Natural Stone is one of the oldest and most elementary building materials – and a main habitat for lichen. With new techniques it is possible to form stones faster and in more diverse shapes. Hence it is still pioneering work to design these techniques.
Stone also has antibacterial behavior, is easy to clean and will last very long. The multi-sensorial experience with stone is also pretty unique.

Yes, it is proof and we didn’t have any issues.

However, if possible please wash it by hand.

Even if it is stone, please be careful with the cups. Despite the materials, the cups can be fragile. 

If the objects have a crack, please reach out at contact@simiaen.com

Simiaen – Natural stone cups and tableware are manufactured in southern Burgenland (Austria) by Stein Schwarz. 

Simiaen emerged from the docu-fictional project Unseen Edible, in which Julia Schwarz imagines a world where lichen are prevalent and commonly consumed. Lichen are a composite organism of algae and fungi and they offer a great deal of nutritional value. They are rich in Vitamin D, B12, Mg, Fe & Iod.

Lichen are categorized novel food and not yet approved for the conventional food market. However, in the pharmaceutical industry they are registered and commonly used. You may also know Icelandic Moss from your lozenges for a sore throught

Although lichens and mosses are often confused because they grow in similar places and are both usually small and greenish or grayish (sometimes lichens even have misleading names such as “Iceland moss”), they are fundamentally different biologically: Lichens are not plants, but rather a fascinating symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an alga (or cyanobacterium), in which the fungus provides protection and the alga produces food through photosynthesis. Mosses, on the other hand, are independent plants (more specifically, bryophytes) that perform photosynthesis themselves and have simple stems, leaves, and adhesive roots. The main difference is therefore that mosses are plants, while lichens represent a unique cooperation between fungi and algae.

Iceland moss (scientific name Cetraria islandica) is a lichen that has been used traditionally and scientifically primarily to relieve respiratory complaints. It is particularly well known for its ability to soothe dry coughs, sore throats, and hoarseness. This is due to the mucilage it contains, which forms a protective film over the irritated mucous membranes in the mouth and throat when it comes into contact with moisture. This alleviates the urge to cough and promotes the regeneration of the mucous membranes. In addition, Iceland moss can also stimulate the appetite and help with mild digestive problems thanks to the bitter substances it contains. It is available in the form of lozenges, cough syrups, or teas. We have tea blends containing Iceland moss in our range, in cooperation with Kottas. We produce Iceland moss flavor extract for beverages.

A lichen is a fascinating symbiotic community consisting of two different partners: a fungus and an alga (or cyanobacterium). These two live together in a kind of “shared living arrangement”: the fungus provides protection and support, while the alga produces food for both partners through photosynthesis. Thanks to this cooperation, lichens can thrive in places that would be inhospitable for either partner alone, such as on bare rocks, tree bark, or in extreme climates. Lichens are also important bioindicators of air quality.

Definitely yes! Lichens are much more than just growths on trees and rocks. They play a crucial role in the health of our environment and offer a wealth of potential and real benefits for humans. Modern research is intensively investigating lichens for potential antibiotic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, or even anti-cancer agents, as they produce a variety of unique lichen substances.

They are pioneer plants and important for soil formation: lichens are often the first organisms to colonize bare rocks and soils (pioneer vegetation). Certain types of lichen have been used as a food source in times of need or in specific cultures. However, they require extensive preparation to remove bitter substances and toxins. We use the lichen Iceland moss.

Lichens are an indicator of a healthy environment, which means they are indirectly healthy for us! The presence and diversity of lichen species in an area are therefore an excellent indicator of air quality. Lichens are largely unsuitable and potentially dangerous for direct human consumption, unless you have in-depth botanical knowledge and know how to prepare safe species. Thanks to the work of Julia Schwarz, we have succeeded in doing just that. This was one of the main reasons for founding Simiæn!

Natural stone is fundamentally a very sustainable building material due to its durability, recyclability, and naturalness. However, to maximize its sustainability, it is important to pay attention to regional origin, environmentally friendly extraction and processing, and a long service life. And that is exactly what we do: we use natural stone from southern Burgenland. This natural stone is even denser than granite. In addition, we only use the sections of black stone, thus ensuring circular economy production.

These materials differ fundamentally in terms of their origin and manufacture: Natural stone: This is a natural rock that is extracted directly from quarries and processed (e.g. granite, marble, slate). It is unique and is not fired. Ceramics: This is a generic term for products that are formed by humans from mineral raw materials (usually clay) and fired at high temperatures. Earthenware: This is a specific type of ceramic that is fired at relatively low temperatures. Its unglazed body is very porous and not frost-resistant. In summary: Natural stone is a pure natural product, while ceramics (and therefore also stoneware) are products made by humans from natural raw materials and fired, with stoneware being the most porous and lowest-fired type of ceramic.

Simiaen lichen tea is being produced in Vienna, Austria – in beautiful collaboration with Kottas pharmaceutics.

Simiæn Sprizz Non Alcoholic is bottled in Lower Austria 

Simiæn Sprizz is bottled in Southern Burgenland, Austria

A Spritz is a light, sparkling aperitif originating from Northern Italy. It traditionally consists of a bitter or bitter-fruity base (like Aperol or Campari), topped with sparkling wine, and lengthened with a splash of soda water. Crucially, a Spritz is not a wine, but a refreshing mixed drink.

Our Simiæn Sprizz is our distinctive interpretation of this classic. We prioritize a distinctly bitter taste and offer it in both an alcoholic version (with sparkling wine) and a 100% alcohol-free Sprizz. It’s a characterful aperitif that elegantly unites design, nature, and pure enjoyment.

Our Simiæn Sprizz stands out thanks to the use of Icelandic moss (Cetraria islandica). This unique botanical from the North imparts a singular, gently earthy, and pleasantly bitter note to our aperitif – it’s the pure, unadulterated taste of the North. This is our commitment to clear flavor design, reinterpreting tradition with an innovative twist.

At Simiæn, we view alcohol-free indulgence as a true art form! We deliberately break away from the notion that a drink without alcohol must merely be a sweet juice. Instead, we invite you into a world of fascinatingly complex and multi-layered flavor profiles, brought to life by our carefully selected, high-quality, and tart botanicals – foremost among them our unique Icelandic moss. To achieve this exceptional depth and sophistication, we proudly collaborated with the award-winning chef and fermentation specialist Johannes Schartner.

The alcohol-free Simiæn Sprizz is a true masterpiece of taste: It indulges your palate with an invigorating tartness and refined aromas that are both challenging and surprising. It’s the ultimate, characterful aperitif experience, completely alcohol-free, that utterly delights with its full-bodied, sophisticated flavor and proves: A drink without alcohol can be just as exciting and complex!

Yes, our Simiæn Sprizz is vegan and gluten-free. We are committed to using natural ingredients suitable for a broad range of discerning palates.

We have consciously developed the Simiæn Sprizz for maximum ease of enjoyment: Simply chill the bottles, pour into a champagne or sparkling wine glass. Optionally, add a slice of lemon. Done! It’s that simple to savor your perfect Simiæn moment.

Yes, we gladly collaborate with partners in the hospitality industry and retail. Please contact us via email at contact@simiaen.com to learn more about our partnership opportunities and conditions.

To preserve the exquisite taste and effervescence of your Simiæn Sprizz, we recommend storing the bottles in a cool, dark place, ensuring they are always kept standing upright. For the specific ‘best before’ date, please consult the label on each bottle. Once opened, we suggest enjoying your Simiæn Sprizz cooled within 3 – days to experience its optimal freshness.

The name SIMIÆN is deeply rooted in nature and history, derived from the magnificent Simien Mountains in Ethiopia – often revered as the “Cradle of Humanity.” This spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site is famously known as the “Grand Canyon of Africa” and is home to unique, lichen-eating monkeys. The distinctive Æ in our brand name is a direct homage to lichen (Flechten) and its remarkable symbiotic way of life, reflecting our brand’s connection to natural harmony, ancient wisdom, and complex botanical synergy.

What makes coffee taste exceptionally better when enjoyed from a handcrafted natural stone mug?

Coffee drinking is more than just a quick caffeine boost – it’s a treasured daily ritual, an essential moment of mindful pause. A handcrafted natural stone mug elevates this experience to an entirely new level. Each mug is an absolute unique item, showcasing the raw beauty and individual character of the stone.

The pleasant, substantial weight and the subtly textured, natural surface of the stone provide a deeply grounding haptic experience. This tactile connection encourages you to slow down, hold your mug more consciously, and savor every sip with greater attention. Furthermore, these natural stone vessels offer superior heat retention, ensuring your coffee stays at its ideal temperature longer. This allows the complex aromas to unfold perfectly, enriching your entire coffee enjoyment.

Choosing a handcrafted natural stone mug means embracing a ritual where quality, design, and a unique sensory experience come together, transforming your coffee break into an act of true self-care.

A good cup of tea is far more than just a hot beverage – it’s a cherished moment of respite and mindfulness. But did you know that the vessel itself significantly influences the sensory experience? This is where a natural stone mug truly excels.

• Optimal Thermal Properties: Natural stone is an excellent heat retainer. Your tea cools down more slowly, allowing its complex aromas to unfold gently and evenly without becoming bitter. This ensures a consistent and delightful taste experience from the first sip to the last.
• Unique Haptics: The substantial weight and the subtly textured, earthy surface of a natural stone mug imbue it with a special sense of value and connection. Holding a handcrafted unique item made from stone fosters a more conscious engagement, allowing you to literally feel nature in your hands.
• The Ritual: Drinking from a handcrafted unique item encourages deceleration and transforms tea time into a mindful ritual. It engages all senses – from the comforting weight in your hand to the pure, nuanced taste on your tongue – making each moment a truly enriching experience.

Beyond the obvious health advantages, choosing an alcohol-free aperitif like SIMIÆN SPRIZZ allows for mindful indulgence without compromise. It offers complex, sophisticated flavors that don’t rely on alcohol for enjoyment, making it perfect for any occasion. Our SIMIÆN SPRIZZ ensures you can participate in social rituals, maintain clarity, and still savor a characterful, bitter and refreshing drink that truly stands out.

A sophisticated bitter note in an aperitif is highly prized for its ability to stimulate the appetite and cleanse the palate, preparing it for the meal to come. It adds depth and complexity, creating an “adult” flavor profile that sweet drinks often lack. SIMIÆN SPRIZZ achieves its distinct bitter character through a harmonious blend of carefully selected botanicals, prominently featuring our unique Icelandic moss, a natural ingredient known for its refined tartness. This ensures a truly characterful and invigorating experience.

Drinking from natural stone offers a multi-sensory experience that goes beyond conventional materials. Beyond the unique haptics and the grounding feel of a handcrafted unique item, natural stone provides excellent thermal properties, keeping your drinks at the desired temperature longer. It’s also a durable and inherently sustainable choice, connecting you directly with nature through its authentic texture and origin. Our natural stone tumblers enhance the enjoyment of any beverage, from SIMIÆN SPRIZZ to coffee or tea.

Icelandic moss (Cetraria islandica) is a fascinating lichen thriving in the pristine, unpolluted environments of the alpine regions. Valued for its unique properties and subtle, earthy flavor profile, it’s a key botanical in our SIMIÆN SPRIZZ. It contributes a distinct, refined bitter note and a depth of flavor that is both intriguing and refreshing. Its inclusion underscores our commitment to natural, authentic ingredients and our brand’s connection to symbiotic life forms, as symbolized by the Æ in SIMIÆN.

Absolutely! While SIMIÆN SPRIZZ is perfect for easy enjoyment straight from the bottle, its complex and characterful flavor profile also makes it an exceptional base for creative cocktails and mocktails. Its distinct bitter notes and refreshing qualities elevate mixed drinks. We regularly share inspiring recipes on our social media channels, showing you how to craft unique and sophisticated beverages with SIMIÆN SPRIZZ.

But here are some: 

Simiæn Noir

20 ml vodka | 50 ml Simiæn Sprizz Bitter Aperitif | 30 ml cooled espresso | 15-20 ml coffee liqueur |  Shake in a coupe glass, top up with Simiæn Sprizz Bitter Aperitif Garnish: lemon zest / coffee beans

Lichen Sgroppino digestif

Lemon sorbet is whipped with vodka until frothy.

Simiæn Sprizz is served chilled in a champagne glass.

ALPINE FOAM

150 ml Simiæn Sprizz Non Alcoholic  | 12 ml pink grapefruit juice
8 ml lemon juice  | 3 ml saltwater tincture  | 20 ml egg white foam Shake in a coupe glass, top up with Simiæn Sprizz Non Alcoholic

Garnish: grapefruit zest, (lemon) thyme sprig

Simiæn Sprizz Blend  (alc)

120 ml Simiæn Sprizz Bitter Aperitif | 60 ml Simiæn Sprizz Non Alc.

Fill a highball glass with ice cubes | Garnish: lemon zest

MOSSY ORCHARD  (alc)

40 ml Calvados | 100 ml Simiæn Sprizz Non Alc. | 10 ml lemon juice

Fill a highball glass with ice cubes, stir in the Calvados and lemon
juice, top up with Simiæn Sprizz Non Alc | Garnish: lemon zest