Aspen Luxury Life Magazine - Spring 2017

SPRING 2017

ASPENLUXURYLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

WINTER’S CHAMPION GRETCHEN BLEILER: ON A MISSION TO PROTECT OUR WINTER

WINE | DINING | ART | FASHION | PLAY

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CONTENTS // DEPARTMENTS

REAL ESTATE

22

STYLE

28 Coldwell Banker Mason Morse Supervising Broker Jonathan Boxer lets us in on Aspen’s overlooked real estate trends.

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 10

DINING

32

Tips for navigating the local shopping scene from a true Aspen shopaholic.

WINE

36 Find out about the Red Onion’s comprehensive (and growing) collection of whiskies with general manager Brad Smith.

IN THE LIMELIGHT

86

Master sommelier Carlton McCoy wants to help you build and properly maintain your wine collection.

THE LIST

90 Behind the scenes at the Aspen Luxury Life launch party at Bootsy Bellows and the Casterline Goodman Gallery art opening.

Editor’s pick for Aspen’s very best restaurants, hotels, and galleries.

27 Years as aspen’s finest private club

celebrating

restaurant - night club - bar - weddings - special events - catering memberships from weekly to lifetime info@caribouclub.com - 970.925.2929 - www.caribouclub.com

CONTENTS // FEATURES

PEAK POTENTIAL

40

ON CLOUD 9

52 Olympic snowboarder, entrepreneur, and activist Gretchen Bleiler tells all about her fascinating career, and the passions that drive her now.

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 12

LIVE TO LIVE

62

Go behind the scenes at Cloud Nine to discover the secret to this mountain bistro’s phenonmenal success.

HUSTLE & FLOW

70 Actor and entrepreneur Dan Cook loves Aspen.

Here’s why.

ART FEATURE

78

A classic immigrant success story, DJ Naka G has been fascinated by music since age five—and his focus has paid off.

SPRING 2017

Bold and colorful describe Aspen Art Gallery, and its life-loving owner, Damian Guillot.

ASPENLUXURYLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

COVER Gretchen Bleiler, Aspen’s golden girl Photographed by Nick Tininenko

WINTER’S CHAMPION GRETCHEN BLEILER: ON A MISSION TO PROTECT OUR WINTER

WINE | DINING | ART | FASHION | PLAY

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SPRING 2017

ASPENLUXURYLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

SENIOR PUBLISHER Scott Weber PUBLISHER Carly Weber EDITOR-AT-LARGE Joani White

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 14

ART DIRECTION Kissane Viola Design PRODUCTION MANAGER Heather Marine DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Nick Tininenko SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Alesha Sands NATIONAL SALES Joani White LOCAL SALES Louise Walker PRODUCTION Kissane Viola Design COPY EDITOR Catherine Lutz Aspen Luxury Life | AspenLuxuryLifemagazine.com | 970.948.2766 Colorado Luxury Life LLC | Aspen, CO This issue was printed by American Web on recycled fibers containing 10 percent post-consumer waste, with inks containing a blend of soy base.

Our printer is a certified member of the Forestry Stewardship Council, the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, and meets or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act standards.

Special thanks to Four Mountain Sports/D&E, Lululemon, BLK MKT and Kendra Lauren Gros for all their support.

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E

22 SPRING 2017

LIFE

PUBLISHER’s letter

B

etween the holiday season, Presidents’ Weekend, and so many great events such as the World Snow Polo Championships, Wintersköl, Winter X Games, and the alpine skiing World Cup Finals right on

our door step, is it any wonder the time flies?

The snow flew constantly in January, but February has left

us feeling like spring came a little early. However, our friends over at AspenWeather.net are assuring us that March will bring powder days galore.

With all this talk about climate change, who better to have as our cover feature this issue than Olympian and X Games champion Gretchen Bleiler? She has gone from being one of winter’s greatest athletes to becoming winter’s champion, out

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 16

there fighting to protect our winters. It is a most enjoyable story following her journey from the center stage to one of self-discovery.

Up amongst the peaks, nestled on the slopes of Aspen Highlands lies Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro. The Aspen Luxury Life team were lucky enough to get up there a few times this season to take in the beautiful views and enjoy the fantastic cuisine.

Backed by an all-time greatest hits soundtrack, you don’t want the good times there to end. This is a must-read feature about manager Tommy Tollesson and his reinvention of the iconic on-mountain restaurant.

We also stop in with Aspen Art Gallery’s eccentric owner Damian Guillot. His recent journey to Cuba and his subsequent purchase of new unseen artwork is very exciting.

You’ll also delight in a spotlight on Aspen’s own superstar, DJ Naka G; an update from master sommelier and Little Nell Wine Director Carlton McCoy; and an interview with Ballers’ Dan Cook.

Real estate expert Jonathan Boxer talks about the renaissance of the Aspen market, and we find the amazing whiskey selection at the famous Red Onion. The list goes on and on.

I hope you enjoy the wine, the dining, the art, and the fashion in this issue as much as we did making it. Enjoy the turns, and take it all in. As Gretchen Bleiler says about Aspen, “Nature is a luxury.”

Best,

Scott and Carly Weber

525 E COOPER AVE, ASPEN | 970.925.3833 | MERIDIANJEWELERS.COM

editor’s letter

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 18

I

t is no secret that here in Aspen we gain constant inspiration from the pristine nature and beauty that surrounds us in our little corner of the world. Energized by the alpine skiing World Cup Finals that are descending upon us in March, we could not be more proud to play host city and cheer on our favorites to victory.

As an artist myself with an affinity for all things luxurious, I continually find joy in discovering new things. So for this issue, we set out to entice you with stories that represent some of the best that Aspen has to offer in fashion, dining, art, wine, and more, as well as heartwarming stories that matter to our unique spirit and sense of community.

Check out our feature story on Olympic snowboarder Gretchen Bleiler, who strives to save our winters with global awareness while remaining true to being a hometown girl. Even as she was first talking to us about the cover shoot, she had to put us on hold to go rescue a cat. I had the good fortune to join our creative team on the photo shoot atop Aspen Mountain— her energy is simply contagious!

Speaking of contagious energy, who can resist the dashing and multitalented Dan Cook, who shares with us his personal connection with Aspen and reasons for loving it as much as we do.

Also in this issue, renowned master sommelier of The Little Nell, Carlton McCoy, shares some of his key tips for stocking your wine cellar; and Damian Guillot, owner of Aspen Art Gallery, introduces us to a new up-and-coming artist he discovered from a recent trip to Cuba. Exciting indeed!

We caught up with Naka G, DJ extraordinaire and a favorite of the local Aspen scene, whose beats are out of this world. He shares stories of his rise to fame and experiences that have taken him around the globe while captivating audiences along the way.

And, of course, what trip to Aspen would be complete without a visit to Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, poppin’ bottles midway up Aspen Highlands ski slopes? Ski in, dance out (yes, please!).

Last, but not least, I embraced my shopping prowess to share with you some tips with my editor’s picks on how to achieve effortless attitude at high altitude! I even managed to find a few undiscovered treasure troves along the way.

I invite you to read on and enjoy our second issue of Aspen Luxury Life magazine, in between getting in some turns on the mountain.

Cheers and let it snow!

Joani White

ASPEN LUXURY L IFE

22 SPRING 2017

LIFE

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 20

CONTRIBUTORS

Amanda Rae

Jonathan Boxer

Joani White

Award-winning writer Amanda Rae discovered Aspen during a cross-country solo odyssey in 2011, and she’s been grinning ever since. After a stint working at Hunter S. Thompson’s Owl Farm in Woody Creek, now she’s a food columnist at the Aspen Times Weekly, and copyeditor for culture: the word on cheese. When not working on a screenplay based loosely

A long time resident of the Roaring Fork Valley, Jonathan has worked as a Realtor in Aspen for over a decade with experience in luxury homes sales, fractional real estate and commercial and residential investment property. Jonathan brings years of sales and marketing experience in real estate and financial services as well as considerable expertise in the digital and social space having co-founded the Mountain iJournals, a Colorado based online news network.

Freelance writer, artist and fine art photographer Joani White has provided multi-faceted content to various luxury publications throughout her career.

With a particular affinity for travel and all things luxury she has an impressive artistic portfolio with imagery that spans the globe. Her love for Colorado, provides endless inspiration and she can often be found photographing or

on her Triumph Bonneville motorcycle escapades, she’ll be shredding Aspen Mountain—catch her if you can!

hiking with her faithful companion pup named “Annabelle”.

Christina Oxenberg

Olivia Daane

Julianne Murphy

Christina Oxenberg started her professional carreer at Studio 54 where she was hired in a Public Relations capacity. This was the ‘gateway drug’ that introduced her to everyone and everything she would ever need for the rest of her life. A Pandora’s Box, if you will, to be used with great care.

The culmination, to date, is a heap of published books, a great deal of wonderful experiences including 5 magical years in Southern Colombia (not a hostage).

Olivia Daane received a B.A. from Vanderbilt University in 1992. She then studied with Syracuse University’s undergraduate and graduate programs in Florence, Italy followed by an apprenticeship with internationallyrecognized artist Paul Harmon. Olivia opened her LIVASPENART STUDIO in 2006 in Aspen, Colorado.

She is a painter, art consultant, songwriter and mom.

Julianne Murphy is a Professor of Sociology at San Jose State University.

Her first book “The Girls Guide to Money Etiquette,” was featured in the 2012 AMA celebrity gift bags. She has also written several articles for the L.A. magazine Feedback. Currently a full time resident of Aspen, Murphy spends her time hiking, skiing and writing.

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 22

As supervising broker of Coldwell Banker Mason Morse, Jonathan Boxer knows real estate trends.

Real Estate Aspen’s

Renaissance

real estate

I

By Jonathan Boxer

2 3 A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E

n the real estate business, we’re in the habit of restrictions on redevelopment in the Core will only add more fuel counting everything—sales, pendings, volume, to this sizzling sector of the market as buyers are forced to look price per square foot—and packaging it all in past price records set only a year ago—which, by the way, aren’t reports to explain market conditions. It’s helpful to slowing buyers down. In fact, the recent trend of developers a point, but in doing so we often overlook important delivering unfinished or white box penthouses to the market stories that go beyond a big pile of numbers. means that end users are curating truly custom and deeply Perhaps the most notable recent trend is a veritable renaissance personal interiors, in which the all-in costs are well beyond what in residential development. Talented and well-funded developers, market stats will show. on a scale we’ve never seen, are bringing a bounty of new homes This real estate renaissance is already being met with increased to market from $5 million to over $36 million. Today, nearly threedemand, pushing the market to new heights and setting up the quarters of a billion dollars in new spec condos and homes are first quarter of 2017 to barrel past last year’s performance in being actively marketed for sale from Aspen to Old Snowmass. virtually every product and price category. u Historically, Red Mountain, Aspen’s Core, and the West End see the bulk of speculative activity. Those neighborhoods are certainly getting their share, but developers also have been branching out into East Aspen, Smuggler, Cemetery Lane, West Aspen, and beyond, acquiring land and building extraordinary homes to meet the unique market demands of each of these different neighborhoods.

While the classic mountain look has certainly lost its luster, new design trends are too easily lumped into the “contemporary” bucket. Today’s new homes represent a broad cross-section of contemporary and transitional styles dressed in unique materials and textures, with nods to neighborhood trends and Aspen’s rich architectural history. The most profound are linking sumptuous indoor sanctuaries with outdoor amenities that unfold effortlessly into One of the most stunning examples of Aspen’s spec renaissance is a new home the mountain experience by capturing developed by Ajax Holdings and listed by Chris Souki of Coldwell Banker Mason dramatic views and natural features, all the while keeping Aspen’s more urban Morse. Named the Hawthorne House for a hawthorne tree that monuments the experiences within reach. entrance, this exquisite home is framed by pearl limestone walls and finishes that Just as some developers are include walnut, marble, and crystal white quartzite. Each room, including five discovering promising opportunities en-suite bedrooms and an open-concept theater, is a study in perfection. Southoutside of the typical target neighborhoods, the demand for new facing living and dining areas provide cinematic views from Independence Pass to product in or near the Aspen Core is Shadow Mountain, and the location—just steps to downtown—balances proximity once again exploding and driving prices to the Aspen Core, privacy, and a pristine mountain experience. to dizzying levels in the process. New

TIEHACK TREASURE

SCOTT WEBER 970.948.2766 scottweber@masonmorse.com TIEHACK TREASURE, ASPEN | Create family memories to last a lifetime in this fully-furnished legacy ski-in, ski-out estate located on a quiet cul-de-sac at the base of Tiehack. 8,256 sq.ft. of luxurious interiors and a smart four-level oorplan features a great room, six oversized ensuite bedrooms, media/game room with bar, hot tub, decks and patios, and private top oor master suite. Unobstructed up and down valley views and back door access to world-class golf, skiing, hiking and biking. $10,450,000

Aspen | 514 E. Hyman Avenue

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 28

Moncler’s whimsical window display featuring a stylish but unfortunate skier.

STYLE

HighStyle I

By Joani White

jeans galore, and more. The store is always packed, the staff very friendly and knowledgeable. And it’s easily laid out, with men’s apparel on one side and women’s on the other, along with some unisex items and accessories near the checkout. Pitkin County Dry Goods’ sale rack is a hunting ground for bargains if you have the time to look. More shopping bags on my arm— success!

Next stop: Gorsuch. I always have to stop in to admire the impeccable selections and displays that this legendary shop has to offer. Known for its gentleman style and refined women’s elegance, it is not to be missed.

My latest obsession is Miller Sports. I am currently crushing on my super soft, Toni Sailer knitted hat with felt lining, Swarovski crystal emblem, and removable pompom that I found there. I am eyeing some new skis. Both the owner and staff could not have been more inviting. I will be going back, that’s for sure.

Any Aspen shopping spree would not be complete, in my opinion, without at least stopping by Nuages, a favorite women’s European designer clothing and accessories boutique, followed

by Kemo Sabe, a western-chic outpost, to check out the best selection of leather goods and cowboy boots around.

I did not have to board a plane to Paris, nor jet off to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, or even have to hit up Madison Avenue in New York City. All I needed to do was pop off my skis, grab some bubbly, and walk a few blocks to be able to experience world-class shopping at high altitude, while successfully achieving attitude deluxe. u

E D I T O R ’ S P I C K S F O R A C H I E V I N G E F F O R T L E S S AT T I T U D E AT H I G H A LT I T U D E

2 9 A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E

f you’re looking for slope style, high-fashion style, understated style, Wild West style, or vintage recycled style, Aspen has got you covered. At an altitude of about 7,900 feet above sea level, this town has always been famous for shopping. And with all of the powerhouse designer stores nestled at the base of Ajax mountain, it is easy to spend some serious cash to achieve the kind of style you are going for (or snap up that one-of-a-kind, resale shop bargain).

I consider myself a bit of an eclectic shopper. I mean, who doesn’t love to score a haute couture treasure at a consignment shop—my favorite is The Little Bird—mixed with a full-priced Valentino, Prada, Fendi, or Gucci item along the way? Strolling Aspen’s cobblestone malls on a recent après-ski shopping excursion, I felt right at home with several name-brand stores, while at the same time feeling transported to a secret shopping haven filled with new temptations.

Of course, the French/Italian label Moncler lured me into its amazing store with the most eye-catching window display, a mannequin dressed as a skier that had been cleverly run over by a giant snowball. The selection of men’s and women’s stylish outerwear is absolutely one of my top go-to picks for quality and clean design.

As I made my way past a plethora of familiar designer boutiques, I instinctively stepped into Pitkin County Dry Goods, where I was certain to gaze upon unique jewels, shoes, sweaters,

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 32

Red Onion part owner and general manager Brad Smith stocks 260 whiskies for your sipping pleasure.

DINING

Spirit Animal

L

A S P E N ’ S O R I G I N A L S K I-B U M B A R , T H E R E D O N I O N H A R K S T O T H E G O O D O L’ D AY S W I T H I T S C O L O R A D I C A L W H I S K E Y C O L L E C T I O N

By Amanda Rae

WHISKEY CRUSH

“The best whiskeys are the ones that have been aged the longest,” says Red Onion part-owner general manager Brad Smith. “Colorado whiskeys are still so young—some distilleries are only four or five years old. Kentucky has the oldest.”

Top picks from the Red Onion collection: ●

MICHTER’S US*1 AMERICAN WHISKEY: “Very easy-to-drink whiskey [for] the novice. Nose of sweet corn, caramel, vanilla, and orchard fruits; a creamy taste softens in the palate. Bartender and pro-skier Pat Sewell’s favorite.”

●

ANGEL’S ENVY KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON: “Another introductory whiskey. Nose of vanilla, raisins, maple syrup, and toasted nuts; taste of vanilla, bitter chocolate, ripe fruit, and toast.

Some bourbons tend to have a leathery, tobacco feel; this is finished in port-wine barrels, bringing sweetness for [sensitive] palates.”

■

STRANAHAN’S DIAMOND PEAK COLORADO WHISKEY: “Slightly more complex with a nose of cinnamon, apples, and walnuts; flavor of vanilla, toffee, honey, and dried fruit. A warm finish coats the mouth, leaves you tasting dried apples.” (Colorado’s first microdistillery, Stranahan’s originated in Woody Creek.)

◆

YELLOWSTONE LIMITED EDITION KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON: “At 105-proof, this packs more punch. Nose of cinnamon toast, sweet figs, caramel, and vanilla; taste of toffee, leather, and vanilla, finishing with hints of rye and cinnamon spice.”

◆◆ WILLIAM LARUE WELLER: “Now we’re getting to extremes. Bottled at over 135-proof, this is part of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s Antique Collection. Nose of caramel corn, leather, plums, toffee, and tobacco. In the mouth: marshmallow, figs, dates, nougat, and salted almonds that finish smooth and sweet. Top of the stack.”

3 3 A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E

ike a crimson beacon among a flurry of earth tones on the Cooper Avenue pedestrian mall, the Red Onion has drawn lift ops and billionaires alike to its original wooden bar since 1892. Ask any authentic local where to grab a beer off the slopes or get a good lunch for $10, and they’ll mention “The Red-O,” no doubt.

Less obvious, at least for casual imbibers, is the beloved watering hole’s collection of fine spirits. How many bottles of whiskey on the wall at Aspen’s oldest restaurant? A whopping 260—and counting.

“See the two top shelves? Those were created because we kept getting more whiskey,” says general manager and part-owner Brad Smith, who began the program in earnest six years ago, once interior renovations were completed per National Register of Historic Places guidelines. “When we first started, I only had forty or fifty bottles. We’re gonna run out of space.”

Bourbon, crowned “America’s Native Spirit” by Congress in 1964, is a highlight. (The spirit must be made from a minimum 51 percent corn, finished in virgin American oak barrels, and unfiltered out of still.) The Red Onion pours about one hundred varieties, including the rare Pappy Van Winkle 10 Year Old Bourbon, best-selling Colorado favorites Breckenridge Bourbon and hooch from Peach Street Distillers in Palisade (the first legal bourbon in the state).

“The way the corn spirit interacts with the wood creates great flavors you can’t get from vodka or gin,” Smith says. “You have these kids drinking whiskey-Cokes and whiskey-gingers—we’re trying to educate them. Try it neat!”

Eleven beers on tap all hail from Colorado, too; Smith got little grief when he traded PBR for Coors as the $2 pint.

Rocky Mountain pub fare (burgers, wings, chicken schnitzel, elk Bolognese) rules the menu, and live music is a regular event.

“You can feel 125 years of energy in this place,” Smith says, gazing across the packed bar—at 3 p.m. on a Thursday. (Recently, Smith found forty guys waiting at the front door upon opening at 11:30 a.m. By 10 p.m., the bar was standing room only.) “It would be great to celebrate another 125.” u

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 36

Carlton McCoy has been wine director at The Little Nell since 2011.

Grape the

TIPS FOR WINE COLLECTING AND

CELL AR MANAGEMENT

WINE

C

By Carlton McCoy

ollecting wine can be one of the greatest investments you make. Most quality wine will eventually double, if not triple or quadruple, in value. With this said, the world of wine collecting is complicated and filled with many ways to get burned. The reality is that you need to be incredibly knowledgeable about classic regions, vintages, producers, and current industry trends to be able to properly value wine. Here are a few pointers to help you get started in the world of wine collecting:

Life

Protect your investment. I can’t tell you how many times I purchase wines for clients that have no proper storage for these rare bottles. While you don’t need to necessarily designate an entire room in your home to wine, you must ensure that the wine is kept at 40 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit and 50 percent humidity. This ensures that your wines will age gracefully with corks intact.

Be careful where you purchase wine. Not all that glimmers is gold. If the price is too good to be true, there is probably an issue. Unfortunately, the counterfeit wine market is growing, and the counterfeiters are getting much better at it. I recommend watching a couple of auctions and websites before purchasing, so you understand the rules.

If all else fail, leave it to the pros! Purchasing and organizing a cellar is not the easiest thing to do if you’re not experienced.

I personally run a cellar management company, Aspen Cellar Management, which manages cellars across the country. We really make it easy for the client to have a great collection that is properly stored and well maintained. Find us online at aspencellarmanagement.com.

Again, collecting wine can be a rewarding hobby, but it is also an easy way to lose a lot of money if you’re not careful. Good luck, and cheers! u

3 7 A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E

You must read a lot to learn. There’s no way around this. As a master sommelier, I studied for four to six hours per day for six years. While you don’t have to commit yourself to this type of torture, it’s incredibly important to have a good base of knowledge. I would recommend enrolling in the Court of Master Sommeliers’ Introductory Course. This is a great two-day class that covers every classic region in the world. I would also sign up for a few monthly publications, such as Wine Spectator and Decanter Magazine.

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40 A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E

OLYMPIC ATHLETE, ENVIRONMENTAL ENTREPRENEUR, AND SPIRITUAL ACTIVIST GRETCHEN BLEILER IS CHAMPIONING THE ART OF ‘LIVING EXTRAORDINARILY’

BY AMANDA RAE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK TININENKO

4 3 A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E

42

I

t’s February 18, 2010 at the XXI Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver, B.C., Canada.

American snowboarder Gretchen Bleiler drops into the halfpipe at Cypress Mountain for her second and final run. Despite an eleventh-place ranking following a first-run tumble, bets are on her to bring the gold medal home to the United States.

Three weeks earlier, the five-foot-five, blonde fireball had won her fourth X Games gold at Buttermilk Mountain in her Aspen hometown; four years before that she snagged an Olympic silver in Turin, Italy. Competing since the age of fifteen in 1996, Bleiler won more halfpipe contests in 2003, 2005, and 2006 than any other female, clinching major endorsements from Oakley and K2 Snowboarding. In 2008, she became the first badass babe in action sports to grace the cover of ESPN The Magazine.

Bleiler’s megawatt smile, golden tresses, and tanned, toned bod—flaunted famously in a metallic body-paint bikini on the cover of FHM in 2004—combined with a honeyed voice and humble ’tude in interviews may well have helped her earn her status as America’s snowboarding sweetheart. Anyone who witnessed her crush a run would most definitely declare, “Goddamn, that girl can shred.”

Tonight in Vancouver, thousands of spectators flank the frozen channel commanded by Bleiler. When she stomps out a 720-degree upgrade on her signature stunt, the Crippler—a 540-degree, frontside-wall spin-flip combo of her own invention—the cheers, shrieks, and cowbell clanging roar to a deafening extreme.

Then, on her next trick, she falls. Again. Uninjured, but perhaps shaken in baggy, red-white-and-blue Burton plaid, Bleiler pushes herself back up. All momentum is lost, though, and the judges’ final scores capture the sadness of one sudden mistake: 3.0, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.0.

So…why the heck is Gretchen grinning?

“I knew I had sabotaged my full potential,” Bleiler says to a roomful of fans gathered at the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) at Hallam Lake in February. “I got in my own way.”

Huh? “I went into those Olympics kind of pissed off—at America, at our society—for being so medal-hungry,” she explains. “It was the gold, the gold, the gold! [I’d] been miserable the past five years.

I’d had friends who won the gold in 2002 and 2006, and I saw their lives go in a similar trajectory—getting run around by this gold medal. I was totally in rebellion to everything that success was. At the same time…I really wanted a gold medal.”

Bleiler had Olympic glory on her mind since age seven. An avid hockey and soccer player, she discovered snowboarding at eleven—way before snowboarding was added as an Olympic

event (in 1998, Nagano). Her family had relocated from Toledo, Ohio, to Aspen when she turned ten; one year shy of graduating from Aspen High School, she entered the X Games. During what could have become a gap year before college, she was working at Main Street Bakery and nailing technique. But the next season, 2000-2001, she turned pro at age twenty.

Not only did Gretchen Bleiler morph into a brand arguably as recognizable as many of her sponsors (GoPro, Giro, Aspen/ Snowmass), but she also cemented her status as a snow queen turned sports icon with serious style. She’s designed clothing, gear, and snowboards. National Geographic named her Adventurer of the Year. She’s been inducted into two different halls of fame.

Today, she has 41.8k Instagram followers and counting.

Beneath her bubbly, Cali-chick coolness and superstar swagger, and in the face of a ferocious, relentless appetite to be number one, however, Bleiler was consumed by dark inner conflict.

“I went into those Olympics with this unconscious, limiting belief that success equals misery,” she says, as images representing five years of saying yes—to photo shoots, Conan interviews, 50 Cent hangouts, a Sports Illustrated cover—flash on the projector screen behind her. “I was stressed out, burned out, spread thin, and drained.”

That fateful flub in Vancouver, capped by a million-dollar smile, marked a turning point. “That,” Bleiler says, “was the beginning of the end of my career.”

Though she continued to compete—and rise like a phoenix— until retiring four years later, thus began the journey of Gretchen Bleiler 2.0. She reinvented her snowboarding, thanks to honing in on yoga and meditation, a practice initiated in 2009. After a freak trampoline accident in 2012 almost blinded her right eye, squashing her shot at the 2014 Olympic team, she delved deeper.

A Chopra Center retreat in southern California led her toward earning teaching certification in mantra-based primordial sound meditation, right around the time she retired from snowboarding after the 2014 X Games.

Then she found Rod Stryker, the world-renowned yogi who happens to reside in Carbondale. One year of seminars later, in early 2016, she flew halfway around the world to attend Stryker’s intensive meditation workshop at the Himalayan Institute in India. Spending a month in yoga’s birthplace and meeting Stryker’s own spiritual guru “was soul food for me,” she tells the ACES audience. “It’s the root of my health and wellness and curiosity and passion. Yoga and meditation connect us back to that part of ourselves that is whole, peaceful, and content.”

Stryker, who telephoned from Australia to rave about the “incredibly sensitive and insightful” Bleiler, suggests that her first twenty-four hours in the ancient metropolis of Varanasi,

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This page: Growing up in Aspen fueled Bleiler’s staunch environmentalism and inspired the launch of the ALEX water bottle.

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ASPEN, TO ME, IS BEING ON THE MOUNTAINS. NATURE IS A LUXURY!

Yoga and meditation has helped redirect her focus post pro-snowboarding.

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46 A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E “Aspen, to me, is being on the mountains,” says Bleiler, who adds that riding powder is still her “most favorite thing to do in the world.”

“SHE DIDN’T SNOWBOARD JUST TO WIN A MEDAL; SHE SNOWBOARDED TO INSPIRE OTHERS” —MAYA MURIC

“Growing up here I had such a connection to and respect for nature,” Bleiler says. She recalls her surprise, as a young pupil at Aspen Country Day School, upon learning that “avalanche danger days” were legit.

“This is a town of such abundance—natural abundance, human-potential abundance, and material abundance,” she adds.

“Aspen, to me, is being on the mountains. Nature is a luxury!”

Striving to share the wealth with her community, Bleiler teaches meditation at Shakti Shala (expected to reopen in a new location in March). She revels in small moments: morning walks with Hotell and shelter dog, Kota, to score croissants and coffee at Louis Swiss Pastry; treks ending at far-flung 10th Mountain Division huts.

“Riding powder is still my most favorite thing to do in the world,” she gushes. “The evolution from the park, halfpipe, jumps, and how many lift laps can you do? to slowing down, getting on a splitboard, hiking up a mountain, and earning your turns— that’s a cool metaphor for my life. You can’t say ‘less is more’ unless you’ve experienced ‘more.’”

Reckons Murić, “There’s no fakeness about her. She’s as real as it gets. She has the power to move people. She didn’t snowboard just to win a medal; she snowboarded to inspire others. She’s extremely generous and genuine—she never takes anything for granted.”

When Bleiler readily admits—while having her eyes smoked out by a makeup artist pal prior to this story’s photo shoot— that she would gladly nosh a pesto wrapture from The Big Wrap every day for the rest of her life if her schedule cooperated, I see it. When she invites me to peep ALEX Bottles at BLK MKT after the ACES talk and before a New York Pizza dash, I get it, too. And when she declares that her trip to India—where she returns soon for another six weeks—made her realize that “success without happiness is incomplete,” I take it as a gift.

“When I met her, she was big into the question of, ‘What’s next?’” Stryker says. “Now she’s living the answer.”

Aspen-based writer and editor Amanda Rae quit ski racing to start snowboarding in 1996 at Jiminy Peak in Hancock, Mass. amandaraewashere@gmail.com

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a “melting pot of ideas and strange experience of humanity… stirred something very profound in her.”

Bleiler chased the “total culture shock” of that trip with a stint at the Himalayan Institute outpost in Honesdale, Pennsylvania.

“India was my rehab, and Honesdale was my halfway house,” she quips. “[Husband] Chris [Hotell] came with me to make sure it wasn’t some crazy cult. I dove into the deep end.”

Today yoga and meditation—“a science and path for living your life in balance, happiness, and fulfillment,” she says—fuels her work as an environmental entrepreneur and advocate. In 2014, she and Hotell, also a former pro snowboarder, launched ALEX, a company whose abbreviated name stands for “Always Live EXtraordinarily.” Their inaugural product embodies the concept that one small change can turn something ordinary into something inspirational: the reusable, 26-ounce, stainless-steel ALEX Bottle, which unscrews in the middle for easy cleaning and can be used as two cups or a cocktail shaker, even to transport a beer bottle into a movie theater.

“We set out to raise $50,000 for the first production [via Kickstarter], and we raised $185,000,” says Hotell, who cut a prototype with a hacksaw. “It’s very much a family business.”

(Hotell’s mom helped with early design and Bleiler’s brother Andy is on staff.) This winter’s BLK MKT pop-up in the old Boogie’s building helped put colorful, customizable ALEX Bottles into the hands of chic, outdoorsy Aspenites. (Find them in stock at the Aspen Art Museum and Radio Boardshop.)

“She draws energy from the mountains—that’s why she gives back to the mountains,” says friend and mentor Maja Murić, the Croatian tennis player and fellow former Olympian (Atlanta, 1996). “She’s passionate about the environment because it’s essential to her existence. Her energy is contagious.”

True: Bleiler preaches the gospel of Protect Our Winters (POW), the nonprofit climate advocacy group founded by pro knuckle dragger Jeremy Jones. Comprised of top snowsports athletes including local Chris Davenport, the POW Riders Alliance champions for change via school visits, events, and policymaker meetings. Naturally, pow-thrasher Bleiler is a diehard member, jetting to Capitol Hill to talk sustainability with members of Congress and the Environmental Protection Agency.

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EN ININ

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L

ocated near the top of Highlands, this oneof-a-kind, European-style restaurant is only accessible by skis or snowboard during liftserved hours. From the patio, the views of the Maroon Bells are breathtaking, and inside, the vibe is euphoric. While five-star cuisine will sate your craving for Alpine dining, it’s the dance party that truly makes this encounter unique. The beat inside is so enticing that moving and swaying under a shower of bubbles is not only expected but encouraged.

For those who prefer a more intimate and quiet lunch, Cloud Nine offers a warm-up seating at noon, which includes a scrumptious menu complete with raclette and fondue. The draw to this particular booking—and yes, reservations are necessary— is a more subdued energy to fully enjoy the scenery and savor the fare. Furthermore, evening dining has been added twice a week (or by private reservation) for those who are seeking a magical twilight meal with a more romantic ambiance. White linens and candles transform the chalet into a fine-dining experience marked by a five-course meal. Space is limited because snowcats carry patrons to and from the starry night location.

I sat down with general manager Tommy Tollesson to get the 411 on why this reservation is the hottest in town, and how he keeps the party going from Sunday to Sunday all season long.

A transplant from Sweden, Tollesson arrived in Aspen nearly thirty years ago to join the ranks of the other international ski bums. He found himself working his way up the ladder in the local restaurant industry, from dishwasher to eventually running many of the top establishments in town. With a distinct vision of understanding the marriage between food and fun, and gaining a substantial following from his previous gigs, Tollesson was recruited to make a bold move as general manager of the onmountain eatery.

Building off of the quaint cabin feel and traditional European food, Tollesson felt that changing a few integral components would catapult the popular place into world-renowned status.

The pre-Tollesson version of Cloud Nine made an après-ski impression; however, it relied on impromptu situations where people would plug in their iPods on random days, leaving the likelihood of daily success unknown.

Tollesson had a different idea. First, he wanted to emulate the St. Tropez scene by creating a party where access is limited and exclusivity is key, attracting only the best clientele. He recognized that connecting with a younger crowd was critical to ensure

Cloud Nine’s patio is ideally located for a plein-air fondue lunch on a sunny day.

Opposite page: And it’s not a bad place to party all afternoon, either.

From the patio, the views of the Maroon Bells are breathtaking, and inside, the vibe is euphoric.

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This page: Cloud Nine’s popular seafood tower pairs well with raclette, sunshine, and a festive vibe. Opposite page: The menu offers a mouth-watering blend of Swiss and Continental cuisines.

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Opposite page: General manager Tommy Tollesson and executive chef Michael Johnston.

This page: Michael Johnston has every reason to smile—Cloud Nine is one of the most popular eateries in the mountain west.

a growth in clientele that wasn’t leaving anytime soon. The restaurant relies on repeat customers who want to feel like they have local status. And Tollesson wanted the regulars who make Aspen an annual event to know their loyalty of always returning to Cloud Nine would be rewarded.

His next moves were beefing up the sound system and creating a menu that included a seafood tower and caviar, a popular and expedient option that helped relieve the kitchen pressure of accommodating two hundred to three hundred diners each day.

Finally—and perhaps Tollesson’s most effective strategy—was to cultivate a special relationship with Veuve Clicquot. The elegance of pairing Champagne with executive chef Michael Johnston’s depth of flavors eliminated the need for hard alcohol (now only offered at dinners), and addressed safety concerns of patrons’ ability to ski down the mountain. The previous Cloud Nine days of shots and mixed drinks have been replaced by fine wine and bubbly.

This season, security has been a main focus. Even though this is one of the most noteworthy parties in Aspen, rest assured that there are measures in place to maintain high standards,

including new identification scanners to eliminate the temptation of underage drinking—so bring your valid ID. The changes Tollesson has implemented the past four seasons have elevated Cloud Nine into a category of remarkable destinations both rare and indescribable. You simply must witness it to understand the concept. Relying on his daily crew of thirty-five (which has one of the lowest turnover rates in town) for a short lunch shift, the restaurant’s success can be ascribed to the herculean coordinated efforts of the entire team. Tollesson describes the level of energy as intense, which motivates the workers to make it through the short but grueling season. The employees’ motivation is twofold: There is a pride in knowing you are somehow responsible for giving customers an incredible experience, and it’s simply a fun place to work.

The numbers don’t lie. In just a few short seasons, Cloud Nine’s revenue has tripled and its wait lists are long. What’s the biggest secret to this accomplishment? According to Tollesson, you can’t beat the philosophy of P.T. Barnum: “Always leave them wanting more.” u

AVA I L A B L E E XC LU S I V E LY AT P E R F O R M A N C E S K I & A Z T E C H M O U N TA I N.CO M

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Earlier this winter, up-and-coming actor Dan Cook was visiting Aspen. He’s a very easy man to talk to; people gravitate toward him. Cook says this has happened all his life—he explains it as being “different.”

Cook has always known he has something else. He won’t define it more clearly, but he knows it. So it came as no surprise to him when he was approached in a restaurant, striking up an instant rapport, and in no time at all agreeing to an editorial photo shoot.

And it’s no bad thing that Cook has naturally refined tastes. He likes luxe, which is one of his main reasons for loving Aspen as he does. The photo shoot was at Testosterone, a high-end clothing store for men that Cook calls a “totally deluxe experience,” and which he endorses as one of the two best men’s boutiques in town.

Cook, who likes looking good, was impressed with the merch; he says the clothing is excellent, and that’s his thing.

BY CHRISTINA OXENBERG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK TININENKO

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“I live to live,” he says.

Cook has traveled the earth—“Why would you not?” he asks. Travel and adventure seem normal to him. He sees others trying to do the same, “but they can’t figure out how to do it!” he says.

When Cook was in college at Florida State University, he went snowboarding in Switzerland. He doesn’t feel fear, and he doesn’t get nervous. That’s different.

At age thirty-nine, Cook loves his life, but he wouldn’t turn down a movie or TV series. He says he will always continue to strive and try— and enjoy it all. He welcomes challenges and is never afraid.

“Just jump in!” he says. “It’s exactly that part of extreme sports that I love,”—and he does them all, on water, snow, and land— “that instant where you make your decision: ‘OK, I’m going to do it!’

Scary moments help train your mind, they scare the life into you and make you feel alive. Funny, when you look back, you realize it wasn’t so bad. Now what’s next? My motto is, ‘push yourself, be in the moment, don’t hold back, strive to feel frightened, feel alive.’”

These days, Cook is entirely focused on business. He’s a co-founder of a company, and he’s always working—modeling, filming commercials, occasionally even directing them. He was recently the national spokesperson for Lincoln Navigator, which took him on a nationwide tour.

Ever since he gave up trying for an ordinary existence, Cook’s life has been a dream. His parents did their best to protect him from himself, insisting on a good education and a good job. Both professionals, they took their responsibilities seriously. When, at age fifteen, Cook wanted to go skiing with his friends, his mother said no—after all, he had a broken foot and a cast on. Her son’s response was to duct-tape his cast to a snowboard and join his friends for a weekend of fun, which is how he fell in love with snowboarding. Although his mom was not delighted, she acknowledged his drive, lamenting, “I’ll never be able to stop you doing anything,” as Cook recalls.

Cook was born in Atlanta, where his mother was a chemist at Coke and his father worked at the original Home Depot. After the company transferred his father to run its Florida store, Cook was raised in Jacksonville.

“All my traveling around got them envious and jealous,” Cook says of his parents. “And they say, ‘But we haven’t even been there; how did you do this?’ I’m like, it’s easy.”

Although Cook has been everywhere, he has a special relationship with Aspen. At age twenty-six, he pitched up in Italy, where he was immediately noticed by a company whose headquarters was in Aspen.

Working as a model, he was often sent to the mountain town, which he adores in both its summer and winter guises. Pairing the beauty of the setting and the devotion to catering to the finest of palates is Cook’s idea of a good thing.

Cook and his buddies meet up twice a year and snowboard somewhere, and for the latest trip, he voted for Aspen.

“I fought for Aspen because it’s beautiful, iconic, and has all the ingredients of a great trip,” he says. “There is a village community, the people are from all over, and [they’re] interesting. I feel like I resonate there. I want everything! Good shopping, great restaurants, great nightlife, the chance to associate with the types of people I want to be with.”

“Aspen is a rich place,” he continues. “It’s unique—it’s even hard to get to—and expensive, which makes it even more exclusive. And I love all these elements! I know I’m where I’m supposed to be in my life.” u

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LIFE

DJ, AND FIFTEEN YEARS DJING THE ANNUAL WINTER X GAMES AT ASPEN’S BUTTERMILK MOUNTAIN.

The X Games are a display of supersonic, death-defying gambles by fearless, exceptional athletes on snowboards, skis, snowmobiles, and snow bikes (dirt bikes modified like snowmobiles). From the start, the event was hugely popular and drew a crowd all its own: the adrenaline junkies! If you get a chance to watch, you’ll never forget it—not just for the gorgeous landscape or the expert feats of the competitors, but also for the accompanying music. X Games is the premier actions sports and music festival for the masses.

BY CHRISTINA OXENBERG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK TININENKO

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DJ NAKA G IS BEST KNOWN FOR HIS TWENTY YEARS AS A

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HE’S MAKING THINGS UP ON THE FLY, HE’S IN HIS ZONE AND HE IS AN ART FORM HIMSELF, ULTIMATELY.

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DJ Naka G has become rather famous, spinning records for the X Games since the second year they came to Aspen. As the sports event blew up in popularity, he became the darling of the Roaring Fork Valley, also available for hire to the 1 percent in their deluxe mansions. Everyone wanted to meet him and have him at their party. He met everyone.

Despite the exotic nomenclature, DJ Naka G’s given name is Michael, and his story is one of America’s favorites. A child of immigrants—a Japanese (by way of Brazil) father and Mexican mother—he was legally stowed in the backseat of a car when the family drove across the border from Mexico. Nakagawa was four years old at the time, and the experience was uneventful. He and his sister slept as the car entered the United States and headed north. His parents wanted their children to speak English and to have access to opportunities, to have an easier time of things than they themselves had dealt with. They, like most good people, wanted better for their children.

Arriving in San Diego on Halloween night, Nakagawa’s first impression of Americans was that everyone wore costumes and makeup. The next shock was snow, when his family arrived in Aspen. He distinctly remembers, at age five, his first New Year’s Eve celebration—and specifically, hearing Kool and the Gang. It was the first time he had heard anything like it. The impression the music made on him was intense.

From a young age, Nakagawa decided whatever he chose to do, he would do his best. His love of music brought him into the world of DJing, just as the activity was morphing into an art form. Suddenly, DJs were celebrities, and Naka was at the inception of this movement.

DJ Naka G does not record. His events are live, and he prefers not to work from a set list, instead responding to the audience, which he can somehow gage. He has gathered a loyal fan base. He’s making things up on the fly, he’s in his zone, and he is an art form himself, ultimately.

America is a country where you can have a dream and see it through to resounding success. But along with the passion was determination and focus, and Nakagawa worked hard. The results paid off. Everyone noticed. One day, the phone rang, and it was an offer to DJ for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. His answer was yes, and he was asked back to the 2014 Sochi Winter Games and the 2016 Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro.

This winter he’s been spinning in South Korea, at the freestyle ski and snowboard Olympic test events, a dress rehearsal before next year’s Winter Games in PyeongChang. No, he doesn’t have a lot of time off. His father taught him work hard and play hard—and that’s his credo.

Wife and kids fit into the origami puzzle of a complicated and full life.

Nakagawa believes the whole point of life is to push the limits. You’re here to make a difference—that’s what his

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 74

parents’ example taught him. And while they clung to their own cultures, his parents wanted a different life for their children.

Nakagawa can only speak menu Japanese. He is a great example of what it means to be an American, and Aspen considers him a local treasure.

Nakagawa will tell you he considers himself blessed, because he so loves his life. The fact is that he created the gorgeous life he enjoys, due to perseverance, diligence, and a delightful cheery enthusiasm and appreciation for life itself. He exudes confidence and decency—he’s a good vibe.

“Some people just give up—I see it all the time, and that’s OK,” says Naka. “But to live the life I want, it’s a matter of determination. For those who don’t attain their goals, it is due to that goal not being equal to their desire to hustle!

“I’m passionate about what I do, and it’s afforded me a beautiful life. So yes, I’m blessed! And I will keep going until I cannot do it anymore.” ◆

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A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E

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THE COLORFUL WORLD OF

GUILLOT If you’ve been lucky enough to be drawn into the colorful world of Aspen Art Gallery, which is going into its eighth year in business, then you will have met the force behind its phenomenal success: Damian Guillot.

Sharing a day and evening with Guillot while interviewing him for this article brings to mind one word: fun.

BY OLIVIA DAANE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK TININENKO

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DAMIAN

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Gallery director Ben Tomkins, left, and owner Damian Guillot.

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Guillot has lived his life as an adventure—a silver-lined, glasshalf-full, rollicking event. During his early years in Louisiana, he ran a karate school at age fourteen and became an Olympic hopeful at sixteen, with two fourth-degree black belts in Taekwondo and its cousin martial art Tang Soo Do. He left the martial arts path to attend Louisiana State University, and in 1991 enlisted in the US Marine Corps, where he was meritoriously promoted.

Guillot was then discovered by the Sutton family, who had many galleries in Louisiana; Rick Sutton, grandson of the founder, realized he had a gift for art sales.

“I do not fail,” Guillot says with a laugh, a glimmer in his eyes.

He definitely makes a lot of magic happen, following his instincts for art he loves to sell and connecting people to it. And despite his busy world of work and travel, he gives his energy, time, and sponsorship to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, Shining Stars, and the Aspen Youth Center, to name a few.

Guillot’s most recent adventure took him to Cuba, and now he is bringing Cuba to Aspen. Hopping on a friend’s private plane—

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“I’m going to the third world, but I’m not going third world,” he quips—he wound up meeting a new artist to represent. Sharing a glorious Cuban feast on Michel Mirabal’s expanse of land and smoking fantastic cigars, Guillot fell in love with the artist’s works made of bullet casings and barbed wire. With a bit of luck and his brilliant people skills, he convinced Mirabal, along with his two assistants, to come to Aspen to be an artist in residence this off-season, creating works to be shown this summer.

“Shipping companies are scarce in Cuba, you see,” explains Guillot, who adds that where there’s a will, there’s a way.

In-between stories of his passion for what he does and the tenacity to always find his niche, no matter the space, the economy, or the place, I asked Guillot what drives his curation. He answers, “Color. Bright color,” which is evident in the playful, bold collection surrounding him. Works by Isabelle Dupuy, Shay Kun, and Marco Grassi are flying off the walls as fast as he can hang them.

“If I could do anything, I would be doing just what I am, every day!” he enthuses. “Can you believe the name Aspen Art

Gallery wasn’t taken? This was meant to be!”

Gallery director Ben Tomkins, whom Guillot credits with truly running the show, allowing him the flexibility to travel, pipes in his choice: “People!” The pair are a great, trust-based team—“Killing it!” they both exclaim.

Guillot brings an eclectic mix to his gallery and his table— his banquet of art and the senses. And he makes lifelong friends who help him along the way—buyers like Jeff Zander and Franck Gougeon, who trust him with their walls and life spaces, and supporters like the owners of Viking and Wellshire Farms, who donated an outdoor kitchen with surround sound and two tons of sausage so he could feed people in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. He can sleep on a floor, and he can rock some serious Louboutins. When queried about his idea of luxury, Guillot responds: “My luxury is waking up every morning.”

Aspen Art Gallery’s success is real, and so, it seems, is local ringmaster Damian Guillot. He’s a salesman, a closer—red carpet all the way. u

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ASPEN’S BEST SKI IN/OUT, ASPEN | Ski in, ski out home with spectacular views overlooking Maroon Creek Valley in Aspen Highlands. 8300+ sqft home has six bedrooms including an ADU. Expansive outdoor living area boasts a hot tub and wood burning fire pit extending directly onto the ski slope. $8,900,000 Aspen | 514 E. Hyman Ave. | masonmorse.com

in the limelight

A S PE N LU X U RY L I F E 86

Casterline Goodman Gallery The holiday season was capped off with a bubbly filled atmosphere at Casterline Goodman Gallery.

Show piecing their latest artwork and spotlighting cars as an art form the event was fantastic.

in the limelight

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Bootsy Bellows The Aspen Luxury Life launch party was a must event. With refreshments provided by Tito’s Vodka and Whispering Angel Rose there was no shortage of fun to be had by all.

COMING SOON

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DAIRY-FREE. SUSTAINABLE. NON-GMO.

O2GO@HOME

O2GO

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Located @ O2 Aspen 406 S.Mill Street Aspen, Colorado

Organic, plant-rich meals delivered to your door in Aspen, Snowmass & Basalt

WWW.O2GOASPEN.COM

I

970.300.1353

THE LIST // DINING

Chef ’s Club

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Named one of the 100 Best Restaurants in the country

by Time Magazine, Aspen’s Chefs Club is a restaurant in the iconic St. Regis hotel where guests can experience the spectacular signature dishes of great chefs from all around the country.

The seasonal, innovative menu features 20 signature dishes from 20 star chefs, including Eric Ripert, Daniel Boulud, Mario Batali and Marcus Samuelsson, among others. Leading the kitchen is Culinary Director Didier Elena, a 20 year Alain Ducasse alum, and Executive Chef Todd Slossberg. Chef Slossberg is well-known in Aspen for his delicious, satisfying dishes which he has showcased at vaunted Aspen institutions like Hotel Jerome and Aspen Meadows. The menu is paired thoughtfully with incredible wines from Chef Clubs terrific list by Master Sommelier Jonathan Pullis.

970.429.9581 | CHEFSCLUB.COM

The Monarch Steakhouse The overwhelming success of Steak House No. 316, led owners Craig and Samantha Cordts-Pearce of CP Restaurant Group to open a second fine-dining steakhouse on the other side of town. The Monarch, inspired by a gentleman’s club out of London feels like old England arrived in the Mountains. Superb cuts of meats paired with exquisite wines and exceptional service make this a must event. Belly up to the long bar and enjoy their handcrafted cocktails or enjoy the beautiful restaurant setting, you will not be disappointed with their sensational menu featuring delights such as fresh Caviar and table side served Caesar salad.

970.925.2838 | MONARCHASPEN.COM

Ellina Restaurant + Bar Located in the heart of downtown Aspen, one of the hottest dining spots to hit up right now is Ellina. Named for the region of Valtellina, a valley in northern Italy known for its cheese, sausage and wine. With fantastic modern Italian fare prepared by Chef Miguel Diaz and a wine list to satisfy any connoisseur, its intimate and elegant dining room setting can be enjoyed by a couple out for a romantic bite or for a large group celebrating a special event. Don’t forget to check out their bar scene and menu for one of Aspens favorite locals experiences.

970.925.2976 | ELLINAASPEN.COM

TASTE THE PASSION EXPERIENCE THE LOVE

312 S. Mill Street, Aspen, Colorado | bosqaspen.com | 970.710.7299 BosqAspen

BosqAspen

THE LIST // ART

Gallery 1949 Gallery 1949 is an an intimate space in the heart of downtown Aspen showcasing high profile contemporary art. Gallery Director and Owner Jared Goulet offers so much personal attention with knowledge and enthusiasm to each and every person that steps through the doors at Gallery 1949. Nelson De La Nuez is one of the galleries most collectable artist offering pop culture iconic art images with bold color blended with America’s rich culture and history.

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970. 710.7138 | GALLERY1949.COM

Gallery Cha Cha Cha Cha gallery was founded in 2015, located in the core of Aspen. It is the concept behind the creative vision of Charlotte Lena, a tireless Globe-trotter with amazing energy. The art space specializes in international neo-expressionist and contemporary art, including very established names, mid-career artist and emerging young talents such as Domingo Zapata, Jonathan Bermudes and Richard Rhodes. Cha Cha’s vision also highlights the brand Edouard Nahum, atelier of fine French jewelry for the past 40 years. Cha Cha gallery supports and showcases the careers of some of the most influential artists today. Cha Cha prides itself on representing what Aspen is all about; a place of exchange, art and culture- a magnificent window for the rest of the world.

970.925.1435 | CHACHAGALLERY.COM

Aspen Art Museum Aspen Art Museum is a 33,000 sq. ft. four level cultural delight designed by architect Shigeru Ban that houses eight exhibition spaces, a rooftop sculpture garden and an outdoor commons area. Public programs, special events, residency programs and rotating exhibits provide emerging and world class artists opportunities to showcase amazing works of art. Membership privileges available.

970.925.8050 | ASPENARTMUSEUM.ORG

I’M SOLD

on finding the right path.

Charismatic. Insightful. Creative. Collaborative.

Jim Byrnes found the perfect combination of skill, commitment and resources in Jim & Anita Bineau.

888.354.7500 | www.masonmorse.com

THE LIST // HOTELS

The St. Regis Aspen

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The St. Regis Aspen Resort is a perfect environment for superb winter skiing, summer sports, and the arts.

Ideally located at the base of Aspen Mountain, the resort is within walking distance to all of Aspen’s shops, restaurants and entertainment. Year-Round Paradise.

Abundant recreation options await you. Ski, snowshoe or winter fly fish when the temperature dips. Warm weather pursuits include whitewater rafting and tennis.

And Remède™ Spa offers total indulgence, and a 24hour fitness center, any time of year. Stunning Views, Ultimate Luxury. 179 beautiful Guest Rooms and Suites with breathtaking views and luxurious touches including flat-screen televisions, Bose Wave CD/Radios and 20 new Rooms/Suites with fireplaces.

970.920.3300 | STREGISASPEN.COM

Hotel Jerome A landmark in Aspen, Hotel Jerome, an Auberge Resort, began a new chapter in its storied history when it unveiled an extensive renovation in December 2012.

Aspen’s favorite gathering place welcomed guests back with Prospect, an American bistro; a relaxed new Living Room bar and lounge; a new Auberge Spa; and the legendary J-Bar, which is lauded as an Aspen institution. The hotel pioneered new levels of innovation and luxury when it opened in 1889 at the height of Aspen’s boomtown silver-mining era and is often described as Aspen’s “crown jewel.” Hotel Jerome’s 93 rooms and suites offer stunning mountain views. Hotel Jerome was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

970.920.1000 | HOTELJEROME.AUBERGERESORTS.COM

The Little Nell The Little Nell, Aspen’s only Five-Star, Five-Diamond, ski-in/ski-out hotel, offers luxury services and unparalleled access to America’s most famous mountain town. Guests of The Little Nell – a Relais & Châteaux – enjoy a cosmopolitan yet intimate ambience, haute cuisine, and exclusive adventures designed to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit. Luxurious services and amenities include a complimentary minibar, heated outdoor pool and jacuzzi, complimentary transportation services, Audi test-driving, 24-hour room service and a fully-equipped Health Center. In the winter season, a ski concierge team tunes equipment, warms your boots, stores equipment overnight and arranges rentals, lessons and adventures.

970.920.4600 | THELITTLENELL.COM

BRIAN HAZEN

Presents...

Exquisite David Easton Designed Estate

,,

Brian Hazen, CRS

C B M M

970.379.1270

vice president/broker associate brian@brianhazen.com www.brianhazen.com

514 E. Hyman Avenue, Aspen • 970.925.7000 • www.masonmorse.com Brian Hazen, Previews Specialist • 970.920.7395 • www.brianhazen.com • brian@brianhazen.com

Susan Plummer 970.948.6786

susan@masonmorse.com

BRIAN HAZEN

Presents...

THE WYLY ESTATE...IN PRESTIGIOUS LITTLE WOODY CREEK O ,,… N ,,

COUNTRY SOPHISTICATION … WITH LITTLE WOODY CREEK VIEWS O ,,… N ,,

BEARDANCE FARM…UP WOODY CREEK , . .  .  O ,,… N ,,

THE WHEATLEY HOMESTEAD…159 ACRES PLUS IMPROVEMENTS ON THE ROARING FORK O ,,… N ,,

C B M M 514 E. Hyman Avenue, Aspen • 970.925.7000 • www.masonmorse.com Brian Hazen, Previews Specialist • 970.920.7395 • www.brianhazen.com • brian@brianhazen.com

REAL SELLERS attract REAL BUYERS

HISTORIC HIGHLAND RANCH... INCLUDES THE ORIGINAL BAVARIAN LODGE, ASPEN’S FIRST SKI LODGE IN 1936. ,,

STUNNING WHITE HORSE SPRINGS VIEW ESTATE O ,,… N ,,

SPECTACULAR STARWOOD VIEW ESTATE O ,,… N ,,

co-listed with Rocky Tschappat, Dan Tschappat Company, 970.920.1227

SOPHISTICATION & PRIVACY…IN ASPEN’S HISTORIC WEST END O ,,… N ,,

Brian Hazen, CRS 970.379.1270

vice president/broker associate brian@brianhazen.com | www.brianhazen.com

The area’s best-informed, most connected guide to both real estate and local life.

Land Rover Roaring Fork

52876 Two Rivers Plaza Rd, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 970 945 4600 landroverroaringfork.com