8+ Best Neuhaus Chocolate Advent Calendars 2023


8+ Best Neuhaus Chocolate Advent Calendars 2023

A premium Belgian chocolate-filled introduction calendar provides an opulent countdown to the festive season. Every day reveals a unique piece of gourmand chocolate, offering a small second of indulgence all through December. These calendars typically characteristic an assortment of milk, darkish, and white goodies, generally with fillings like pralines, caramels, or ganaches. They function a complicated various to extra conventional choices.

The custom of counting all the way down to Christmas with an introduction calendar creates anticipation and pleasure. A high-quality chocolate model elevates this expertise, providing a each day deal with that appeals to each adults and kids. The calendar itself can even grow to be an ornamental component through the vacation season, including to the festive ambiance. Moreover, such calendars could be a considerate reward, demonstrating appreciation by means of a fastidiously curated collection of high-quality goodies.

This text will additional discover the world of luxurious chocolate introduction calendars, inspecting varied elements together with the craftsmanship, taste profiles, and cultural significance of those seasonal treats. It’ll additionally delve into the historical past and evolution of introduction calendars, offering a complete understanding of this beloved vacation custom.

1. Belgian Heritage

The “Neuhaus” title is synonymous with Belgian chocolate-making, representing a legacy of expertise and high quality integral to the appearance calendar expertise. Understanding this heritage supplies context for the calendar’s premium nature and its place inside the broader custom of Belgian chocolate.

  • Origins and Experience

    Neuhaus’s historical past dates again to 1857, starting as a pharmacy in Brussels that later included confectionery. This evolution led to the event of the praline in 1912, a Belgian chocolate icon. The model’s long-standing experience in crafting these and different chocolate delicacies is immediately mirrored within the fastidiously curated choice discovered inside the introduction calendars. This experience assures shoppers of the prime quality and authenticity of the product.

  • Excessive-High quality Substances

    Belgian chocolate is famend for its excessive cocoa content material and using premium substances. Neuhaus upholds these requirements, sourcing high-quality cocoa beans and incorporating conventional strategies to create wealthy and nuanced taste profiles. This dedication to high quality distinguishes the appearance calendar from mass-produced options, providing a very refined tasting expertise.

  • Innovation and Artistry

    Whereas steeped in custom, Neuhaus additionally maintains a spirit of innovation. This may be seen within the number of chocolate creations included within the introduction calendars, typically that includes distinctive taste combos and complex designs. This mix of custom and innovation showcases the dynamism of Belgian chocolate-making.

  • Cultural Significance

    Chocolate holds a major place in Belgian tradition, representing a supply of nationwide delight and culinary artistry. A Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar embodies this cultural significance, providing a style of Belgium’s wealthy chocolate heritage inside a festive context. The act of gifting or receiving such a calendar turns into a method of sharing and celebrating this heritage.

These sides of Belgian heritage mix to raise the Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar past a easy seasonal deal with. It turns into a logo of high quality, craftsmanship, and cultural significance, enriching the expertise of counting all the way down to the vacations.

2. Premium Chocolate

The designation “premium chocolate” carries particular implications for a Neuhaus introduction calendar, distinguishing it from mass-produced options. Premium chocolate is characterised by high-quality substances, meticulous processing, and distinct taste profiles. These elements immediately affect the general expertise and perceived worth of the appearance calendar.

Using high-quality cocoa beans is paramount. High-quality cacao beans, typically single-origin or fastidiously blended, contribute complicated taste notes past easy sweetness. This complexity is additional enhanced by the addition of different premium substances, corresponding to high-quality milk, butter, and pure flavorings. The absence of synthetic flavors or preservatives underscores the dedication to high quality. Meticulous processing strategies, from conching to tempering, refine the chocolate’s texture and contribute to a clean, melt-in-the-mouth expertise. This cautious consideration to element elevates the each day ritual of opening the appearance calendar right into a second of real indulgence. As an example, the inclusion of a darkish chocolate ganache infused with a touch of sea salt exemplifies the nuanced flavors achievable by means of premium substances and cautious craftsmanship. One other instance might be a milk chocolate praline stuffed with a clean hazelnut paste, showcasing the harmonious mixing of high-quality elements.

The affect of premium chocolate extends past particular person items to the general notion of the appearance calendar. It signifies a dedication to high quality and craftsmanship, enhancing the calendar’s gifting potential and its perceived worth. This positions the calendar as an opulent merchandise appropriate for discerning chocolate lovers. Whereas the value level could also be larger than mass-market choices, the standard of the chocolate supplies a commensurate worth proposition. The understanding of what constitutes premium chocolate, due to this fact, turns into essential in appreciating the Neuhaus introduction calendar expertise. This information permits shoppers to make knowledgeable choices and perceive the excellence between a easy seasonal deal with and a genuinely luxurious indulgence. This distinction reinforces the calendar’s worth as a considerate reward and a singular approach to mark the festive season.

3. Festive Countdown

The idea of a “festive countdown” is intrinsically linked to the appearance calendar custom. A Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar serves as a tangible manifestation of this countdown, reworking the anticipation of the vacation season right into a each day ritual. This each day interplay with the calendar fosters a way of pleasure and cultivates a rising anticipation for the principle occasion. The act of opening a brand new window every day marks the passage of time, making a structured development in direction of the celebration. This structured strategy differentiates it from the extra normal anticipation of the vacation season, offering a particular focus for every day main as much as the principle occasion. This each day ritual serves as a reminder of the approaching vacation, serving to to construct pleasure and create a shared expertise amongst household and associates.

The Neuhaus calendar enhances this conventional countdown by means of the addition of an opulent component. The each day reveal of a premium chocolate transforms the easy act of opening a window right into a second of indulgence and anticipation. Every chocolate turns into a small celebration in itself, contributing to the general festive ambiance. For instance, a household would possibly collect every night to open the day’s window collectively, making a shared second of anticipation and delight. Equally, a person would possibly use the calendar as a private deal with, marking the tip of every day with a small indulgence that contributes to their total vacation expertise. The component of shock, as every window reveals a unique chocolate, additional enhances the expertise, including a component of playful discovery to the countdown.

Understanding the connection between the festive countdown and a Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar supplies perception into its enchantment. It highlights the calendar’s function in enhancing the vacation expertise past a easy ornamental merchandise or assortment of sweets. It transforms the summary idea of anticipation right into a tangible, each day ritual. The calendar, due to this fact, turns into greater than only a container for goodies; it turns into a car for creating reminiscences and enhancing the general enjoyment of the festive season. This understanding permits for a larger appreciation of the thoughtfulness behind gifting such a calendar and the function it performs in fostering a way of shared celebration.

4. Luxurious Reward

The designation of a Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar as a “luxurious reward” stems from a confluence of things, elevating it past a easy seasonal deal with. These elements contribute to each the perceived and inherent worth of the calendar, reworking it right into a fascinating current for discerning recipients. The premium nature of the goodies themselves performs a major function. Crafted from high-quality substances utilizing time-honored strategies, the goodies provide a sensory expertise exceeding mass-produced options. This high quality establishes the inspiration for the calendar’s luxurious standing. The elegant packaging and presentation additional reinforce this notion. Typically that includes subtle designs and high-quality supplies, the calendar itself turns into an object of magnificence, enhancing its gifting potential.

Contemplate, for instance, the affect of receiving such a calendar in comparison with a generic introduction calendar stuffed with customary goodies. The Neuhaus calendar conveys a message of thoughtfulness and appreciation, signaling that the giver has chosen a present of outstanding high quality and distinction. This act of gifting transcends the mere alternate of products; it turns into an expression of real care and consideration. This distinction turns into notably related through the vacation season, a time typically related to heightened feelings and expressions of gratitude. The calendar can function a token of appreciation for colleagues, a gesture of affection for members of the family, or a logo of tolerating friendship. In every situation, the luxurious nature of the reward enhances the sentiment behind it.

Understanding the connection between “luxurious reward” and a Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar supplies perception into its enchantment inside a broader cultural context. It highlights the function of gifting in expressing feelings and strengthening social bonds. Moreover, it underscores the significance of high quality and craftsmanship in discerning shopper decisions, notably throughout particular events. The affiliation with luxurious elevates the calendar past a easy seasonal merchandise; it transforms it into a logo of appreciation, a car for conveying feelings, and a tangible illustration of the festive spirit. This understanding permits for a deeper appreciation of the motivations behind gifting and receiving such a calendar, finally contributing to a extra significant and enriching vacation expertise. Recognizing this connection additionally helps to justify the usually larger worth level related to luxurious items. Shoppers should not merely buying a product; they’re investing in an expertise, a sentiment, and a logo of high quality that transcends the financial worth.

5. Every day Indulgence

The idea of “each day indulgence” takes middle stage with a Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar. It transforms the countdown to the vacations right into a collection of small, but important, moments of delight. This each day ritual provides a structured strategy to having fun with premium chocolate, enhancing the general festive expertise. The fastidiously curated choice inside the calendar ensures every day presents a singular taste discovery.

  • A Second of Escape

    The act of opening the appearance calendar and savoring a bit of Neuhaus chocolate supplies a short respite from the each day routine. This small second of escape permits for a pause and reflection amidst the usually hectic vacation season. The richness and complexity of the chocolate additional improve this expertise, providing a sensory retreat that transcends the easy act of consuming a candy deal with. For instance, taking a couple of minutes to savor a darkish chocolate truffle after an extended day can present a way of calm and well-being.

  • Cultivating Anticipation

    The each day indulgence cultivates a way of anticipation for the subsequent day’s deal with. The component of shock, as every window reveals a unique chocolate, contributes to this rising pleasure. This structured anticipation enhances the general countdown expertise, making a each day point of interest for vacation pleasure. Understanding {that a} small, but luxurious, deal with awaits every day provides a layer of enjoyment to all the festive interval. This component of shock distinguishes the expertise from merely consuming a field of goodies, as every day presents a brand new alternative for discovery.

  • Elevated Sensory Expertise

    Neuhaus goodies are crafted to supply an elevated sensory expertise. The feel, aroma, and taste profiles are fastidiously thought of to create a second of real indulgence. The each day ritual of savoring these goodies heightens consciousness of those sensory particulars, amplifying the pleasure derived from every bit. As an example, the sleek, velvety texture of a ganache contrasts with the crisp snap of a darkish chocolate shell, making a multi-faceted sensory expertise that engages a number of senses.

  • Aware Consumption

    The structured nature of the appearance calendar encourages aware consumption. Fairly than consuming a big amount of chocolate directly, the each day indulgence promotes savoring a single piece, totally appreciating its distinctive qualities. This strategy fosters a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and high quality of the chocolate, reworking a easy deal with right into a extra thought of and aware expertise. This facet aligns with the broader development of aware consuming, encouraging shoppers to concentrate on the current second and derive most enjoyment from every chew.

These sides of each day indulgence contribute considerably to the general enchantment and worth of a Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar. They rework the easy act of consuming chocolate right into a collection of aware, sensory experiences that improve the festive season. This emphasis on each day indulgence elevates the calendar past a mere assortment of sweets; it turns into a car for creating lasting reminiscences and fostering a deeper appreciation for the artistry of premium chocolate. By specializing in these each day moments, the Neuhaus introduction calendar fosters a heightened sense of anticipation and delight all through the vacation season, making it a very particular and memorable expertise.

6. Creative Presentation

Creative presentation kinds an integral part of the Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar expertise, elevating it past a easy assortment of goodies. The visible enchantment of the calendar contributes considerably to its perceived worth and desirability, each as a private deal with and as a present. This presentation encompasses a number of key components, together with the calendar’s structural design, the association of the goodies inside, and the person wrapping of every piece. These components work in live performance to create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing presentation that enhances the general expertise. For instance, a calendar would possibly characteristic a festive illustration or a complicated geometric sample, immediately signaling its premium nature. The selection of colours, fonts, and imagery contributes to the general aesthetic, creating a visible narrative that enhances the chocolate inside. The association of the goodies inside the calendar additionally performs an important function. A well-considered structure can create a way of anticipation and discovery, engaging the recipient to discover the contents. Particular person compartments or drawers, every housing a unique chocolate, add a component of shock and delight to the each day ritual of opening the calendar. The wrapping of every chocolate additional enhances the inventive presentation. Foil wrappers in vibrant colours or elegant patterns add a contact of luxurious, reworking every bit right into a small murals. This consideration to element reinforces the premium nature of the goodies and elevates the general unwrapping expertise.

The affect of inventive presentation extends past mere aesthetics. It influences shopper notion of the product, contributing to its perceived worth and desirability. A fantastically offered introduction calendar is extra more likely to be perceived as a premium reward in comparison with a plainly packaged various. This notion influences buying choices and reinforces the calendar’s standing as an opulent merchandise. As an example, a calendar that includes intricate embossing and gold foil accents conveys a way of opulence and exclusivity, enhancing its enchantment as a present. This presentation additionally performs an important function in making a memorable expertise. The visible enchantment of the calendar contributes to the general enjoyment of the countdown, creating a way of anticipation and pleasure. The each day ritual of opening a fantastically designed calendar turns into a small celebration in itself, enriching the festive expertise. Moreover, the inventive presentation can function an ornamental component, including to the festive ambiance of a house or workplace. A visually interesting calendar can grow to be a dialog piece, sparking discussions concerning the vacation season and the custom of introduction calendars.

In conclusion, inventive presentation performs a significant function within the Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar expertise. It enhances the perceived worth, creates a memorable expertise, and contributes to the general festive ambiance. Understanding this connection supplies perception into the significance of aesthetics in shopper items, notably inside the context of gifting and particular events. The inventive presentation transforms the calendar from a purposeful merchandise into an object of need, a logo of celebration, and a treasured a part of the vacation custom. This understanding underscores the worth proposition of the Neuhaus introduction calendar, justifying its premium positioning and solidifying its enchantment amongst discerning shoppers. By recognizing the importance of inventive presentation, shoppers achieve a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and a focus to element that distinguish a Neuhaus introduction calendar from mass-market options.

7. Different Assortment

A diverse assortment of goodies constitutes a defining attribute of the Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar, distinguishing it from calendars providing a single sort of chocolate. This assortment contributes considerably to the general expertise, reworking the each day ritual of opening the calendar right into a journey of taste discovery. The range introduces a component of shock and anticipation, as every day holds the potential for a brand new and thrilling style expertise. This variety caters to a wider vary of palates and preferences, making certain sustained enjoyment all through all the countdown to the vacation season. A various choice would possibly embrace milk goodies, darkish goodies, white goodies, and varied fillings corresponding to pralines, ganaches, caramels, and fruit lotions. This selection permits for a complete exploration of Neuhaus’s chocolate-making experience, showcasing the model’s mastery of various taste profiles and textures. As an example, in the future would possibly characteristic a basic milk chocolate praline with a hazelnut filling, whereas the subsequent would possibly provide a darkish chocolate ganache infused with spices or a white chocolate truffle with a touch of citrus. This fixed variation retains the palate engaged and prevents the expertise from changing into monotonous.

The sensible significance of this diverse assortment extends past mere gustatory pleasure. It enhances the gifting potential of the calendar, making it an acceptable current for a broader vary of recipients with various chocolate preferences. A various choice ensures that there’s something for everybody, rising the probability of satisfaction and delight. Moreover, the various assortment supplies a chance for exploration and discovery, probably introducing people to new and surprising taste combos they won’t in any other case encounter. This facet can broaden one’s appreciation for the nuances of chocolate and foster a larger understanding of the artistry concerned in its creation. For instance, somebody who usually prefers milk chocolate would possibly uncover a newfound appreciation for darkish chocolate with a excessive cocoa content material or a particular sort of filling. This component of discovery provides an academic part to the appearance calendar expertise, enriching it past easy indulgence.

In abstract, the various assortment inside a Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar performs an important function in shaping the general expertise. It contributes to the component of shock, caters to numerous palates, enhances the gifting potential, and supplies alternatives for taste exploration. Understanding this connection permits for a deeper appreciation of the thoughtfulness and craftsmanship that distinguish a Neuhaus introduction calendar from easier options. This numerous choice finally elevates the calendar from a group of sweets to a curated tasting journey that enriches the anticipation and delight of the vacation season. The numerous assortment contributes considerably to the calendar’s perceived worth, justifying its premium positioning inside the market and reinforcing its enchantment amongst discerning chocolate lovers.

8. Seasonal Custom

The Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar’s significance is deeply intertwined with the seasonal custom of Introduction. Introduction, the interval main as much as Christmas, represents a time of anticipation, reflection, and preparation. The arrival calendar, with its each day ritual of unveiling a deal with, embodies this custom, serving as a tangible countdown to the vacation. A Neuhaus calendar elevates this custom by means of the posh of its chocolate, reworking the countdown right into a collection of indulgent experiences. Understanding this connection supplies a richer appreciation for the calendar’s function in enhancing the festive interval.

  • Historic Context of Introduction

    Introduction calendars originated within the nineteenth century, initially using easy strategies like marking days on a wall or lighting candles. The introduction of printed calendars with opening home windows within the early twentieth century popularized the idea. Initially containing photos or Bible verses, chocolate-filled introduction calendars emerged later, solidifying their affiliation with the anticipation and indulgence of the vacation season. The Neuhaus calendar, with its concentrate on premium chocolate, represents a contemporary, luxurious iteration of this historic custom.

  • Household Traditions and Shared Experiences

    Introduction calendars typically play a central function in household traditions surrounding the vacation season. The each day ritual of opening a window can grow to be a shared expertise, making a second of connection and anticipation amongst members of the family. This ritual could be handed down by means of generations, reinforcing household bonds and creating lasting reminiscences related to the vacation. A Neuhaus calendar, with its high-quality chocolate, can additional enrich these shared moments, including a component of luxurious and indulgence to the custom.

  • The Symbolism of the Countdown

    The countdown construction of the appearance calendar symbolizes the anticipation and preparation main as much as Christmas. Every opened window represents a step nearer to the celebration, constructing pleasure and marking the passage of time. This structured strategy to anticipation differentiates the Introduction interval from the overall pleasure surrounding the vacation season. The Neuhaus calendar, with its each day deal with, reinforces this symbolism, reworking every day of the countdown right into a small celebration in itself.

  • Fashionable Interpretations of Introduction

    Whereas rooted in custom, the idea of the appearance calendar continues to evolve. Fashionable interpretations incorporate numerous themes and contents, catering to a wider vary of pursuits and preferences. The Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar exemplifies this evolution, providing a premium, luxurious tackle the normal format. This adaptation demonstrates the enduring enchantment of the appearance calendar custom whereas concurrently catering to up to date tastes and preferences.

The Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar represents a up to date expression of the enduring Introduction custom. By understanding its historic context, its function in household traditions, the symbolism of the countdown, and the evolution of contemporary interpretations, one positive aspects a deeper appreciation for the calendar’s significance. It transforms the easy act of counting down the times right into a collection of luxurious, shared experiences, enriching the festive season and reinforcing the enduring enchantment of this cherished custom.

Regularly Requested Questions

This part addresses frequent inquiries relating to Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendars, offering readability on varied elements, from buying to storage and consumption.

Query 1: The place are Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendars obtainable for buy?

Neuhaus introduction calendars are usually obtainable for buy at Neuhaus boutiques, licensed retailers, and the official Neuhaus web site. Availability might differ relying on the time of 12 months and particular location.

Query 2: What’s the typical worth vary for a Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar?

Costs differ based mostly on the scale, assortment, and particular version of the calendar. Usually, Neuhaus introduction calendars are positioned as premium objects, reflecting the prime quality of the chocolate and the luxurious presentation.

Query 3: How ought to a Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar be saved to make sure optimum high quality?

Ideally, retailer the calendar in a cool, dry place away from direct daylight and robust odors. Keep away from storing it in areas with fluctuating temperatures, corresponding to close to ovens or fridges, to stop the chocolate from blooming or growing an undesirable texture.

Query 4: Are Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendars appropriate for people with dietary restrictions, corresponding to allergic reactions?

Whereas Neuhaus supplies ingredient info for his or her merchandise, people with particular dietary restrictions or allergic reactions ought to fastidiously evaluation the ingredient record of the particular introduction calendar earlier than consumption. Contacting Neuhaus customer support for detailed allergen info is advisable.

Query 5: What’s the shelf lifetime of a Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar?

The shelf life is usually printed on the calendar’s packaging. Consuming the goodies inside the advisable timeframe ensures optimum taste and texture.

Query 6: Can a Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar be shipped internationally?

Worldwide transport choices might differ relying on the retailer. Checking the particular retailer’s transport insurance policies will make clear worldwide transport availability and related prices.

Understanding these particulars permits for knowledgeable buying choices and ensures optimum enjoyment of the Neuhaus introduction calendar expertise.

This concludes the regularly requested questions part. The next sections will delve deeper into the particular chocolate assortments and taste profiles featured in Neuhaus introduction calendars.

Suggestions for Maximizing the Neuhaus Chocolate Introduction Calendar Expertise

Cautious consideration of a number of elements can considerably improve enjoyment and appreciation of a premium chocolate introduction calendar. The following tips present steerage on choice, storage, presentation, and aware consumption.

Tip 1: Deciding on the Proper Calendar: Cautious consideration of the recipient’s chocolate preferences ensures a extra customized and gratifying expertise. If preferences are unknown, choosing a calendar with a various assortment of milk, darkish, and white goodies provides broader enchantment.

Tip 2: Optimum Storage: Sustaining the standard of the goodies requires correct storage. A cool, dry setting, away from direct daylight and robust odors, preserves taste and texture. Keep away from temperature fluctuations to stop blooming.

Tip 3: Enhancing the Presentation: Considerate presentation elevates the calendar past a easy reward. Inserting the calendar on an ornamental tray or incorporating it right into a festive show enhances its visible enchantment and creates a way of event. Including a customized word or ribbon additional personalizes the gesture.

Tip 4: Making a Ritual: Establishing a each day ritual round opening the appearance calendar enhances anticipation and delight. Setting apart a particular time every day, maybe with household or associates, transforms the easy act of retrieving a chocolate right into a shared second of anticipation and celebration.

Tip 5: Savoring the Second: Aware consumption maximizes the pleasure derived from every chocolate. Taking time to understand the aroma, texture, and taste nuances elevates the expertise past easy consumption. Pairing the chocolate with a complementary beverage, corresponding to espresso or tea, can additional improve the tasting expertise.

Tip 6: Extending the Expertise: An empty introduction calendar could be repurposed for future holidays. Filling it with small trinkets or notes creates a customized custom and minimizes waste. Alternatively, think about using the calendar as an ornamental component by filling the compartments with seasonal ornaments or small vegetation.

Tip 7: Sharing the Expertise (Non-compulsory): Whereas private enjoyment is paramount, contemplate sharing the expertise with others. Gifting particular person goodies from the calendar or incorporating them into desserts extends the festive spirit and creates alternatives for shared indulgence.

By implementing the following tips, recipients maximize enjoyment and rework a premium chocolate introduction calendar right into a cherished a part of the vacation custom. These issues elevate the expertise past easy consumption, fostering anticipation, mindfulness, and a deeper appreciation for the artistry of high-quality chocolate.

This assortment of ideas supplies a framework for enhancing the appearance calendar expertise. The following conclusion will summarize key takeaways and provide remaining ideas on the importance of this festive custom.

Conclusion

This exploration of Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendars has illuminated their multifaceted nature. Evaluation encompassed the model’s Belgian heritage, the premium chocolate’s distinction, the festive countdown ritual, the luxurious gifting facet, the idea of each day indulgence, the inventive presentation, the various assortment, and the connection to seasonal custom. Every aspect contributes to the calendar’s distinctive enchantment and its place inside the broader context of vacation celebrations.

Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendars signify greater than a easy assortment of sweets; they embody a convergence of expertise, custom, and anticipation. Consideration of those components transforms the act of consuming chocolate right into a aware, celebratory expertise, enriching the countdown to the vacation season. The calendars provide a tangible hyperlink to a cherished custom, inviting participation in a ritual that transcends generations and cultures. This understanding encourages considerate choice and aware consumption, fostering a deeper appreciation for the artistry and heritage encapsulated inside every Neuhaus chocolate introduction calendar.