYE

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Tradition meets Innovation

For more than 100 years, the Boesch brand has represented unique watercraft like no other and has revolutionised the world of motorboats with its «Boesch Horizon Gliding Technology».

There are things that you have to have experienced yourself just to be able to understand them. Simply because you really felt it. One of these things is riding a Boesch boat. Thanks to the Horizon Gliding technology developed and constantly refined by the Swiss family that owns the company themselves, the ride feels as if you were floating above the water, becoming one with the horizon. This makes both relaxed tours and water skiing competitions unique experiences of their own.

Not higher, but faster

For more than 100 years, the name Boesch has represented exceptional watercraft. And innovative strength, too. After all, it is thanks to Walter Bösch that boats can cruise at such high speeds nowadays while still safely gliding through the water. Back in the 1920s, gliding boats became a trend and were something Mr Bösch knew how to construct. Still, as a trained boat constructor. Mr Bösch had a completely different idea of how a boat should move.

He really wanted a fast vehicle, something sporty. However, the hull shape of the boats at the time made this impossible, from a purely physical point of view, as they were merely displacing water. But Walter Bösch found an answer to this by taking his cue from seaplanes. At the same time, it was also clear to him that he didn’t want to build boats that pointed their noses skywards, but rather a fast boat that moved horizontally to the surface of the water. The rest is history still being written.

Both strong and beautiful, all at the same time

Today, just like in days gone by, Boesch boats are among the most innovative, but they are also among the most beautiful. Every single one is a perfect combination of wood and leather and a real powerhouse inside: the Ilmor MV8 with a 5.7 litre displacement is one of the most powerful and robust engines in the motorboat sector. Nonetheless, it can optionally be replaced in a Boesch boat by an even more powerful Ilmor MV8 engine with a 7 litre displacement.

And with regards to the instrument panel, the Swiss watch manufacturer IWC is a strong partner, too. In addition to the high-quality standard equipment, individuality is a must. This means that many details are customised at the customer’s request.

Just a bit more elegance and excellence make the difference

The company itself is now run by the 4th generation, but still in the spirit of the founder. You might perhaps already have realised that the family name is Bösch, yet the company is called Boesch. This is not due to an error on our part. It was simply because another, somewhat larger company was afraid that Bösch would be confused with Bosch too quickly. But the additional «e» in the name emphasises the excellence of the boats once again. And they have rightfully earned it.

Photos Copyrights: Boesch

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Adam

«I was definitely not yet 16 years old when I drank my first glass of wine.»

In an interview, Stefano Petta, sommelier of the year 2024, explains why he doesn’t have a favourite wine and why “fruit salad” put him under pressure during his training.

Mr Petta, what question should you never ask a sommelier?
Stefano Petta: Which is your favourite wine… because there is no one wine, no favourite wine in my eyes. Of course, you may have a favourite that you enjoy drinking and that you always have a bottle of at home. But wine also has a lot to do with the situation in which you drink it. And things like the seasons and their vis-a-vis are also relevant to which wine is best suited.

And what question is a sommelier never asked, even though it’s obvious?
I really have to think about that. Or I would change the question slightly and address a generalisation that often exists when it comes to a sommelier. Many people assume that a sommelier only drinks wine. And no, like everyone else, I drink beer, coffee and often water. (laughs)

How did you get into wine? Can you remember the day or the occasion on which you drank your first glass of wine?
What I can say is that I was certainly not yet 16 years old when I drank my first glass of wine. My parents are both from Italy and we always visited the family during the summer holidays. My grandparents, who unfortunately were no longer alive at the time, had also tended some vines for many years, so there was still wine stored in the cellar. And that’s why we definitely drank a mixture of wine and gazosa every now and then when we were growing up…

When did you decide to make wine your passion and therefore your career?
I first trained as a chef, then took another course dedicated to the restaurant industry. And when it comes to the latter, it is of course important that you understand the basics about wine. During this time I became aware of the possibility of training to become a sommelier and started it more on a whim. In my early 20s, I was definitely the youngest and it wasn’t easy.

What was particularly difficult?
The fruit salad. (laughs) The others were often much older than me and always tasted black olives, cooked carrots and the like at the tasting. I actually cooked carrots at home and tried to find that aroma in the wine. I did a lot of blind tastings while studying on my own to get better at this. And that’s alongside my work, as I did the training part-time.

Were there moments when you asked yourself why you were doing this?
Absolutely. Especially because you very quickly lose enjoyment when it comes to drinking wine in your private life. There are certain key words to describe wines. They apply worldwide and ensure a kind of uniformity in the assessment. But when you go out for pizza with friends in the evening and drink a glass of wine, at some point you can no longer switch off. Then these words immediately pop into your head. Then you suddenly get annoyed that the table isn’t white because you can’t optimally estimate the colour of the wine.

It was still worth persevering. You hold the title “Sommelier of the Year 2024”. How important is such a title for your job and how important for you personally?
It is certainly extremely beneficial to your career if you have a title like this. Also in my new position as Director of Wine for The Living Circle. I also give master classes. It would be wrong to say that titles are not important in this respect. The same applies to me personally. Of course I am proud of the award. This is good for the ego. Anyone who says otherwise… and when guests in the restaurant congratulate me on that, it makes me extremely happy.

By the way, what is the biggest sin you can commit with wine?
Store it incorrectly. I remember a holiday in Florence. The wine bottles were on a shelf behind the counter. It felt like 50 degrees outside, 30 degrees inside and the wine was around 29 degrees. No one should be surprised if the wine no longer tastes good. I know how much work the winemaker put into this bottle, so I just think it’s a shame. On the other hand, in the restaurant I have to accept when people pour Cola into their wine or mountains of ice cubes. If I couldn’t accept that, I wouldn’t be allowed to put the wine on the menu. Because customers pay for it and can enjoy it however it suits them.

You have been working closely with top chef Stefan Heilemann for years. How important is the partnership for you?
We parted ways in June after nine years. Even if that’s not entirely true. Because in my role as “Director of Wine” at “The Living Circle” Group, I still have an office in the Widder Hotel. But we had a great and passionate time. First in the Ecco, later in the Widder. Because when the restaurant was closed during the pandemic, we and a large part of the crew later moved to the Widder Hotel. The two of us are a bit like a married couple. We sometimes argue a lot because our jobs are definitely not the easiest. But on the other hand, we know each other so well that we have absolute trust in each other and can always rely on each other. A great collaboration.

How is this continuing in your new role?
As I said: The Widder belongs to the “The Living Circle” Group. That’s why I’ll continue to be in the establishment. But I’ll also be giving master classes in other establishments. We will no longer work as closely as we did as restaurant manager and chef, but we will still work together on a regular basis.

So to the future. Wines are also subject to trends. What’s currently happening?
Orange wines, or as they also say: natural wines. These are currently experiencing a trend, especially in the Nordic countries and the USA.

Which trend would you personally never take part in?
To stay on topic: natural wines are not my thing. I’ve tried a few now, but I can’t warm to them. I’m more of a classic sommelier. I find wines that are not stabilised difficult. But as with many things, you shouldn’t try to convince people of a philosophy. Neither with food, eating habits nor with wine. It just has to be right for you personally.

And for situation, the vis-a-vis and the season…
Exactly right.

Biography

36-year-old Stefano Petta has his roots in Italy, but today he lives and works in Zurich. For the last few years he has welcomed people to the restaurant of the Hotel Widder as a host. Since the 1st of June he has held the position of «Director of Wine» at The Living Circle. At the end of 2023 he also received the «Sommelier of the Year 2024» award. He is trained as a chef and a restaurant specialist and acquired his diploma as a sommelier ASSP at the age of 22. A year later he created his first wine list at the Schweizerhof in Bern. His professional career has been shaped above all by his years of trusting collaboration with Stefan Heilemann. They initially worked together at the ECCO in Zurich, and since 2020 the two of them have been jointly responsible for the delights on offer at the Widder Hotel.

Photos Copyrights: Widder, The Living Circle

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Experience

Tasty Ticino

For people in the south of Switzerland, a good meal is the perfect combination or regional food paired with wine that was also pressed in Ticino. The traditional winery «Terreni alla Maggia» has therefore laid the perfect foundation with the new brand «Cantina alla Maggia».

Nothing goes better with polenta than a good wine. The same is true for risotto. And all three are best enjoyed in the Ticino sun. Thanks to this, the ingredients are perfectly ripened. This has regularly been part of the agenda of the «Cantina alla Maggia» winery since 1930. Today, wine, rice and corn are passionately grown on almost 100 hectares between Ascona, Locarno and the Magadino plain. The only thing that has changed now is the name. The agricultural business was once called «Terreni alla Maggia».

«With the new brand Cantina alla Maggia, we are emphasising the dedication with which we care for our vineyards and produce our wines,» says Simon V. Jenny. And the Director of the «Cantina alla Maggia», «Terreni alla Maggia» and the «Castello del Sole Beach Resort & Spa» adds: «The new appearance of the wines and especially the wine labels reflect the excellence of our wines. It is a tribute to our growth and is an expression of the quality efforts of our employees in recent years.»

Enjoy originality

The vines currently take up around 11.5 hectares of the total cultivated area, with a diverse variety of grapes. Starting with the traditional Merlot and ending with Bondola, an indigenous grape variety from Ticino, the taste portfolio is challenging. And of course the grappa should be mentioned also, three varieties are produced every year. Plus the aforementioned corn and rice production. It’s hard to know where to start sampling.

The products are sold in our own store directly in Ascona. The «Enoteca Alimentare» also offers tours, tastings and events. But it’s also worth asking in your favourite restaurant, because the products from «Cantina alla Maggia» and «Terreni alla Maggia» are in demand throughout Switzerland when it comes to fine dishes and tasty accompaniments.

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