CURATED by Exclusive Resorts • Spring/Summer 2021 by Exclusive Resorts

THE

JOY ISSUE

WELCOME TO OUR HAUS. An historic Napa Valley Victorian gets a new life, welcoming A NAPA VALLEY MODERN CLASSIC

guests to experience Faust’s modern approach to Napa Valley classic Cabernet Sauvignon. To book your experience please contact us at www.faustwines.com.

Experience the beauty of our new home and outdoor gardens and discover our unique expression of the Sonoma Coast through a memorable tasting of acclaimed Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. www.flowerswinery.com

I N FOC US

THE BEAUTY of SILENCE PHOTOGRAPHER AND AUTHOR PETER MCBRIDE KNOWS OPEN SPACES WELL. Growing up on his family ranch in Old Snowmass, Colorado, he realized as a young boy we are meant to spend ample time in the wild. His new book, Seeing Silence: The Beauty of the World’s Most Quiet Places, is slated for a September release by Rizzoli (rizzoliusa.com). In it, he writes, “We tend to think of silence as the absence of sound, but it is actually the void where we can hear the sublime notes of nature.” His pages travel from Mount Everest to the Grand Canyon, from Atacama to the African savannah (pictured here), and from the Antarctic Peninsula to the waters of the Ganges and Nile. This same sentiment—a celebration of open landscapes—is integral to the destinations curated for the Club’s recently announced 2022 Journeys, which take Members across the globe. Considering many of these remote places are decreasing in size, “getting away from it all” is a welcome sound, indeed.

PHOTO BY PETE MCBRIDE

CONTENTS

2 In Focus

5 from the CEO

6 Editor letter

7 contributors

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

FEATURES

40 PARADISE FOUND

Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica.

53 MEMORY MAKERS

The legacy of Hinckley Yachts.

60 Par & play

St Andrews, Eden Club + top global courses.

66 O F THE MOMENT

Social influencers and game changers.

EXCLUSIVE 10 DAY IN THE LIFE

Real del Mar, with Farryn Weiner.

12 iconoclast

Polo star Kareem Rosser.

14 MEMBER VETTED

Travel with confidence.

SCENE

18 art of travel

The new Audemars Piguet watch museum.

20 STYLE SETTER

Telluride Club residences, re-imagined.

22 BESPOKE

Florida’s Rosemary Beach; the must-have Moke.

26 INSPIRED BY NATURE

Private hiking and biking.

savor

30 the dish

Around the world with Yolanda Edwards.

32 cheers!

The Club toasts new wine partners.

36 say, sommelier

Master Somm Dustin Wilson.

72 PARTING SHOT

Inspiring hope: Artists Amanda

Gorman and Will Day.

on the cover 40

Making a splash in Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica.

photograph by Ken Kochey.

FROM THE CEO

—— Framing artist Richard Hudson’s joyful “Love Me” sculpture at Sonoma’s Donum Estate.

WHAT IS JOY WITHOUT SORROW?

this issue—the people, the innovations, the

What is success without failure? What is a win

photos—were created to bring back some of

without a loss? What is health without illness?

the joy we’d lost.

You have to experience each if you are to appreciate the other.” Never have these words from Mark Twain

I think joy is often a forgotten emotion. Words like “happy” and “excited” dominate our vocabulary, but there’s something about

resonated more than they do today. After a

“joy” that feels a bit stronger—like it resides

year of unforeseen obstacles and hardship,

in the depths of our souls. After 2020, I think

I firmly believe we are walking into brighter

we are all ready for moments of sheer joy and

days with deeper appreciation for our

experiences that fill our cups and leave us

blessings and good fortunes. The timing is

overflowing.

perfect as we head from spring to summer— as life begins to buzz around us. When we began putting this issue together, we were in the middle of the holiday season

As you flip through this magazine, it is my wish you are filled with hope for the future and your summer contains countless moments of joy.

where small groups of friends and family were gathering. It was during these conversations

TRAVEL FAR, TRAVEL OFTEN, TRAVEL WELL.

I realized how much we had all missed the quality, in-person time we had taken for granted. Zoom fatigue was real, and we were searching for ways to stay connected, seeking something to look forward to. As COVID cases lowered, hope for a semblance of normalcy grew. And the stories we wanted to tell in

JAMES HENDERSON Chief Executive Officer

FROM THE EDITOR

NE OF MY FAVORITE ASPECTS OF BEING AN EDITOR IS INTERVIEWING INTRIGUING ARTISTS . So when I met photographer Gray

Today’s pent-up demand for exploration has

Malin at The Little Nell in Aspen, we were both

been coined “revenge travel”—a carpe-diem

energized—he had just enjoyed a powder day,

mentality after an extremely challenging year.

and I’d been anticipating our conversation

I prefer simply the joy of travel, the theme of

for days. Joyful best describes Malin and his

this issue. While I type these words, I’m on a

work, which frames brilliant perspectives and

plane. As I look out the airplane window, I think

captures the iconic nature of discovery, as

about my late grandmother and how much

seen in his new “Bon Voyage” series, pictured

she’d enjoy Malin’s work. I close my eyes and

below. During the interview, we chatted

daydream about the Mexican sand that will soon

about our favorite destinations and how our

be between my toes. I think about how joyful I’ll

grandmothers were avid adventurers. It was

feel when holding my son’s hand as we stroll

pre-pandemic, and Malin was celebrating the

toward the sea, feeling the ocean’s ebb and flow,

release of his “Gray Malin in Aspen” series.

together. My hope is that within these pages

Fast-forward a year, and while the curves

you, too, are reminded of the emotional nature

of his scenic coastlines have remained

of exploration, as we reconnect with people and

the same, the internal nature of our global

places most cherished.

conscious has forever shifted. Yet still, when I view Malin’s work, I’m reminded of that conversation about grandparents, and how discovery is part of our DNA.

—— From left: Gray Malin’s “Bon Voyage” series features The Pop Artist; The Mother Darling; and The Tennis Player, among others.

ENJOY THE ISSUE, AND BON VOYAGE!

M A G A Z I N E

CONTRIBUTORS

editorial editor in chief erin lentz creative director karrie sims photo director stefanie michejda copy editor sarah taylor asquith

exclusive resorts chief executive officer james henderson senior vice president, marketing joey whelan senior vice president, sales rachel regan senior director, marketing caitlin austin director, marketing haley mccoy copywriter avery johnson

contributors Amiee White Beazley, Chris Bertram, Jackie Caradonio, Yolanda Edwards, Mark Ellwood, Avery Johnson, Ken Kochey, Jacquelynn Powers Maurice, Jen Murphy, Roberta Naas, Farryn Weiner

editorial inquiries Publisher is not responsible or liable for return or safekeeping of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photographs, or other materials. ©2021 TAG Media. CURATED Magazine is published two times a year. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this publication without publisher’s permission is strictly prohibited. For editorial inquiries, copies, customer service, or to exhibit or distribute at a business, please inquire at info@tagmediaaspen.com. tag media

0133 Prospector Road; Suite 4102J; Aspen, CO 81611 exclusive resorts club management

1515 Arapahoe Street; Tower 3, Suite 500; Denver, CO 80202 For Membership information and opportunities, call 844.541.2714 or email MembershipDirector@exclusiveresorts.com advertisement herein for any product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by exclusive resorts, llc or its affiliates.

Club Membership is subject to terms and conditions of Club Membership agreement. Different terms and conditions apply to different purchases. Reservations for specific days, destinations and events subject to availability. Experience Collection vacations, certain services, amenities and other Member benefits may require additional fees, may have limited availability and are subject to additional terms and conditions. Magazine content is for informational purposes only; The Club disclaims any warranty or representation of any kind; stories do not constitute The Club’s endorsement of any cause or program. See ExclusiveResorts.com for more information. Exclusive Resorts and the Exclusive Resorts flower logo are registered trademarks of Exclusive Resorts, LLC. ©2021, Exclusive Resorts, LLC. All rights reserved.

YOLANDA EDWARDS

FARRYN WEINER

Yolanda Edwards is the founder of YOLO Journal, a collection of travel inspiration and ideas, and the former Creative Director at Conde Nast Traveler.

Farryn Weiner is an experienced, awardwinning brand marketer and founder of Farrynheight, a brand marketing agency focused on building brands from the outside, in. Having led efforts for powerhouse brands like Michael Kors and Sweetgreen, she brings a comprehensive consumer view to earlystage, venture-backed startups.

WOULD MOST LIKE TO DINE WITH: Alice Waters. CURRENT OBSESSION: Venetian slippers. NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT: Hand cream from Susanne Kaufmann. My hands look 10 years younger immediately, and it smells like the Austrian hills, where it’s made. FAVORITE FOODIEINSPIRED TRAVEL READ: Far Flung and Well Fed, by R.W. Apple. 2021 WISH LIST TRIP: A summer that includes a trip to Italy (Pantellieria, Ischia, Porto Ercole), Greece (some time in Patmos and Milos), and France (Gascony, Médoc, and the Arcachon)!

CURRENT OBSESSION: Haim the Band, Women Part 2 Album. NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT: Sunglasses, an extension chord, and a Kindle. FAVORITE REMOTE DESK: Exclusive Resorts’ Real Del Mar residence, hands down! 2021 WISH LIST TRIP: Bhutan.

@exclusiveresorts

apply to the new panerai pam.guard program to benet up to 8 years of international limited warranty register your timepiece on panerai.com 8

WHILE

PHOTO BY KEN KOCHEY

page 10

EXCLUSIVE

STAY A

DAY IN TH E LIFE • ICON OC LAST • M E M BE R V E T T E D

EXCLUSIVE

ROB MACHADO’S REMOTE

CONTROL A successful social influencer and selfproclaimed global nomad, Farryn Weiner has turned her brickand-mortar office headquarters into a global, work-fromanywhere platform. Farryn Weiner is the owner and founder of Farrynheight, a social media marketing agency. She first earned plaudits in 2011 as a pioneering talent using social channels to boost the profile of Michael Kors, launching the brand’s Instagram page from her smartphone. Weiner went on to become CMO of the fast-casual restaurant chain, Sweetgreen, before founding her namesake agency in March 2019. Prepandemic, she lived and worked in New York; today, Weiner is a confirmed “global nomad,” helming her company remotely from wherever she chooses.

SAN DIEGO

Known for sunshine and great surf, San Diego may be Southern California’s most desirable destination. written by SARI ANN TUSCHMAN

DAY IN THE LIFE

—— Opposite: Farryn Weiner in Real del Mar, Mexico. Above: Weiner leads her global office from coveted international locales.

THE FIRST TIME I TRAVELED BY MYSELF REALLY SHAPED ME. On a whim, I went to Nepal for two weeks.

Putting myself in a new environment like that—trying new things and meeting new people—fostered a confidence that translated into my work as an entrepreneur. I run a marketing agency with an all-female remote and global team. We have team members across New York, Los Angeles, Miami, London, and Sydney. We had these values at Farrynheight about being mobile and global, but I’d been chained to a desk for most of my career. The decision to work remotely came from looking at my own values and asking: Why aren’t I living them? This was an opportunity to live those values. So five of my colleagues and I decided to work remotely, changing locations every couple of weeks. When we were in Mexico, we spent a week at the Club’s property in Real del Mar. With clients across the globe, we tried to find a destination that was in the right time zone, and Mexico was a no-brainer. The key to working from anywhere is a combination of discipline and freedom; you’ve got to make sure you’re enriching yourself and your life by being in this new environment. Unlike being on vacation, my daily routines are more structured and I have rituals that ground me. I stay consistent, but also take advantage of the destination I’m in: Maybe that’s waking up early one morning to watch the sunrise, or taking a dip in the ocean between meetings.

GLOBAL MENTALITY

In a work-from-anywhere culture, you’re allowing your employees to be themselves, and to take the afternoon off to go for a swim. Yet with more freedom comes responsibility and accountability. As such, there’s a technical and emotional side to making working remotely a success. Slack has been one of the best tools, and we’ve been building a rhythm of communication with team and company-wide calls twice a week. These are real check-ins, where everyone goes around and shares genuinely how they’re feeling; someone will say she’s at a “3,” because it’s raining and the coffee machine at home broke, while someone else will be at a “10,” like the colleague who just got engaged. And each new team member has a one-on-one video call with everyone at the company, so they can get to know each other personally. Working remotely is an amazing opportunity to meet different types of people who aren’t normally part of your daily life. And the beauty of Exclusive Resorts is that you’re getting hotel quality service in the privacy of your own home. If I have 10 hours of meetings, it’s a luxury that someone will bring coffee to me in the morning, or might run to the grocery store because we ran out of blueberries. I worked in Mexico for three months, and my plan is to be in Europe for the summer. During this moment in time, so many walls and barriers are being broken down. Allowing the team to live and work how they want fosters productivity, creativity, and, happiness. People are rethinking how we thought we had to live, the places we thought we had to work. This trend of remote working is only the beginning. Historically, it was about creating a line in the sand between work and life. Now, it’s about fluidity, a practice that fuels you and your life goals, in a creative and inspiring environment. Where you are doesn’t matter anymore. It’s how you show up that matters. As told to writer and author Mark Ellwood.

WORK AND LEARN REMOTELY AT BE-CREATIVE-ANYWHERE LOCALES.

Today, time is too precious for should haves. As such, Exclusive Resorts created an Extended Stay Program inspired by a work-and-learn-from-anywhere motto. Afterall, creativity is sparked by new perspectives. The Club now offers Members the opportunity to use Plan Days for extended stays of 21 consecutive nights or longer in select destinations at select times (be forewarned, you may just want to move to one of these destinations full-time). For a list of all available Extended Stay residences and availability, Club Members can visit The Source or speak with their Ambassador.

EXCLUSIVE

GAME,

CHANGED One of polo’s brightest young stars, Kareem Rosser, celebrates transcending societal norms in his new memoir, Crossing the Line. written by ERIN LENTZ

KAREEM ROSSER’S INSPIRING STORY HAS BEEN CLOSELY WATCHED, whether

You started playing polo at age 8. What was your first-ever experience on a horse? My first pony ride was on Angel, and I was led around the ring by my older brother, David. I recall being terrified, yet it was exhilarating and I felt free. I knew immediately that my calling was to be on top of a horse. Half of the proceeds from Crossing the Line go to Work to Ride, which has been hugely impactful on your life. How did you discover the non-profit? My brothers David and Daymar accidentally found the stables on an afternoon bike ride. They rode to a dead end, and found this magical place—Work to Ride and the Chamounix Stables. A couple months thereafter, myself and other siblings joined them. As a young child, you suffered from anxiety and panic attacks. How did polo change you emotionally? Whenever I was around a horse or showed up to the stables I felt free, and every discomfort went away. A horse’s very presence— figuratively and literally—is so large. They command all your attention, so any worries are washed away. You have to be able to communicate

COURTESY OF RALPH LAUREN

featured on HBO’s Real Sports, 60 Minutes, or The Today Show. Yet this two-time national polo champion had more to say, and on his own terms. A new must-read, Crossing the Line navigates his rise from “The Bottom” neighborhood (yes, it’s actually coined that) in Philadelphia—mucking stalls at Work to Ride—to the pinnacle of the privileged polo world. From his home office, Rosser, also a financial advisor for Reath & Company, reveals the power of a horse and the impact of truthful storytelling.

and understand each other’s cues. As an 80-pound little boy, you’re controlling this massive animal and it’s listening to you. It was an amazing feeling. Your first trip abroad was to Nigeria with your younger brother, Daymar, who you played polo with. How did that experience affect you? It was amazing, intense, and incredible to visit Africa. We thought we grew up in a tough place and in poverty, without access to much, but you go to a place like Nigeria and realize life’s not that bad—kids don’t even have access to clean water. It was an interesting dynamic to be the ‘wealthy ones.’ They were mesmerized by our presence, yet we just saw ourselves as below average kids from the U.S., and we bonded over our differences. You pushed through the elite world of polo, and in Crossing the Line, talk about what those experiences were like as a young Black man. What were the biggest challenges? For the most part, [the polo world] was more welcoming than expected. There were obvious barriers to entry. But as my brother and I got better, people started reaching out and offering spots at a higher level and we

ICONOCLAST

—— From left: Kareem Rosser poses for a Ralph Lauren campaign; Rosser says he knew at a young age he was destined to be atop a horse; his new memoir, Crossing the Line.

“A HORSE’S VERY PRESENCE— FIGURATIVELY AND LITERALLY— IS SO LARGE. THEY COMMAND ALL YOUR ATTENTION, SO ANY WORRIES ARE WASHED AWAY.” – KAREEM ROSSER

started gaining access: the nice polo horses, the trailers, the equipment, the funds to play in tournaments. In your epilogue you write about your brother, David, who was shot and killed while you were writing your book. Did writing about him help you heal? There was no way I was going to publish a book and not mention losing him and his contribution to me personally and our family. One of my worst fears was losing him. It was a punch in the stomach to watch my mother bury one of her children. It was a painful process, but it also allowed me to reflect on the impact my brother had on my family. Because of him, I have a story to tell. I wouldn’t have found the stables or gained my passion for horses without him. What does the book title—Crossing the Line—mean to you? It’s about me as an individual crossing into the world of polo. There’s a misperception that it’s only for the

wealthy, and only for the white. And it’s also a reference to the polo rule of crossing the line. But ultimately, it’s about gaining the courage to enter a world I knew nothing about— coming from The Bottom in Philadelphia, where you see some of the worst crimes, and crossing into this privileged world. It was intimidating and scary at times, and I was always trying to figure out which line to actually cross. Where do you most like to escape to? For a couple of years I’ve gone to Zermatt to ski. People ask me what it’s like, and I say it’s like a little town in a snow globe. I also love Colorado. When I’m not riding and it’s winter, I am somewhere skiing and loving the mountains. I like to throw myself into the deep end and learn how to swim—that’s my life story.

EXCLUSIVE

TRAVEL WITH

CONFIDENCE Over the past year, Exclusive Resorts Concierges have learned the power of pivoting, meeting Member needs with flexibility and a fresh perspective. written by AVERY JOHNSON

AT ITS FINEST, LUXURY TRAVEL IS EFFORTLESS. Everything from where you stay to what you do should be arranged without lifting a finger. But for many travelers during the pandemic, a luxury travel experience became more than staying in the finest locations, enjoying opulent welcome amenities, and sleeping beneath superior thread counts. These became secondary tablestakes; boxes to check. “Luxury service is no longer just about stocking groceries or planning excursions, but about ensuring basic needs and fears are tended to,” says Leslie Cowell, Regional Director of Operations for Exclusive Resorts. “Our Members want to feel safe and informed. They’re choosing to travel with the Club during these cautious time because they trust us.” 14

MEMBER VETTED

FROM THE FIELD Christin Bourland, Concierge at Maui’s Montage Kapalua Bay, has been hypervigilant with Member requests and ensuring peace of mind. While the state of Hawaii reopened for tourism in October 2020, navigating the testing and quarantine requirements remained complicated. Here, she shares a unique Member

PHOTOS BY KEN KOCHEY

story.

Club Members will never be a room number. What’s more, during uncertain times, these relationships—with Ambassadors and Concierges—have become the anchor to connection and safety. To evolve with the changing landscape, the Club introduced the Covid Navigator, a dedicated concierge who handles Member queries and concerns as they navigate re-openings, testing requirements, destination capacities, and more. Much of the on-site teams’ time has recently been spent helping Members navigate rapidly changing travel restrictions, requirements, and protocols, along with meeting basic needs. In Virgin Gorda, this means food. “Grocery deliveries have skyrocketed as Members don’t wish to stray from their residences or can’t because of quarantining, but we still want to focus on providing an experience unique to the destination,” Cowell says. On the island, Concierges frequent the marina to deliver fresh seafood to Members so they can grill in-residence. Attending to the needs of Members goes beyond simply reacting, but proactively providing a seamless home-away-from-home experience. “We’ve seen a change in what it means to vacation. For many, it’s keeping up with work and school life, just in another location,” says Cowell. The team has set up desks and makeshift workstations within the residences for those working and schooling remotely. “And, for those who wish to avoid shared amenities, we’ve dropped off exercise equipment such as mats, bands, and weights, and even a stationary bike for one Peloton enthusiast.” Though Concierges create memorable vacation experiences, their role has shifted to accommodate today’s rapidly evolving travel landscape. “We’ve found we’re no longer simply working around requests, but fears. Our job is to instill confidence in our Members, ensuring they feel safe and secure when returning to travel.”

When the Zelek family arrived at Kapalua Bay in November, they discovered a family member’s PCR test results were lost. Because of the negative testing requirement, he would have had to quarantine for 14 days in his residence instead of enjoying the vacation with his children and grandchildren. —— Opposite: Service with a smile in Peninusla Papagayo, Costa Rica. From top: interiors are prepped for a sun-filled day; high-five cuisine.

“I spent about 48 hours reaching out to all my contacts, hounding the mayor’s office, health authority, and tourism board for on-island testing solutions,” Bourland says. “I spent nearly a full day on the phone waiting to speak to someone who could help—I was 45th in the queue.”

“OUR MEMBERS WANT TO FEEL SAFE AND INFORMED. THEY’RE CHOOSING TO TRAVEL WITH THE CLUB DURING THESE CAUTIOUS TIME BECAUSE THEY TRUST US.” -- LESLIE COWELL, EXCLUSIVE RESORTS REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Finally, her persistence paid off—the mayor granted approval to be tested at a local facility. When his negative results came back 24 hours later, he was free to take advantage of all the island had to offer alongside his family. “It’s a rewarding experience to see Members arrive and enjoy their time on the island without being too overwhelmed by the protocols,” Bourland adds. “We help make that happen. Right now I’m more than a Concierge—I’m a COVID professional!”

M AU N A L A N I I S L A N D O F H AWA I ’ I One of a kind experiences in the world’s best destinations. n a pa va l l e y , c a n e w p o r t, r i los cabos, mexico

page 26

SCENE

VIEW FINDER

ART OF TRAVE L • E Y E ON D E SIGN • BE SPOK E • PLAY

SCENE

FORWARD THINKING The new Audemars Piguet watch museum is an architectural marvel. written by ROBERTA NAAS

WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT A MUSEUM, GENERALLY YOU IMAGINE A LARGE SQUARE BUILDING WITH MULTIPLE FLOORS CHOCKED WITH GREAT ART. However, Swiss watch brand Audemars Piguet has fascinated the world with its new watch museum. Founded in 1875 and nestled in the Valle’e de Joux watchmaking region of Le Brassus, Audemars Piguet is considered a holy-grail brand by serious collectors. Its rich horological history—steeped in many watchmaking firsts—has garnered the independently owned brand a sterling reputation.

ART OF TRAVEL

FACE TIME

THE CENTURIES-OLD TRADITION OF WATCHMAKING IS ALL ABOUT ART AND ARCHITECTURE, YIELDING MUSEUM-WORTHY PIECES.

—— Opposite: The sleek interior of the new Muse’e Atelier Audemars Piguet . Above: The museum is a labyrinth of grass-covered spirals to match the natural beauty of its surroundings.

So when Audemars Piguet opted to build a new museum, the executives had to think way outside the proverbial box and develop a formula that would blend tradition and visionary thinking. Given the historical countryside locale, a large glass building that would impose on the region’s natural beauty wasn’t an option. So, in 2014, Audemars Piguet created an architectural competition to build the Muse’e Atelier Audemars Piguet. BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) won, with its spiral-shaped glass pavilion. Set low to the ground, it complements the brand’s oldest building from centuries past. The museum is a purposeful labyrinth of spirals winding their way from the ground up, with a façade of large glass window panels visible from the outside. Spiral rooftops are covered with green grass to match surrounding pastures. The 470ton steel roof was an engineering marvel in and of itself, as it needed to withstand the weight of snowfalls in Le Brassus yet not crush the glass panels. While the museum deftly

blends into the landscape, it also dazzles onlookers with its futuristic appeal. To design the interior space and deliver a lively visitor experience, Audemars Piguet turned to German museum designer Atelier Bruckner. The firm incorporated free-standing displays, hanging showcases, and interactive exhibits for maximum visual impact. In total, the distinctive space showcases more than 300 timepieces, automaton, and mechanical movements spanning two centuries. What’s more? An entire spiral that recreates Audemars Piguet’s haute horlogerie workshops. Inside, master watchmakers and craftsmen demonstrate skills and expertise for museum visitors, who can try their own hand at finishing techniques. The museum opened in 2020 just before the pandemic and was quickly forced to close. Now, however, the world’s most uniquely designed watch museum has again opened its doors to the public.

HUBLOT: Hublot regularly partners with artists for special collections, and its collaboration with sculptor and artist Richard Orlinski may be one of the best yet, as it embodies his innate sense of geometric lines and shapes. The Hublot Classic Fusion Orlinski King Gold ($29,400) watch features facets and angles on the case, bezel, lugs, and dial that evolve the timepiece into a true work of art.

GREUBEL FORSEY: Independent Swiss watch brand Greubel Forsey knows movement architecture. This GMT Quadruple Tourbillon watch ($760,000) is crafted in titanium and houses a hand-wound movement with three patents. Incredibly complicated, it features a three-dimensional globe and deep circular apertures for viewing movement parts. Only 11 pieces will be made.

MB&F: A deft blend of art and architecture, this titanium MB&F Legacy Machine X (LMX) ($112,000) offers time in two zones via tilted dials. Thanks to a domed sapphire crystal, the movement parts, including the raised balance wheel and battle-axe-shaped escapement bridge, reach out from beneath the green, CVD-treated plate for an alluring take on time.--RN

SCENE

STYLE SETTER The Club’s re-imagined Telluride residences have never looked—or lived—so well. “TELLURIDE IS MAGICAL,”

says Ron Werner, President and Co-Founder of HW Home. “When I describe it to people, I say, ‘It’s God’s cathedral.’ It is the most majestic place.” Most any Exclusive Resorts Member or first-time Telluride visitor would agree. So it’s no surprise that the six residences at Heritage Crossing are some of the most sought-after alpine retreats in the Club’s Vacation Collection. The fourbedroom homes, however, were due for a contemporary update. As such, they’ve been recently redesigned by Werner and his team. “When you do something where the location is so powerful, our design has to speak to the destination,” he says.

The result? A mountain-modern refresh with themes for each residence—think ski or equestrian—with updated light fixtures, all new furniture and appointments, and a meticulously curated art collection. The goal was to appeal to the broad aesthetic and various ages of Club Members—from young families to empty nesters. And typical to many Colorado ski towns, the ski-in, skiout residences were built in the ‘80s and “emulated a Tuscan space,” says Werner, with lots of leather, dark flooring, heavy stone, and dark wood. The redesign juxtaposes lighter colors and textures, minimal lighting (no antler chandeliers here), and a focus on bringing Telluride’s amazing outdoors in. HW Home’s Director of Design, John Wright, found inspiration at Telluride’s eclectic shops and art galleries, including the Overland boutique, which fuses fashion and design.

EYE ON DESIGN

TAKE ME TO TELLURIDE RELAX > The Spa at Madeleine Auberge Hotel & Residences features a nature-inspired spa menu. Opt for a deep-tissue massage with arnicainfused, anti-inflammatory oil to restore overworked hamstrings, or try the hot river stone massage, created to combat altitude.

—— From left: The Club’s Telluride residences at Heritage Crossing were updated with new furnishings, a brighter color palette, and sleek lighting; artwork reflects the town’s equestrian heritage.

“I’M A FIRM BELIEVER THE

ARCHITECTURE LAYS THE GROUNDWORK, BUT THE DESIGN DOESN’T HAVE TO RUN PARALLEL .” — JOHN WRIGHT, HW HOME DIRECTOR OF DESIGN

“I’m a firm believer that the architecture speaks for itself and lays the groundwork for what the design has to be, but the design doesn’t have to run parallel,” Wright says. His favorite piece? A light-colored Gaudi Armchair by a Brazilian designer. “It has stylish leather straps but with a more contemporary spin,” Wright says. The artwork, of course, is equally important, and while pieces celebrating Telluride’s history remain, the homes now display new works with a more modern take. What hasn’t changed, of course, are the postcard-perfect views. So after enjoying a morning cup of coffee in your updated, gourmet kitchen, spend time on the outdoor patio or soak in the hot tub—as the peaks of the San Juan Mountains are designed just right.

EAT > Al fresco dining doesn’t get any better than when in Telluride. Coffee and pastries at Baked in Telluride are a must, as is Gnar for the town’s top tacos. Another casual favorite is Brown Dog Pizza, while more upscale fare awaits at The New Sheridan Chop House and The National. Those in the know sip handcrafted cocktails at the “there” bar (yes, that’s the name). Try the mezcal infused “El Diablo” cocktail. PLAY > You’ll find every alpine pursuit in Telluride— but scratch golfers flock to this corner of Colorado, too. Enjoy preferred tee times and discounted rates at the scenic Telluride Golf Course, while anglers relish in gold-medal fly fishing along the San Miguel River.

—— Telluride’s Brown Dog Pizza is a local favorite.

SCENE

JUST BACK FROM… ROSEMARY BEACH is Florida’s small town go-to for savvy travelers. written by JACQUELYNN POWERS MAURICE

SITUATED ON FLORIDA’S UPPER GULF COAST, THIS RESORT AREA IS FAMOUS FOR PRISTINE, WHITE-SAND BEACHES. Add a family-friendly feel, walkable scale, New Urbanism planning and architecture, Southern hospitality, and activities like bicycling, kayaking, and fishing, and there’s no wonder the area is coveted. Unique restaurants, chic boutiques, and cultural attractions line the coastal Highway 30A—one of the most scenic drives in the country.

BESPOKE

STAY ROSEMARY BEACH & WATERCOLOR The scenic roadway of 30A stretches 24 miles along the Gulf of Mexico in the Florida —— Opposite: The Club’s new Rosemary Beach residence. Above: A bird’s-eye view of Rosemary’s enticing coastline.

Panhandle, featuring a dozen communities— including Rosemary Beach and WaterColor.

Rosemary Beach’s laid-back lifestyle is matched by its Gulf of Mexico-facing terrain, with rolling sand dunes and emerald-green water. Vacation like a local with the Club’s newest Rosemary Beach and WaterColor residences: three 4- and 5-bedroom coastal homes with gulf breezes, wide porches, and pools. Here’s your cheat sheet to Florida fun.

DISCOVER Whether on foot or bicycle, it’s easy to explore Rosemary Beach from your Club headquarters. The 107-acre town was designed to be accessible, community-oriented, and active, with plenty of green spaces. Take a stroll on the beach, rent a kayak, go fishing, or book one of the dolphin boat tours. Cyclists love the 18.5-mile Timpoochee Trail, which parallels Highway 30A and is known for incredible Gulf views and relatively flat topography. Another dreamy spot is the aptly named Eden Gardens Park, where you can explore the historic Wesley House, one of the first homes in the Panhandle, circa 1897.

ONLY AT ROSEMARY BEACH Northwest Florida boasts a rare ecosystem, including coastal dune lakes created up to 10,000 years ago by winds that shifted the sand and formed shallow basins. The only other places in the world with coastal dune lakes are New Zealand, Australia, Madagascar, and Oregon. At Rosemary Beach, visit this natural phenomenon at Topsail Hill Park, where brackish dune lakes are teeming with both fresh and saltwater wildlife.

SIP & SAVOR You’ll never go hungry in Rosemary Beach! With one-of-a-kind eateries (no chain restaurants here), Airstream food trucks, and fresh-fromthe-Gulf seafood, expect a mix of Caribbean,

The Club’s new Rosemary Beach residence is steps

Mexican, and Southern flavors. Cowgirl Kitchen serves Mexican-themed dishes (including “The Pandemic,” with scrambled eggs, chorizo, banana peppers, bacon, and cheddar cheese), while the vibe at Havana Beach Bar & Grill is inspired by El Floridita—Ernest Hemingway’s favorite haunt in Havana. Summer Kitchen Café began as a tiny food shack in 1999, and still maintains its local cred with crave-worthy fare like smoothies, omelets, smoked tuna dip, burgers, crab cakes, pan-fried grouper, and mimosas. Indulge your sweet tooth at The Sugar Shak, a candy store meets ice cream parlor with fresh cotton candy, oversized lollipops, sundaes, and banana splits.

from the beach and boardwalk, while two Southernstyle WaterColor cottages are tucked away in an idyllic neighborhood. Beach chair set-up service makes it easy to enjoy a family day on the sand—minus the gear schlepping.

SHOP On the south side of 30A, a cobblestone street winds its way down to the Gulf, peppered with independently-owned stores. Find your next beach read at Hidden Lantern Bookstore, an oldfashioned book emporium with more than 15,000 titles lining the shelves. Treat the little ones to a gift at Gigi’s Fabulous Kids’ Fashions & Toys, which features art supplies, beach buckets, and clothes. Stylish bikinis and swim trunks await at Bombora Sun & Surf, and if dressing up for dinner, Willow is known for on-trend floral dresses, flowing tunics, and flouncy skirts.

SIDE TRIP TO ALYS BEACH

Residences: 3 Bedrooms: 5-6 Bathrooms: 5.5-6.5 Sleeps: 10

Just one mile down 30A is Alys Beach, another Gulf gem and planned community. The theme is decidedly more Mediterranean, with white stucco homes, cobblestone streets, and architecture inspired by Greece, Morocco, and Spain. For a delicious dinner, George’s is the go-to spot for drinks and Gulf-to-table cuisine.

SCENE

LET THE FUN TIMES ROLL From ‘60s mod squad vibes to surf culture and beach chic, the Moke has always been in style. written by JACQUELYNN POWERS MAURICE

BRIGITTE BARDOT DROVE AROUND THE SOUTH OF FRANCE IN A MOKE WITH HER DOGS IN TOW. Jackie O made her first post-nuptial

written by TK

appearance with new hubby Aristotle Onassis in the open-air cruiser in Skorpios, Greece. James Bond tooled around with a stable of Bond girls in four 007 movies. Even David Letterman was spotted in St. Barts in the classic car. There’s always been an aura of cool around this buggy, which has graced the world’s best beaches and ritziest destinations. The Moke was created by Sir Alec Issigonis (who also designed the original Austin Mini) and the British Motor Company in the late 1950s. What began as an invention for the British army quickly transitioned into a civilian car when it was discovered—after the fact—that its ground clearance was too low for military use. Despite this inauspicious beginning, the Moke developed a cult following in Europe, the Caribbean, Australia, and Hawaii, where its bright colors and diminutive size made it perfect for la dolce vita. Even the Beach Boys used the Moke for one of their famous promos, outfitting the car with gold-record rims and a trimmed canopy. While production of the Moke officially ceased in 1993, the legend lived on— especially in St. Barts, where tourists zipped around the tiny island in the cars for the next decade. The island is also where transportation entrepreneur Todd Rome first spotted the Moke and promptly fell in love with it. In 2016, he sold Blue Star Jets—his

BESPOKE

THE “IT”

SUMMER ACCESSORY

PHOTO BY MICHOU SIMON/PARIS MATCH VIA GETTY IMAGES

Exclusive Resorts Members receive a complimentary Bimini top and Bluetooth stereo with Moke purchase (over $1,100 retail value). And, if you spy a customized Club Moke at one of your favorite destinations, the limited-edition Exclusive Resorts Moke features: • Light blue body with a white Exclusive Resorts logo • Exclusive Resorts light blue bumper, grill, and roll bar • Sport rims —— Brigitte Bardot drives her dogs around France on a Mini Moke (April, 1980).

• Custom Exclusive Resorts tire cover • White seats and bench • Tan Bimini top • Wood steering wheel

“THERE’S ALWAYS BEEN AN AURA OF COOL AROUND THIS BUGGY, WHICH HAS GRACED THE WORLD’S BEST BEACHES AND RITZIEST DESTINATIONS.”

private aviation business—and turned his attention to reinventing the Moke. The new and improved version debuted in the spring of 2017 with some major changes. Not only was the car’s silhouette bigger and sturdier than the original, but it was electric-powered, fully customizable, and sold direct-to-consumer via the brand’s website. Each one weighs 2,300 pounds, has 14-inch tires, and comes with a backup camera, seatbelts, and Bluetooth radio. Classified as a Low Speed Vehicle (LSV), today’s Moke tops out at 25 mph and is street legal in all zones 35 mph or less—making it ideal for local driving and living. With its doorless frame and easy-breezy ambiance, fans are enjoying life in the slow lane. Behind-the-wheel sightings include Kris Jenner, Tommy Lee, Martha Stewart, Katherine McPhee, Jay Leno, Billy Joel, Joe Jonas, Sophie Turner, and Cuba Gooding Jr. Brands, too, covet the Moke; Instagramfriendly activations have spanned splashy collabs with 007, Louis Vuitton, Fred Segal Malibu, Hirshleifers, Vilebrequin, Faena Bazaar, and Pura Vida. With a nod to its past and headlights on the future, the Moke is the ideal heritage brand playfully brought back to life.

• Bluetooth stereo • High performance charger •

Bespoke beach tote stocked with Exclusive Resorts towels, custom cocktail tumblers, and sun hats

SCENE

New private hiking and biking tours celebrate the power of America’s backyard. written by AVERY JOHNSON

THE PULL OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS HAS NEVER BEEN MORE COMPELLING. In fact, spending

time in nature is essential to our mind-body balance. During the pandemic, Exclusive Resorts noticed an uptick in Members craving fresh air and action. As a result, the 2021 Private Travel Collection was introduced with a focus on closer-to-home hiking and biking adventures. “We wanted to give Members more domestic options than ever before,” says Gina Bach, Vice President of Exclusive Resorts’ Experience Collection. “We’ve partnered with trusted operators, like Backroads and Canadian Mountain Holidays, to develop oneof-a-kind itineraries.” The result? Hands-on, interactive trips curated with more active travelers in mind.

PLAY

EXPLORE WITH PEACE OF MIND

NEW MEXICO: SANTA FE & TAOS BIKE TOUR The artsy towns of Taos and New Mexico’s capitol, Santa Fe, are both known for plentiful galleries sporting colorful pottery, paintings, and sculptures, anchored by the multicultural influence of Spanish, Mexican, Anglo, and Indigenous traditions. Members will take in high-desert mesa landscapes from two wheels during this five-day, four-night biking journey. In between bike miles, participants will be immersed in Southwestern art and cuisine as they explore quaint historical towns, artist communities, and local restaurants. Each day will find Members biking through sagebrush-scented landscapes and adobe-style pueblos, all while learning the rich cultural history of New Mexico.

MARTHA’S VINEYARD & NANTUCKET BIKE TOUR The former 19th-century whaling hub of Nantucket is now an iconic summer destination for those seeking a scenic East Coast island experience. During this five-day excursion, Members will cycle mellow coastal routes past historical sea captains’ homes, lighthouses, and picturesque Nantucket beaches before continuing on to Martha’s Vineyard, a summer escape defined by tradition and history. After exploring the rich colonial roots and maritime history of these famed destinations via bike, refuel with award-winning lobster rolls and fresh scallops. Guided walking tours and museum stops further enrich the colonial island experience.

PALM SPRINGS & JOSHUA TREE HIKING ADVENTURE Palm Springs is best known for its Old Hollywood appeal—an oasis of hot springs, mid-century modern architecture, golf courses, and spas. Once the proverbial playground of Hollywood’s elite, it’s now the ultimate destination for a posh desert getaway. Its proximity to Joshua Tree National Park and diverse desert ecosystems—along with a focus on art

—— Opposite: Navigating the serene side of Palm Springs. Above: CMH Bobbie Burns Lodge, located in Canada.

and design—make Palm Springs an idyllic blend of nature and sophistication (and just the right amount of kitsch). During this four-day active getaway, Members will hike the cacti-studded trails of Joshua Tree National Park and the legendary Pacific Coast Trail. A stay at The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage presents a plethora of refreshment from cooling off in poolside VIP cabanas to desert-inspired spa treatments.

CANADIAN MOUNTAINS HELI-HIKING SUMMER ADVENTURE Canadian Mountain Holiday’s Bobbie Burns Lodge is located deep in the heart of British Columbia’s mountains and accessible only by helicopter— granting travelers expert-guided hiking excursions surrounded by a backdrop of towering peaks and icecarved valleys with hardly another person in sight. During this four-day adventure, Members will tackle ridge hikes above deep river basins, scale granite rock faces on Mount Nimbus, and test their mettle on the ropes course. Led by professional, accredited guides, every day promises spectacular experiences customized for any age, ability, and adventure style. After a day in the mountains, enjoy the beauty of sun-kissed meadows surrounding the lodge, soak in the hot tub, or enjoy a revitalizing massage. By night, guests and guides gather for gourmet meals while reveling in the day’s tales.

Exclusive Resorts is dedicated to creating a suite of partnerships and services to help Members and their families travel safely this year—and for years to come. For COVID-related travel questions, Exclusive Resorts’ new COVID Navigator has the answers— or knows the person who does. From everchanging entry requirements to real-time reporting by onsite teams, the COVID Navigator ensures Members continually feel informed and in control. Furthermore, Travel Insured International® protects trips and the health needs of Members while on vacation, and in situations where a traveler tests positive for COVID-19 and must seek treatment, hospitalto-hospital transport with AirMed provides unparalleled care.

SAVOR

PAUSE. PLAY. REWIND.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLOWERS VINEYARDS

page 32

Fall Bounty TH E D ISH • C HE E R S! • SAY, SOM M E LIE R

SAVOR

THE

EPICURIOUS YOLO Journal founder, Yolanda Edwards, curates your culinary hit list, from Sicily to the Grenadines.

THE DISH

—— Opposite: Yolanda Edwards. Above: The bold flavors of La Chassagnette, located near Arles, France.

As the former Creative Director at Conde Nast Traveler and now the founder of the wildly successful YOLO Journal, Yolanda Edwards’s mission is to uncover rare gems when abroad and beyond. Here are her top picks—from restaurants to markets—for your global foodie file.

FRANCE La Chassagnette is just outside Arles, but the drive to it, in the heart of the Camargue wetlands, makes you feel you’re in the middle of nowhere. Then it appears: The most wellstyled farmhouse restaurant with an expansive surrounding organic garden. It’s one of my favorite lunch memories ever— sitting there for hours in the garden and eating the dreamiest tasting menu from everything grown right in front of me. Of all the magical brasseries in the country, Les Vapeurs, in the seaside town of Trouville in Normandy, wins. Besides superb classics (moules frites is a must), decor, and vibe, it has that endless beach just steps away, and the sea air makes everything perfect. Ré Ostréa in Île de Re is an oyster producer that doubles as a restaurant. Sit outside on long tables overlooking the sea, with the biggest platters of fruits de mer you’ve ever seen. Magical!

ITALY In a country with fantastic places to eat always within arm’s length, Ristoro Mucciante in Campo Imperatore— located two hours from Rome within the Abruzzo region’s Gran Sasso National Park—is one of the best. On weekends, locals flock to Mucciante, where they grill meat and eat on picnic tables in the middle of the most glorious landscape. Syracuse’s Ortigia Market in Sicily is an unforgettable food experience. Set in the historic section of town, it has the best of everything—fish stands, tables of blood

oranges, mountains of local cheeses, and lots of small little restaurants where you can sit and eat in the middle of it all. The pizza tasting menu at da Concettina ai Tre Santi in Naples is next level. I would fly to Italy for one night just to have dinner here.

CARIBBEAN Lunch at the Bahamas’ Kamalame Cay is a day-long affair drawing a cool, fun crowd from all over. Share a gorgeous meal (and lots of day dancing) at a long table with strangers who immediately become friends. Sunset Cover Bar and Restaurant is in Union Island in the Grenadines. It’s one of those rustic beach shacks caught in time, in the most beautiful location. You can only reach it by boat, so it isn’t crowded, and it has the best conch fritters and rum punch. Montego Bay Farmers Market in Jamaica is one of the most vibrant markets I’ve been to. Expect beautiful fruits and vegetables, gorgeous fish, and lots of herbs and spices, which make for great souvenirs.

CALIFORNIA The Santa Barbara Farmer’s Market is one of my favorite markets. It features stand after stand of the most beautiful avocados, citrus you’ve never seen before, and gorgeous flowers. I adore Chez Panisse in Berkeley, especially the upstairs cafe where you can order a la carte. Everything tastes straight from the garden (because it is), and I love how unfussy it is. I always order the seasonal fruit for dessert just to see how it’s presented—so I can try to copy it back home.

@yolandaedwards

The Marshall Store on Highway 1 is just above Point Reyes Station in Northern California. It’s a seafood shack right on the water and serves the freshest oysters on outdoor tables.

SAVOR

CHEERS!

VINEYARD

VIP

Oenophiles, get ready. Insider access to Napa and Sonoma just got tastier. —— Opposite: Napa Valley’s famous Chateau Montelena, Above: Staglin Family Vineyard.

written by JEN MURPHY

EXCLUSIVE RESORTS MEMBERS HAVE LONG BEEN PASSIONATE ABOUT WINE . Oenophiles expect to drink the finest bottles, meet the winemakers, and experience terroir firsthand. To satiate the wine obsessed, the new Wine Benefits program allows VIP access to tours, tastings, discounted shipping, and first-dibs on limited releases. Here are the partners Members can tap into for exclusive wine experiences.

AZUR WINES, NAPA VALLEY After spending several years in France, Elan Fayard returned to Napa with a dream of producing well-crafted wines reminiscent of what she experienced in Provence. She founded Azur with the intent of creating terroir-driven wines. With each vintage, winemaker Julien Fayard aims to create the highest quality wines representative of French and American winemaking styles, like Azur’s signature Provencal-style rosé.

BARNETT VINEYARD, NAPA VALLEY Barnett Vineyard’s location high atop Spring Mountain doesn’t just afford visitors stunning views of Napa Valley down below. The rocky mountainside is ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and the blending varietals of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The estate’s 14 acres of vines yield an average of less than two tons of fruit per acre—resulting in rich, intense wines synonymous with the Barnett name.

SAVOR

BRICOLEUR VINEYARDS, SONOMA

MARKET WATCH WINE COULD BE YOUR TOP PERFORMER Many wine enthusiasts have discovered their wine assets are more reliable than other investments, including stocks

Owned and operated by Exclusive Resorts Member Mark Hanson, Bricoleur Vineyards is an idyllic Russian River Valley retreat located one hour north of San Francisco and home to vineyards, olive groves, and a honey farm. Winemaker Cary Gott crafts elegant wines, ranging from unoaked Chardonnay to Alexander Valley Zinfandel.

and bonds. As part of Exclusive

CAKEBREAD CELLARS

Resorts’ new Wine Benefits

The family owned Cakebread Cellars is well-known for its superstar Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. With 11 estate vineyards spanning coveted Napa Valley appellations, in addition to one Anderson Valley vineyard, Cakebread’s expansive terroir is brought to life via organic and sustainabe practices. Founded in 1972 by husband and wife duo Jack and Dolores Cakebread, the brand has become an American standout on global wine lists.

program, Members have access to Vinfolio’s investment team, a perk typically reserved for members of the company’s Private Client program. A special algorithm looks at current U.S. retail listings, auction sale prices, and sales on Vinfolio’s own platform to determine the current fair market value of a given wine. From there, technology can trigger buy or sell activities to ensure a sound investment and a robust return.

CHATEAU MONTELENA, NAPA VALLEY

classifications.

Chateau Montelena looms large in America’s wine legacy. The estate produced the winning white wine in the pivotal 1976 Judgment of Paris, earning its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. A bottle of the victorious 1973 Chardonnay is part of the permanent collection at the Smithsonian. While Chardonnay first brought the spotlight to Chateau Montelena, these days Cabernet Sauvignon reigns supreme.

The Friday night barrel auction

FAUST, NAPA VALLEY

TOP TIPS FOR NEW INVESTORS Invest in classic wine styles from regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, and northern Italy. French wines are some of the easiest to invest in because most bottles are already ranked according to official wine

at Auction Napa Valley is like a crystal ball for those interested in collecting and buying Napa wines for investment. Don’t buy luxury asset wine more than five years old–more mature wine typically costs more. Keep your wine in professional storage to increase its secondary market value.

In 1998 the Huneeus family found this property in Coombsville, Napa’s newest AVA, and instantly fell in love. They saw the potential of a never-planted before former dairy farm. The property embodies all the unique attributes of

a world-class estate—diversity of soil, elevation, exposition, and climate. The land was destined to be the vineyard source for an exceptional wine. Faust is a tribute to Napa Valley’s noblest grape—full-bodied, decadently rich, and unctuous Cabernet Sauvignon.

FLOWERS, SONOMA Nearly 30 years ago, Joan and Walt Flowers pioneered the growing of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay on the rugged coastal ridges of the extreme Sonoma Coast. Their goal? Produce exceptional wine capturing the wild beauty of the land and the spirit of the Sonoma Coast. This passion drives everything they do— farming responsibly, harvesting by hand, using 100-percent native fermentation, and crafting wine with minimal intervention.

QUINTESSA, NAPA VALLEY Tucked away in the heart of Rutherford, Quintessa’s 280-acre site reflects a diversity of geology, biodiversity, exposures, and microclimates. Inspired by this distinct property, the Huneeus family believed it was destined to become one of the world’s great wine estates. Today, a total of 160 acres are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carménère on 26 vineyard blocks. Each block is organically and biodynamically farmed.

STAGLIN FAMILY VINEYARD, NAPA VALLEY Founded in 1985 by Shari, Garen, Brandon, and Shannon, Staglin Family Vineyard is known for its uncompromising commitment to quality. The family’s mission is to produce world-class wines reflecting the distinctive character of this historic Rutherford Bench estate in the most sustainable way possible. They farm the vineyard organically, tap into solar fields for power, and produce wine in a state-of-the-art underground production facility.

CHEERS!

—— Clockwise from top left: Wine with a view at Quintessa; the colors of Bricoleur Vineyards; stylish Sonoma tastings at Flowers; Quintessa winemaker Rebekah Wineburg.

SAVOR

FROM THE VINE Verve Co-Founder and Master Sommelier Dustin Wilson reveals vibrant wines from lesser known regions. written by AMIEE WHITE BEAZLEY

MASTER SOMMELIER DUSTIN WILSON, who is also co-founder of Verve

Wines—a retail wine business with shops in New York, Chicago, and San Francisco— was bracing for the worst when the COVID pandemic shook the globe in March 2020. “When it was all going down,” he recently said from his home in Manhattan, “I was worried about how we were going to care for our team and keep the business alive. It didn’t cross my mind that we might be considered an essential business.”

SAY, SOMMELIER

TAKE NOTE WHAT’S ON DUSTIN WILSON’S DINNER TABLE? TRY A BOTTLE FROM THESE UP-ANDCOMING REGIONS.

“WHETHER IT COMES FROM MEXICO, NEW ZEALAND, OR SOUTH AFRICA, THESE WINES ARE ATTRACTING NEW CUSTOMERS.”

“I’m a big fan of Spanish wines, but not your typical stuff, like from Rioja. Garnacha from Sierra de Gredos is great, and Mencía varietals are grown in the Galicia mountains. I also like some of the cool, interesting stuff they are making out of the Canary

—DUSTIN WILSON

Islands.” “I’ve been really impressed —— Opposite: Master Sommelier Dustin Wilson; Above: Tresomm Wine hails from Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe.

with Sicilian wines lately. The white wine from Girolamo Russo is a blend of the local grapes and it’s super tasty, with a lot of minerality coming from volcanic soils of Mt. Etna.”

Turns out that yes, wine shops, defined by the U.S. government, are essential. Not only did Verve remain open, but the pandemic boosted wine sales. Wilson and his team pivoted towards an online-only business and began shipping wines directly to customers. The pandemic also provided an opportunity for more wine drinking. While Verve clients are, as Wilson describes, “pretty adventurous to begin with,” his clients began to show a growing desire for more wine education and trying new producers, grapes, or styles to pass the time. “We sold lots of weird things, all over the map,” he says. “Our guests tend to take recommendations to try new fun varietals from unknown regions,” he says. Contemporary wine consumers, especially younger oenophiles, are particularly open to trying wines beyond the world’s most established wine regions, says Wilson. They prefer a more hands-off, esoteric, natural style. “Whether it comes from Mexico, New Zealand, or South Africa,” Wilson says, “these wines are attracting new customers who care less about where the wines are coming from. If the wine is good, they will pull people in.” While Wilson admits he has a lot of learning

left to do when it comes to Mexican wines, Verve sells two exciting Mexican wine brands—Tresomm and Bichi—which bring wild fermented wines from the Valle de Guadalupe in Baja and Tecate to the American market. “Add in that people like Mexican food and culture,” says Wilson, “and you’ve got a winning combination for younger, more adventurous drinkers.” Taylor Grant, one of the three American sommeliers behind Tresomm, says the combination of diverse winemakers and interesting grape varietals have made it an exciting region for Tresomm’s rosé, white, and red wine production. “These vineyards are in the valley where it is cool at night,” she explains. “The grapes retain that freshness and acidity. Valle de Guadalupe is a great place to ripen grapes and a great region for quality wines.” Thirsty for more? Visit Verve Wine’s blog.

Wilson also reccomends Tressom and Bichi (above) as top Mexican wines. Known for bringing varietals from the Valle de Guadalupe in Baja,

Tressom is organically farmed and hand harvested, while Bichi celebrates the terroir of the Tecate region. The brand is celebrated for its eccentric labels (as seen above), unknown grape varietals and choosing idiosyncratic labels.

PRE MI U M C HA RT E R ON D E MA N D As private travel’s only premium char ter provider, FXAIR is redef inin g th e on deman d experien ce. Now you can book flights with th e world’s m ost proven operators 24 / 7. Plus, a c tivate your Aviator Account to receive preferred a ccess to Secon d Gen eration Flexjet aircraft + exclusive ben ef its an d offers.

GE T I N TO U CH F I N D T H E R IG HT A IRCRA F T, RIGHT N OW C AL L 866.726.1222, EM A I L exc l u s iveres o r ts @ fxair.co m , o r V I SI T ww w.fxair.co m 38

page 40

FEATURES

BE. HERE. NOW.

PHOTO BY KEN KOCHEY

Fall Bounty COSTA RICA • TH E LIFE AQUAT IC • GR E E N SC E N E • GA M E CH ANG E R S

FEATURE

REMEMBER VACATIONS? Paradise is waiting. It misses you. A glimpse of what’s to come as we pause, play, and rewind memories from Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica. PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEN KOCHEY

See more joy from Costa Rica.

Life Aquatic H i n c k l e y Ya c h t s h a v e t r a n s c e n d e d t h e s t a t u s s y m b o l . W i t h

FEATURE

j u s t 3 0 b o a t s b u i l t p e r y e a r, t h i s l e g a c y b r a n d c e l e b r a t e s a l i f e w e l l l i v e d . STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACKIE CARADONIO 53

THERE ARE FEW THINGS IN THIS WORLD THAT SUCCEED IN TRANSCENDING THE MERE MATERIAL TO SOMETHING FAR GREATER: a status symbol, a passion project,

a generational keepsake. It’s hard to imagine Henry R. Hinckley could have known back in 1928—when he first established what is today known as Hinckley Yachts—the cruisers he would build in South Harbor, Maine, would become so much more than boats. They’d become emblems of a life well lived, garnering a cult-like following and often inspiring the kind of love-at-first-sight typically reserved for a soulmate—a glimpse of something utterly perfect. Then again, if you know anything about Henry Hinckley, you may guess he knew exactly what kind of empire he was building. “He was both irascible and a genius,” says Phil Bennett, Hinckley’s vice president of sales and one of the company’s longstanding (and most enthusiastic) employees. Standing amid a pair of 45-foot hulls in one of the company’s warehouses in Trenton, Maine, Bennett’s eyes dance. To hear him tell the story of Hinckley is to dive into the lore of a giant. Hinckley was young, fresh out of college, when his ramshackle boatyard—bought by his father for a mere $750—started building ships for the U.S. Navy during World War II. Five hundred boats and four years later, Hinckley was well on his way to becoming a scion of the sea-faring world. But 1959 marked his biggest splash yet, when he unveiled one of the world’s first fiberglass hulls with his slick pleasure cruiser, the Bermuda 40. There were naysayers aplenty, certain a boat made of glass would surely shatter under the slightest pressure. But Hinckley was right: The new material was ultra lightweight yet exceptionally strong, and it wasn’t long before everyone wanted in on fiberglass.

—— Clockwise from top left: Layers of thin veneers are glued together, cured, then shaped by hand to create the curved wood that gives each Hinckley its distinct form; the Kathleen, a Picnic Boat 40, sits in Southwest Harbor near Hinckley’s boat yard; boat molds in Hinckley’s Advanced Composites Center; Kathleen’s glossy interior; samples for paint, fabric, and other custom Hinckley features.

—— From left: Each Hinckley features the symbol of Talaria, the winged sandals worn by the Greek messenger god Hermes; molds used to shape Hinckley’s curving wooden veneers; a new boat mold at Hinckley’s Advanced Composites Center.

In the more than half-century since, Hinckley, the brand, has continued much in the way that Hinckley, the man, surely would have wanted. The same thinking behind his fiberglass breakthrough led to advancements in carbon, Kevlar, and epoxy—and all hit that sweet spot of light and agile yet resilient and safe. It also led to the 1994 creation of the Picnic Boat, a yacht design that, as Bennett tells it, would forever change the leisure yachting industry. “For a lot of buyers—who were largely men—it was the first time the wives wanted to be involved,” he says. “And it was because it was pretty.” Indeed, the cruiser was an aesthetic dream—owners could customize nearly every last detail, much in the way they’d work with an interior designer on a home. It was also a workhorse, with a jet-drive propulsion system that allowed it to carve water like a hot knife through butter, then stop on a dime. At Southwest Harbor, not far from Acadia National Park, the Picnic Boat Kathleen sits at the end of the dock, awaiting its owners after spending the winter months in Hinckley’s boatyard. The 42-footer glistens—even on a foggy, cold day—its deep cherry-red hue and high-gloss wood sparkle. “Look at all the other boats here,” Bennett says. “Nothing looks like this. There’s only straight lines and right angles.” He’s right. The Kathleen is all graceful curves, each strip of sloping wood or chrome detail deceptively simplistic in its elegance. It’s no surprise the design has been relentlessly copied by competitors. Today, the term “picnic boat” is trademarked, and Hinckley holds more than a dozen patents for its unique features—from the retractable glass enclosures to the motorized side boarding door that magically disappears and reappears at the touch of a button.

They’re sacred places where families come together for shared moments of joy and freedom.

To own a Picnic Boat, Talaria, or Hinckley 35 is to be part of an unofficial club.

Still, there’s something comforting—humble even—about the way these boats are made, and just 30 Hinckley boats, in total, are produced per year. Whatever status they may signify, their origins are honest, hardworking. More than a few fourgeneration families have worked at the Hinckley facilities. And the classic design of Hinckley’s yachts isn’t undermined by high-tech innovation. To the contrary, the intricate craftsmanship and careful methods marking the first models remain the holy grail of production today. Every step along the way is a feat in and of itself: Each piece of teak or cherry wood is hand-selected for strength and grain design (the ones that don’t make it go to other boat builders in the area); in the metal workshop, every piece of hardware is custom welded (a single piece can take a day or longer to complete). And it’s all done in what Dean Myrick, Hinckley’s operations manager, calls The Hinckley Way. “If you were to do it any other way, it wouldn’t be right,” he says. “A lot of people come here with talent but they don’t survive the culture of perfection.” That spirit has a way of infecting Hinckley owners too. To own a Picnic Boat, Talaria, or Hinckley 35 (the company’s newest model) is to be part of an unofficial club. Those who are lucky enough to own one—or two, or five—consider them to be more than mere objects. They’re memory makers, sacred places where families come together for shared moments of joy and freedom. Bennett, who has counted Martha Stewart and David Rockefeller among past clients, regularly receives letters and cards at Christmas regaling him with tales of lives incalculably enhanced by moments on the water. Rockefeller even penned the forward to the book Hinckley Yachts: An American Icon, writing that, in 2009, while his sixth Hinckley, a Talaria 55, was being built, he would often stop by the boatyard to check on “her progress,” and talk with the craftspeople at work. “Their enthusiasm and love for boatbuilding was evident,” he wrote, “and I continue to experience that quality every day that I take her out.”

ALL ACCESS Experience the Hinckley HQs during a road trip with All Roads North. While the goal may be to own a Hinckley, why not experience the next best thing? Club Members can experience the boatbuilding process via a new collaboration with Club partner All Roads North. This summer, as part of a compelling itinerary showcasing the most gorgeous areas throughout Maine, Members can stop at the Hinckley warehouses and facilities in Trenton, Maine, and the idyllic Southwest Harbor, which is not far from the iconic Acadia National Park. So whether exploring by road or water, this private experience showcases the finest in American

—— Clockwise from top left: Phil Bennett in Hinckley’s boat curing oven in Trenton, Maine; the Talaria logo on a Picnic Boat’s JetStick 3 joystick control; putting the finishing touches on the Salty, a Picnic Boat 40; metal bending fixtures in the custom fabrication shop; glass and carbon fibers are the building blocks that make Hinckley yachts ultra-light yet extra-strong.

craftsmanship.

FEATURE

THE GREEN SCENE As St Andrews prepares to host the 150th Open Championship in 2022, UK golf expert Chris Bertram reveals milestone moments on the legendary turf and forecasts global golf trends.

IF YOU’VE JOINED THE RANKS OF THE GOLFOBSESSED, YOU’LL MOST LIKELY FIND YOUR WAY TO ST ANDREWS. A visit to this quaint town in

eastern Scotland—and its world-famous links golf courses— will ingrain the game a little deeper in your soul. Afterall, it’s where golf began and where it continues to be paramount. St Andrews has a money-can’t-buy mystique: Whether following in the footsteps of top golfers when striding down the Old Course’s first fairway or strolling along the cobble-stoned streets once trodden by Old Tom Morris, the pioneers who brought the game to the masses consider it a rite of passage. St Andrews has been golf’s Mecca for more than four centuries; it’s an essential pilgrimage for those consumed by the royal and ancient game. Tour professionals are a notoriously cold-hearted bunch when it comes to golf courses; and yet, these statements, made at press conferences on the eve of Open Championships at St Andrews, best sum it up: “St Andrews is the coolest place on earth. Coming up 18 is the greatest walk in golf.” – Tiger Woods “The Old Course is a very special place because of what it is, where it is, and how it relates to the history of the game.” – Jack Nicklaus “If it were up to me, I would play the Open Championship there every year. I just love it.” – Phil Mickelson The common theme among these testimonies? The sense of what St Andrews means to the game and the town’s inextricable link to the origins of golf. That sense is still keenly felt today, in part due to its location. Whereas course developers now seek cliff or beach-side settings for new projects, St Andrews Old starts and ends among the town’s buildings. The course is public, and its hallowed fairways have been the Sunday family playground for centuries. Today, you’ll still find walkers crossing the most revered piece of turf in the game while golfers play through. It is quaint, it is kooky, it is old-world. And no one ever steps onto the first tee feeling anything but giddy. For most, playing the first hole is a blur of emotions, following years of anticipation. It shares a fairway with the

18th (the aforementioned grassy playground), so it’s a mercifully big target for sentimental golfers, whose eyes may be a little watery, minds somewhat frazzled, and limbs a bit tremulant. The first celebrates genius design on the Old—a course of subtle challenge. True and tried advice? Stay left off the left, and while that may ensure safety with your drive, it also means awkward second shots into huge, wellprotected greens. The best advice, in fact, is to find your own way ‘round. Don’t sweat over a tidy score; rather, drink in the iconic holes and feel history beneath your feet. There may be more exacting and visually spectacular courses in the UK and Ireland—and there are indeed courses with an even greater championship pedigree—but none can match the Old for romance. When the Old hosts the 150th Open Championship in 2022, the aforementioned Mickelson will get his wish. The winner will go down in history, too (and later than planned owing to the pandemic). A visit during this most special of Opens is an alluring prospect, and so is a few days of playing in this revered region. Naturally, the Old is priority, but don’t overlook the New (“newer” by just a few years), which locals insist is the better course. Also make time for the tough Jubilee, located closest to the coast, or tackle the uber-playable, par70 Eden Course. What’s more, located just outside town, the Castle is a clifftop links with the best views of the whole lot. Lastly, a 30-minute drive will take you to the modern links of World Top 100 entry Kingsbarns by Kyle Phillips, or the brand new Dumbarnie, opened in 2020 to great acclaim. Then there are Crail, Lundin, Leven, and Elie—all historic links of varying character. While in Fife, consider decision fatigue a blessing. And your base for the greatest week a golfer can experience? The Pittormie Estate, located 10 minutes from the Auld Grey Toun. Owned and operated by The Eden Residence Club, the historic castle is available to Exclusive Resorts Members and has been transformed into one of Scotland’s most sought after private clubs. Expect a rare level of wellexecuted amenities and bespoke service. And while Scotland may be the ultimate wish-list trip for golfers, these U.S. and Caribbean courses are certainly worth a trip, too.

—— St Andrews will host the 150th Open Championship in 2022. The historic course has produced an illustrious list of Open winners, including Jack Nicklaus, Peter Thomson, Seve Ballesteros, and Tiger Woods. 61

—— Tee time at oceanside courses is redefining happy hour.

“COMING UP 18 IS THE GREATEST WALK IN GOLF.” – TIGER WOODS

THE ABACO CLUB ON WINDING BAY

PELICAN HILL

(Newport Beach, California)

(Abaco, Bahamas)

This private beach resort features large four-bedroom Club homes and endless adventures (think tennis, snorkeling, spa, infinity pool, kayaking, sailing, and some of the best deep-sea angling in the world). But of top note? The Instagram-worthy course. CLAIM TO FAME: 2011 Open Champion Darren Clarke calls this home for much of the year and has hosted the Web.com tour. EYE ON DESIGN: Abaco’s course was envisioned by Tom Mackenzie of Mackenzie & Ebert (who consults on most Open Championship host courses). He was brought up at Dornoch, Scotland, a beguiling old-school links where the famous Donald Ross also learned the game. As such, Mackenzie has brought the essence of a Scottish seaside course to the Bahamas. This is far from “target golf” and will appeal to connoisseurs of the game. MULLIGAN MOMENT: “If it’s breezy, I will do well to break 70 around here,” Clarke says. “Lee [Westwood] was the same when he was here.” Why? Well there is the wind, as Clarke says, that plays with your ball’s flight, but there’s also the greens, inspired by Dornoch’s “upturned saucer” style. Plus, expect a hint of the examination-vergingon-evil that exists in the vintage Highlands links. TAKE NOTE: Abaco’s course is beautifully set along a peninsula of land. On the front nine you’ll be calmed by the rippling Caribbean, while on the back nine, there’s a breathtaking climax invigorated by the crashing waves of the Atlantic. 19TH HOLE: Dreaming of a bar on white sand lapped by the waters of the Caribbean sound? Enter Flippers. Enjoy an open-air breakfast, lunch with a screensaver view, or housesmoked ribs at night. And Theresa’s special cocktail? A must.

TIMBERS KAUA’I, AT HOKUALA (Kaua’i, Hawaii)

This oceanfront retreat graces Kaua’i, known as “The Garden Isle,” as 97 percent of the island is untouched mountain ranges and rainforests. Stay at one of four threebedroom Club residences with private porches and ocean views. Relax by the two-tiered infinity pool, lounge beachside, or recharge at the spa. Stroll some of the island’s 43 miles of Pacific-lapped sand, and make ample tee time. CLAIM TO FAME: The only Jack Nicklaus signature course on Kaua’i, it has recently been named “Hawaii’s Best Golf Course” for the third consecutive year by the World Golf Awards. Expect the longest stretch of continuous oceanfront holes on the Hawaiian islands. EYE ON DESIGN: Nicklaus, golf’s GOAT, was given the tools to create something special, and he capitalized. Nicklaus skillfully routed the front nine through a mango and guava forest, and on the back nine he unleashes half-a-mile of jaw-dropping ocean vistas from holes 13 to 16. MULLIGAN MOMENT: Water is the danger at Hokuala, whether the Pacific or a 40-acre freshwater lagoon. Plus, it can get breezy on the back nine. Yet ultimately this course is about inspiration, not perspiration. TAKE NOTE: Watch closely on the oceanfront holes and you might see whales or spinner dolphins playing in the distance. 19TH HOLE: Order a Mai Tai as you flick through pictures on your phone from the 13th onward, and then refuel with dining menus locally sourced from the on-site farm.

A coastal enclave in a much-vaunted leisure destination, Pelican Hill caters to families as seamlessly as it does couples and friends. Camp Pelican is for guests aged 4-12, while adults stay busy at the spa and on the tees. Expect five casual but elegant four-bedroom villas while the centerpiece of the resort is the Coliseum Pool. CLAIM TO FAME: Tom Fazio is one of the world’s most decorated designers and counts Augusta National among the clubs he advises. Here, he has created two courses: the North (1991) and the South (1993). The former has impressive consistency while the latter features plenty of oceanside “pinch-me” moments. EYE ON DESIGN: Fazio’s genius is in employing the natural landscape to cleverly frame the holes—whether the backdrop is the Pacific Ocean or lush green vegetation of sage and eucalyptus trees. Changes in elevation demand “open-your-shoulders” downhill drives mixed with brawny uphill approaches. MULLIGAN MOMENT: The par 4s on the North are as strong as they are varied; some strain every sinew, others charm you into submission. Yet the highlight is the 17th, a par 5. It winds around the canyon with a lake on the right as you play towards a bunkered infinity green, with the Pacific behind. TAKE NOTE: The par-3 13th hole on the Ocean South has two greens (not a double green, but two of them). Split by a jigsawshaped bunker, they are both close to the cliff’s edge: one is 131 yards off the tips, the other a cute 108. 19TH HOLE: For lunch, refuel with ahi tuna poke or blackened fish tacos and pair them with a Napa Valley sauvignon blanc. Come evening, opt for the Chilean sea bass bouillabaisse with the food-friendly Rombauer chardonnay.

ON PAR & PLAY This year is the most exciting era of golf course construction in 100 years, and these five global courses ensure bucket list swings. TE ARAI (North Island, New Zealand) Two courses—Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw’s South will open in 2022 and Tom Doak’s North scheduled for 2023—are being built by the owner of Tara Iti, the world’s top-10-ranked Doak designed course located just along the coast. CABOT POINT (St Lucia, West Indies) Another Coore-Crenshaw course, this time working on the cliffs of the Caribbean island with the Atlantic Ocean’s waves crashing below. ST. PATRICK’S LINKS (Donegal, Ireland) The third 18-holer at the Rosapenna resort on the edge of Downings Bay, this Doak links opens this summer and promises to be an instant Irish classic. SEVEN MILE BEACH (Tasmania, Australia) Land has just been broken on this Mike Clayton-Mike DeVries design, which has been the long-time dream of former Tour pro and Tasmanian native Mathew Goggin. LES BORDES (Loire Valley, France) Gil Hanse’s work will open this summer, joining the existing infamous course by Robert von Hague at the French superclub. He is promising echoes of an English heathland.

“THE OLD COURSE IS A VERY SPECIAL PLACE BECAUSE OF WHAT IT IS, WHERE IT IS,” – JACK NICKLAUS

THE ROCKS CLUB (Scottsdale, Arizona)

Scottsdale is a paradise for golfers, and The Rocks Club has access to 12 of the best. Add the comforts of high-end villas and the revered service of Troon Golf, and you have the appealing Rocks Club. The clubhouse is the vibrant hub, with a fitness center, billiards room, cigar terrace, massage rooms, plunge pool, and hot tub. CLAIM TO FAME: Among Golf magazine’s “Top 100 Courses You Can Play (2019),” Troon North’s Pinnacle was No.25 and Monument was No.52. Both were designed by former British Open Champion Tom Weiskopf. EYE ON DESIGN: Weiskopf is a brilliant creator of intriguing golf courses. On both Troon North’s courses he serves up the classic desert golf experience: immaculate fairways, bentgrass greens, beautifully framed holes, and a layer of strategy not seen elsewhere. MULLIGAN MOMENT: The appearance of water on the short-but-dangerous 13th means anything pushed right gets wet. TAKE NOTE: The 3rd on the Monument has a huge rock boulder in the middle of the fairway, giving the course its name and the hole a unique atmosphere. Weiskopf and his build team looked to move it during construction, then decided to leave it as a memorable moment. 19TH HOLE: Dynamite Grille is packed with temptations morning, noon, and night, but the tacos are the standouts: saguaro smoked brisket, smoked pulled pork, blackened shrimp, mahi mahi. Pair it with a raspberry lemonade, Scottsdale blonde draught beer, or one of the specialty artisan cocktails.

EDEN ROC

(Cap Cana, Dominican Republic) Tucked into the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic, this dreamy enclave features one of the safest swimmable beaches in the country. If you can bear to leave the achingly perfect sand, other amenities include a world-class kid’s club, tennis, equestrian, water sports, high-end dining options, and the Punta Espada golf course. CLAIM TO FAME: Just five minutes from Eden Roc at Cap Cana, Punta Espada has been named the Best Golf Course in the Caribbean and ranked No.35 in the world by Golf Digest. It also hosted the Cap Cana Championship (a Champions Tour event), the first PGA Tour event in the Dominican Republic. EYE ON DESIGN: This Jack Nicklaus signature course follows an intricate layout on the edge of bluffs, along beaches, and past waterfalls, and frames ocean views from all 18 holes. MULLIGAN MOMENT: Talk about a hero shot. The 13th is the quintessential signature hole, and it leaves nothing in the tank. This exquisite but demanding par 3 asks for a 250-yard carry over a corner of the Caribbean to the green. Forward tees are available, but your ball still has to fly the water. Epic doesn’t do it justice. TAKE NOTE: To do is to dare; the 12th hole is one of those rare times when the entire length of a par-5 hole is lined with water. How much of the sweeping hole do you dare cut off? No matter how long your approach shot is—with a wedge or a 3-wood—it will give you one of your most memorable moments in the game. 19TH HOLE: Sip a chilled Presidente beer or locally spiced rum just yards from the white sand, with miles of Caribbean Sea as far as the eye can see.

—— The desert-inspired Rocks Club, in Scottsdale, Arizona.

FEATURE

OF T H E

MOMENT written by JEN MURPHY

Whether a design duo, teebox rapper, mom on a mission, fitness guru, or serial entrepreneur, these social influencers are reimagining what’s possible.

SYD & SHEA MCGEE/ FOUNDERS, STUDIO MCGEE If you have a Pinterest board for your dream home, chances are you have ample inspiration from Studio McGee. Founded by husband-and-wife Syd and Shea McGee, the cult design firm seems to be everywhere these days, from the shelves of Target to the feeds of millions of Instagram followers. A combination of social media savvy and an approachable design sensibility has catapulted the prolific duo into design super stardom. And ironically, neither has a formal background in interiors. Shea’s Insta posts of the couple’s SoCal studio apartment remodel in 2013 instantly gained her a following. The next year, the couple launched Studio McGee. Based out of Salt Lake City, they design hundreds of projects across 30plus states, have an exclusive partnership with Target, and are household names, thanks to their hit Netflix series, “Dream Home Makeover.” Working parents of two daughters, with a third child on the way, part of their mass appeal is relatability. The couple’s modern-rustic aesthetic is stylish yet functional, and their creative ideas work with all budgets. Their motto, “make life beautiful” (also the name of their new book) particularly resonated during the pandemic, when everyone spent more time at home. According to Shea, even the smallest design touches can impact the way a space affects your mood. THEY’VE CHANGED THE GAME BY: Tapping into the power of social media to create a multiplatform lifestyle brand. BY THE NUMBERS: 2.8 million Instagram followers, 491.17K followers of the Dream Home Makeover Pinterest board, and 308K subscribers to Studio McGee’s YouTube Channel. DESIGN TIP: “When you walk into a space, it should have one moment that really grabs your attention. Once you choose that moment, build around it.”

@studiomcgee

BRIAN MAZZA/ FOUNDER, HIGH-PERFORMANCE LIFESTYLE TRAINING

New York entrepreneur, Brian Mazza, is always looking for ways to improve, whether as a businessman, father, husband, or athlete. “I realized there were a lot of other people out there like me who are always striving to grow,” he says. Mazza had heard plenty of high-performing individuals speak at conferences and summits but was left wanting more. “I wanted to bring their words to life,” he says. Two years ago, he launched HighPerformance Lifestyle Training, a series of in-person events that allow attendees to actually work out and spend time with overachievers. Participants can break a sweat with five-time CrossFit Games champion Mat Fraser or run a 10K with retired U.S. Navy Seal and ultra-distance athlete David Goggins. “It’s remarkable to see people attend for a weekend and leave as completely different people,” he says. Retreats went virtual during the pandemic but Mazza is certain there is pent-up demand for in-person camaraderie. When he announced his first in-person summit since the pandemic, tickets for the May 2023 event sold out in 12 hours. Moving forward, he hopes to host four retreats per year. HE’S CHANGED THE GAME BY: Taking motivational speakers who have overcome adversity or accomplished the unthinkable off the stage and alongside everyday people. COMMON TRAIT OF HIGH-PERFORMING INDIVIDUALS: “They aren’t afraid of working hard and putting in the time. To be successful, you need tunnel vision and grit.” BEST PIECE OF ADVICE SOMEONE HAS GIVEN YOU: “Don’t allow pain to have a seat at the dinner table.” 68

@brianmazza

CHRISELLE LIM/ FASHION EXPERT AND CO-FOUNDER OF BÜMO

Korean-American fashion expert, Chriselle Lim, is a master of creating community around great content. In 2011, she launched the Chriselle Factor, a blog revealing her musings on fashion and beauty. Her careful curation instantly gained a loyal following; today she has an audience of 3 million+ across her social media platforms. A new media pioneer, she co-founded CINC Studios, a creative studio dedicated to visual digital and social communication for fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands. Her newest company, Bümo, applies Lim’s media savvy to the world of parenting. A mother of two, Lim was slated to launch a co-working space with licensed childcare in L.A.’s Century City mall last May. Yet when COVID-19 hit, she and business partner, Joan Nguyen, quickly pivoted. Realizing other working parents must be struggling with home schooling, too, they launched a virtual school for younger learners and accompanying content aimed at Millennial and Gen Z parents. The site launched last April, and within a week, had a waitlist of 1,000+ families from more than 30 countries. A co-working space is still in the works for later this fall, but in the meantime, the duo has built and engaged the digital community via their weekly bümoDigest, which features tips on everything from essential parenting podcasts to the dos and don’ts of diaper changing. SHE’S CHANGED THE GAME BY : Bridging the gap between editorial and digital worlds.

@chrisellelim

SECRET TO LIVING IN A DIGITAL WORLD: Making time to disconnect. Lim does two digital detoxes a year. HER ADVICE TO FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS: Research women and firms with female investors.

KELLEY JAMES/ MUSICIAN & FOUNDER OF “MILLION MEALS TOUR”

Serendipity can often lead to opportunity. Such is the case for musician and Exclusive Resorts Member Kelley James. An original SoCal surfer, James jumpstarted his career like most aspiring singersongwriters: Playing every stage he could. During his 20s, he logged 170 shows a year, touring with his younger brother and staying at budget hotels. Yet it was a fateful call in 2008 from pro golfer Charley Hoffman that generated an unexpected launch into the golf world. James was asked to play Hoffman’s charity event, and not long thereafter was asked by Gary McCord to write a song for Phil Mickelson. He eventually found himself on the first tee at 9 a.m. at the Madison Club in Palm Springs making up personal raps for 124 attendees—including George Clooney, Larry David, and Jerry Weintraub—as they tee-ed off from the first hole. Fast forward 20 years, and today James is famous for his signature “teebox freestyle”: On-the-fly rap delivered on the spot. He’s played nearly every major PGA event, including the Masters, and is booked for 85 live shows and 90 virtual shows this summer. HE’S CHANGED THE GAME BY: During the pandemic he partnered with Feeding America and Eat Learn Play to donate 1.5M meals and an additional $350k to Steph and Ayesha Curry’s foundation. The same concert series is planned for 2021, with hopes to raise even more. REMOVING THE HIGH-BROW STIGMA OF GOLF BY: “My freestyle rap deflates the sometimes intimidating nature of golf, yet it can also be an impactful moment,” James says. “In high pressure situations, players can hit awful shots. It’s a cool social stigma to watch it all go down.” FAVORITE EXCLUSIVE RESORTS DESTINATIONS: Hawaii, New York City, Scottsdale, and Cabo San Lucas. BEST PIECE OF ADVICE SOMEONE HAS GIVEN YOU: “Do the next best thing.”

@kelleyjamesmusic

CARLY COHEN/ FOUNDER, LES MINI

A former buyer at Bergdorf Goodman, Carly Cohen, like many women, put her career on hold to raise a family. During the pandemic, she found herself caring for her 4-year-old twin girls and 18-month-old son. “I was itching to get back to work,” she recalls. “I needed to do something intriguing for myself.” Cohen dressed her twins identically since birth. “It was a vision,” she says. “Everywhere we went, people would ask me where I shop for their clothing.” Uninspired by what was available in the American market, she scoured European websites to outfit her children. Discovering a void in the U.S. she created Les Mini—an online shop for one-of-a-kind, beautifullymade designer fashions for infants and toddlers. Within just one year, Cohen built a loyal following of fashionable moms and is constantly introducing new brands and limited partnerships. “I try to create ongoing surprise and delight, so every time a customer returns to the site it feels like they are walking into a new store,” she says.

@shoplesmini

SHE’S CHANGED THE GAME BY: “I look to womenswear and apply those relevant trends to childrenswear.” REMOVING THE GUESSWORK: “Clients need help with how to style their children. We’ve created a guide for how to dress them for each occasion, [in addition to] trends, and must-haves of the season.” BEST PIECE OF ADVICE SOMEONE HAS GIVEN YOU: “Follow your dreams.”

PARTING SHOT

—— Clockwise from top left: Artist Will Day’s “Wild Things,” 2020, acrylic & oil stick on canvas, 84 x 74”; Based in Boulder, Colo., Day celebrates optimism in his brilliant “Hope Series”; words of wisdom by the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, Amanda Gorman (bottom left).

INSPRING HOPE Two artistic forces, Amanda Gorman and Will Day, lasso their extraordinary talent and create a global ripple effect.

BEFORE WE TAKE OFF, WE TAKE EVERY PRECAUTION. While the COVID-19 pandemic has created a constantly evolving landscape across private aviation, Sentient Jet has remained steadfast in its commitment to going above and beyond to protect cardholders, passengers and employees. Having implemented additional procedures to its already rigorous Sentient Certified protocols, the company continues to successfully and safely fly over 8,000 jet card owners to their destinations. Visit SENTIENT.COM to learn more.

Proud Partner of Exclusive Resorts.

The Sentient 25-Hour Jet Card is a program of Sentient Jet, LLC (“Sentient”). Sentient arranges flights on behalf of jet card clients with FAR Part 135 direct air carriers that exercise full operational control of charter flights at all times. Flights will be operated by FAR Part 135 direct air carriers that have been certified to provide service for Sentient jet card clients and that meet all FAA safety standards and additional safety standards established by Sentient.

CURATED by Exclusive Resorts • Spring/Summer 2021

Articles inside

CURATED Magazine by Exclusive Resorts • Spring/Summer 2021