Winter Cover 2017 Perla Lichi Design

WINTER COVER 2017 PERLA LICHI DESIGN

REDEFINING DESIGN with fine art

Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow

Enroll Now CONTEMPORARY Showroom PROFESSIONAL INTERIOR DESIGN | 3304 North East 33rd Street Fort Lauderdale 33308 CORPORATE Headquarters 7381 W Sample Rd Coral Springs FL 33065 polaroiduniversity.com FURNISHINGS | INSTALLATION perlalichi.com | Tel 954-726-0899 FL ID #1727 THE AFTER AFTER PARTY

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2 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 3 CRYSTAL FROSCH SPREAD AD CRYSTAL FROSCH SPREAD AD Experience the before and after ©2017 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Each franchise independently owned and operated. Each franchise All rights reserved. Inc. ©2017 California Closet Company,

See more stories #CCBeforeAfter californiaclosets.com 305.623.8282 MIAMI 900 Park Centre Blvd.

FL098_Opulence_Sp Couple 18x11.9_0517.indd 1 5/17/17 9:41 AM ASTONISHING

54 76 114 Top Art FEATURES

WINTER 2017/18 87 FOR REAL?

You’re invited to a modern 46 The captivating hyper-realism of luxury experience. Luxury was always meant to be playful. Experience Australia-born sculptor Ron Mueck it free from restriction with a new iconic timepiece every three months. Brilliant This is Eleven James. is so lifelike it genuinely may make This is permission to play. Father Time your hair stand on end. Celebrating New Yera’s Eve extravaganzas worldwide 96 72 TOY TOWN A quaint look into the German Toy Discover more at elevenjames.com or call 855-ELEVEN-J HYPERCAR Museum in Sonneberg, once the 105 AUCTION MANIA toy capital of the world EXCLUSIVE BESPOKE SOUTH AFRICA Factors fueling auction mania on 5 high-profile KALAHARI ADVENTURES hypercars Discover the once-in-a-lifetime custom luxury safari at Tswalu Kalahari Private Game Reserve

10 Opulence Fall 2017 YOU DREAM IT, WE FIND IT, YOU CHARTER IT 56 FEATURES CONTINUED 57 DINE LIKE A 30 NORMAN VAN AKEN’S 1921 TUSCAN UPPERCLASSMAN Forte dei Marmi, helmed CULINARY MASTERPIECE by Two-Michelin Star Chef James Beard Awarded Chef Antonio Mellino, brings au- Norman Van Aken merges thentic Italian fare to fine art with his renowned cuisine the United States. in his latest endeavor.

58 BIG CHEF OWNER PROFILE 34 TOPOLOBAMPO TBD Chicago’s humanitarian chef Ricky Bayless has achieved what only one other chef has done before.

36 SPARKLING ROSÉ: THE NEW TREND International Opulence’s newest master sommelier columnist Diego Meraviglia discusses the creation of rosé. 68 A VALIANT VERISMO’S IMPOSSIBLE DREAM A Haiti earthquake survivor is discovered in Miami as the next rising-star opera singer. 39 QUINTESSENTIAL HOME COOKING IN PROVENCE 76 LIVING ON CLOUD 9 AT THE MONACO YACHT SHOW Custom-built superyacht CLOUD 9 ON CE IN A LIFETIME 42 steals the show during the fall Monaco Yacht Show Four generations of Louis XIII cellar masters, united for the first time in history, share personal experiences as guardians of the cherished 100-year- 78 ARTFUL ILLUMINATION aged cognac Master Interior Designer Perla Lichi shares her art 52 SU FILINDEU of light Threads of God – World’s Rarest Pasta From Nuoro, Sardinia

54 ‘ LEGACY OF THE SPIDER AMONG THE BARRELS’ Giovanni Allegrini’s influential art of winemaking in the Fumane region of Italy

12 Opulence Winter 2017/18 116 features 122 LOVING LESVOS (continued) Sharing my family journey to my father’s homeland on this charming RED HOT Greek isle 82 RED HOT RED BULL TOP 4 GIFTS FOR MEN RUSH SHOTS 2017 RED BULL 125 RUSH SHOTS WHO LOVE TO TRAVEL 92 OIL PAINTS, FAST CARS & A CELLO 2017 126 TURNING BACK THE HANDS OF Classically trained Duaiv paints his TIME ON ROSE HILL PLANTATION world-renown masterpieces A look at the remarkable post Civil War restoration of this architectural masterpiece In Sketch Scale we use the most in Bluffton, South Carolina. advanced technology for architec- 102 THE MECCA FOR MAGICIANS tural rendering to recreate the project The mystical and that you imagine. We work with you to tantalizing history of the Academy of Magical Arts create added value in your projects and and its Victorian man- help you to communicate your ideas. sion venue in Hollywood, California To do this, we combine personal atten- 131 CIVIL WAR TOKENS tion, technological forefront, and a team Simple tokens that provided stability during unstable times of highly qualified professionals. 104 HOUDINI Séance 133 THE AVIATOR LIVES ON We offer a quality service, competitive Howard Hughes’ famous “Spruce Goose” prices and a commitment to meeting 110 TRAVELING IN THE PURSUIT is alive and kicking seventy years after its inaugural (and only) flight. the deadlines for each project. OF WELLNESS

140 Yachts, Jewels, Stocks, Trade 114 WHEN YOU WISH UPON Sketch Scale Buying real estate with tangibles A LANTERN 69 NW 9th Street, Suite 1 Sky lantern festivals around the world Miami, Fl. 33136 departments (786) 449-2049 Editor’s Letter 16 Gadgets 18-19 e-mail: [email protected] National Event Guide 20,22 Entertainment 21,25 www.sketchscale.com Broadway Across America 24,26 Dining guide 27 By appointment only! Dishing With The James Beard Foundation President 28 Social Living 60 Fashion 61-64 116 LAPA’ LUXURY What Women Want 65 Marvel in a visit to Lisbon’s Lapa Palace Medical News 67 Antiquities Conservation 69 Gentlemen’s Corner 70-71 Art Worth Repeating 95 119 ASHFORD CASTLE: THE IRISH GETAWAY Business Profile 100 Director’s Profile 135-136 BEYOND COMPARE Condo Law 138

14 Opulence Winter 2017/18 editor’s letter HORIZON PUBLISHING Executive PUBLISHER & Owner David Hammond, CEO Jayne Hammond, President s EDITOR IN CHIEF Robin Jay [email protected] A SENIOR CREATIVE ART DIRECTOR Adriana Naylor [email protected] 954-331-3912 Robin Jay Marketing Manager Editor in Chief Melissa Bryant [email protected] 954-331-3390

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Associate Kim Golightly [email protected] 954-999-9087

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT Michael Jay [email protected] 954-593-5060

Business Development Consultant Karen Talbot Evans 954-663-1786 [email protected]

Contributing Writers: Stephanie Bowman Alona Abbady Martinez Michael Chapnick Jill Patterson Jana Soeldner Danger Erick Rodriguez Jennifer Doudna Ava Roosevelt Emily Fenichel, Ph.D. Edwina Sandys Clarence Fernandez Todd R. Sciore Chris Gallagher Carleton Varney Steven Joseph Kelly Villasuso Dale King & Julia Hebert Hugh & Mary Williamson Marla Horn Lazarus

Photographers Dan Brooke Mel Jay Douglas Lance Frank T. Smith Raul Villasuso, Jr.

PROOFREADER Suzanne Shaw

General Counsel Barry Weiss [email protected] International Opulence Magazine is published quarterly by Horizon Publishing LLC. Copyright © 2017. All rights reserved. Horizon Publishing LLC, 6700 North Andrews Avenue, Suite 400, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 – Vol. 7, No. 3 Fall 2017 (ISSN # 2157-5274)

Subscription Rates: $40 per year, $10 per issue. For subscription inquiries or change of address, contact the subscription department, (954) 308-4300 Ext. 4312, Fax: (954) 331-6028. Horizon Publishing, LLC, its affiliates and contributing writers have exercised due care in compiling the information contained herein, but with the possibility of human or mechanical error, cannot assume liability for the accuracy of this data. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in part or in full in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording and any information storage and retrieval 16 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 system without first obtaining permission from the publisher. Gadgets & Novelties

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▼ DALI CUCKOO viewed. www.samsung.com $1,999.99 CLOCK This MoMA Exclusive product, a quirky wooden clock with Salvador ▼ Dalí-inspired mustache SMEG DOLCE GABBANA X SMEG motif, tolls each hour with a TARATATÀ REFRIGERATOR cuckoo on one side, and This stainless steel 1950s style echoed chirping and a single-door refrigerator is hand- flowing river sound painted with “Sicilian Spectacle,” by emanating from a horn on Gianfranco Fiorein, in cooperation the other. www.store. with Dolce & Gabbana. www. moma.org $240

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AIBO ENTERTAINMENT ▼ ROBOT (ERS-1000) THE CLASSIC ITALIAN ESPRESSO GRINDER The aibo robotic dog is intended to bring fun Unlike contemporary electric units, this manual mill designed and joy to the entire family through its rich in Italy produces minimal heat and helps preserve the beans’ expressiveness and dynamic range of original aroma and flavor. www.hammacher.com $299.95 movements. aibo’s AI technology learns from interactions with its owners, slowly changing its personality over time to adapt to its unique environment. Release date: January 11, 2018. www. aibo.com/en $1,734.95 Featured in the 2017 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book

18 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 OPULENCE 19 2017/18 National Calendar Entertainment

NYC CHICAGO CHICAGO NEW YORK JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL CHICAGO RESTAURANT WEEK ART DESIGN CHICAGO January 10-23 January 26-February 8 Programs Throughout 2018 The Film Society of Lincoln Center Various Venues • choosechicago.com Various Locations • artdesignchicago.org 70 Lincoln Center Plaza, 4th Fl. Manhattan, NY • nyjff.org VOLTA! Cirque du Soleil’s High-Speed Thriller NYC RESTAURANT Beverly hills, CA By Jose Boza WEEK WINTER 2018 January 22-February 9 CALIFORNIA RESTAURANT The show weaves the adrenaline rush of acrobatics into Various Venues • nycgo.com MONTH Through January 31 a visually striking world driven by a melodic score. NEW MUSEUM TRIENNIAL 2018 Statewide February 13-May 27 visitcalifornia.com/california-restaurant-month New Museum NBA ALL-STAR GAME 235 Bowery, Manhattan, NY • newmuseum.org February 13 STAPLES Center • 1111 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA • staplescenter.com NEW YORK FASHION WEEK February 8-16 THE FLYING LOVERS OF VITEBSK Various Venues • nyfw.com February 23-March 11 The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts BIG EAST MEN’S 9390 North Santa Monica Blvd., BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT Beverly Hills, CA • thewallis.org March 8-11 JAY LENO Madison Square Garden RODIN: SCULPTOR true potential, and the power of the group watch contestants scramble for a chance to 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY • msg.com AND STORYTELLER March 16 to make that possible. It celebrates freedom become instant celebrities. In order to be Fred Kavli Theatre-Thousand Through March 4 as a movement. transformed into “Elites”, contestants must NAEEM MOHAIEMEN: Oaks Civic Arts Plaza first compete against one another in a trial The Art Institute of Chicago THEMES AND INSPIRATIONS THERE IS NO LAST MAN 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd, of skill. When the 1,000th episode of QPQ 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL • artic.edu Thousand Oaks, CA Waz, a popular gameshow host, has lost Through March 11 begins, Waz’s life is about to take a sharp civicartsplaza.com touch with his inner self in the pursuit of Museum of Modern Art turn. On his high-voltage search for mean- fame. But as doubt sets in, Waz is enlight- 11 W 53rd St., New York, NY • moma.org SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS ing, will Waz find the courage to relinquish BEVERLY HILLS ened by childhood memories as he en- March 21-25 his fame, reconnect with his true self, and FILM FESTIVAL irque du Soleil’s 41st original production counters free spirits who open doors to his Rosemont Theatre shine bright? inner soul he has long kept shut. 5400 N River Rd., Rosemont, IL • April 4-8 since 1984, and its 18th show presented rosemont.com/theatre Venues to Be Announced • under the Big Top, Volta tells a spell- Authenticity as an antidote to superficiality – To see Volta in a city listed below, visit www. beverlyhillsfilmfestival.com C binding story about the freedom to choose Volta explores the themes of self-realization cirquedusoleil.com for tickets. WHISKYFEST CHICAGO and the thrill of blazing your own trail. TOYOTA GRAND PRIX and alienation in a world where technol- Miami, FL: Under the Big Top, next to Hard Rock March 23 Inspired by the adventurous spirit that fuels ogy often isolates people from one another Stadium, Dec. 3, 2017 - January 14, 2018 Hyatt Regency Chicago OF LONG BEACH the culture of action sports – whether they rather than freeing them. Using the rise of 151 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL • April 13-15 Tampa, FL: Under the Big Top, Tampa Grey- are on a bike, hopping from rooftop to roof- the celebrity culture and reality TV as a sub- chicago.regency.hyatt.com The Long Beach Convention hound Track, February 14 - March 4, 2018 & Entertainment Center top, or barreling down a mountain, the en- text, Volta is an allegory on the flip side of THE CHICAGO 300 East Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA thusiastic characters constantly challenge fame and the search for authenticity. East Rutherford, NJ: Under the Big Top, RITA HAYWORTH GALA gplb.com themselves and defy convention. QUID PRO QUO Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment, March 29, 2018 - April 22, 2018 May 12 The show weaves acrobatics in a visually Waz is the host of Quid Pro Quo (QPQ), the The Hilton Chicago striking world driven by a stirring melodic most popular gameshow on TV in the world Uniondale, NY: Under the Big Top, Nassau 720 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL • alz.org score. Volta is a story of transformation. It is of Volta. Every week, everyone tunes in to Coliseum, May 17 - June 10, 2018 about being true to oneself, fulfilling one’s

20 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 21 2017/18 National Calendar dallas/houst0n Atlanta Miami

KATY PERRY WITNESS TOUR COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF VILLAGE PEOPLE FEATURING January 14, 2018 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP VICTOR WILLIS American Airlines Center January 8 December 31 2500 Victory Ave., Dallas, TX Mercedes-Benz Stadium Seminole Casino Coconut Creek 1 AMB Drive, Atlanta, GA 2CHELLOS collegefootballplayoff.com 5550 NW 40th St, Coconut Creek, FL January 16 seminolecoconutcreekcasino.com Jones Hall ATLANTA WINE FESTIVALS 615 Louisiana St., Houston, TX • joneshall.org January 20 LANA DEL REY City Winery Atlanta February 1 650 North Avenue, NE Ste 201, Atlanta, GA BB&T Center atlantawinefestivals.com 1 Panther Pkwy, Sunrise, FL • thebbtcenter.com TREVOR NOAH THE ATLANTA OPERA BALL January 6 February 10 Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood The St. Regis Atlanta 1 Seminole Way, Fort Lauderdale, FL 88 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA seminolehardrockhollywood.com atlantaopera.org

ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER February 14-18

The Fox Theatre CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA • foxtheatre.org CIRQUE GOES TO THE CINEMA January 26-28 Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center TICKETS ON SALE NOW 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX mydso.com FEB 21-25, 2018 SOBEWFF.ORG

HOUSTON BALLET PRESENTS Preferred Card STANTON WELCH’S SWAN LAKE FEATURING February 22-March 4 DANCING WITH THE STARS: LIVE! Wortham Theater Center Alton Brown Giada De Laurentiis Bobby Flay Robert Irvine Geoffrey Zakarian 501 Texas Ave., Houston, TX – LIGHT UP THE NIGHT TOUR February 15 Anne Burrell Guy Fieri Alex Guarnaschelli Trisha Yearwood Andrew Zimmern FABERGÉ: ROYAL GIFTS Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood 1 Seminole Way, Fort Lauderdale, FL FEATURING THE TITLE HOSTED BY & BENEFITING HOST HOTEL PREMIER OFFICIAL AIRLINE TRELLIS EGG SURPRISE seminolehardrockhollywood.com April 10-18 THE MIAMI OPEN Houston Museum of Natural Science 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX March 19-April 1 hmns.org Crandon Park 6747 Crandon Blvd, PLATINUM Key Biscayne, FL miamiopen.com

DIAMOND SPECIAL THANKS

Conﬁ rmed sponsors as of October 2017 22 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 22 Broadway 2017-18 Season EntertainmentTitle Here A Gentlemen’s Guide To Love And Murder

ony-Award®-Winning Best Musical, Broadway’s A Gentle- Thousand Oaks, CA Beverly Hills, CA man’s Guide To Love & Murder tells the uproarious story of Chicago, IL Naples, FL New York City T Mar. 22 - 25, 2018 Feb. 17, 2018 Monty Navarro, a distant heir to a family fortune, who sets out to Mar. 20 – Apr. 29, 2018 Jan 16-21, 2018 Thru April 1, 2018 Fred Kavli Theatre Saban Theater Broadway Playhouse Hayes Hall Stephen Sondheim jump the line of succession by any means necessary. He’s got to jug- at Water Tower Place Theatre gle his mistress (she’s after more than just love), his fiancée (she’s his cousin but who’s keeping track?), and the constant threat of landing behind bars! Of course, it will all be worth it if he can slay his way to his inheritance…and be done in time for tea.

James Taylor Odom (who plays multiple characters with more than a dozen lightning-fast costume quick-changes) and the cast of the Gentleman’s Guide tour “make this musical about murder look merry not monstrous,” according to experts at Broadway.com. West Palm Beach, FL West Palm Beach, FL New York City Ft. Lauderdale, FL Chicago, IL Feb. 6-11, 2018 Jan. 2-7, 2018 Ongoing May 8-20, 2018 Feb. 14, 2018 – Kravis Center Kravis Center Shubert Broward Center Mar. 4, 2018 Cadillac Palace Theatre

Act I The show unfolds into a compelling and As the show opens, a group dressed in slapstick series of murders, suspicions, in- New York City Thousand Oaks, CA Chicago, IL New York City West Palm Beach, FL mourning enter and advise “those of you vestigations, rumors, arrests, scandals, trial, Thru Jan. 14, 2018 Jan. 11 - 14, 2018 Mar. 13- April 15, 2018 Thru May 27, 2018 Mar. 6-11, 2018 of weaker constitution” to leave the thea- more shenanigans – and a surprise ending. Broadway Theatre Fred Kavli Theatre Oriental Theatre Palace Theatre Kravis Center tre, as the show may prove disturbing. Don’t miss it!

In 1909, Lord Montague “Monty” D’Ysquith For tickets in first quarter 2018, review the city Navarro, Ninth Earl of Highhurst, is in jail. performance dates below and visit Broad- He says that he is writing his memoirs on wayAcrossAmerica.com or GentlemansGui- the eve of his possible execution, and that deTour.com. his story could be called A Gentleman’s Fort Lauderdale, FL: January 9-21, 2018 Guide to Love and Murder. And then the Tulsa, OK: January 2-3 story takes the audience back in time to Sioux Falls, SD: January 30-February 3 the beginning of the sordid story… College Station, TX: February 3-7 Act II Portland, OR: Feb. 13-18 Naples, FL New York City Los Angeles, CA West Palm Beach, FL Thousand Oaks, CA The curtain rises on Lord Asquith, Sr.’s fu- Huntsville, AL: March 2-4 Feb. 7-11, 2018 Ongoing Jan. 10 – Mar. 31, 2018 Jan. 19-21, 2018 Feb. 22 - 25, 2018 neral. Monty delivers a stirring eulogy, but Springfield, IL: March 7 Fred Kavli Theatre Hayes Hall Lyceum Theatre Pantages Theater Kravis Center the assembled mourners are irritated at St. Louis, MO: March 9 ◆ ◆ ◆ the endless string of D’Ysquith memorials Atlanta, GA: March 13-18 New York City New York City New York City they are compelled to attend. Austin, TX: March 20-25 Ongoing Ongoing Thru August 26, 2018 New Amsterdam Theatre Ambassador Theatre Al Hirschfeld Theatre

24 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 OPULENCE 25 Broadway 2017-18 Season National Dining Guide

Dine With A James Beard Celebrity Chef The James Beard Foundation’s Celebrity Chef Tour dinner series brings a taste of what happens at the James Beard House in New York City to more than 20 cities across the country each year. For ticket information, visit www.JamesBeard.org.

Dallas, TX Anaheim, CA Fort Lauderdale, FL Ft. Lauderdale, FL Houston, TX Feb. 27–Mar. 11, 2018 Jan. 20 - 21, 2018 Jan. 9–21, 2018 Jan. 5–7, 2018 Jan. 30–Feb. 4, 2018 Music Hall at Fair Park Grove of Anaheim Broward Center Broward Center Sarofim Hall - ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ The Hobby Center Chicago, IL Atlanta, GA Atlanta, GA Houston, TX ◆ Mar. 21, 2018 – Apr. 8, 2018 Feb. 20–28, 2018 Mar. 13–18, 2018 Mar 9–11, 2018 New York City Cadillac Palace Theatre The Fox Theatre The Fox Theatre Sarofim Hall - Ongoing The Hobby Center Winter Garden Jimmy Bannos Jr. Maneet Chauhan Alex Becker Ted Allen Stephanie Izard Theatre HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC HOLLYWOOD, FL February 22, 2018 March 2, 2018 Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood 23 Ocean Lane, Hilton Head, South Carolina 1 Seminole Way, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314 Host Chef Hayden Haddox Masala House, Nashville Host Chef Alex Becker, JBF Award Winner Martín Rios Executive Chef, Kuro Jimmy Bannos Jr. Restaurant Martín, Santa Fe Emcee JBF Award Winner Ted Allen Purple Pig, Chicago Clayton Rollison Emmy Award–Winning Host Brandon Carter Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar, of and Chopped Junior FARM, Bluffton, SC Hilton Head Island, SC JBF Award Winner Stephanie Izard Atlanta, GA Dallas, TX Houston, TX Chicago, IL Jan. 10–28, 2018 Mar. 28–Apr. 8, 2018 Jan. 9–14, 2018 Dec. 6, 2017 – Jan. 21, JBF Award Winner The Girl and The Goat, Chicago The Fox Theatre Music Hall at Fair Park Sarofim Hall - 2018 Maneet Chauhan ◆ ◆ The Hobby Center Oriental Theatre Chauhan Ale & ◆ New York City New York City ◆ Ongoing Ongoing Dallas, TX Ft. Lauderdale, FL Minskoff Theatre Brooks Atkinson Jan. 23–Feb. 4, 2018 Feb. 14–Mar. 4, 2018 Theatre Music Hall at Fair Park Broward Center for ◆ the Performing Arts Miami, FL ◆ Feb. 27–Mar. 4, 2018 New York City Adrienne Arsht Through Center June 10, 2018 Heather Terhune Justin Aprahamian Tory Miller Thomas Lents Jimmy Schmidt Gershwin Theatre DETROIT, MI MILWAUKEE, WI February 28, 2018 March 7, 2018 Detroit Foundation Hotel Kimpton Journeyman Hotel 250 W Larned Street, Detroit, Michigan 310 E Chicago Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Broadway just announced that in New York, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is closing Jan. 14, 2018 Host Chef Thomas Lents Ryan McCaskey Host Chef Heather Terhune Dan Jacobs and Dan Van Rite but it will now tour nationally. Nick Dostal Acadia, Chicago JBF Award Winner Dandan, Milwaukee Watch for the Spring Opulence e-letter about when Sixteen, Chicago James Rigato Justin Aprahamian Greg León the tour will come to your state. Doug Hewitt Mabel Gray, Detroit Sanford, Milwaukee Amilinda, Milwaukee Chartreuse, Detroit Noah Sandoval Karen Bell JBF Award Winner Tory Miller Andy Hollyday Oriole, Chicago Bavette La Boucherie, Deja Food Restaurant Group, Selden Standard, Detroit JBF Award Winner Milwaukee Madison, WI For tickets in Atlanta, Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, Miami and New York City, go to www.BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com; for Anthony Lombardo Jimmy Schmidt Justin Carlisle shows in Chicago, go to www.BroadwayinChicago.com; to see what is playing in the Naples, Beverly Hills/Los Angeles area, SheWolf Pastificio & Bar, Detroit Foodshed, Detroit Ardent and Red Light Ramen, go to Broadway.org; and in West Palm Beach, go to www.Kravis.org. Milwaukee

26 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 27 dishing with the James Beard Foundation President By Susan Ungaro Give A Little Something Homemade This Gifting Season

ment to stop and consider the many things James Beard once wrote, “We could recap- for which I’m grateful. It’s a long list, as you ture some of the happiness of Christmas can imagine, at the top of which is a career past if we just took the trouble to make, spent in service of promoting education rather than to buy, a few of the presents and celebrating all the great thought-lead- we give each year. My mother believed in ers of our food world. making all of her Christmas foods.” I always Susan Ungaro enjoy receiving homemade jams, cookies or Julia Child once said, “People who love to breads any time of year, especially around eat are always the best people.” I’ve certainly the holidays and I like it even more when found that to be true in so many ways. From the gift giver shares a copy of their “favorite” the chefs and restaurateurs who contribute recipe with the gift. Susan Ungaro thousands of dinners at the Beard House and JBF events around the country to the Here’s a great recipe from James Beard that This time of year always makes me reflec- food lovers who join us at the table to the I’m thinking of making for hostess gifts and tive, as I’m sure it does for so many of you kitchen and waitstaff who make a restau- family this year. May your new year be filled as well. In this holiday season, amidst the rant a home, there’s no doubt that sharing with good times and good food! hectic and happy pace of daily life at the good food and drink makes for great con- James Beard Foundation, I try to take a mo- versation and friendship.

Recipe: James Beard’s Cranberry Quick Bread I love simple and versatile recipes like quick breads at this time of year. James Beard’s updated version of this classic American favorite is the perfect treat to gift to friends and colleagues, break out when unexpected guests arrive, and it also adds a wonderfully festive touch to your holiday table.

Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon double-acting baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 2 eggs 1 cup sugar 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) melted butter 1 1/4 cups whole milk mixed with 1 teaspoon rosewater 1 1/4 cups cranberries, coarsely chopped 3/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans Spread the dough in the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55 Method to 60 minutes, or until the center of the bread springs back Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a 9 x 5 x 3-inch loaf pan. when touched lightly or a cake tester comes out clean. (The Sift the flour with the soda, baking powder, and salt. top will often crack, which is typical of soda and baking Set aside. powder breads.)

In a mixing bowl, by hand, or in an electric mixer, beat the Cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before removing from eggs and sugar until well blended. the pan. When thoroughly cooled, wrap in plastic or foil and let sit overnight or at least a day before cutting. Store in the Stir in the melted butter and the milk mixed with the rose- refrigerator. water. Stir in the flour until just moistened, and then fold in the cranberries and nuts. Do not overwork the dough. Yield: 1 loaf

28 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 29 By Alona Abbady Norman Van Aken’s

ames Beard Awarded Chef Norman Van Aken, widely regarded yourself. The point is to put yourself in another as the founding father of New World Cuisine, has merged fine geography or another century or another way of art with his renowned cuisine in his latest endeavor, 1921 by looking at food. I wanted to see how I could interpret jNorman Van Aken. Located inside a quaint house built in 1921, a modern Florida cuisine and not repeat myself by uti- in the heart of Florida’s diverse agriculture region, the restaurant lizing so much of the Latin and Caribbean basis of the in Mount Dora is the latest culinary canvas for the chef credited cuisine I first experienceed in Key West.” by Smithsonian Magazine as having revolutionized the American Guests will not be disappointed, indulging in appetiz- restaurant scene. ers like Cape Canaveral White Shrimp with Jacksonville At Home with Van Aken 1921 by Norman Van Aken opened in September 2016 and features what Chef Van Aken calls Modern Florida Cuisine.

“I feel like a film director in some ways, where I purposefully try to push myself into a new arena and do something that I haven’t really done before. I think it’s impossible to completely remake

1921 Culinary Masterpiece 30 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 31 “I’ve always felt it was my duty to interpret Florida, ever since I broke away from the model of European gastronomy and began distinguishing myself as a chef.” – Norman Van Aken

Purple Rice Grits, ‘Nduja Vinaigrette and Ramp Butter ($14) “I love the philosophy of the artists, such as Nakashima. He really and Roasted Romanesco Salad with Pistachio and Caper Pesto, wasn’t about making a table or a bench as he was about repurposing Soft Farm Egg, Roasted Garlic Puree and Ash Oil ($12) and entrees the life of a tree. Something about that aesthetic really hit me,” he said. like Yellow Edge Grouper with Crispy Tofu, Herb Salad, Kaffir Lime & Van Aken speaks of one of his first mentors, a Japanese chef, who Garlic Chips ($36) and Smoked Beef Shoulder with Sunchoke Puree, worked with him when he was first starting out in Illinois, when Pickled Ramps, Summer Truffles and Black Truffle Jus ($38)- you can the connection between fine art and culinary arts was vividly clear. supplement with Australian Winter Black Truffle for an additional $13. “The Japanese chef would go out to the yard of the inn and collect An Artful Dining Experience dandelion leaves to make a salad at a time when foraging wasn’t Chef Van Aken has partnered with the Modernism Museum next even thought of in the culinary mainstream. He was looking at na- door to the restaurant and incorporates many elements from the ture and what can be created with it. Similarly, Nakashima’s art phi- museum’s art collection as part of the eatery’s design. losophy was also about that.” 1921 combines both of these themes, “Ever since I was young, I was fascinated with art and felt like the as well. Why not venture to Mount Dora highest notion of living is about being artistic. I’ve been mightily for a curated culinary tour you won’t inspired by all kinds of artists.” soon forget.

The unprecedented museum collection contains works by Wendell Castle, George Nakashima, Paul Evans and Dale Chihuly in various This long-awaited cookbook embraces mediums, with a recent purchase of David Bowie’s collection of the history, the character, and the Memphis art to appear on display soon. flavors of the state of Florida that have inspired Van Aken’s famous fusion style With so many fine works of art, it’s hard for Chef Van Aken to pinpoint for over 40 years. www.amazon.com a favorite.

32 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Beard Foundation, 2007 the Humanitarian living it each day, he said, “I tell my staff that travel and I’m huge into theater. I basically of the Year by the International Association no one comes here because they’re hun- document my life on social media.” With- of Culinary Professionals and in 2016, the gry. They come to be transported to open out realizing it, doing what he believes in, Julia Child Foundation Award, a prestig- their eyes and palates.” The Frontera Farm- with his wife Deann by his side. Inspira- ious honor to an individual who has made er Foundation, established in 2003, has tion comes from the world. “The world’s a profound and significant impact on the awarded nearly 200 grants totaling nearly such an amazing place,” he said. “I work way America cooks, eats and drinks. “Hu- $2 million. “Without small sustainable farm- mostly in the food side of things, but in manitarian of the year awards mean every- ers, great local cuisine is unreachable,” as my mind, I explore lots of different things.” TOPOLOBAMPO thing because our restaurants are focused told to International Opulence. A powerful quote has become Bayless’ Chicago’s humanitarian chef Ricky Bayless has achieved what only one other chef has done before: on trying to create communities,” Bayless motto as he approaches life miraculously earning the coveted “Outstanding Restaurant” award by the James Beard Foundation Face Value said. “As a mission-driven restaurant, we living it to the fullest. “There are two ways for his side-by-side restaurants Being a very transparent person, Bay- want to do several different things, not the to live your life. One is as though nothing less said, “I post all my passions on social least of which to make our community a is a miracle and the other is as though isiting Mexico for the first By Marla Horn Lazarus media. I love to cook and entertain all better place to live.” Creating a legacy and everything is a miracle.” time at 14 years old, Rick Bay- the time. I’m a passionate yogi! I love to less fell in love and said, “I got – Albert Einstein there and felt like I was home. Mexico became part of my life.” Fast-forward 30-plus years and you might know Bayless Vfrom winning the title of Bravo’s Top Chef Masters or his highly rated 12th season Public Television series, Mexico–One Plate at a Time. An Undeniable Feat Side by side, you will find Rick’s award- winning restaurants in Chicago. The casual Frontera Grill, founded in 1987 received the James Beard Foundation‘s Outstand- ing Restaurant award in 2007. Toploba- mpo, his fine dining restaurant, served its first meals in 1991, recently earned the James Beard Foundation’s award for Out- standing Restaurant in 2017. This unique “There are two ways accomplishment of award-winning, side- by-side restaurants has only been done by to live your life. One one other chef. From the first award to the most recent, Bayless said, “This is not com- is as though nothing mon and well worth the 10 years of hard work. Different in spirit, but very similar in is a miracle and the flavor, as their inspiration comes from the cuisines of central and southern Mexico. other is as though Being recognized by the Beard Foundation as standard bearers, we pride ourselves and everything is are constantly reinventing, even though we have been around for 28 years.” a miracle.” Giving From The Heart Bayless has earned 7 James Beard Awards in various categories, as well as prestig- –Albert Einstein ious accolades, including Mexico’s official Order of the Aztec Eagle for his contribu- tions to Mexican cuisine through his Chicago restaurants. In 1998, he won Chef Ricky Bayless Humanitarian of the Year by the James

34 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 35 The French say rosé, the Italians say tended maceration or winemaking tech- the French verb saigner, “to bleed”). This rosato, the Spanish say rosado, and the niques that produce a denser wine, closer is the most popular method (especially Germans call it weissherbst. Historically, to a proper red, or closer to a white wine in Southern France) and these wines are Sparkling rosé the creation of rosé can most likely be meant to be consumed within 2-4 years. in the case of very subtle, light-colored attributed to the poor and rustic wine- rosé wines the likes that are produced in Method #2: making techniques that resulted in little Provence, France. ROSé DE PRESSE - extraction from red grape skins, hence LIKE A WHITE WINE BUT There are fundamentally 3 main tech- providing little coloration to the wines. WITH RED GRAPES Originally, these wines were never pro- niques for the production of rosé wine: duced sparkling and were simply very light Method #1: METHOD #2 body and low color red wines that were the Rosé DE SAIGNEE – WHITE WINE ROSÉ DE PRESSE generally far darker than purposely made LIKE A RED WINE WITH rosé today. LESS SKIN CONTACT WHITE GRAPES RED OR BLACK GRAPES The History of Rosé new METHOD #1 Although this category of wine possesses RED WINE ROSÉ DE SAIGNÉE a long history in some cases, it has only CRUSHING /DESTEMMING CRUSHING /DESTEMMING been in the last decade that we have optional trend RED OR BLACK GRAPES By Diego Meraviglia seen an explosion in rosé-producing regions around the globe, as well as a mas-

sive interest and market trend pushing After 12 hours of GENTLE PRESSING INTENSE PRESSING maceration, the free run 1-4 hrs. skin contact juice is “bled o .” osé wine, never to be called on the “rosé all day” motto. Why has this CRUSHING DESTEMMING “pink”, has been traditionally been the case? When American consum-

produced for centuries in spe- ers think of rosé, they tend to think of the FERMENTATION FERMENTATION FERMENTATION • Juice only • Juice only cific regions of the old world ubiquitous and dubious quality, sweet • Juice only • Cooler and slower • Cooler and slower FERMENTATION • Cooler and slower • Takes 2-6 weeks • Takes 2-6 weeks (Europe). Various regions in the continent White Zinfandel, but in fact most of the • Juice & Skins • Takes 2-3 weeks R • Warmer & Faster boast an antiquity with this style of wine, world’s rosés are bone dry. • Takes 1-3 weeks amongst which the Italian regions of AGING/MATURATION AGING/MATURATION It is fundamental to analyze the intrinsic char- (no need to press) • Usually in a tank • In tank (not barrel) Puglia in the South, Lombardia in the • Sometimes in a barrel • – 3 months acteristics of rosé. As technology in the cel- • -1-5 months North, Abruzzo with the traditional “ceras- lars improved with temperature controlled AGING/MATURATION AGING/MATURATION uolo” and the French powerhouse regions • In barrel or tank • In tank fermentation tanks, improved know-how in • – 6 months - 2 years • – 4 - 5 months BOTTLING BOTTLING of Provence and Rhone as the main rosé maceration, selected yeasts and a growing colored wine producers. marketplace for these types of wines, rosé BOTTLING BOTTLING is being developed better than ever, lighter than ever and more versatile than ever.

Rosé is indeed a hybrid between a white wine and a red. it is the most technical of all wines made, meaning that the process White wines are made by crushing and is highly determined by man’s techniques gently pressing white grapes. The juice is quickly separated from the skins and fer- in the cellar. It possesses the drinkable, mented by itself. Making a rosé involves a thirst quenching and approachable char- A rosé de saignee can be the by-product few changes to this process. Red or black acter of a white wine with the added of making red wine, or an end product grapes are used instead of white, and to structure, food pairing versatility and red in itself. Red wines are made by crush- extract color, flavor and tannin. The press- fruit aromatics of a red wine. ing grapes and fermenting their juice in ing is more intense and the juice may be contact with their skins in order to ex- Rosé is normally categorized by its struc- allowed to sit in contact with the skins for ture, which is correlated to the darkness tract color, flavor and tannin. Sometime 1-4 hours, so it has a shorter lifespan and of its color. In most cases, the darker a between 12 and 24 hours of skin contact, should be consumed within 1-3 years. rosé, the bolder and more structured the a winemaker may “bleed off” some of the wine will be. This is a direct result of ex- juice that becomes a rosé de saignee (from Continued on next page

36 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 37 fermentation in the bottle) can age for the traditional classicalmethodofre- with produced if (only wines sparkling not thecase. Indeed,many great rosé proves this Champagne, of likes the rosé, intentions ofthesewines. prime With blended the are fragrance and freshness approachability, as aging, or cellaring for mostcases,In rosé isnotawineintended with fullblown reds. steak, with duck ordishesthat are served normally even pairing of capability nins that resemble ared wine, withthe aromatics, andeven characteristics tan tend to andhave bethemoststructured duced in thismethod pro wines rosé deed, In hybrid’. ‘perfect a creates the result of a white andared wine blending of cept usually dry. The con is Champagne Rosé centuries ago). Clicquotand Madame Ruinart rignon, Dom devised by Pé Dom and pinpointed Champenoise, Methode in thebottleto create thebubbles(the wines, thenfermenting asecond time “base” wines),thenblendingthesebase (the grapes different from wines kling) (non-spar still fermenting by made are Champagne like sparklers method sical Clas exception. famous a is Champagne ing regions donotusethismethod, but to create arosé wine. winemak Most White wineandred winecanbemixed roséfor winesusingthismethod. making The French region ofProvence isfamous E – WITH WHITE WINE BLENDING hod Met 38 Opulence #3: Winter 2017/18 RED WINEITH W - - - - Mid-century songs, thelike of“Hotel Mid-century product soon became soon product asmashhit. BUBBLES California” by theEagles, mention “pink Champagneonice” andthe

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California”“Hotel by theEagleseven mention of like the Songs up. it gobbled able by law, as a Champagne. Pop culture qualifi and itself present to capable brid made withChardonnay, to create ahy wines white with grapes Noir Pinot from wines red blending to resorted pagne Cham in maisons pioneering The red. a be can label the on “Champagne”word the with produced wine no and wines denomination) doesnotaccount for red (Champagne Champagne AOC the deed, was thelackofred winesintheregion. In this behind motivation wines.The pagne begin production of lightly colored to Cham idea brilliant the had Champagne of bles, until in the 1950s, the French region wine regions to produce rosé with bub with rosé produce to regions wine was never the historicalIt intention of experiences. sensorial taste-olfactory amazing with us provide and decades ------PHOTO: SIMONA MAFFEI newest master sommeliercolumnist asour Association, American Sommelier North Meraviglia, Education, President Of &Director International Opulence welcomes Diego able cellar or wine list should lack. able cellar orwinelistshouldlack. incrediblean respect experiencethatno bles into themixandyou’ve gotyourself The percentage of rosé wine consumed in for hundreds ofdollars. rosé winecategory, somebottlesselling the of top the at are wines sparkling rosé driven quality and produced properly combina experts, of majority vast winning the for and tion a is It complexity. ofaromaticsthe lift andsmellsinawine’s for catalysts as act also but capabilities, pairing food and drinkability freshness, of layer extra an for providing wine, the Bubbles notonlyreinforce of theacidity soonbecameasmashhit. uct “pink Champagne on ice” and the prod the ice”and on Champagne “pink Bubbles and fuller andlighter, ro andsweet, styles, dry seen. With of avariety haseverhumanity roséthe bestquality how have brought us know- technology and Time, years. nine past year forits every the n plt..d bub palate...add any nearly please can sés grown by doubledig the United States has More Bubbles ------

Quintessential t at dawn offer catches theybrought to shore a few hourslater Family and fishermen women wholaunchedtheirsmallboats

Home Cooking inProvence hlo bu tb o silfapn sa raue on tables liningthedockat theOldPort ofMarseille. creatures sea still-flapping of tubs blue shallow freshly caught fishand boat across motor oil waft smellofseawaterhe salty minglingwithscents of B y Jan Soeldnr D hunt for theirevening dinners. ingredients for bouillabaisse, thecity’s signature dish,andlocals is it and here at theOldPort that restaurateurs come often insearch of offered, be may species other grouper, and eel Mullet, tuna, octopus, stalls. their surround customers browsing as anger

Winter 2017/18 Opulence 39 39

The bustling market is the first stop on our Provence Gourmet adventure, a cooking class that includes a walking tour of the city and stops at different local markets where we will meet farmers, producers and shopkeep- ers. The tasty ingredients we gather will later become a delicious lunch, and as we walk, our host Gilles Conchy shares stories about the history and culture of Marseille, the city where he grew up. Different Settings In addition to Marseille, Gilles offers the classes in Aix en Provence and the Alpilles, and each one culminates in a cooking session at the home of a different family member. Participants are greeted warmly and the experience offers an opportunity to get to interact with local residents in their personal environments, surely one of the best parts of travel.

We will end our own day at the tastefully decorated apartment of Gilles’ mother. Cooking students in Aix en Provence will visit the local goat cheese farm and an area winery before arriving at Gilles’ own home, a contemporary, ochre-colored house designed with the help of an architect friend to take advantage of summer shade and winter sun. Part of the 12-acre property is devoted to Gilles’ organic vegetable garden.

In the Alpilles, the culinary journey ends near St. Remy de Provence in a beautifully reno- vated old barn set on 20 picturesque acres of French countryside, the home of Gilles’ aunt. Classes are small—from two to eight students—and are conducted in English, French The Journey Continues Gilles’ favorite wine shop: “I always go there, because I know I will find the perfect wines to pair with that day’s meal,” he said. or both. After leaving the port, our next stop is a small farmers’ market where stalls burst with fresh produce like bright peppers, plump, firm toma- A Love Affair with Cooking toes, purple eggplants, crisp greens, and tender young artichokes. “I “As a kid, I was always hanging out in the kitchen baking cakes, pas- like to visit markets where my favorite producers lay out their produce,” tries and crepes with my mother, and she’d also ask me to help with Gilles said. “When you visit a farmers’ market on a regular basis, you start dinners,” Gilles said. “Both my grandmothers were good cooks, too, and talking with the people there. Some even become friends.” I was always impressed with how they prepared large meals for family reunions. Food and cooking were definitely a big deal in my family.” Next, we stop at a small family butcher shop that Gilles has been frequenting for years. Cuts of beef, pork and lamb glisten in glass His recipes now focus on local Provencal cuisine with added cases, and when Gilles points to what he wants, the friendly butcher Mediterranean and Italian influences. “Most of all, I like to pre- weighs and cuts the selection by hand. It’s a far cry from the plastic- pare and eat fresh local produce from the farmers’ market or the wrapped meats and poultry at self-serve American supermarkets. fishermen’s boats that are just reaching the shore,” he said. Unlike the Alpilles and Aix en Provence, there is no winery in A City Guide Marseille, so we visit a local wine shop where bottles from Provence Before starting his cooking classes, Gilles worked in the garment and other parts of France neatly line the shelves. After Gilles describes industry. Later he became a city tour guide, which provided an easy the recipes, the proprietor chooses three different vintages for us. It’s segue into his cooking school. His love for good food and cooking,

40 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 41 istory has always proven Originally, he wanted to be a winemaker, intrinsic in the world-re- and traveled the world trekking as far away nowned Louis XIII cognac as New Zealand before returning home. “I house because each de- was always told the finest cognac house canter is the life achieve- in the world is Remy Martin. And so I knew ment of generations of to reach the highest quality in the Cognac cellar masters. You see, region, I had to be a part of them. But it’s Hevery vintage ages no less than 100 years not just what goes in the bottle that makes and so, quite literally, no cellar master ever Louis XIII so special,” Louiseau said. “It is gets to taste the final product of Louis XIII also the relationships. They are a family run cognac that he or she started blending. Im- business. They have been working with the pressively, this historic House of Remy Mar- same grape growers for generations.” tin has achieved yet another momentous The Heritage feat– with the 2017 announcement of their Baptiste inherited a legacy of greatness that Louis XIII Legacy Edition. started in 1874. Louis XIII Grande Cham- Restricted to only 500 bottles, every pagne Cognac is a blend of more than crystal magnum decanter of Legacy 1,200 eaux-di-vies (brandies), aged Edition has been autographed 100 years in large grain white oak by the four living cellar masters barrels. The wood is felled from (there have only been five in all the Limousin forest 150 miles of history), including the cur- east of Cognac and undergoes rent and youngest cellar master, a medium toasting before the Baptiste Louiseau. Louiseau barrels are made. The barrels inherited the mission from themselves are aged 100 years Pierrette Trichet in 2014. before they can store a drop of Louis XIII cognac. When the cel- “She taught me everything,” lar master makes his or her final said Louiseau. “From the begin- blend – which was started decades ning, Ms. Trichet told me that I can’t earlier by a past cellar master, it is always be in control. I have to trust my then finished for a final rest of four more intuition. In the end, my decision will be years. “I have been trained in balance,” said the right one.” Louiseau. “When I find that all of the aromas Trichet was passed the baton in 2003 from follow one after another, without one over- Georges Clot, who himself was hand-picked taking the next, then I know it is ready.” by Andre Giraud (now 93) in 1990. Giraud held the vaunted position for 30 years before retiring, but has returned to the cellars for this incredible limited release event. The autographed bottles are housed in an Italian calfskin leather case and bear a numbered plaque. No two bottles are alike, making Once In A them works of art in themselves. “Each Bacca- rat Crystal decanter requires perfect synchro- nization of 11 craftsmen who first blow the crystal, hand-place characteristic ornaments and then decorate the neck with 20-carat gold in a balletic performance that is timed to complete each operation while the glass re- FourL generationsi offet Louis XIII cellar masters, unitedi forme the first time in history, mains at perfect temperature,” Louiseau said. More About The Youngest share personal experiences as guardians of the cherished 100-year-aged cognac Cellar Master Baptiste is a native of the Grande Cham- Written by Steven Joseph; interview of Baptiste Louiseau by Michael Jay pagne cru of the Cognac region in France.

42 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 43 set aside now won’t be tasted until well-be- Louiseau. The grapes are traditionally har- “At the tasting of my first Final Blend, they yond their lifetimes. “The youngest eaux-di- vested the first Monday in October before (the tasters) turned to me and said, ‘No, vie in my blending arsenal is still older than being distilled 4-5 months in the winter. you have not changed anything,’ and that me,” explained Baptiste. “I am working with Blind tastings are then held for over 1,000 was the finest compliment I could have spirits that have been set aside by previous eaux-di-vie. “Only 10-25 will be make received,” added Pierrette Trichet. cellar masters. I have 150 cellars with 29,000 it through the entire aging process to Louiseau concurs, “My mission is to casks,” he said. Former Cellar Master Georg- become part of Louis XIII cognac. For the maintain the style.” For Baptiste, being a es Clot elaborated, “We’ve selected the best farmers, it is a great honor to have a spirit part of The Legacy Edition is a tribute to his for the next generation.” selected,” said Baptiste. fellow cellar masters as well as the grow- The individual eaux-di-vie are created from The Legacy ers who contribute to his craft. “Yes I am a white grapes sourced exclusively from the Each of the previous cellar masters have storyteller. But without them, there is no The Nose the aroma that stays in the glass when it is region. Only 3 percent of the spirits come strived to preserve the legacy set before story to tell.” from the Remy Martin-held farms, the rest them by their predecessors. “They tasted it One of Louis XIII’s most famous attributes empty. It is the fragrance of time,” Baptiste Louis XIII The Legacy will only be sold on come from other local growers. “What again and again until they said, ‘It could not is the aroma of myrrh, traditionally found gushes. demand. For availability, please contact makes the Cognac so special is the ter- be better. Better does not exist,’” said oldest in medicines and perfumes, and present [email protected]. Time is an appropriate theme for Louis XIII roir (French for soil). It is a combination of in the story of the first Christmas. “Myrrh is living Cellar Master Andre Diraud. cognac, since the spirits the cellar masters the land, the climate, and the people,” said

44 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 45 FATHER TIME FATHER TIME

46 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 47 FATHER TIME FATHER TIME

Winter 2017/18 OPULENCE 49 ANNUAL COCKTAIL PARTY HONORING Contessa Maria Vittoria Colonna Rimbotti, President of the Friends of the Ufﬁzi Gallery JANUARY 29, 2018

Private Palm Beach Home: Raffaello Members: $1,000+ For event times and membership details, visit www.friendsoftheufﬁzigallery.org Su Filindeu marras a “It’s like a game with your hands. Threads of God – World’s Rarest Pasta From Nuoro, Sardinia But once you achieve it, then the magic happens,” By Marla Horn Lazarus – Paola Abraini nie tt to m.an PHOTO: other, to form a cross, she trims any excess from the ends before Refusing to let the repeating the process. After three thin layers are formed, alter- tradition fade away, eople are coming from all over Europe just to taste it. For I don’t want to reveal,” Paola said. “But the secret is right in front of nating layers like latticework, it’s dried in the Sardinian sun. For Paola made it her the past 300 years, Santuario di San Francesco attracts you. It’s in my hands and plenty of elbow grease.” several hours, until the layers are hardened into delicate sheets of mission to share Su hundreds of devout pilgrims each spring. The sacred This time of year, Paola wakes up at 7 a.m. to begin five-hour work- tiny threads resembling stitched lace. Filindeu with the dish of Su Filindeu, known as the rarest pasta on earth, is days for a month to make 110 pounds of pasta, and for the larger world. In the last only served to the loyal trekkers who complete a 20-mile Traditionally, the pasta is the heart of the biannual festival, served nine-day feast in May, she’ll prepare four times as much. few years, Italy’s pilgrimage. This nighttime adventure takes you through at the San Francesco feast, enjoyed in an amazing thick soup premier food and PSardinia, on foot or horseback, from the city of Nuoro to the village of DELICATE AND IMPOSSIBLE TO REPLICATE of boiling sheep’s broth with grated sheep’s milk pecorino, similar wine magazine/ Lula for the biannual Feast of San Francesco. Su Filindeu, made specifi- Beginning with ordinary dough of semolina wheat, water and salt, to a creamy feta. guide, Gambero cally for the festival, is so specialized and mind-boggling intricate that Paola kneads and moistens it until it reaches a consistency reminis- THE LEGACY CONTINUES Rosso, invited her only a few make it and only those who reach Lula will ever try it. cent of modeling clay and working it into a rolled-cylindrical shape. After hundreds of years in the same matrilineal family tree, these to Rome to film her Then comes the hardest part, a process she calls, “understanding FAMILY TRADITION OR SECRET? threads of God may need a miracle to survive for future genera- preparing the dish. Recently, for the first time, she’s begun making Su the dough with your hands.” When she feels it needs to be more Su Filindeu, also known as “threads of God,” is pasta made of hun- tions. Only one of Paola’s two daughters knows the basic tech- Filindeu for three local restaurants, offering non-pilgrims a chance to elastic, she dips her fingers into a bowl of salt water. If it needs more dreds of tiny strands in a hillside town in Sardinia. It was nearly half nique, and lacks the passion and patience of her mother while her taste the labor of love from these three women. a century ago that a 62-year-old woman, Paola Abraini, learned the moisture, she dips them into a separate bowl of regular water. “It other two relatives who still carry on the tradition have yet to find At the end of the pilgrimage, the weary are rewarded with two technique from her mother-in-law, who had learned it from previ- can take years to understand,” Paola said. willing successors among their own children. things: a footbath and a bowl of steaming noodles. The footbath is ous generations of mothers. As it’s so difficult and time-consuming A similar instinct guides her hands as they pull the dough into It’s obvious that this culinary art form is one of the most at-risk foods just a footbath, but the noodles are extraordinary and worth every to prepare, that for centuries, no one can remember how or why increasingly thin strands without ever breaking them. When the of becoming extinct. Paola recognizes this and has done something luscious morsel. Paola said, “It’s a blessing just to be able to make these women started preparing Su Filindeu. The recipe has re- semolina reaches just the right consistency, she picks up the cy- previously unheard of with her family’s tightly guarded dish: She at- Su Filindeu. I’ve been in love with it since the first time I ever saw mained in Nuoro, located on the slopes of the Monte Ortobene, lindrical strand to stretch and fold the dough, doubling it as she tempted to teach local girls how to make it. Unfortunately, it didn’t go it, and I love it more each day. I hope to continue to make if for where only the women of a single Sardinian family know this pressed the heads of the Su Filindeu into her palms. This sequence well as she approached the local government to see if she could open many years ahead…but if one day I have to stop, at least I’ll have special technique, having only been passed down through the is repeated in a fluid motion eight times. With each sweeping pull, up a small school, but they told her there was no funding. Then, she a video.” women in Paola’s family, each of who has guarded it tightly. Her the dough becomes thinner and thinner. When complete, she’s agreed to invite students into her home. She states, “The problem was niece and sister-in-law are the only two other women on the planet left with 256 even strands, about half as wide as angel-hair pasta. that once they saw how I actually do it, they’d say, ‘It’s just too much View the video online: www.internationalopulence.com who still know how to make it. “Many people say that I have a secret Carefully laying the strands on a circular base, one on top of an- work’, and wouldn’t come back.”

52 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 53 In the ‘valley of many cellars’, the Valpolicella is nestled in the Fumane Legacy of region of Italy, known locally for its winemaking since the 16th century. Generations later, in the 20th century, Giovanni Allegrini elevated the region’s esoteric winemaking legacy to what would become a global entity thanks in part to his innovative agricultural instincts.

Allegrini’s novelties included using barrique sized oak barrels besides ‘The Spider the customary Slavonian oak barrels; he lessened the aging duration of his wine productions to retain the fruity aromatic flavor of his very favorite grape – the Corovina; and he developed new drying methods that conceptualized what he called the ‘Terre di Fumane.’ Among The An unusual and enthusiastic wine innovator, Giovanni Allegrini earned the nickname, “The Spider Among the Barrels,” because he’d jump from [l-r]: Caterina, Francesco, Franco, Silvia and Marilisa Allegrini barrel to barrel in enthusiasm when presenting wine tastings to guests. the torch to the seventh generation: Marilisa’s daughter Caterina, Wal- The Allegrini Dynasty ter’s daughter Silvia and Franco’s son Francesco. Barrels’ Building the Allegrini wine dynasty did not happen overnight. In By Hope Gainer 1983, when Giovanni passed away unexpectedly at the age of 63, Attention to Excellence sixth-generation siblings Marilisa Allegrini and her brothers Franco The Allegrini focus has been on quality. Between their three estates and Walter (now deceased), spearheaded the family wine brand’s (one in Veneto and two in Tuscany), they have released more than expansion efforts. 60 wines rated 90 points or higher by Wine Spectator. They started in Veneto and expanded to Tuscany, adding Poggio al Tesoro in At that time, they were a modest producer of about 8,500 cases Bolgheri and Poggio San Polo in Montalcino, thus opening new per year, consisting of lighter Valpolicella Classico and the stronger doors for their children to make their mark. Amarone made from raisined grapes from the Veneto region. Marilisa has personally made it her mission to take their superior Today, the Allegrini family produces 350,000 cases annually (worth $36 Amarone wine on the road and also enhance the image of then million) of a more diversified mix of wines. 20 percent of their sales Valpolicella wine. Last year she was the only vintner appointed to occur in the United States. “Reaching the U.S. market was our biggest the board of SACE, the export bank, showing the importance of dream, but we also expanded to Germany, Switzerland, the United wine to Italy’s economic recovery. Kingdom – and now Asia,” explained Marilisa, who serves as CEO. “We practice sustainable viticulture and have organic certification. We want Acquiring the Renaissance Masterpiece: to minimize impact on the environment, both physically and aestheti- Villa della Torre cally. Our land is our greatest asset. What we do today impacts what we Always up for the next challenge, Marilisa and Franco bought Villa th leave for our children tomorrow.” The Allegrini’s are preparing to pass della Torre, a 16 century estate surrounded by the Palazzo della

Giovanni Allegrini’s influential art of winemaking in the Fumane region of Italy

Photo above: Giovanni Allegrini, wine brand founder and “The Spider Among The Barrels”

54 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 55 Dine Like A Tuscan Upperclassman Forte dei Marmi, helmed by Two-Michelin Star Chef Antonio Mellino, brings authentic Italian fare to the United States By Robin Jay Villa della Torre ince the 18th century in northern Tuscany, tour- bling prosecco. ists from the Italian upper class have flocked to the “Welcome to Forte dei Marmi,” he greeted Forte dei Marmi sea town ‘to breathe healthy air and in his charming Italian dialect. “I’m pleased to sandbathe.’ Meaning Fort of the Marbles (referring to share with you tonight some of my fa- to the Carrara stone quarried from the Alpi Apuane Torre estate vineyard, which their father had managed near the family’s In 2016, Villa della Torre opened as a five-star boutique vorite dishes I have created along with my mountains), a touch of Forte dei Marmi has come to Miami Beach, Fumane hometown. Nobleman Giulio della Torre commissioned the hotel, with 10 luxury guest rooms available. The Allegrini family s son Raffaele. We prepare our pasta from with international foodies flocking to taste the simple sensorial epi- Italian Renaissance villa to be built by architects Giulio Romano and celebrated with a series of special guest dinners, including one to scratch from the finest imported Italian in- curean cuisine of Two-Michelin Star Chef Antonio Mellino. Michele Sanmicheli, with works by artist Giovanni Battista Scultori. host Italy’s Prime Minister, the U.S. Ambassador, Alibaba Founder gredients, our fish is fresh and wild caught Jack Ma and superstar singer Sting. Vinitaly, the largest wine ex- “I used to play in the villa and dreamed that one day it would be- The Northern Tuscany Dining Experience – may I suggest the branzino – and we pre- hibition in the world, each April brings over 20,000 people to the long to my family,” said Marilisa. “Now our dream has come true. I All guests here are treated with white-glove service, as if they might pare our desserts from the heart.” region and VIP events are often held at Villa della Torre. Wine tast- am passionate about art, creative expression and beauty. I think be the next undercover critics on assignment from the coveted Let The Feast Begin ings and cooking classes are offered at the villa, as well as wed- Michelin Guide, which rates the globe’s finest restaurants. A lucky these things are essential in the world of wine; wine and art are Soon from the kitchen arrived a parade of dings, honeymoons and special events like hot air ballooning few may earn one star. Chef Antonio Mellino has earned two stars. natural partners.” authentic Italian dishes. We started with ca- and art exhibitions. Since the Italian government cannot take care of restoring all der- Shortly after the start of sunset, when the maître d’ seated us at a lamari ‘tagliatelle’ with petrossian caviar and What does the famiily hope will motivate the next generation of elict properties in the country, Marilisa feels it’s the responsibility of quaint porch-front table, the silver-flocked lemon zest, followed by tuna tartare with Allegrinis? “Love and a strong sense of duty,” Marilisa said proudly. entrepreneurs to play their part in preserving Italy’s artistic legacy. Chef Antonio – just having landed in ‘tonno pinna gialla’, avocado, baby capers Renovating Villa della Torre into Allegrini’s hospitality headquarters To learn more about Allegrini wines and Villa della Torre, Miami from London and still clad in his and citrus gel, and then vitello tonnato with became her pet project. She personally directed the interior design visit website.allegrini.it/en. crisp white Oxford and stylish denim – hazelnut mayo, arugula, parmesan, corn and furnishings, as well as the seamless and thoughtful integration sat down to join us for a flute of bub- ‘taco’. Next arrived tagliolini with Alaskan of new technology to preserve the villa’s ancient history. crab, cherry tomatoes and chili oil, shad- owed soon by Mediterranean Branzino Zuc- chini filet with artichoke puree, spring onion and new potato chips. For dessert, we delighted in the home-churned pistachio ge- lato, served in a natural-cut travertine bowl from San Pietro marble quarry in Italy. LA GROLA 2010 Need I say more? Certainly, there’s no won- LIMITED EDITION der why the Italian Republic awarded Chef Antonio as Ambassador of the Best Medi- Celebrating 30 years of production, La terranean Cuisine in the world. Grola wine by Allegrini was released in Forte dei Marmi is located at 150 Ocean 1983 and marked the cultural and oe- Drive, Miami Beach, in the intimate 1938 nological revival of the Valpolicella. On Mediterranean revival building meticulously the occasion of this anniversary, the restored by acclaimed architect Chad Op- Company decided to commission Milo penheim in collaboration with Milan-based Manara, one of Italy’s best-loved Com- fabricator Henry Timi. For reservations, call ic-Strip artists, to interpret La Grola and (786) 276-3095 or visit OpenTable.com. the local legends that surround it. Ac- cording to the ancient legend, it was on this amazing hill that Corvina Grapes borned, thanks to the miraculous intervention of a crow (“Grola” in Veronese Dawn at Allegrini dialect) that made the fortune of that vineyard.

56 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 57 Culinary Business Profile By Alona Abady Martinez

GoingMeet A Dynamic Duo Big with A Passion for Food Together, the Calambichis have earned such at PUC-SP. Believing in education beyond South Florida is an international market,” Rosana honors as “Minority Manufacturer of the Year” the classroom, she traveled, residing in Cali, said. “We just try to provide authentic flavors. I by the U.S Department of Commerce and Colombia and Angola, Africa and, ultimately, have about 16 represented nationalities work- acknowledgment from the Top Platinum South Florida. “My understanding of different ing with us. This diversity becomes a strength.” Green Business Bureau for their commitment cultures enhances my knowledge of interna- Tucked away in a quiet strip mall next to the to sustainable business practices. tional business and my appreciation of world Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, BigChef’s local cuisine.” She’s also gifted with a extraordinary More About The Gurus of customers span from Key West up to Wel- business acumen. In 2004, she earned an Haute Hospitality lington and across the state to Naples and MBA in Global Business Management. Mano owned two Greek restaurants be- Marco Island. They also ship orders over- fore partnering with Rosana to purchase Thriving With Cultural night throughout the continental United BigChef. “He’s known as ‘The Miracle Man’ Diversity States, cater South Florida inflight and yacht in this industry: last minute things, ‘can you “When we acquired BigChef, it was a com- companies, as well as cater to businesses do this? Can you do that?’ and he will make pany doing hors d’oeuvres and canapés and residences. And then there’s the café, it happen!” said Rosana. for the tri-county area – Miami, Broward where guest come to have lunch or pick up and Palm Beach Counties in South Florida,” orders ready-to-eat or frozen. “If everything’s under control, you’re going Customer Ser- too slow,” said Mano, “Food is a celebration. vice Bar None who noted he shares The duo not only over- this mantra with a well- I like being a part see every facet of the known racecar driver. operation, they are the Born in the Belgian of that.” – Rosana Calambichis’ face of the business, Congo and raised in meeting with each his family’s native country of Greece, Mano Rosana said. “Since then, we have expanded customer personally. They also launched grew up around restaurants and clubs. In and diversified.” an App for customers to place their orders. 1971, he moved to New York and in 1974, As Rosana explained this, she pulled out “The priority is the client. We want them to became involved in his first supper club multiple glossy brochures of BigChef’s feel comfortable.” venture with his family. By 1976, he ob- menu offerings. It goes without saying they value the im- tained his degree in Computer Science and “I love pictures!” she exclaimed, and, as I get portance of their staff, a critical component Hotel & Restaurant Management at New lost in images of baby lobster ravioli, guava in BigChef’s success. “I call them ‘the key in- York University and was on his way to suc- mint crowns, and Parisian macarons the gredient’,” Rosana said, beaming like a proud cessfully continuing the family tradition. colors of the rainbow, I can see why. parent. At that moment, Enrique, one of the Rosana’s curriculum vitae is equally as impres- “brigadeiro specialists,” enters her office to dis- Diversification seems an understatement osana Calambichis’s voice is soothing and lyrical, a sive. “Experience and travel - these are forms cuss additions to their already 23 flavors of the when looking at all BigChef offers. They natural accompaniment to her friendly disposition. of education in themselves according to Eu- favorite Brazilian bonbon. “I want hazelnut for have multiple lines of products, such as A lawyer by profession, she came to the United States ripides, the Greek playwright,” Rosana said. This the holidays, okay?,” she told him with a smile. fresh canapés, puff pastry, dim sum, and in 1991 where she honed her business expertise with doctrine is fundamental to her success. R It can be overwhelming to wrap your mind several successful endeavors before purchasing BigChef with her dessert, each with a long list of combina- “My drive to become a successful entre- around how BigChef, run by a husband- husband, restaurateur Mano Calambichis, in 2003. Together, they tions from which to choose. Their Karnis preneur began as a young girl,” continued and-wife team with only 38 employees, can form a dynamic duo powered by creativity, passion, and business line provides Kosher, items like hummus, Rosana, who was inspired by her mother’s provide services for so many venues with so savvy, a combination that has garnered them multiple awards shakshukah, and a Spanish eggplant salad. achievements as an award-wining chef and many options and do it with such success. and certifications. Next on Rosana’s to-do list is a Vegan line, cookbook author and her father’s successful although she is quick to explain they do of- Rosana’s explanation is surprisingly simple: WE Magazine for Women named Rosana among the “Top 100 leadership practices. Raised in Sao Paulo, Bra- fer vegan products, just not a full line yet. “Food is a celebration. I like being a part Woman in Ecommerce” and she was recently awarded the noble zil, Rosana earned her degree in Family Law of that.” title of “Commander” by the Sublime PUMART Order Merit of Honor The wide representation of culinary cultures in Rio de Janeiro-Brazil. is intentional. “It is international food because

58 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 59 The Kahlo Dress is pure floral poetry in motion. In a sweeping length, this halter dress is floaty and elegant in tiers of ruffled stretch silk. $598

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62 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 62 63 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 63 What Women Want

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64 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 64 Winter 2017/18 OPULENCE 65 What Women Want By Robin Jay Medical Innovation News G Revolutionizing Surgeon Powered Robotics

A new intuitive robotic wrist-mounted needle driver – which costs hundreds, FlexDex Co-founders (l-r) Shorya not millions – makes minimally invasive robotic surgery available to all Awtar, SC.d. and James Geiger, M.D.

t seemed like futuristic science-fiction-come-to-life in 2000 sign architecture, which leads to the sub-optimal performance. when the FDA announced approval of the robotic da Vinci Our goal was to reduce this burden for the surgeon so more can Surgical System. Surgeons could control the intuitive device adopt minimally invasive (or laparoscopic) surgery and those who from a console to facilitate com- already perform such surgery can Iplex surgery using a minimally inva- do so more comfortably. sive approach. Problem was, the sys- Initial surgical robotic sys- “We had to completely reimagine tem cost millions, only one surgeon the interface between the surgeon at a time could use it (log-jamming tems cost millions of dollars. and the instrument. We recog- operating rooms), and the prohibi- FlexDex costs less than a H nized the need to mount the need tive expense made it available only thousand dollars. driver instrument on the forearm to a select few patients. However, and create a virtual center of rota- a Michigan-based company called tion for the instrument handle that FlexDex is about to revolutionize the I coincides with the surgeon’s wrist,” robotic surgery industry with a new Awtar continued. “FlexDex not intuitive mechanical wrist-mounted only provides enhanced dexter- needle driver. ity (or wristed articulation) at the Intuitive Medicine instrument tip, its unique design “For all surgeons who perform mini- allows the surgeon to control the mally invasive surgery (MIS), we instrument via natural and com- have only had the use of basic func- fortable hand movements. tioning instruments called ‘straight “The instrument becomes an ex- sticks.’ These instruments allow you tension of the surgeon’s hand in- to enter the body through small inside the patient’s body. This helps cisions, but have limited function- the surgeon perform complex ality,” said Dr. Geiger, M.D., FlexDex laparoscopic procedures with less Co-founder and CEO. “FlexDex physical and cognitive strain. Key provides intuitive control and articula- surgical procedures that can ben- tion of the instrument tip within the patient. This level of functionality efit from this functionality include hernia repair, bariatic surgery, is currently only found on expensive surgical robotic systems, which partial nephrectomy, hysterectomy, prostatectomy, to name a few.” cost millions of dollars. FlexDex costs less than a thousand dollars. Response from the surgeon community proves exciting. When “Shorya Awtar, SC.d. and I began a collaboration in 2007 ini- asked about his experience with tially somewhat by chance (along with our business Co-founder J FlexDex, Dr. Kent Bowden, a gen- Greg Bowles), but ultimately by a common goal to bring the eral surgeon in Cadillac, Michigan, benefits of MIS to patients anywhere in the world. I am one and one of the first surgeons to of the inventors, but Shorya is a brilliant mechanical engineer transform his practice using the who solved a problem that many others had tried but were G: Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer in Fuchsia – neimanmarcus.com device, replied, “I think FlexDex never successful.” H: Edie Parker Jean Ripple Clutch – neimanmarcus.com will do for laparoscopy what lapa- I: Hugo & Victor Autumn/Winter Dessert Collection • hugovictor.com Chief Technology Officer Awtar explained, “The existing laparoscopic roscopy did for general surgery.” J: ICON Au Gold Infuser with Black Tea Tray – teaforte.com instruments for MIS required a complicated and awkward move- About FlexDex: FlexDex Surgical ment by the surgeon. These instruments are counter-intuitive http://www.flexdex.com Featured in the 2017 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book and result in poor ergonomics for the surgeon. For decades, FlexDex Co-Founder Greg Bowles traditional laparoscopic instruments have followed a certain de-

66 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 67 Title Here The speechless passenger fortunately recorded the moment on his Two days after the earthquake shook the city to its core, Jean managed to drive with his cell phone and proceeded to take down Jean’s phone number, after sister from Port-au-Prince to the Dominican Republic, where they would fly to Miami informing him of his decades-long profession in business develop- for safety. Like many Haitians following the earthquake, Jean’s family gained temporary ment and brand management within the entertainment industry. protective asylum status in the U.S., while his mom worked as a nursing assistant to gen- A Journey Begins erate a minimal income.In the summer of 2012, Jean moved to Sunrise and attended A Broward College. The two gentlemen agreed to remain in contact. In sub- His self-taught vocal instruction continued at home and Jean remained optimistic about sequent months, a performance protégé was born. his future performance aspirations. With video evidence of his newfound talent, Santelises made calls to his personal network of contacts in the music business, includ- The Silver Lining ing Gloria and Emilio Estefan, who Jean was lucky enough to meet. After his talent was discovered at college, Jean was referred to a voice teacher. He en- Valiant rolled in the music program, becoming an avid member of the college choir. In doing so, Over the summer of 2017, Jean sang for guests within the duo’s Jean had the opportunity to sing for all of his teachers, after which his fellow students and new restaurant, Estefan Kitchen. “Jean has a genuinely natural forte professors compared him to members of the group Il Divo. He began using his talents for for singing opera – a diamond in the rough – and has waited too the greater good by singing in fundraisers for Haiti, which he continues today, together long for the break he deserves. Not only does he have a tremen- with his love for bartending at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. dous gift, but his story of displacement from his home country is Verismo’s a heartbreaking one that many Haitians in South Florida can relate Vaillant, along with Santelises (now his personal to. Jean has the potential and personality to become the next multi manager), is taking strides to gain addi- platinum artist,” Santelises said. tional exposure, with the next project being sessions in the recording studio and The Ovation additional introductions to influential Two months after their fateful initial Uber encounter, Jean was names within the music business for a introduced to a wider audience during Miami Fashion Week at Ice Impossible potential label contract. An approach Palace Studios. Jean took to the stage to sing a full rendition of was made to the management team “‘O sole mio” in front of astonished attendees that included Miami of the renowned tenor, Andrea Fashion Week’s honorary ambassador Antonio Banderas. Bocelli, who launched “Voices The front row leapt to their feet with applause upon hearing Jean’s of Haiti” through the Andrea vocal splendor. “To have the privilege and honor of meeting Glo- Bocelli Foundation – pro- Dream ria and Emilio Estefan was a dream come true,” said Jean. “To then viding music education Haiti earthquake survivor is discovered become a featured artist at Miami Fashion Week and perform in to children in Catholic front of Hollywood royalty was an equally unforgettable experi- in Miami as the next rising-star opera singer schools throughout ence. My friendship with Rich has not only demonstrated the kind- Haiti. The approach was BY ELLIOTT STARES ness and generosity the people of Miami are willing to extend, but well received by Bocel- has opened my eyes toward understanding how professional guid- li’s management team 28-year-old Haitian earthquake survivor has defied all ance can unleash one’s true potential. I aim to inspire and encour- with a view to a odds, after starting a new life in South Florida and reveal- age other Haitians who may also have an undiscovered talent to be meeting being ar- ing his remarkable talent as an aspiring opera singer to an patient and work hard toward living their dream.” inconspicuous Uber passenger who is now helping him ranged between Jean’s Early Life fulfill his dream. the opera legend A Jean was born in Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, with a young- and the aspir- Chance Encounter er sister. His father was a diplomat for Haiti, and his moth- ing Haitian It was an ordinary summer evening in Miami, when long-time er was an architect by trade, who raised the family at home. artist. Miami resident, Rich Santelises, was journeying home via his At 9 years old, Jean realized he had a voice that was unlike any- normal method of Uber transportation. His driver – 28 year- one else his age. He became increasingly mesmerized watching Jean remembers rehearsing opera for a school performance old Jean Vaillant, an earthquake survivor from Haiti’s capital, concerts by his favorite performers in America, while dreaming of Port-au-Prince, who relocated to South Florida with his family becoming a professional singer one day. By age 12, the operatic To see Jean shortly after the disaster in 2010. classic, La Donna è Mobile, became Jean’s favorite song to practice. in the family’s wooden house in Port-au-Prince, when an Vaillant’s In high school, his voice matured and he distinguished himself as A friendly conversation ensued between the two, and Jean performance at a talented tenor. earthquake pummeled the country in 2010. revealed his love for opera singing from childhood. A curious Miami Santelises couldn’t let the journey end without hearing a rendition When Tragedy sTrikes Fashion Week from the young islander. Jean took a deep breath and began singing Jean remembers rehearsing for a school performance in the family’s 2017, go to youtu. lines from the Italian classic “‘O sole mio.” Santelises recounts the car wooden house in Port-au-Prince, when an earthquake pummeled be/3ZZHFoHQ1Sw. vibrating with the bellowing base from the Haitian’s voice, resulting the country in 2010. He felt traumatized at the suffering of his fam- in a breathtaking interpretation of the chorus – perfect in both tone ily’s hometown and deaths of his fellow residents in the capital. and pitch – as if it were from Pavarotti himself.

68 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 69 Gentlemen’s Corner

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D Featured in the 2017 Neiman Marcus Christmas Book

70 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 OPULENCE 71 hat do His Holiness Pope Fran- Second is the desire to sit in a seat once empirical research journal Organizational cis, Apple Icon Steve Jobs, owned by someone of historic greatness Behavior and Human Decision Process. “… Grand Prix winner Michael – as if, somehow, the provenance might [Our] Study 1 reports that men’s testoster- Schumacher, Italian legend project similar qualities onto the new own- one levels increased and decreased…after Enzo Ferrari, American mus- ers. A third influence, extreme speed and driving an expensive sports car and an old cle-car designer Carroll Shelby, an engine-revving purr of power can spur family sedan, respectively.” W and former frozen chicken one’s quest to splurge on a rare sports car. 6 Supercar Auctions business tycoon Christian von Koenigsegg After all, supercars can exceed thousands Making Headlines have in common? Collectors are grappling of horsepower and hundreds of miles per Whether you have the purse to purchase a to get into their cars – and willing to pay hour, sparking an adrenaline rush at just the collectible supercar or simply appreciate the HYPERCAR handsomely for the privilege. Automobiles idea of owning and mastering a vehicle so fine artistry, engineering and performance, owned by these icons of faith, technology potentially dangerous and life-threatening. you’ll enjoy this look at a few select high- and speed have, or will soon hit, auction A fourth scenario comes from behavioral profile hypercars that have been, or soon will blocks (some to benefit charities), with bid- scientists who there’s another factor that be, up for sale to the highest bidder. AUCTION MANIA ders registering in droves. Quick – get your plays a significant role in a person’s super- Factors Fueling Auction Mania On 5 High-Profile Hypercars bidding paddles! car attraction: primal instinct. 1. The Last LaFerrari Aperta Fetches Record Price For Children’s Charity What Sparks “Using evolutionary psychology as a theo- by Robin Jay The Bidding Frenzy? retical framework…conspicuous con- On September 9, 2017, Ferrari set a record If you’re wondering what motivates bid- sumption serves as a means by which men when the very last (210th unit) LaFerrari Ap- ding wars that bring a king’s ransom at communicate their social status to pro- erta sold for a staggering $7.9 million at high-profile hypercar auctions, we’ve un- spective mates,” wrote scientists Gad Saad auction during the Prancing Horse’s 70th covered four key influences: First, there’s and John G. Vongas in a 2009 issue of the Anniversary celebrations at the Fiorano the basic economic principle of supply and demand. These high-tech mega-machines are typically handmade and produced in very small quantities, rendering them rare mechanical works of art and tangible port- folio assets. Photo: RM Sotheby Photo: Photo: RM Sotheby Photo:

This LaFerrari presents a unique metallic Rosso Fuoco livery, with double metallic Biano Italia racing stripe on its bonnet and tail. The final bid is a new record for a 21st Steve Job’s BMW Z8 was estimate to bring $300,000 - $400,000 and was offered without reserve. century car. To see the final selling price, visit www.InternationalOpulence.com.

72 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 73 This historic $22.55 million 1956 Aston Martin DBR1/1 est production cars since the brand’s inception. The Koenigsegg is now the most valuable British car sold at auction Regera continues the tradition, but with technology that produces outrageous speed, impeccable comfort, and a unique Direct Drive powertrain. The unrivaled system produces 670 horsepower and a breathtaking acceleration rate of zero to over 400 km/h in just 20 seconds. This power-to-weight ratio has never been seen in a road- legal electric drive system prior to the Regera.

But before you ring your investment banker and suit up in your racing gear, know this: Koenigsegg has recently announced the factory’s full allocation of custom-build Regera models has sold out! There’s no known auction date for one of these rare megacars to hit the secondary marketplace, but keep your eyes peeled and your fingers crossed if you dream of owning one, as a future auction- house sale is likely the only way you’ll ever get your hands on one. Courtesy of Lamborghini M edia Courtesy His Holiness Pope Francis signed this Lamborghini Huracán “The Regera is a new high watermark for Koenigsegg Automotive” at its unveiling on November 15, 2017, in the Vatican. said company founder and CEO, Christian von Koenigsegg (yes, he’s also the frozen chicken business tycoon we mentioned at the beginning of this story). “It has been our greatest technical challenge and, as such, it is also our greatest technical triumph.”

circuit. Proceeds benefited ‘Save the Children’, an organization that “Not only was the Z8 the halo car for an iconic brand and the Bond helps disadvantaged children in more than 120 countries worldwide. car for a generation, but it caught the eye of the most iconic and influential entrepreneur of our time,” said Don Rose, Car Specialist, According to RM Sotheby’s, the hybrid LaFerrari Aperta is ‘the result RM Sotheby’s. “Jobs’ legacy is all around us, with over one billion iP- of seven decades of ingenuity…that embodies every aspect of the hones sold to date. However, he only owned one Z8, and this is that company and its founder, the late Enzo Ferrari.’ car. The BMW is a perfect fit within our ICONS event, while making 2. The Most Valuable British Car Ever Sold at Auction: it difficult to determine whether the icon in this case is the car or A 1956 Aston Martin DBR1 the man… I say both!”

At its flagship Monterey sale on August 18–19, 2017, the RM Sotheby’s 4. Lamborghini Huracán built for His Holiness Pope Francis highlight was the sale of this legendary 1956 Aston Martin DBR1, chas- To Be Auctioned For Charity in May 2018 sis no. 1, which achieved $22,550,000. The sum set a world record not Donated to Pope Francis by Automobili Lamborghini, this 2018 only for an Aston Martin, but also for any British automobile at auction. Huracán was custom built in homage to the Vatican. The special Arguably the most important Aston Martin ever produced, DBR1/1 edition model pays tribute to the Vatican City flag colors, painted in carries a racing history that includes overall victory at the 1959 Nür- Bianco Monocerus with Giallo Tiberino details. burgring 1000 KM, as well as the greatest names in motorsport, from Carroll Shelby to Jack Brabham, Roy Salvadori, and Sir Stirling Moss. RM Sotheby’s will offer this one-of-a-kind supercar at its biennial Monaco sale, May 12, 2018, without reserve, with all proceeds to be 3. Steve Jobs’ BMW Z8 Sold At New York ‘Icons’ Sale donated to the Holy Father, who will allocate them accordingly to December 6, 2017 the Vatican’s preferred charitable organizations. For further informa- BMW’s most iconic car of the 21st century, this Z8 went to RM So- tion on the Lamborghini, please visit www.rmsothebys.com. theby’s ICONS sale in exemplary condition, having just 15,200 miles. 5. The Customer-Build Koenigsegg Regera – It was offered with its proper hardtop and hardtop stand, car cover, The First Fully Robotized Supercar – Now Sold Out owner’s and service manuals, two keys, navigation CDs and, ironi- cally, its BMW-branded Motorola cell phone, used by Jobs. Perhaps Any megacar enthusiast worth his salt knows Koenigsegg Automo- unsurprisingly, he was known to have hated that phone. tive in Ängelholm, Sweden, has traditionally built the world’s fast- Koenigsegg Regera 1966 Mustang Shelby

74 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 75 elements, marine-inspired artwork and unique bas-relief décor. An unusual feature of the vessel is the forward-living area located at the bow, which allows guests to enjoy Living On outdoor living in total privacy and includes a unique party space ideal for karaoke evenings.

The Main Deck includes a swimming pool Cloud 9 on the aft deck. Indoors, the main saloon can be transformed into a full-fledged cinema with a large screen and projec- tor descending from the ceiling. There is also a spacious spa area, equipped with a AT THE MONACO massage table, hair salon and private bathroom. Picturesque views of the ocean can be enjoyed from the fold- YACHT SHOW down balcony. Immediately forward are By Hope Gainer the six guest cabins with more variations of the oak wood. uring the fall Monaco Yacht Show, the world’s Ah, The Owner’s Quarters greatest superyacht event on the quays of Port The Owner’s Deck has private access Hercules, CLOUD 9 debuted – it took my breath to 4,305 square feet of sumptuous Daway when I set foot on board. The show curates living space with a king-size bed facing extraordinary never-to-be-repeated superyachts built by the the sea, his-and-her bathrooms and spa- world’s most respected shipyards and CLOUD 9 made the cious walk-in closets. There is a media cut to appear at this special show supported by his Serene room with a sliding glass door opening Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco. There is nothing bet- onto the aft deck, which transforms into ter to whet one’s appetite for a lavish vacation aboard a su- a private outdoor cinema. peryacht than seeing her, meeting her crew and having a CLOUD 9 is a powerful collaboration toast on deck. CLOUD 9 is like experiencing a slice of ‘heaven between CRN (a division of Ferretti at sea.’ Group), Zuccon International Project Her Specifications (Rome based architecture and industrial CLOUD 9, a custom-built design studio), Winch Design (Exterior & 243-foot superyacht de- Interior Yacht Design Company) and Bur- livered in May 2017, com- gess (Global superyacht company that fortably and luxuriously guides clients through every aspect of accommodates up to 16 the yachting experience including new guests (12 when charter- construction supervision). It has over ing) across eight cabins, 10,764 square feet of design elements arranged as an owner’s across all five decks and sub deck result- suite, one VIP cabin and ing in a world-class caliber superyacht. six doubles. In addition, CLOUD 9 is lauded as one of the most space is provided for 22 impressive new superyachts to hit the crew members, plus an water this year. additional two cabins for four staff members. Chartering CLOUD 9 is offered this winter in the Caribbean with weekly rates from Across all five decks are un- $875,000 through Burgess as Worldwide derstated color schemes with Central Agents. www.burgessyachts.com a wide diversity of oak juxta- posed with mother-of-pearl

76 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 77 Artful

Master Interior Designer Perla Lichi shares her art of light

hat do your favorite movies, photographs, artificial lighting combined affect the way color and texture is and paintings all have in common? Likely seen in a room.” one strong element is that all draw the view- Perla chose to emphasize features that other designers might er in through artful use of light and shadow. consider hindrances. A relatively low ceiling can constrict a And just like with any optical art piece, the room. But here, Perla employs silver leaf and an oversized, grand deft development of a lighting story will chandelier, to turn the ceiling into an essential deliverer of light bring the viewer subliminally into the environment. It’s the same W and ambiance. “It’s such a jewel for the room,” she says. “And the with interior design. silver leaf interacts with the chandelier and the natural light, To cast some light onto this most elemental design feature, we turn, bringing a gentle glow above the table… once again, to Master Interior Designer, Perla Lichi. Ebullient as ever, “We changed the lights to mini high hats to go all around Perla guides us through three projects, sharing her thoughts and the perimeter and changed the placement of the lights based intentions regarding her deployment of illumination. on the new ceiling design and the Venetian trim. We added a Solid and subliminal dimmer to the electrical fireplace and to the lighting within the First, the basics: “When designing with lighting, it’s important to built-in cabinet.” keep in mind that lighting works with all the materials around Perla’s color choices also reflect the bluish and greenish natural light. it,” she begins. “Is that something which absorbs light or reflects “We also deliberately chose simple yet elegant window treatments light?” Just as important as solid materials, Perla emphasizes de- so that the outside light could filter in and interact with the room.” liberate consideration of existing light sources, such as doors or windows, illumination from other rooms, and permanent fixtures. Light and sight A common mistake is only to light rooms downward, which Light and emphasis leaves the entire ceiling in shadow. “Lose that single overhead Perla is known for her boundless imagination. Incredibly, she fixture and go for a balance of lamps combined with recessed seems to become even more inspired when working with the lighting,” says Perla. When light is directed upwards, it bounces “constraints” of an existing space. Consider her transcendent off the ceiling. This brightens the room and creates the sensation dining space (seen Right). Perla delivers a master class on the that the ceiling is higher and the room larger than it really is. distribution of multiple light sources. Perla delights in showing us her next image. Without the “The client wanted us to create a formal, classic dining room right use of light, this impressive hall/gallery could easily have Caption here ambiance, while keeping the wall unit, fireplace and their exist- become dark and confusing. For Perla, lighting allowed her the ing counter-high dining table,” she says. “There were also exist- opportunity to orchestrate and direct the viewer’s sightlines. ing doors and windows, so it was very important for us to study “We created coves and niches to bring more dimension and the natural sunlight that comes into the room… Natural and interest to the spaces. We can now tell a story.

78 Opulence Winter 2017 Winter 2017 Opulence 79 Caption here

“The overhead, curved niches mimic the inlaid floor design. They “Are you a cook or foodie?” Asks Perla. “If so, we want to make are silver leafed and softly lit behind the mouldings to bring the sure we offer strong, directed light for prep areas while still pre- eyes gently upward and down the hallways. We punched in circu- serving a pleasing ambient to the rest of the room… lar niches and dropped in chandeliers to add an elegant way for “So we have the direct task lighting, then we included accent the eyes to pause. Then we bring the view back down by using ac- lights under the cabinetry to really show off the custom tilework. cent lighting to softly bathe the owners’ wonderful art collection.” Next, we illuminated the inside of the etched glass cabinets to A light for every task really enhance those beautiful details. And of course, you have to Some rooms simply require even more direct attention to the add the jewelry! The clients really love eating at the marble coun- use of light. And the kitchen is king. Understanding first how you ter. I chose this chandelier because of the way the crystals bathe use this room can direct your choices. For the kitchen seen here, that part of the room in a more interesting, softer light. You feel Perla again emphasized a variety of lights for each job. transported to an elegant restaurant, watching the master chefs Caption here at work. And for me, that is the most important part of creating the right lighting plan. You want to create that fantasy.”

80 Opulence Winter 2017 Winter 2017 Opulence 81 RED HOT Consequam sim alitation nem inciis adit, sus suntur, sum fuga. Om- nissitiam volorrupta qui to opta niendaerat et doluptate pos alit RED BULL landellicto blab ium remporum qui quae remporro RUSH SHOTS dolesto eturias 2017

Compiled by Robin Jay For more than three decades, the caffeine, taurine, B vitamins and carbs in the Red Bull energy drink have fueled the wings of seriously skilled athletes. For this editor, the adrenaline rush comes from the killer action photography that stealth Red Bull photographers capture in the wink of a shutter. Enjoy the selection of 2017 thrill shots we’ve scrapbooked for you here…

Consequam sim alitation nem inciis adit, sus suntur, sum fuga. Om- nissitiam volorrupta qui to opta niendaerat et doluptate pos alit landellicto blab ium remporum qui quae remporro dolesto eturias

82 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 83 Consequam sim alitation nem inciis adit, sus suntur, sum fuga. Om- nissitiam volorrupta qui to opta niendaerat et doluptate pos alit landellicto blab ium remporum qui quae remporro dolesto eturias

FEMALE CLIFF DIVING AZORES, PORTUGAL, July 7, 2017: Jessica Macaulay of the UK dives 18 metres at the Snakehead on Islet Franca do Campo during the first training session of the second stop of the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. Photography by Romina Amato.

Consequam sim alitation nem inciis adit, sus suntur, sum fuga. Om- nissitiam volorrupta qui to opta niendaerat et doluptate pos alit landellicto blab ium remporum qui quae remporro dolesto eturias

84 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 85 FOR

Consequam sim alitation nem inciis The captivating hyper-realism of Australia-born sculptor Ron Mueck adit, sus suntur, sum fuga. Om- is so lifelike it genuinely may make your hair stand on end nissitiam volorrupta qui to opta REAL? niendaerat et doluptate pos alit Compiled by Robin Jay landellicto blab ium remporum qui quae remporro dolesto eturias ustralian-born artist Ron Mueck relishes breaking depicted much smaller or larger than life – drew such magnificent museum attendance records with his astonishing crowds at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth a decade ago that hyper-realistic sculpture exhibits. The artist’s figures curators have invited him back for an encore showcase in 2018. A – extraordinarily lifelike, except in scale, and always 86 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 87 The Genius Process cause it’s ordinary. There’s no math involved; I usually do a sketch Mueck often takes more than a year to develop his creations, first on paper and if it looks good to me, then I use that scale for the modeling his visions in clay with meticulous attention to detail. actual piece. The shift in scale draws you in and in some ways en- He casts the clay carvings in silicone, fiberglass, and/or resin and gages you at a different level. spends months refining and refining. “I spend quite a while making paper mock-ups and sketches of The somewhat reclusive Mueck rarely allows onlookers to watch varying sizes before I commit myself to sculpting the clay. I can still him at work. In a rare interview, he told experts at the Brooklyn change it all right up to the molding stage, by which time I know if Museum, “I change the scale intuitively, really avoiding life-size be- the size is working for me or not.”

88 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 89 “Untitled (Seated Woman), 1999, based on his wife’s grandmother, is one of the most popular works in the Modern’s permanent collection and represents the early mature phase of his transition to sculpture,” Karnes said.

“Comfort and discomfort are pretty broad terms. Each viewer will arrive with their own comfort/discomfort levels,” Mueck once said. “The space has a huge effect on the A Curator’s Perspective works. With sculpture, the space creates a “Drawing upon memory and reality, Mueck’s lifelike sculptures are instantly relatable on a human tangible context. You can’t really predict it; level,” said Andrea Karnes, senior curator at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. “Because he you have to work with it. There are always often portrays easily identifiable human experiences, as in Woman with Shopping, 2013, which surprises.” depicts a woman carrying grocery bags, with her baby nestled in a sling at her chest, we immediately understand the situation through compassion. Yet Mueck’s calculated shifts in scale throw See Mueck’s Works In Person us off by adding an element of ambiguity between reality and artifice. For example, the woman in ‘New Works by Ron Mueck’ will be on view to this piece is less than 4 feet tall, perhaps suggesting that she feels overwhelmed.” the public at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth from February 16 through May 6, 2018. A Look At The Artist’s Life For ticket information, visit www.themodern.org. Mueck, 59, currently lives in the UK. Before shifting his focus to art in the mid 1990s, he worked on children’s television shows – including Sesame Street and The Muppet Show – as a puppeteer and Editor’s note: Some selections of Ron Mueck’s puppet maker until 1983. Afterward, the creative soul transitioned into designing special effects work shown in this layout aren’t necessarily models for television and film in the United States and London and then, eventually, evolved into included in the Fort Worth exhibit. a career as a fine artist.

90 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 OPULENCE 91 Classically trained Duaiv paints his world-renown masterpieces – sometimes on his cherished supercars – as he sways to the beat of his own music By John D. Adams &

Fifteen minutes later, a tremendous seascape or raceway or expres- purest form of expression. I grew up near Bordeaux in France, so I sionistic flowers have come to life. “Playing” in this type of venue was always around the water and boats. That’s why I love to paint is just one of the multitudes of inspirational vehicles which drive sailboats. I always have. I studied cello at the Paris Conservatory of Duaiv. His destination? Always, perhaps, a desire to share his per- Music and even became a professional symphony musician.” spectives on the world and the delight he produces by sharing his Aside from his artist endeavors, Duaiv nurtures a lifelong passion for energy with others. When working from his prismatic studio re- racing, cars, and motorcycles. It seems the speed at which he can flecting the waters of South Florida, Duaiv begins a new piece by work, the movement reflected through color and form in every one placing his left hand on the pristine canvas. “I decide in my head, of his paintings, is again, a fortuitous intermingling with his other this will be an energy I will give to somebody who I don’t know passions. Several years ago, the artist began a successful side pro- yet,” said Duaiv. “I want to channel that energy, to express it through ject, painting luxury race cars, like Viper and Spider. paint. I don’t think it is an accident that when people enter a gallery they are immediately pulled toward one piece or another. They are drawn to more than the image. There is something more ephem- eral calling to them, too. And I believe that has been part of my success. Do you know, in 40 years, I have never had more than 10 paintings left in my studio each month?” Inspiration and intuition Duaiv embodies a variety of artistic passions. A classically trained cellist, music came second to painting, but has never taken a back seat. It is not uncommon to find Duaiv busily painting, moving the ielding a palette knife loaded with vibrant oil paint, American-French artist Duaiv oils in time to his own musical recordings. For those delicious mo- streaks the blade across a white canvas. It is a dramatic moment where reality col- ments, he is enveloped by both artistic expressions, creating some- lides with inspiration. And it is set to music. In front of a rapt audience. W thing greater than the sum of its parts. “I speak best through my art,” he said in heavily French-accented English. “It is perhaps the

92 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 OPULENCE 93 By Jenifer Mangione Vogt Worth Repeating NEWS UPDATE: OPULENCE ORIGINALLY PRINTED THE STORY BELOW IN SPRING 2014. ON 11/15/17, THE SALVATOR MUNDI PAINTING, THE ONLY LEONARDO DA VINCI PAINTING PRIVATELY HELD, SOLD AT AUCTION FOR A RECORD $450 MILLION! Leonardo Lost & Found Rediscovering the Salvator Mundi Yet, the pair moved slowly, aware of the criticism that would come with error. Simon went to Europe to conduct academic research. He visited the Royal Library at Windsor Castle, which houses da Vinci’s only two preparatory drawings for the painting, along with an etching of it made by artist Wenceslas Hollar, who worked for King Charles I. Uncovering Clues The restoration revealed a pentimento, or “change of heart,” which showed the artists had moved the original placement of Christ’s thumb. Infra-red reflectography conducted by the Metropolitan Museum of Art revealed further changes made by the artist before the painting was completed. Still, more authentication was required. Simon called on Nicholas Penny, director of the National Gallery in London. He suggested the work be presented to an international team of Leonardo experts, including Oxford Renaissance scholar Martin Kemp, who said he knew immediately it was a Leonardo. “It had that kind of presence that Leonardos have,” Kemp said. His colleagues concurred and resoundingly authenticated it as a work done by the great master. In November of 2011, the work was revealed in an exhibit at the National Gallery, Leonardo da Vinci: Painter at the Court of Milan. There are only Leonardo da Vinci (Italian, 1452-1519) Salvator Mundi, Oil on panel, some 15 paintings by Leonardo that survive today, making the discovery 25.8125" x 17 .875" (65.6 x 45.4 cm), Private Collection. © 2011 Salvator Mundi LLC Photo: Tim Nighswander/Imaging4Art even more significant.

Where is the Salvator Mundi now? The painting resides with an owner The story of a lost Leonardo da Vinci painting sounds like the plot of who wishes to remain anonymous. “All I can say is that the painting moment ignited a passion in me. We moved to Cannes and I began a suspense novel or cinematic thriller. But it’s a true tale that has art Color story is not available,” Simon explained. “But, it’s been requested for a 2015 “When you live a long time, you have many things to do,” remarked painting in the streets. Six months later, we were offered a spot in connoisseurs in awe. “The painting was located in a family’s collec- show in Milan and I’m expecting it will be lent.” Duaiv. “If you are gifted like I was with music and art, you have to a gallery for one month. We sold out all of the work. And 15 years tion in the U.S. for 50 years,” said Robert B. Simon, PhD, an art histo- do this because it is part of your life.” It is this sense of urgency, of later, we are with galleries all over Cannes and Europe. We moved rian who specializes in Italian Renaissance art. He was referring to mission, that has opened many literal and figural doors for Duaiv. to the United States in 2003, and have been so fortunate to be rep- TLeonardo da Vinci’s painting, the Salvator Mundi. The owners didn’t 1 2 Many years ago, motorcycling through Spain with his newlywed, resented by Park West.” Today, Duaiv continues to share his kalei- know they had an original work by the old master. “It was there as Duaiv decided to drive to artist Salvador Dalí’s home. With a cour- doscope eye. “Now we travel all over the world, meeting collectors a nice bit of religious wall decoration,” Simon said. age born from youth and passion, and holding live painting events… News outlets in 2011 speculated about the re-emergence of the paint- Duaiv walked straight up to the “When you live a long time, you “Every performance is a challenge. ing, which depicts Christ making the sign of the blessing, and was first front door and knocked. have many things to do.” You don’t know what you’re going recorded in the collection of King Charles I in 1649. It vanished after be- “He opened the door himself,” to do. So people can see your mis- ing sold by British collector, Sir Frederick Cook, in 1958. Finally, after six Duaiv recounted. “I couldn’t believe – Duaiv takes and how you handle those years of research and restoration, its authenticity would be confirmed. 4 mistakes. They are seeing the real- it. It was one of the most impor- The Authentication Process tant moments in my life. Dalí said to me: ‘If you trust yourself, if you ity of the art process. You aren’t hiding anything. And I love that A photograph of the Salvator Mundi was shown to Simon in 2005. believe in yourself, you will succeed if you want to succeed.’ That freedom, that openness to the world.” “I immediately recognized it as related to a lost Leonardo, but it was 3 covered with overpaint that disfigured it,” he said. “The hope was that it was by one of Leonardo’s assistants.” Simon took the painting to a renowned conservator, Mario Modestini, then 98, who had worked See Duaiv’s art and live events on YouTube and by visiting the artist’s on Leonardo’s Ginevra de’Benci, now in Washington. “It was frighten- website at: www.duaiv.us ing, but I wrapped the painting in a black garbage bag and hopped John D. Adams is an award winning writer and photographer. in a taxi,” Simon said. Mario knew it as a piece of importance and his Key signs of authenticity to Leonardo experts: (1) The alteration of the wife, Dianne, a professor of conservation at New York University, began thumb; (2) The hair ringlets nearly identical to the curls in Leonardo’s St. John the Baptist painting; (3) The extreme similarities of the mouth to clean the work. She discovered passages of extraordinary quality compared to the Mona Lisa; (4) The detail in the crystal globe that suggestive of Leonardo. It looked like they might have an original. showed inclusions and refractions of light.

94 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 OPULENCE 95 By 1735, for the first time, a descrip- designed doll faces, cutters and seamstresses sewed doll bodies tion of the city noted “all kinds made of leather or fabric [and so on].” of children’s goods”— swords, The Sonneberg toy industry experienced many highs and lows pistols, shotguns, pipes, vio- throughout history, from Heinrich Stier’s founding of the first doll lins, bowling games, nut- factory in 1852 to its slow decline following the outbreak of WWI crackers, rattles, cuckoos when toy-producing industries were established abroad. Eventu- “and the like more”—next ally, the aftermath of German reunification in 1990 proved insur- Toy Town to commodities of wood. mountable for Sonneberg’s toy industry. Yet a new beginning was Around 1740, toymakers de- A quaint look into the German Toy Museum in Sonneberg, waiting just around the proverbial corner. veloped a more attractive ma- once the toy capital of the world terial for their merchandise using New Life for Old Toys By Melissa Bryant black flour and glue water. This doughy substance allowed crafts- “Today, the German Toy Museum, founded in 1901, is the visible men to freely form figures or mold parts. Though this new method document for what was probably the largest toy metropolis ever,” of toy production allowed for greater diversity, the delicate material said Dr. Schneider, who returned to her hometown of Sonneberg had a limited shelf life and was often ingested by mice and mites to teach at a specialized school for toy making during the last ne can almost hear Julie Andrews humming ‘My Favorite Things’: Model during shipments overseas. years of the German Democratic Republic (GDR). She later estab- steam engines and papier-mâché figures…bright-colored peep shows and lished a gallery for contemporary art before taking the helm at the A Solution dolls made of biscuit… miniature soldiers ready for battle – these are a few museum. of the 5,000 most precious things… on display at the Deutsche Spielzeug- The remedy to this sticky situation arrived at the beginning of the Each exhibit hall in the two-level museum follows a chronologi- museum (German Toy Museum) in Sonneberg. 19th century, when brothers Johann Friedrich and Nicol Gottlieb O Müller found papier-mâché to be an ideal alternative. Lightweight, cal order and boasts rare curiosities from nearly every part of the Much simpler, materialistically speaking, than the high-tech gadgets likely awaiting cheap and flexible, this medium’s favorable properties made it easy globe. The second floor is home to a menagerie of dolls, includ- children in your family this holiday season, Germany’s oldest specialized toy collec- to duplicate, ushering in a new era for the Sonneberg toy industry. ing the museum’s oldest exhibit—a terracotta doll’s head dating tion is a tangible reminder of man’s ingenuity and a living legacy of a town once back to the 14th century BC—and what Dr. Schneider deems as “In the second half of the 19th century, dolls took the first considered the toy capital of the world. “particularly impressive” dolls and cult objects from ancient Greece position among the Sonneberg products,” said Dr. Schneider. mostly made of clay or wood. “The importance of toys is far more than just a commodity,” said Dr. Rein- “With increasing export product requirements, the number of hild Schneider, the museum’s curator/director. “They hold an imprint of their occupations involved in the production of toys increased: modelers respective times and cultural areas.” designed models, papier-mâché workers made doll heads, painters The Toy Story Begins Historical accounts place the origins of Sonneberg’s toy-making industry (L) Ladies making dolls in a Sonneberg toy factory; in the late Middle Ages. Merchants from Nuremberg, a city in northern (R) The “Gulliver in Lilliput” Bavaria, traveled a route near Sonneberg, over the crest of the Thuringian For- ensemble is based on est, transporting “Nuremberg goods” (including toys), to fellow trade city Leip- Jonathan Swift’s famous zig. Before making their trek over the mountain range, the merchants would novel “Gulliver’s Travels” change escorts and rest. Through this interchange, similar products began and features miniature being produced in Sonneberg. Lilliputians made of dough.

96 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 WWinterinter 2017/182017/18 O OpulencePULENC E 9797 Antiquities Conservation IT CAME AS A SHOCK By Gordon A. Lewis, Jr., Vice President, Fine Arts Conservancy in Palm Beach

or many years, one of my best clients was a major You can imagine what a shock it was to discover something so rare. private dealer in Asian antiquities. One day he handed me Today, this dagger remains in a private collection. a badly corroded spear blade (ostensibly Chinese) to re- move the corrosion. As I was working on the piece, I was Fshocked to discover a magnificent inlaid Bronze Age Mycenaean dagger blade emerge. The basic dagger is black patinated bronze (not Niello), with inlays of silver and gold on both sides. We do not know how they were used, but because of their design, we suspect they were ceremonial. What we do know is that the known ones were in circular burial graves with other ceremonial objects.

The Unexpected Revelation The inlays, as can be seen, were a series of figures on both sides; I “For girls in ancient times,” she said, “the doll was both a playmate and to use these pictures to promote the Sonneberg industry,” realized that we had one of the rarest blades in existence, so I con- and a protective amulet. At marriage, the young woman sacrificed said Dr. Schneider. “Möller managed to give each industry of the sulted with the owner, and we made the decision to leave some her dolls to the goddesses as a sign that adulthood is now beginning.” Sonneberg toy industry its own scene in the overall picture.” of the corrosion as evidence of its antiquity. We were certain that The Real Showstopper The preserved fairground ensemble features essentially all of the there would be many skeptics who would disbelieve its authentic- The central exhibit of the museum’s new extension is the “Thüringer components of papier-mâché, wood and textile from the original ity without remaining encrustation as proof, and indeed there were Kirmes,” or Thuringian Fairground, which debuted at the 1910 Brussels piece, which received the coveted “Grand Prix” (Grand Prize) at the many who were initially skeptical. World’s Fair. For this special exhibit, guests are seated in a dark room international showcase. According to a visitor’s report, the Queen These are so rare that both the British Museum and the Metropoli- as a bellowing German voice sets the stage for this lively depiction of of Belgium said the “Thuringian Fairground was the most beautiful tan Museum of Art only have electrotype copies of similar blades; a typical regional rural festival around 1900. As the lights flicker on, thing she had ever seen in her life.” More than 100 years later, the photos of them can be seen on line, as well as pictures of the other the sights and sounds of the festivities come alive. Some 67 almost scene promises to elicit such awestruck reactions for many decades few original ones. life-size figures complete the scene (see photo above), everything to come. from dressed dolls and painted papier-mâché clowns, vendors and From An Ancient Greek Civilization By year’s end, the German Toy Museum plans to introduce audio townspeople, to a working carousel with wooden mounts. The Mycenaean civilization was the last phase of the Bronze Age guides in English with versions for both adults and children. in ancient Greece (c. 1100 – 900 BC), and archaeologically known “The exhibit’s designer Reinhard Möller chose the fairground theme www.deutschesspielzeugmuseum.de/expose_engl.html as the “Helladic period.” It represents the first advanced civiliza- to capture the products of the Sonneberg toy industry in pictures, tion in mainland Greece with palatial states, urban organization, works of art and a writing system. The Mycenaeans themselves As I was working are thought to have immigrated from Indo – Europe, and were the first advanced civilization in mainland Greece; they are known on the piece, from excavations at Mycenae and other sites. After the Mycenaeans defeated and displaced the Achaeans, they quickly extended their I was shocked to influence to Crete and established colonies in Italy, Sicily, and Asia Minor. Heinrich Schleimann was the first archaeologist to discover their existence in Sparta and Crete; other archaeologists followed discover a magnificent after 1876. Mycenae’s chronology roughly parallels that of the con- temporaneous Minoan civilization. inlaid Bronze Age The reasons for its disappearance are unknown, but speculation Mycenaean dagger blade ranges from the “sea people”, to the Dorian invasion, natural dis- asters, and climatic changes, among others. The Dorian invasion begins the beginning of the Greek “Dark Ages”. Today, remnants emerge. of Mycenaean stone architecture are common throughout the Peloponnese. – Gordon Lewis

98 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 OPULENCE 99 Business Profile By Alex Starace Another of Octopie Network’s successful projects is bringing the first animation to Animal Planet, in the form of Celeb- rity Animal Encounters, which will air on the network in 2018. Very simple in concept, Animation Creation: celebrities like Kristen Bell, Al Roker and Fabio narrate some of their more unusual animal experiences, while having the scene re-enacted Octopie Network Spreads its Tentacles via animation provided by Octopie Network.

In one story, actor Danny Trejo (from f you still think of animation as cartoons that air on Saturday mornings, you have Machete, among many other action films) nar- a lot of catching up to do. As now-classics like The Simpsons, South Park and Aqua rates how he stopped traffic to rescue an ung- Teen Hunger Force can attest, the form is no longer targeted at just kids. These roomed dog that had just plopped down in the days, animation appeals to a broader audience and often airs on prime time or i middle of a busy road. Trejo eventually adopted late night. But the media landscape is changing. Increasingly viewers expect on- it. “You really get some insight into who he is demand content streamed through a variety of devices. What does that mean for as a person,” said Brooke. “He’s a big teddy bear.” animation? And where can fans catch the next big thing? With Octopie Network looking to launch its Meet the Mastermind Brooke got his start managing user-up- “What’s been interesting to me is seeing that own network soon, this likely won’t be the Micah Brooke, the Chief Content Officer of the Octopie Network, hopes to provide loaded animated content at the video- because we get such immediate feedback last you hear from the company. “We’ve seen the answer. “We think that there is a huge opportunity right now,” said Brooke. “We game themed website Machinima, where in the online space, we see how many views that there’s a model there to both scale and look at something like Adult Swim [the Cartoon Network’s nightly 10-hour block of he eventually becoming the Director of a video is getting, we see how many likes grow an audience, but also a business model,” animation-based shows], which is killing it in broadcast … and there’s just a huge Programming. “That just sort of opened my versus dislikes it’s getting, we see the com- said Brooke. The goal of the Octopie Network gap, where nobody really controls that space online.” Octopie Network is looking to eyes and I saw that there’s so much talent ments. We’re starting to see it’s not about is to become the number one online anima- change that. Micah Brooke out there and there’s so much passion for producing the most expensive, glossy, tion brand in the world. A heady ambition, but content creation,” he said. Previous to these beautiful content. It’s really about the voice.” they’re certainly off to a good start. digital platforms, there was very little op- Despite being less than two years old, Octo- Editor’s note: YouTube animation fans, be sure portunity for budding animators to get pie Network has already seen success find- to watch for an exciting new original content their work seen, since their options were ing the right spots for its creators. launch in 2018 from the Octopie Network. limited to major networks. The Success Stories “We were seeing the emergence of these The company helped LowBrow fledgling creatives really starting to find Studios develop Explosion Jones, their voice, really starting to develop. which is the first animated series Through that we feel like there is really an on the network El Rey. Starring opportunity to start to identify who’s go- Michael Madsen (of Reservoir ing to be the next Trey Parker [co-creator Dogs fame), it’s an inside joke-lad- of South Park], who’s going to be the next en send-up of 1980s and 1990s Seth MacFarlane [creator of Family Guy].” It’s action flicks. “We were able to with this spirit that Brooke started Octopie take these creators we’ve been Network with two partners, Lon Strickland working with for seven years, and Isaac Krauss, intending to connect to pair them with Robert Rodriquez, viewers via online media. a prominent filmmaker who’s Behind the Scenes working on the show as a producer,” said Brooke. The online As the Chief Content Officer, it’s Brooke’s influencers whom Brooke had job to figure out which shows will succeed identified as possible stars are with proper backing and how to connect now putting their work in front them with the right projects. “For us it’s of a much larger (and still appre- about the voice, even if the animation isn’t ciative) audience. “For us, that’s a top quality. Do you have something to say? great story because it shows this Do you have a perspective that’s interest- formula works,” said Brooke. ing? That’s what we’re looking for.

100 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 101 ous 2011 Halloween fire, the venue’s annual gala – eerily entitled Guests must have an invitation from a member to get in. When “Inferno At The Castle” – had to be canceled. Could this coinci- visitors utter the words, “Open Sesame,” a bookcase moves aside, dental and intricate chain of events have been Houdini’s long- exposing a portal to the restored home’s Victorian-style interior anticipated communication from the Great Beyond? and vast expanses of historic posters, memorabilia and posh pre- More Intriguing Antiquity sentments. Of The Magic Castle TV host Johnny Carson, who dabbled in magic and created Certainly there is no scientific proof of Houdini communicating comic spiritualist ‘Carnac,’ was a frequenter who donated some from the dead at The Magic Castle, but regardless, there’s no of his trickster trinkets. question the mansion has a compelling history. The home was “One of our founding board members was Cary Grant, who agreed built in the early 1900s as residence to Rollin B. Lane, a banker, to participate with two conditions. No one would ask for an auto- real estate developer and philanthropist, and his wife, Katherine. graph and no one would ask for a photo. Those regulations still They called it “Holly Chateau.” apply today, known as the Cary Grant rules,” Furlow said. The couple died in the 1940s, and the home remained in the family Actor Neil Patrick Harris served six years on the board of direc- until the 1950s when it was sold to land developer Tom Glover. tors, three as president. He loved a drink called the Old Fash- In the meantime, the idea of an Academy of Magical Arts was ioned, and the club honored him by offering the beverage and announced by William Larsen Sr. in the April 1952 issue of “Genii,” naming it the NPH. Other A-lister guests have included Johnny an independent magazine of magic, which he edited. “Larsen felt Depp (who entered through the kitchen), Steve Martin, Arsenio there should be an association for magicians to swap secrets and Hall and, recently, singer Adele, whose presence caused a ruckus, network,” said Joe Furlow, General Manager of The Magic Castle. despite an advance security sweep.

When the elder Larsen died a year later, his wife, Irene and son, Daring Enough to Join? The Mecca For Magicians Bill Jr., continued publishing the magazine. But the Academy Who knows? If you choose to become a member of the Academy The mystical and tantalizing history of the Academy of Magical Arts and its Victorian didn’t solidify until Larsen’s younger son, Milt – a writer for Bob of Magical Arts or convince a member to invite you to The Magic mansion venue in Hollywood, California: The Magic Castle Barker’s ‘Truth or Consequences’ TV show – leased and restored Castle for dinner and a show, don’t be surprised if a sleight-of- the Holly Chateau, which had fallen into ruin and was about to hander like David Copperfield, Mark Wilson, Lance Burton, Kuda By Dale King, Julia Hebert and Robin Jay be torn down by Glover for a parking garage. Bux or Billy McComb drops by your table and says: “Pick a card, any card.” as it an uncanny coincidence – or something more? At half past Noon on The refurbished turn-of-the-century structure reopened as The Halloween 2011, some 120 firefighters descended upon the 103-year-old Victo- Magic Castle on January 2, 1963. From an initial membership of The Academy of Magical Arts is currently keeping a waiting list for rian mansion at 7001 Franklin Avenue in Hollywood, California. The attic blaze 50, the Academy has grown to a worldwide roster of 5,300 today. anyone interested in joining the club as an Associate Member. The wait on the list is currently about four months. To be added to the Wwas extinguished within an hour, no one was harmed, and investigators deemed it accidental. Over the years, several additions have been added to the original wait list, contact the AMA’s Membership Department at member- Nothing more to see here, right? edifice for theaters, bars, a library and meeting spaces. Local celebri- [email protected]. Please provide your name, email ad- ties have also found the Castle a draw. Past AMA members include Maybe not, but ponder these facts that didn’t make it into the police incident report: The date dress and phone number when inquiring. of the fire was the 85th anniversary of Harry Houdini’s death. It was also the 75th anniver- Cary Grant, Tony Curtis, Johnny Carson, and Jason Alexander. sary of the last annual séance Houdini’s wife Bess held on the roof of the Knickerbocker What to Expect Hotel Hollywood in an attempt to reach her beloved late husband. And – ready for An evening at The Magic Castle can feel entertaining, mystical, this? The mansion where the fire took place (located just a mile from The Knicker- supernatural and, of course, magical. “For professional presti- bocker) is known as ‘The Magic Castle,’ home to the Academy of Magical Arts, the digitators, magicians-in-training and conjuror aficionados, The only private club in the United States devoted to the advancement of magicians. Magic Castle is their Ground Zero,” said Furlow. “We encourage Inside is tucked a room called the “Houdini Séance Chamber.” The walls of public interest in magic, with particular emphasis on preserving this storied space display artifacts once owned by the legendary magician, its history as an art form, entertainment medium and hobby.” including his famous straight jacket and the only pair of handcuffs The current president of the Academy of Magical Arts is Randy from which he was never able to escape. Fittingly, the Hou- Sinnott, a former Marine and owner of an L.A. law firm. He has an dini Chamber is used nightly for séance per- MBA and is a magician to boot. “This is what the founders want- formances open to AMA members and their ed — a place where hobbyists can sit down with professionals guests. On the very evening of that notori- and have a conversation about magic,” Furlow continued.

Counting dining areas, performance spots and the Houdini Sé- ance Chamber, the elegant structure with semi-circular parapets and plenty of hidden secret passages, holds 540 living people – and perhaps a few spirits – on any given night.

102 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 103 Exclusive Bespoke south africa Kalahari Adventures Discover the once-in-a-lifetime custom luxury safari at Tswalu Kalahari Private Game Reserve

By Kelly Villasuso The Houdini Séance By DALE KING & JULIA HEBERT

her decade of trying sparked a global wonder, ‘Wait a minute. How could she tradition of holding séances annually on have done that?’” Halloween to determine if Houdini’s spirit No proof exists, she says, that Harry had outsmarted the Grim Reaper. Cer- Houdini ever contacted anyone from be- emonies known as Houdini Séances have yond the grave. But there also exists no kept the famed escapist’s name and fame proof that he DIDN’T. And thereby hangs alive for nearly a century. the mysterious conundrum that bedevils The Magic Castle in Hollywood, California, Houdini-philes even today. conducts several such séances each night, in a room appropriately called the Houdi- ni Séance Chamber. Three mediums stand ready to take 10 to 12 visitors per show on a spiritual expedition.

Misty Lee, a medium, illusionist and voice actor, shares séance work with Leo Kostka, a Magic Castle stalwart for some 30 years, Perhaps more than any human being, and magician/medium Rob Zabrecky. master magician and escape artist ex- Misty says Leo is “very informative, a proper traordinaire Harry Houdini wanted to historian” while Rob is “kind of funny.” Lee communicate with the dead. He even describes herself as “a little more intense.” struck a pact with wife Beatrice “Bess” Mystical ceremonies unfold in a room Houdini that whoever passed away first decorated in Victorian style that was would desperately try to contact the oth- once the bedroom of the home’s original er from the Great Beyond. owner. “He died here,” says Misty, amping Harry died of peritonitis from a ruptured ap- up the chamber’s goosebump factor. The pendix on Halloween 1926. For 10 years, on space that strikingly resembles Sherlock the anniversary of his death, Bess conduct- Holmes’ drawing room is also a repository ed a séance on the roof of the Hollywood of much Houdini memorabilia. Knickerbocker Hotel, hoping to reach her “My séance,” she says, “is not about creep- late husband across the spiritual divide. ing people out as much as it is to give Sadly, her efforts went unanswered. But them an experience and making them

104 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 105 ow-lying, uninterrupted bush — into its storybook marvels through pre-set American representative for Tswalu Kala- Tswalu Kalahari from which you can live experienced a traditional fire-lit Boma After a few laps in our pool and a mas- rhythmic, swaying grasses dotted safari itineraries and fully customizable ad- hari, shared with International Opulence, vicariously or from which you can draw feast high up on the dunes. sage in our private Tarkuni spa, we had a with brilliant yellow flowers and ventures. “For affluent travelers, though,” “No matter time nor place in the Kalahari, inspiration for your own bespoke adven- leisurely lunch overlooking the watering Highlights of Day Two: earth-toned fauna for as far as the shares Deborah Brye with Unique Travel of the treasures of the wild and rugged sa- ture into the birthplace of humanity. hole near the house. L We set out on a sunrise horseback ride eye can see, interposed solely by the scur- Palm Beach, Inc., “booking a tailor-made vanna are spectacular to behold — an Memoirs of Our Time into the Kalahari with our personal guide We went on an afternoon safari during rying of meerkats, porcupines or pango- safari is really the best way to be fully envel- experience enhanced exponentially by at Tswalu Kalahari and tracker to get unbelievably close to which we saw a male Kalahari Black- lins. Dunes undulate across the semi-arid oped in luxury, gain extraordinary access to the fully bespoke safari experience and Highlights of Day One: giraffes, Hartmann’s Mountain Zebras, por- Maned Lion fight his brother over landscape, like ocean waves gently flowing South African wildlife, and be fully immersed the astoundingly luxurious environs at En route from the private airstrip to our cupines, and the eland — Africa’s largest dominance of a female just beyond our into the majestic Korannaberg mountains in all the wonders on display there.” Accord- Tswalu Kalahari.” accommodations, breathtaking scenery re- antelope. A full breakfast was served to vehicle. Once in a lifetime! — cresting frequently against a brilliant ing to Travel & Leisure’s 2017 World’s Best Vicarious Views of energized us after our lengthy journey and us — tablecloth and all — out in the bush. red sky to provide unparalleled views of Safari Lodges, Tswalu Kalahari Private Game a Tailor-Made Tswalu the diversity of game around every turn — Continued on next page winged and four-limbed inhabitants, such Reserve is one such place at which to em- Kalahari Safari from oryx, roan, and elands, to buffalo and as lions, antelopes, giraffes, and zebras. It bark on a highly personalized — and often “Tswalu means ‘a new beginning’,” Berlin giraffes — kept us on the edge of our seats. is the promise of scenes such as these that life-changing — interlude with South Africa. said, “and every moment of every day at has propelled South Africa to the top of the Tarkuni, the Oppenheimer family’s home and The breathtaking, ever-changing South the reserve is custom-designed to help bucket lists of affluent travelers — individu- our glorious accommodations, took what African terrain of the Kalahari savanna at each guest achieve that.” Every five-day, als, couples, and families, alike; travelers was left of our breath away. We were met by Tswalu Kalahari, the Oppenheimer fam- four-night itinerary is designed to fit the seeking full immersion into the timeless, our personal staff who quickly reaffirmed ily’s 272,000-acre private game reserve, desires of each Tswalu Kalahari guest — natural beauty of the motherland of civili- that nothing at Tswalu has a time frame to peacefully invites you to bear witness to as opposed to fitting the guest into a pre- zation and into luxurious environs. it — whatever we want to do is exactly what its natural wonders — great and small, set itinerary. will happen. Here’s to new beginnings! There is a plethora of safari lodges on the and envelopes you in awestruck serenity The highlights below depict astound- subcontinent ready to help travelers escape and subtle elegance. Brooke Berlin, North We tracked rhinoceroses on foot through ing moments from an actual interlude at the bush, enjoyed traditional sundowners as the sun set out over the Kalahari, and

106 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 107 After dinner on our patio, we took a walk in the bush under the Big Sky with the lead researcher (and flashlights in tow) to track the endangered, nocturnal pangolin as it foraged for its food before balling up and rolling back into its den. Incredible!

Highlights of Day Three: We arranged a private, pre-dawn trek with reserve habituators to observe the sunrise rituals of the meerkat and delighted in their antics as they popped out to greet the day.

On safari today, we saw a momma cheetah teaching her cubs how to hunt and enjoyed a little leopard tortoise sighting!

Instead of returning to Tarkuni for dinner and bed, we spent the night glamping at the Malori in the middle of the Kalahari under the diamond sky — 10 miles from the watch — atop an elevated platform. After dinner, our team left us nestled in a gorgeous bed sipping champagne as the cool, crisp wind whispered good night in passing.

Highlights of Day Four: For our last full day at Tswalu, we took a private helicopter tour over the vast expanse of the reserve, touching down occasionally to talk to wild life managers in the bush.

We also chose to sponsor a rhino notch- ing to try to play a more instrumental role in the conservation activities of the Tswalu Foundation and to help protect these animals from poaching. We got up close with the Tswalu research team and learned so much about these spectacular animals!

We spent the late afternoon relaxing alone in our pool and sipping gin and tonics (the traditional sundowner) as we watched the sun slip below the Kalahari horizon for the last time.

Our chef served us the most spectacular gourmet dinner tonight. The only thing that topped the food and the night stars was the delicious South African wine that just kept flowing!

Highlights of Day Five: We set out on our last game drive at Tswa- lu Kalahari, capturing in our minds’ eye as much of this glorious land as possible before heading off to the airstrip for our flight home, our hearts full of new beginnings.

108 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 109 Traveling in Pursuit of Wellness By Kelly Villasuso

My experience is that by following [the wellness program] of a healing hotel, your body feels light and invigorated … but also your soul is flying.” — Elisabeth Ixmeier, Co-Founder and CCO, Healing Hotels of the World

More and more travelers are veering away from traditional va- “cation escapades, such as unhealthy eating, excessive drinking, poor sleeping, and disruption of fitness routines. Instead, they are consciously designing trips that promote or enhance healthy, clean living; provide for rejuvenation and rebalance; and often move them to find inner peace and purpose in life again.

Whether dealing with concerns resulting from the pressures of a modern lifestyle, including lack of movement, stress, and poor nutrition, or with other chronic issues, such as diabetes and obesity, today’s vacationers are actively engaging in wellness travel — travel for promoting health and well-being through physical, psychological, or spiritual activities — and are looking for their invigorated souls to fly. The Quest for Wellness: It’s Only Human According to the Global Wellness Institute’s 2017 Global Well- ness Economy Monitor, the wellness tourism segment of the global wellness industry has developed into a $563 billion industry. However, the quest for transformative experiences to re- juvenate the body, mind, and spirit is nothing new. The practice of wellness travel has been documented since ancient times — such as the earliest walks to the Dead Sea to bask in its thera- peutic properties, journeys by the Japanese to hot springs for healing and a sense of community, and jaunts by the Romans to baths for purification and spiritual rituals. Clearly, the need for antidotes to the stresses of daily life — regardless of time or place — is very human.

110 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 111 Wellness Without Boundaries Whether looking to improve your physical health through Ayur- - Through the advent of modern-day people movers (planes, trains, vedic medicine or therapies such as yoga or tai chi, or wanting boats and automobiles) as well as the computer, wellness travel to connect with your spiritual self through meditation, there are Unique Locales to Heal today truly has no boundaries. From Bali, Brazil, Costa Rica, and a plethora of wellness programs at your fingertips. With a clear Japan, to Ecuador, India, Germany, Maldives, Thailand, and every understanding of your goals and innermost motivations, you will Body and Soul country in between, wellness-seekers like you can find a myriad of find a transformative experience that speaks both to who you are and one that helps you move toward who you wish to become. locales offering regionally rooted, transformative experiences that Anantara Peace Haven which translates to lotus (kamal) realm resonate profoundly with body and soul. Healing Hotels of the World’s vision is to help guests find a well- Tangalle Resort (alaya)’, symbolizes the growth and unfold- Elisabeth Ixmeier, Co-Founder of Healing Hotels of the World, ness program that helps them “become whole again in body, Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort ing of the human spirit — the underlying shared that the best wellness program must “consider each mind and soul, freeing them to enjoy the sacredness and abun- is a wellness sanctuary set on a coco- goal of most wellness travelers. Kamalaya’s person as a whole — physically, emotionally, and spiritually — dance of life.” To learn more about the carefully curated wellness nut plantation overlooking the Indian naturopaths customize health programs and address his or her special needs and preferences through and healing programs promoted through the Healing Hotels of Ocean in Tangalle, Sri Lanka. The Balance for each guest from their extensive range such things as alternative medicine treatments, healthy nutrition, the World, visit www.healinghotelsoftheworld.com. Wellness offerings at this tranquil resort of holistic medicine, and spa and healing and movement.” include Sri Lankan wellness traditions therapies to deliver a personally fulfilling that have been practiced for more than experience. www.kamalaya.com 1,000 years, as well as Ayurvedic treat- My SachaJi ments, acupuncture, yoga, tai chi, and Nestled between Cusín Volcano, Ecua- nutrition counseling. Under the direction dor’s oldest dormant volcano, and Taita of the on-site Ayurvedic doctor, Anantara Imbabura, the mightiest volcano in the Peace Haven tailors three-and five-day region, ecolodge My SachaJi — which retreats specifically for weight loss, joint means ‘my mountain’ — promises to help mobility, muscular tension and strains, guests heal from within. Through indig- and high blood pressure and headaches. enous therapies and ancient Andean cer- www.tangalle.anantara.com emonies, to more traditional therapies Kamalaya Koh Samui such as massage and yoga, the palpable Located in Koh Samui, Thailand, Kamalaya energy of My SachaJi and the passion of is centered around a cave that once served its healers will help restore your spirit and as a place of meditation and spiritual bring balance to your body and mind. retreat for Buddhist monks. Kamalaya, www.mysachaji.com

112 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 113 When You W ish Upon a L antern By Stephanie Bonilla

magine looking up in wonder as you see thousands extraordinary moment when the lanterns turn into bright of wishes floating up toward the night sky, each one orange stars with them. wrapped up in a ball of amber light. They eventu- Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival Ially create a radiant blanket, overpowering the night’s dark- In an effort to bring their country’s traditions onto an interna- ness until finally becoming distant pinpoints concealed in tional stage, The Tourism Bureau began scheduling numerous the night’s dusk. This magical scene is experienced at sky festival-related events all over Taiwan, making this jamboree the lantern festivals around the world. For years, people have lit and country’s major tourist attraction. Rated one of the best festivals in released paper lanterns in hopes of sending their wishes up to the world by The Discovery Channel, the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival the heavens, or for some, warding off bad spirits. The most popu- in Taiwan is one you won’t want to miss. From folk performances, lar festivals occur in Asia, causing thousands of tourists to flock lantern riddle contests and street carnivals, it’s not surprising that to the continent each year. After gaining a bad reputation due to this festival appears on every “must see” travel list. Dur- the fire hazards they pose, many states in the U.S. have banned ing the event, thousands of lanterns are released their use altogether. Since it’s likely that you won’t be seeing any simultaneously, taking people’s wishes along sky lanterns in the US of A, you can always travel to the following with them. It is believed that by making festivals to experience one for yourself: a wish during the launch, the wish will Chinese Lantern Festival rise up into the heavens, resulting in Falling on the 15th day of the first lunar month, the Lantern a priority delivery to God. Skeptic or Festival marks the end of the traditional Chinese New Year not, one thing that can’t be denied celebrations. Though there are many different tales about the is the beauty created by thousands origins of this festival, they all involve the desire of good for- of lanterns covering up the tune and health. Lanterns of various shapes and sizes are hung night’s sky. outside of homes and paraded down the streets. Riddles, which All of these festivals have one have become an essential part of the festival, are included similarity: Their magic is unde- in some lanterns, luring riddle-loving visitors to the lantern niable. If it’s impossible for you owner’s doorstep. Should the speculator solve the riddle cor- to experience all three, make sure rectly, they are rewarded with a small gift. Traditional dishes, you promise yourself you’ll witness customary lantern dances and magnificent fireworks are also at least one in your lifetime. important elements of this festival. Chiang Mai Yi (Yee) Peng Festival This festival of lights takes place in Northern Thailand and typically occurs in early winter—though the exact dates are released just a few weeks before the event. The local celebration of Yi Peng is a religious ceremony that pays homage to the late Bud- dha. During the festival, onlookers are entertained by traditional Thai dances, beauty pageants and firework shows. But the final spectacle, the release of the lanterns, is the most mesmerizing facet of the entire event. While making a wish, people release thousands of paper lanterns into the sky, transforming it into a sea of lanterns. From local monks to tourists traversing from all over the world to experience it, everyone leaves taking the

114 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 115 n the Lapa’ luxury. I don’t really like to play on words, but I just can’t help it this Bask in time around. The Lapa Palace in Lisbon, Portugal, once the residence of the Yesteryear Elegance Portugal is about sunshine and about mu- Portuguese Court, is one of the most perfect places to stay in the world - and sic and dining in the manner of yesterday. II mean that. The palace, located in the hills overlooking the beautiful city of I love the Lapa Palace dining room with its Lapa’ Lisbon, offers just about every amenity one could wish and the décor accents the trellis-covered walls, its chandeliers from Marvel in a visit charms of yesterday. Color-wise and furnishing-wise, all who know and love the Murano, its ceiling – all hand-painted with to Lisbon’s puffy white clouds. The waiters are gen- time of black and white movies will appreciate this hotel. Lapa Palace tile, immaculately dressed, and the Maître d’hôtel Chainho de Oliveira knows exactly how to treat a guest.

Lapa Palace has a swimming pool, set among the trees and bougainvilleas. All rooms have terraces with sliding doors that open to an outdoor pleasure spot where room service LuBy Carleton Vaxrney ury will bring you afternoon tea, breakfast, or a cocktail before dinner – why not? The terrace is a romantic place to view the sparkling city below. To Start Your Day Breakfast at the Lapa is perfection — a breakfast room with outside garden and with handsome flower-decorated china is the total atmosphere. Not since Lady Bird Lapa Palace’s swimming pool, set among the trees and bougainvilleas. Johnson created her flower china have I seen one pattern as pretty. On pink linen cloths, you’ll find a buffet of mangos and all Portugal is about sunshine and colorful fruits, and all bounty of Portugal — caviar, smoked salmon, breads, croissants, about music and dining in the yogurts. When in Lisbon, you must see the Elevator of manner of yesterday. Lapa Palace dining room Santa Justa. The city abounds with lifts and elevators to carry you up its seven hills. The Santa Justa elevator was fabricated of cast iron in 1902, designed by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard. From the top of the elevator you will see an unforgettable view of the city.

Rui Palma, the hotel concierge, is in attendance blue and white tiles, featuring the scenes of The Panteão Nacional (The National Pan- to care for your every need — including mail- Lisbon landscapes or edifices. theon) is an impressive monument to Por- ing packages home that you do not want to Portugal is about fine wines and fine vine- tugal’s past. Illustrious figures from the past carry on a long airplane ride back to America. yards, and about olive groves and about are laid to rest here. From the pantheon, Concierge Rui can also tell you what and handmade rugs. Special rug designs can you can view the Tagus River flowing into where to go in the city of the seven hills. take three to four weeks, but are worth the the Atlantic Sea. Artisan Tile Galore wait. Portugal is about ceramics, bed linens, All of Lisbon is a tile museum and the exte- If one were to ask what one must see in Lis- and lace. The shops catering to the tourists riors of many buildings are decorated with bon, you can begin knowing that Portugal is are also filled with cork: cork bowls, cork pic- panels and logos in a multitude of colors. all about tile work, and the imagery in tiles ture frames, cork boots, and cork-finished A visit to the Museu do Azulejo is a must. will fascinate you. Even the walls above your wallets. Don’t ask me how a wallet can be If you are in Lisbon on a weekend, visit bathtub at Lapa Palace are decorated with covered in cork. I don’t know how they do the craft market on the waterside. There it, but they do. Elevator of Santa Justa you’ll find designs in tiles, wooden puzzles,

116 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 117 The Panteão Nacional

jewelry, linens, ceramics, glassware, and all the art from photographs to cork accessories. While there, I made some small purchases of glass soap dishes in a fish-like form, as well as a wooden cow puzzle for my grandson Bowie. Ashford Tapas, Tapas, Tapas There are so many tapas restaurants in Lis- bon that I suggest you find nearby recom- Castle mendations from Rui Palma, that wonderful concierge at Lapa Palace. I shall leave The Irish Getaway Beyond Compare you with one dining recommendation: For By Alex Starace a treat of the best freshly baked croissants I have ever had, visit La Boulangerie close by the Lapa Palace. tunning cliffs, verdant hills and bucolic cottages punctuate a journey along the weathered west coast of Ireland. In County Mayo, a little off the coast, sits one of the region’s crown Lapa Palace, Lisbon jewels: Ashford Castle.

Named the top resort hotel in all of Ireland by Travel and Leisure, Ashford combines the charm of a medieval structure on the water of Lough Corrib with the modern amenities Museu do Azulejo of the twenty-first century resort. “The castle has welcomed royalty, politicians, movie stars and travelers,” said general manager Niall Rochford, “And all of them have marveled at the natural beauty of the location.”

Originally built in 1228 as a stronghold against the O’Connors of Connaught, it was controlled for over 300 years by the De Burgo family, Anglo-Normans who became the House of Burke. The castle was eventually confiscated by Sir Richard Bingham, Lord President of Connaught, in 1589, as punishment for a tax rebellion led by the Burkes. Ownership Carleton Varney, President of Dorothy changed hands two more times as the centuries rolled by, and the estate began to take on Draper & Co. Inc., is an American decorator, a more genteel aspect. designer, lecturer and author. The Guinness family, of brewery fame, expanded its acreage to 26,000, developing the woodlands and gardens for typical Irish country pursuits during the mid-1800s. And then, 118 Opulence Winter 2017/18 S119 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 119 in 1905, the Prince of Wales planned a visit. To honor him, a special dining room with paneled walls and Waterford Crystal chandeliers was built. Upon his arrival, he had a drink at the castle’s bar, before dining in the room custom-made for the event. To this day, both the bar and dining room bear the prince’s name: The Prince of Wales Bar and the George V Dining Room, for the prince was destined to become King.

The castle barely made it much longer. “It was almost burnt down in the 1920s, during the Irish War of Independence,” explained Rochford. At the time, the Irish Republic Army (IRA) had a tactic of burning down large estates across the country. When the local IRA received orders to set Ash- ford ablaze, they refused. The Guinness family, who were still owners of the property, had been too good to the community. The arson was never committed, and the castle was saved from ruin.

Long-time stewards of the property, the Guinness family finally sold in 1939, and the estate was converted into a first-class hotel known for its picturesque scenery. In fact, the grounds and the nearby town of Cong formed the backdrop for the Oscar Award-winning 1952 film The Quiet Man, directed by John Ford. Starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, the tale of tempestuous lovers courting was nominated for seven Acade- my Awards, and won Best Director (Ford’s fourth and final Oscar) and Best Cinematography. It was one of the few Hollywood films to ever include Gaelic and it made Cong the tourist attraction that it is today.

The castle continued evolving, adding a golf course and doubling the size of its grounds in the 1970s. While it remained stately during this period, by 2013 it needed some attention. The Red Carnation Hotels Collec- tion purchased it and undertook a massive restoration. “The goal of the restoration was to bring the property back to the former glory days of the Guinness era,” said Rochford.

The 789-year-old stonework was tuckpointed, 800 original windows were replaced with modern glass and over 30 tonnes of lead were used to reinforce the castle’s roof. Thirty guest rooms from the Guinness-era were restored, as were a number of authentic Victo- rian-era paintings in various guest rooms. The Prince of Wales Bar was meticulously maintained.

“Not since the Guinness family originally purchased and transformed the estate had so much love, care and money been lavished on the property,” said Rochford. In addition to restoration, expansion was also on the menu: A glass conservatory was constructed to house a world-class spa. A cinema, billiards room and cigar terrace were added. And the piece- de-resistance? “The transformation of the former servants en- trance and coal bunkers into a wine cellar and tasting room. It illustrates the creativity and vision the designers had when planning the restoration.”

Now truly an elite getaway, the Ashford Castle hosted the wedding of four-time major-champion golfer Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll this past summer. It recently won the Irish Cocktail Festi- val’s best cocktail award with a concoction featuring Conne- mara 12-year peated whiskey and Atlantic sea salt. Regularly listed as one of the best places to stay in the world, Ashford Castle’s evolution continues to fascinate.

120 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 121 Loving Sharing my family journey to my father’s homeland on this charming Greek isle

By Alexandra Wensley

How grateful am I? One of the best aspects of having a father who lives in Greece is planning our family vacation to visit him every other summer. My father and his 90-year-old sister Maria live on the Greek island of Lesvos in a small farming town. Although Lesvos, Greece’s third-largest island, is not on the radar of many Americans, it is full of historic villages with gorgeous beaches, medieval castles, delicious food and an abundance of natural beauty. The Greek tradition of hospitality is prevalent throughout the island, making Lesvos a great place for families and couples who want a quiet, fun vacation destination. It’s a charming gem in the northern Aegean.

Mytilene We arrived in Lesvos mid-July via a short 45-minute flight from Athens to Mytilene, the capital of Lesvos and a lively port city. We rented a car and made our way through the maze of crowded streets. Our first stop was the medieval castle, one of the largest castles in the Mediterranean. Mytilene Castle, built in the 6th century AD, is perched atop a hill on the edge of the city. We spent several hours touring the ancient ruins, tunnels and towers. It was grand and picturesque with incredible water views from every corner.

122 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 123 another. On many evenings, we visited the blue water, excellent seafood and grand island’s seaside taverns with my father and architecture all in one place. We walked Top Gifts for Men Who Love to Travel his friend where they shared a bottle of ouzo. along the cobblestone streets to a small har- Drop one or two ice cubes in a small glass bor where octopus tentacles are hung to dry By Ana Colmenares, Luxury Specialist with a little ice water, pour a small amount before grilling. We chose one of the casual Wanderlust: That urge to leave the comfort of your surroundings and venture out into the world — or maybe it of ouzo on top and watch as the ouzo turns seaside spots for lunch, and enjoyed an ex- is business4 that pulls you to travel. 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We On one morning, a herd of sheep with music and the comfortable beach loung- wandered around this sacred and impressive bells clanking around their necks blocked ers. I enjoyed a Frappe while my husband house of worship filled with inspiring stories traffic as we made our way to Molyvos, and boys indulged on honeydew and of miracles and visionaries. It’s also worth a an incredibly picturesque town of stone watermelon handpicked that morning visit to another prominent monastery, Moni homes that cascade down a hill under from my father’s farm. Taxiarchon, located on the north side of the a Byzantine castle. Molyvos has some island in the town of Mantamados. While We spent many leisurely days on the is- Cigars: Gurkha Tubos of Greece’s main attractions – crystal the monastery was fascinating, we went to land’s beautiful beaches. The kids played Gurkha’s Tubos are the perfect gift for the traveler who likes to enjoy a great cigar. 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The Sennheiser Momentum Wireless not only features great stereo sound to enjoy your favorite the Greek island living that I most cherish factories and the ouzo museum. music, but it is also equipped with an active noise-cancellation for optimum isolation from back- providing an enchanting getaway for all One learns how ouzo is made and ground noise and better audio performance. Also, the headphones fold up for more compact storage Molyvos, historic town on island of Lesvos, Greece that are blessed to discover it. what distinguishes one brand from so that you can just stick it in your carry-on bag. It also has dual microphones for use as a cell phone headset for those quick calls before boarding your flight. $499.95 • www.en-us.sennheiser.com

Cigar Travel Case: Gurkha’s Sniper case Gurkha’s Sniper is the must-have gift for that person in your life who loves to travel to rough terrain, but still enjoys the luxury of a fine cigar. The pelican case protects up to 30 cigars. It is waterproof and keeps your cigars safe from the elements, making it essential for camping and fishing trips. The case is easy to carry on aircraft and you can transport more than enough cigars to enjoy with the boys. To purchase, check with your cigar retailer. www.gurkha.com

124 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 125 Turning Back the Hands of Time on Rose Hill Plantation A look at the remarkable post Civil War restoration of this architectural masterpiece in Bluffton, South Carolina

By Mary and Hugh Williamson

he actions and investments of generations of residents have made Bluffton, South Carolina, a model for respecting the past, adding greatly to the present and guiding the future. What is required for the inspiration to do just that is provided in this southern community of architectural value; significant historic structures in all levels of repair. Factor in individuals who have the interest, the tenacity and the resources to make an impact andt who are true visionaries, and wonderful things can happen. These Blufftonians have led the efforts to make the opportunity for historic preservation, restoration and renovation a reality. The town has also invested in the ongoing effort, and real estate developers have warmed to the theme. The town has continued the spirit, charm and character established in the mid-nineteenth century, as plantation owners sought reprieve from the summer heat and mosquitos of nearby Hilton Head Island to the breezy bluffs above the May River.

126 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 127 1858) is an amazingly beautiful example of the Carpenter Gothic style, ABOUT AMERICAN GOTHIC STYLE sharing many characteristics with the Church of the Cross. Likely also designed by Edward Brickell White, the mansion has a very compelling Less elaborate and less elegant story. Originally occupied by planter John Kirk and his wife Carolina, the versions of Gothic revival archi- stunning and then nearly complete plantation house was abandoned tecture emerged, thanks to the by the family in 1862 as the rumblings of war threatened the state. The introduction of the scroll saw (or Civil War is also called the War Between the States, or in the deep south fretsaw). Intricate scrollwork then “that recent unpleasantness”. And unpleasant it was. Current Rose Hill became commercially feasible. A Plantation House owners Robin and Robert “Rusty” White have uncov- pedal-operated invention, this tool ered many relics on the property surrounding the mansion, including aided in the popularity of the ec- belt buckles and Union force buttons from many states. These finds lectic Carpenter Gothic style of the seem to support the theory that the mansion was occupied by Union mid-nineteenth century found of- officers, as the troops camped on the grounds. It also explains why the ten in the heartland. It is recogniz- home escaped the fiery fate of so many structures in the Bluffton area. able from the 1980 Grant Wood painting, “American Gothic”, depict- And why not? The beautiful newly-built but abandoned abode offered ing midwestern farm architecture.

A little history And life goes on Bluffton’s antebellum history lives on in the downtown area over- Following the Civil War and beyond, some of these remaining summer looking the May River, where Union forces launched the fateful Civil retreat homes were painstakingly restored to period accuracy. Others War “burning of Bluffton” on June 4, 1863. Most, but not quite all, evolved to meet the changing needs of the modern family. One home ,homes were decimated. Of the surviving structures, several remain connected the detached “summer kitchen”, originally meant to seques- private residences, one a museum, and one until 1999 operated as ter the heat and cooking smells from the main house. Now, with modern a bed and breakfast. Two serve as headquarters for ministries of the technology it is integrated into the living space. There are other examples Church of the Cross. Thought to be spared because of its beauty, of alterations that some preservation purists would perhaps dismiss as ill- the ca.1857 church itself is an important architectural treasure in advised. However, those types of changes, as American lifestyles the Carpenter Gothic style, designed by acclaimed South Carolina- evolve, mean that historic and maybe simply “vintage” structures can born architect Edward Brickell (EB) White (b. 1806). His book of realize reinvention and a new life that is feasible in the American com- work includes Market Hall and the Huguenot Church in Charleston, munity, while ensuring their longevity and relevance in our modern South Carolina, as well as landmarks in Savannah, Georgia. How- world. So – a careful balance of restoration and renovation can yield ever, most of the surviving Bluffton buildings are less elaborate in interesting, sustainable outcomes. design, being of the simpler farmhouse or summer cottage styles. A fascinating example These antebellum structures are more than enough to set the tone A stellar model of adaptive reuse, restoration and renovation is found for the low-country South Carolina town where this burgeoning, in the Rose Hill Plantation House, some 12 miles from historic down- charming community continues to give a nod to nineteenth cen- town Bluffton, though a part of the same 1718 Devil’s Elbow Barony, or tury local vernacular with the town’s recent, thoughtful develop- the tongue of land extending from the May River to the Colleton River. ment and restoration. Happily, it is sometimes difficult to tell the Built along the banks of said Colleton River, the plantation house (ca. new from the old pre-Civil War edifices.

128 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 129 comforts, and the Colleton River afforded easy transportation to other battlefields in Beaufort County, a hub of the war. Timeline Following the war, the house remained vacant for decades, seeing 1718 Earliest known date of existence. Granted to Sir John Colleton. It was then a part of the Devil’s Elbow Barony squatters and more. It was then purchased in 1946 by John Stur- 1790 The plantation came under the ownership of John Rose geon and wife Betsy, and was lovingly restored. After the death of Sturgeon in 1979, and a subsequent re-imagining by the Rose 1799 Upon Rose’s death, the plantation was inherited by his stepson, James Kirk Hill Development Company, the property was met with another 1830s The plantation was given to Dr. John and Caroline Kirk as calamity as a long restoration project ended; faulty wiring caused a wedding present from James Kirk a consuming fire in 1987. 1858 House began construction (completed in 1860) by Dr. John Kirk and wife Caroline Fast-forward to 1996, when Robin and Robert “Rusty” White, having seen an ad listing the Rose Hill home for sale in Historic Preservation Magazine 1862 Plantation House was vacated due to Civil War activity fell in love with the grand but distressed, burned out landmark. After 1863 Bluffton area was targeted by Union forces purchasing the mansion, the couple began an astounding 17-year resto- 1865 Civil War ends ration that has resulted in a sought-after romantic wedding venue, tour 1946 John and Betsy (Gould) Sturgeon purchased the house destination, and a local organization event location. As the White’s now and completed it embrace the value of sharing, it is greatly appreciated by local residents 1979 John Sturgeon passed away as well as architecture students from around the world. The White’s cour- 1981 Rose Hill Plantation Development Company, a David Stability During Unstable Times and John Welton pursuit, purchased the land for de- age, vision and passion have served the community well. velopment of a planned residential community. Their By Todd R. Sciore rehabilitation team then spent nine months repairing The Rose Hill Plantation House is not a museum. It is a vital and lovely and rehabilitating the house private home, whose owners have afforded an opportunity for locals 1982 The house was opened to the public for tours and tourists to experience a glimpse into the gracious South Carolina 1987 A fire severely damaged the house, and it would sit way of life in the mid-nineteenth century. The interior is punctuated by empty for nearly a decade Gothic revival furniture and accessories, but it is not a total immersion 1996 Rose Hill Plantation House was purchased by the into the style. It is a wonderful example of how an historic property can Middleton-White Foundation and restoration as a private retain the magic of the era, while evolving to provide a comfortable en- home began vironment for a family, and a valuable resource for the community. 2009 Rose Hill Plantation House achieved substantial comple- tion by Rusty and Robin White of the Middleton-White Foundation 2017 The Plantation House continues to welcome the public Mary and Hugh Williamson are and groups for tours and events Bluffton, SC residents, and celebrate the beautiful area and the special For more information, please reference: resources that are a part of Bluffton, Jeff Fulghum’s book, The Bluffton Expedition (Bluffton, S.C., 2012) where opportunities to bring history to life still remain. The Town of Bluffton’s website, www.townofbluffton.sc.gov The Rose Hill website, www.rosehillmansion.com

130 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 131 hen it became clear after the Battle of Manassas that the Union would not win a quick Wand easy war, Federal currency was hoarded and virtually disappeared from commerce, states John Ostendorf, a Coin images courtEsy of John Ostendorf numismatic author and Secretary of the Civil War Token Society, an educational, non-profit collector organization. “The Federal Govern- ment’s (mintage) output was insufficient and so quickly hoarded that most Americans probably did not see a federal coin between 1862 and 1864.” A shortlived attempt at using postage stamps as money was tried, but they were too delicate for the demands of every day commerce. As such, these simple tokens became our nation’s workhorse small change currency during the Civil War.

While various fields of study are dedicated to the research and preservation of Civil War artifacts such as battle used weapons or original documents, collecting Cvil War tokens offers Sutler tent – a civilian provisioner to an army post often with a shop on the post. one of the more readily accessible ways to build a personal connection to that period in American history. Civil War tokens are generally by various merchants. The merchant name metropolitan area, and female or African- divided into three categories - Patriotics, Store and line of business usually appeared on the American merchants are also small in num- Cards and Sutlers, with each serving a generally obverse, while the reverse generally contained ber and highly sought after. similar yet specifically different function. The Spruce Goose “a patriotic theme or design similar to an In- SUTLER TOKENS dian cent.” PATRIOTIC TOKENS Sutler tokens are the rarest of the three types Patriotic tokens were used as a replacement This type of token is highly collected by state, and as John notes, “were issued by sutlers for the Federal one cent coin. The obverse on town, merchant, industry, theme, etc…, with who followed various military units in the some carried a design similar to the Indian The Aviator Lives On rare pieces, even in lower states of preservation, field and provided goods to the soldiers, head pennies of the day, while others fea- easily selling for several thousand dollars. With often at highly inflated prices.” These tokens Howard Hughes’ famous “Spruce Goose” is alive and kicking tured coronet or French liberty head devices. that said, more prolific issues in high grades are prized by collectors in that not only do seventy years after its inaugural (and only) flight George Washington, Andrew Jackson and can be acquired for very reasonable prices. they contain the name of the sutler, but By Alex Starace the USS Monitor were also popular obverse With a note on rarity, Ostendorf advises that often identify the military unit they were designs. The reverse often contained generic “pricing is strong for rare pieces, yet extremely associated with. If you knew what battles legends, such as “Good For One Cent,” the cheap compared to federal coinage, but a col- a particular unit participated in, you would contradictory “Not One Cent,” or the indeter- lector has to be patient as they aren’t for sale have an idea where the subject token may oward Hughes’ life swung Aeronautic Genius minate “Value Me As You Please,” among oth- very often. A Civil War token with less than 20 have been when it traded hands. wildly between genius and The biopic of Howard Hughes’ life, starring ers. Many issues also contained patriotic slo- known may sell for less than $200 in collectable madness, so it’s only fitting Leonardo DiCaprio, is entitled The Aviator While Federal coins capture the headlines for gans, such as “Union Forever” or “The Federal grades. No way that happens for a federal coin.” that the story of the “Spruce for good reason. His aeronautical derring- record auction prices, Civil War tokens offer a Union It Must And Shall Be Preserved.” There Goose” feels more like a mad- do included surviving four airplane crashes, The rarity scale ranges from R-1 (very snapshot into the past with the potential for are numerous obverse/reverse combinations Hcap caper than fact. A large flying boat setting the landplane airspeed record and common with greater than 5,000 extant historical research on a particular issuer and with rare examples commanding thousands made entirely of wood? Check. A project flying around the world in 3 days, 9 hours, examples) to R-10 (unique with only one a rarity factor often exceeding that of their of dollars, if and when they come to market. that was finished years too late? Indeed. 17 minutes – four days fewer than the pre- example known). In comparison to regular more popular cousins. This has made them A triumph that was preserved at great ex- vious record. To honor the latter, he was STORE CARDS U.S. Mint issues, even a moderately priced, a favorite of luminary numismatic collectors pense for decades? Yes. This is the story of given a 1938 ticker-tape parade in New Store cards had the same basic function as mid-range R-5 token has a paltry 76 to 200 and scholars like Q. David Bowers. the Spruce Goose, one of America’s oddest York’s Canyon of Heroes. a patriotic token (replacing the one cent coin known examples. Store Cards from rural ar- Anyone who would like to learn more about flying machines. for making change in daily commerce) but eas, such as Tennessee or West Virginia, are this interesting branch of numismatics is Howard Hughes at the cockpit of the were essentially advertising pieces issued tougher to find than those from a major encouraged to visit www.CWTSociety.com. Spruce Goose

132 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 133 By AVA ROOSEVELT Director’s Profile

“I am ordering today that the veil finally be lifted,” said President Trump while commissioning the release of the JFK files on the 54th anniversary of the assassination on November 22, 2017. Under a 1992 law, the National Archives was supposed to have released all of the remaining records by midnight — unless the President objected on Q national security grounds. In the end, the release of 2,891 of at least 3,140 documents was allowed, with the remainder subject to a 180- day review for redactions from objecting agencies. The White House said later that the remaining records would be released “on a rolling “New York hails Hughes and companions, basis in the coming weeks.” New York City --- In the greatest reception since & A I sat down for a follow-up interview with Washington Correspond- Lindbergh’s, Howard Hughes and his four gal- lant companions paraded up Broadway July ent Jefferson Morley, a journalist who specializes in ‘stories of 15 almost smothered beneath Manhattan’s untold American history’ and has intensely researched the JFK ticker-tape accolade recognizing their record- controversy. Morley also tells us about his latest book, The smashing Round-The-World flight. This picture Hughes-H-4-Hercules-Spruce-Goose-In-Flight Ghost: The Secret Life of CIA Spymaster James Jesus Angleton. shows Hughes, center, waving to the cheering thousands. On the left is Grover Whalen, com- Ava: What is the legal basis for thwarting the dead- missioner of the New York 1939 World’s Fair plane, officially known as the H-4 Hercules, & Space Museum in McMinnville, Oregon, line set by Congress to release the JFK assassination and on the right is Al Lodwick, Hughes’ flight flew about a mile, at 70 feet above the wa- proposed to keep the marvel in perpetuity, documents? manager. 7-15-38. Credit Line (ACME).” ter, reaching a speed of 135 mph. putting it back on display in 2001 after an JFK and Jefferson Morley: The 1992 JFK Records Act mandated that all eight-year restoration. “It’s an amazing thing So, in the midst of World War II, when the After proving the Spruce Goose could fly, CIA Spy assassination-related records in possession of U.S. government to see in-person,” said private pilot and Inter- United States needed to get supplies across Hughes built a custom hangar and hired a agencies had to be made public 25 years from the date of enact- national Opulence EVP Dan Brooke. “You’re the Atlantic without risk of being sunk by U- staff of 300 to maintain it indefinitely, at a master James ment. This did not happen. About 90 percent of the records that were wondering, ‘Is this real’? You’re knocking on boats, Hughes was asked to develop a mas- rumored cost of $1 million a year. The staff supposed to become open to the people remain secret. the spars and the walls and reminded that it Jesus Angleton sive flying transit ship on behalf of the U.S. was reduced to 50 in 1962, and all were let is actually wood.” On the VIP tour, you can sit There is a clause in the National Archives Act that says if there War Department. There was just one catch: go upon Hughes’ death in 1976. No one in the cockpit, stand on the wing and walk are current or future national security concerns, the documents The project couldn’t use any metal, as that knew what to do with the Spruce Goose; it through the fuselage. The level of restoration don’t have to be released. The theory, as Morley pointed out two was already dedicated to current war efforts. was almost chopped up and distributed to and the knowledge of the staff make for a years ago in Opulence, is that the records will show mishandling museums. Instead, it was saved as a tourist In 1942, in collaboration with steel mag- truly remarkable experience, said Brooke, of the Oswald surveillance and the records are being held back to attraction in Long Beach, next to a docked net Henry Kaiser, Hughes decided upon who recommends a pilgrimage to aviation avoid embarrassment. Queen Mary (also a tourist attraction), but an eight-engine colossus six times larger enthusiasts of all stripes. that proved to be a money-loser. Ava: Does this still hold true? What have we learned so than any plane yet constructed. It would Now that the Spruce Goose is 70 years old, far? What are they hiding, if anything? be made almost entirely out of birch. (The Saving The Behemoth and still in mint condition, it may be time to derisive appellative “Spruce Goose” stuck Plane For Public Viewing Jefferson Morley:The JFK Records Act gives agencies the right make the journey. despite very little use of spruce.) As with any In danger of being junked a second time to postpone release of specific documents after 10/2017, if the unprecedented undertaking, there were in the early 1990s, the Evergreen Aviation agency can show “identifiable harm” that would be done by delays. Kaiser dropped out and it wasn’t release and that the harm is greater than the public interest until 1947 that a prototype was completed, in disclosure. using $18 million in federal dollars and $7 The most important record in the new files was a memo from FBI million of Hughes’ money. With JFK Expert director J. Edgar Hoover, dated November 24, 1963, two days af- The Spruce Goose Takeoff Jefferson Morley ter JFK was killed. In the memo, Hoover tells subordinates that the The result: a wingspan exceeding the government had to convince the public that Oswald was “the real length of a football field, an aircraft roughly assassin.” Portions of this memo had been made public before but five stories high, with its tail reaching eight we had never seen the whole thing. The investigation of the mur- ince the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, stories. It had yet to leave the ground. As der of the president had just begun, Oswald had denied he shot 10 presidents, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, part of a media push, Hughes and crew Kennedy, and the nation’s top law enforcement officer had already Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H. took the press aboard and taxied on the wa- decided Oswald had acted alone. And the FBI and Warren Commis- W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barrack Obama ter off Long Beach, California. The craft had sion obeyed Hoover’s command. The fix was in. and Donald J. Trump, all with a vast array of intelli- not yet flown, nor was that part of the plan. Ava: In your opinion, who made the decision to release only 10 gence resources available to them, have not succeeded in resolving However, Hughes had other ideas. On the S percent of the JFK assassination documents? the most scrutinized and investigated cold case in American history: third taxi along the channel, he unexpect- The Assassination of President John F. Kennedy. edly took off with 32 people on board. The Martin Scorsese’s “The Aviator” (2004)

134 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 OPULENCE 135 COCONUT GROVE

Jefferson Morley: Only President Trump had the power to make Who was James Angleton and why do you say he was the keep- that decision. er of more national security secrets than Herbert Hoover?

Ava: Do you believe President Trump was privy to the entire Jefferson Morley: One of the most important features in The Ghost set of documents or was he merely told why only 10 percent is the story of how Angleton targeted Oswald for counterintelli- could be released? gence attention in November 1959 and used him for intelligence purposes over the next four years. If Oswald was a “lone nut” as cli- Jefferson Morley: Trump acceded to the CIA’s request to keep ché holds, he was an isolated sociopath whose movement were 18,000 records secret. He could have looked at any document he carefully monitored by a top CIA official right up until JFK went wanted. I doubt he read many of them. to Dallas. Ava: What do you suspect are the real reasons the agencies That said, The Ghost is not a JFK book want the JFK assassination documents withheld? nor does it have any conspiracy theo- Jefferson Morley: What remains hidden in the JFK files are probably ry. It’s the biography of a brilliant but the details of the CIA’s pre-assassination surveillance and manipula- dangerous spymaster who used se- tion of Oswald before JFK was killed. These officers, all of them now crecy and secret intelligence to build deceased, included James Angleton, William Harvey, David Phillips, an intelligence empire. Angleton George Joannides, and Howard Hunt. These men had some signifi- collaborated with J. Edgar Hoover in cant role in the JFK story. All of their files are still secret. spying on Americans and infiltrating the Ava:What do you think will happen in 180 days when President civil rights and antiwar movements. He Trump makes his final decision about releasing the remaining was a ghost of American power. documents that the agencies want withheld? Will we see yet another President kick-the-can down the road?

Jefferson Morley: It depends on how much public, political and social media attention is paid to the story for the JFK files and to the story of the CIA men who knew the most about Oswald while JFK was still alive. Ava Roosevelt is the author of The Racing Ava: Have you spoken with any of the Kennedys to get their Heart. She is also a Palm Beach philanthro- input? pist and wife of the late William Donner Roosevelt, grandson of President Franklin Jefferson Morley: No. The Kennedy family doesn’t want to be in- Delano Roosevelt. volved in the disposition of these files. I respect that.

Ava: What are the key highlights of your new book “The Ghost”?

136 Opulence Winter 2017/18 137 Opulence Fall 2017 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 137 Condo Law By Nicole Kurtz Title Here Tackling the New Website Requirement for FLorida Condominium Trust is more than Associations

Nicole Kurtz

lorida condominium associations with 150 or more units, ciation’s counsel should then assess whether or not the agreement which do not manage timeshare units, must have an inde- details the terms of transitioning the association’s website content. F pendent website or web portal by July 1, 2018, according Ownership of the website will come into play if, and when, your as- to Section 718.111, Florida Statutes. These websites or web portals sociation decides to terminate the management agreement, as the just a word. can either be wholly owned and operated by the association, or association may be accused of violating the law if such termination operated by a third-party provider. It is important that associations causes the website to be shut down for any period of time. that meet the 150+ unit prerequisite begin to take the necessary In light of the foregoing, associations may wish to consider steps to ensure that they are in compliance with the new law by hosting their own independent website. If creating an in-house the July 1st deadline. website proves to be too burdensome, we encourage associations If your association utilizes a management company, the board of to contract third-party providers who can assist in developing directors may wish to first reach out to the management com- a statutory-compliant website or web portal. If you or your pany to determine if such company will be offering independent association’s representatives have any questions regarding this new let us earn yours. website or web portal services that comply with Section 718.111, legislation, feel free to email us at [email protected]. Florida Statutes. However, even if your association’s management Attorney Nicole Kurtz with the South Florida law firm of Siegfried, company will be providing such services, it is important that your Rivera, Hyman, Lerner, De La Torre, Mars & Sobel focuses exclusively on community association’s counsel reviews your management con- community association law. www.srhl-law.com, www.FloridaHOA- tract to determine who owns the website. If it is established that the LawyerBlog.com, 305-442-3334. management company reserves ownership of the site, your asso- Legal Counsel to Community Associations Since 1977

Offices in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Main Office: Suntrust Plaza, 201 Alhambra Circle, Suite 1100, Coral Gables, FL 33134 800-737-1390 | www.srhl-law.com

138 OPULENCE Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 OPULENCE 139

SR ads 1pg Opulence.indd 4 10/28/15 3:14 PM Yachts, Jewels, Stocks, Trade – Buying Real Estate With Tangibles By Karen Evans

e all know the traditional meth- Voila…we had a deal! Wedding bells were “A popular variation on the first scenario is ods of purchasing real estate, ringing and the original homeowner began for the stock of the U.S. company owning but you may not realize real es- enjoying that yacht he always wanted. the U.S. real estate to in turn be owned by tate can also be purchased for Jewels a company registered in a foreign country,” W Alan continued. “This is done when that tangibles – such as boats, jewelry, trades of In my research, I found another very inter- foreign country more strongly protects the other real estate, and foreign and domestic esting scenario in which a multimillion-dol- identities of the shareholders who own stock portfolios. Here are just a few perfectly lar home priced at just under $5 million was stock in companies registered in that coun- legal options for acquiring REAL property. exchanged for $2.7 million in cash and $2 try or does not require any information at all Trading Real Estate million in diamonds. The sellers were happy about the shareholders of companies that A few years ago, I had buyers wishing because they were able to sell a home they are registered there. This second option is to purchase an oceanfront town were no longer using in exchange for tan- especially popular with foreign buyers of home in Highland Beach, Florida, gibles that they would use and enjoy more U.S. real estate who are concerned about for $2.5 million, but they needed than the home. The buyer, a prominent the threat of kidnapping if it becomes to sell their home on the Jersey jeweler, was happy because he could pro- known through U.S. records that the foreign Shore prior to executing an offer. vide a larger and more luxurious home for buyer has assets in the U.S. And this second BROWN HARRIS EDITORIAL Fortunately, their property was his growing family and all he had to give scenario (if executed properly) also greatly also valued at a similar price. up was some of his diamond inventory to reduces the tax rate that is applied to in- I discussed my buyers’ dilem- make up for the difference in cash in order come produced by the real estate while it is ma with the listing agent for the Highland to close. This became a win-win. owned and when it is sold.” Beach property and much to my surprise, Foreign Nationals & Stocks These are just a few examples of utilizing he said his sellers may be interested in an I reached out to Alan Krinzman, a prominent your tangibles in exchange for real estate. exchange. I quickly drafted a proposal for Miami real estate attorney with Assouline & The possibilities are almost endless if you both sellers and within 24 hours, we were Berlowe. Alan has had a number of dealings hire a great attorney and a clever realtor. Of moving forward on an even exchange of with foreign nationals. He shared some very course, you should always check with your the two properties. All I had to do was to interesting experiences with me relative to financial advisers before attempting these locate an attorney well versed in this pro- foreign nationals buying real estate in the and other methods for buying and selling cess and sort out how the respective real- United States. tors would be compensated and we had a real estate. Happy hunting! deal that made everyone happy. “Foreign buyers of real estate in the U.S. sometimes choose to buy the shares of a A Yacht-Size Exchange U.S. company that is the registered owner I once had a buyer who was living on his of the real estate, rather than directly taking yacht. Cupid paid him a visit, he fell in love title to this real estate in their own name,” with the woman of his dreams and, you said Krinzman. “This is done for many rea- guessed it, she wanted a home. She didn’t sons. Here are three: mnimization of estate mind living on the water, but the venue had tax, a way to assure transfer of ownership of to change. I found them a lovely waterfront the property to other family members, and home where the owner would accept the reducing liability to third parties. Karen Evans is a Broker Associate for exchange of the yacht and a bit of cash. Signature International Premier Properties in Palm Beach County

140 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 141 BROWN HARRIS EDITORIAL

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144 Opulence Winter 2017/18 Winter 2017/18 Opulence 145 Experience the sophistication, craftsmanship, and delight of a rotating, personalized timepiece collection.

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