Aventura-Magazine-January-2021

AN EYE FOR ART

JORGE AND DARLENE PÉREZ ON THE COLLECTION OF A LIFETIME

ECO LUXURY

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ELEGANT ELIXIR

THE BON VIVANT’S GUIDE TO COGNAC

AMANDA HEARST’S PASSION FOR ETHICAL FASHION

THE

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ISSUE

CONNOISSEURS

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CONTENTS

JANUARY 2021

FEATURES Jorge Pérez is using art to transform Miami

By Susie Stanton Staikos

54 / AGENT OF CHANGE Guest curator Amanda Hearst showcases sustainable fashions Photography by Gabor Jurina

64 / ACCESSING ART Valentina and Jeff Gutchess host a culture-forward dinner party

By Linda Marx

70 / THE WATER OF LIFE Everything you ever wanted to know about Cognac and its most exclusive bottles

By Mark Spivak

76 / SCENTS OF PLACE These divine fragrances capture the essence of luxe destinations

By Michelle Payer

44

JERRY RABINOWITZ

44 / ART SMART

John Chamberlain’s Buoy Crazy made of chromium-plated steel inside Jorge and Darlene Pérez’s Miami home.

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Andrew P. Amunategui, MD

6/9/20 2:41 PM

CONTENTS

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85

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DEPARTMENTS 12 / FROM THE EDITOR AVENTURIST 19 / THE MIX An update on the 2021 Pegasus World Cup, discover the reimagined CocoWalk, meet the youngest authorized Salvador Dalí art dealer, and more

24

By Howard Walker

42 / HIGH SEAS Huckins Yachts reinvents a classic

By Howard Walker

Rachael Russell Saiger’s nonprofit Style Saves blends fashion and philanthropy

GOURMAND 81 / MAGIC IN THE MOONLIGHT

26/ THE LOOK

Mila Miami’s rooftop exudes South Beach chic

Eco-chic accessories, plus a modern update to denim

82 / LOCAL BITES

30 / THE EDIT

Health-conscious eateries, mocktails, and more

24 / TALENTS FOR GOOD

Book releases to add to your reading list

32 / BEAUTY BEAT CBD-infused products deliver a dose of nourishment

33 / JEWELRY BOX Have a ball with spherical jewelry

ESCAPE 35 / WANDERLUST The Ocean Club brings Hollywood glam to Paradise Island

By Daphne Nikolopoulos 4

40 / HIGH ROAD Land Rover’s Defender 110 is the ultimate marriage of form and function

WEALTH 86 / GOLDEN YEARS

Expert insight into senior housing

LAST LOOK 88 / UP IN THE CLOUDS

Discover the new Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel

ON THE COVER: PHOTOGRAPHER: JERRY RABINOWITZ MODELS: JORGE AND DARLENE PÉREZ LOCATION: THE PÉREZ FAMILY RESIDENCE, MIAMI

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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75 choices in music and visual arts that foster creativity and imagination.

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Highest prices paid for your Jewelry, Diamonds, Watches and Modern Art.

Editor in Chief Daphne Nikolopoulos Creative Director Olga M. Gustine Executive Editor Mary Murray Managing Editor Melissa Puppo Senior Editor Kristen Desmond LeFevre Fashion Editor Katherine Lande Automotive Editor Howard Walker Wine & Spirits Editor Mark Spivak Travel Editor Paul Rubio Web Editor Abigail Duffy DESIGN Art Directors Craig Cottrell, Airielle Farley, Ashley Meyer, Jenny Fernandez-Prieto Digital Imaging Specialist Leonor Alvarez-Maza CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Juliana Accioly, Judy Martel, Linda Marx, Michelle Payer, Susie Stanton Staikos CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Gabor Jurina, Jerry Rabinowitz

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Published by Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC, P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480, 561-659-0210 • Fax: 561-659-1736 Aventura magazine is a registered trademark of Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC • Corporate Headquarters: P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480

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Publisher Terry Duffy ACCOUNT MANAGERS Alex Bari, abari@aventuramagazine.com Sima Kohen, skohen@aventuramagazine.com Libby Lekach Roffe, lroffe@aventuramagazine.com Advertising Services Coordinator Ashley Fleak PRODUCTION Production Director Selene M. Ceballo Production Manager Brian Beach Digital Pre-Press Specialist George Davis Digital Production Coordinator Kassandre Kallen Advertising Design Coordinators Anaely J. Perez Vargas, Jeffrey Rey OPERATIONS Chief Operating Officer Todd Schmidt Process Integration Manager Sue Martel Digital Operations Manager Bill Fleak Circulation/Subscriptions Administrator Marjorie Leiva Distribution Manager Judy Heflin Accounting Specialist Lourdes Linares Accounts Receivable Specialist Ana Coronel SUBSCRIPTIONS 800-308-7346 HOUR MEDIA, LLC CEO Stefan Wanczyk President John Balardo PUBLISHERS OF: Palm Beach Illustrated • Naples Illustrated • Fort Lauderdale Illustrated • Orlando Illustrated Palm Beach Charity Register • Naples Charity Register • Florida Design • Florida Design Naples • Florida Design Miami • Florida Design Sourcebook • Palm Beach Relocation Guide • Fifth Avenue South • South Florida Baby and Beyond • The Jewel of Palm Beach: The Mar-a-Lago Club • Traditions: The Breakers • Palm Beach 100 • Naples 100 Art & Culture: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County Pinnacle: Jupiter Medical Center Foundation • Waypoints: Naples Yacht Club Naples on the Gulf: Naples Chamber of Commerce • Jupiter • Stuart • Aventura Community Foundation of Collier County Community Report 10

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(L to R): Lauren Jordan, Senior Registered Associate; John Duford, First Vice President, Financial Advisor; Mark Bodkins, Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor; Carolyn Williams, Senior Registered Associate; Maria Strand, Senior Client Service Associate

Experience outweighs uncertainty.

Advice Matters.

With recent events, an emphasis on managing risk has moved to the forefront as investors look for informed strategies to help them protect their wealth.

At Morgan Stanley, we have the experience, knowledge and resources to help you manage risk, to recognize how it could affect your portfolio, and to work toward minimizing its impact.

Meet with us to learn more and get personalized advice you need in an uncertain world.

The Bodkins Group at Morgan Stanley Mark N. Bodkins Senior Vice President Financial Advisor 305 936-2714 Mark.N.Bodkins@morganstanley.com NMLS #1395703 John Duford First Vice President Financial Advisor 305 936-2772 John.Duford@morganstanley.com NMLS# 1413970 20807 Biscayne Blvd, 6th Fl Aventura, FL 33180 fa.morganstanley.com/bodkins

Look for us on LinkedIn and The Bodkins Group at Morgan Stanley on Facebook

Morgan Stanley recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments and strategies, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor.

The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives © 2020 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

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SPECIFICATIONS 9" × 10.875"

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FROM THE EDITOR

The New LUXURY

Daphne Nikolopoulos daphne@aventuramagazine.com

CAPEHART

The sustainability conversation is not new, but this year it’s taken on increased urgency.

Some of that, no doubt, is due to the pandemic-induced awareness of the world around us, but there’s also a wholesale reevaluation of our practices, on both the personal and business fronts. If you look for it, you’ll find this heightened consciousness everywhere, as more and more industries recognize that green practices are safer for humans and for the planet.

Nowhere has this change been more needed than in fashion. It’s no revelation that fashion, particularly the fast variety, is one of the world’s biggest polluters. This year brought about the so-called “fashion pact,” in which a couple of dozen houses and retailers pledged to do their part to combat the climate and ocean crises. And some—like Maison de Mode—took it a step further and built entire businesses on the notion of ethical and informed choices. Impressed by Maison de Mode’s business model, we asked co-founder Amanda Hearst to curate our fashion edit using brands that fit the company’s sustainability standards, including organic, BIPOC- and women-owned, recycled, traditionally crafted, and USA-made. Amanda, the scion of one of America’s most storied families, has an eye for luxury and a vision for change. Her selects, seen in “Agent of Change” beginning on page 54, prove that you don’t have to give up one to have the other.

It could be argued whether art is a luxury or a necessity. In the same way that beauty feeds the soul, creative expression expands us and opens our minds to new ideas and possibilities. Jorge Pérez, featured with his wife, Darlene, on our cover this month, has long been a proponent of art’s provocative abilities and an ardent supporter of the artists who feed the cultural conversation. Jorge’s latest discovery is African contemporary art. He’ll be sharing his collection, and introducing Miami to emerging African artists, at El Espacio 23 throughout the year. Learn more in “Art Smart,” starting on page 44.

Here’s to a safe, healthy, and mindful 2021!

January #Goals « SIP VIRTUOUSLY Mocktails can be just as exciting as their alcoholic cousins. Can’t wait to mix up a Mint to Be at home.

Page 84.

« READ SOMETHING NEW Recent and upcoming releases promise to keep me up at night. I’ll be adding a few of our editors’ literary choices to my TBR pile. Page 30.

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AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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AVENTURIST

CRIS MORALES

COVETABLE FINDS, HOT HAPPENINGS, AND MUST-ATTEND EVENTS

Catch a full day of racing and entertainment at this year’s Pegasus World Cup.

PAUL MORIGI/GETTY IMAGES

HIGH STAKES

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PAUL MORIGI/GETTY IMAGES

THE MIX

South Florida’s biggest day of racing is headed to Gulfstream Park for the fourth consecutive year. The Pegasus World Cup, one of the premier events on the Thoroughbred racing calendar, will again make its mark with a $4 million purse and top-class racing on January 23.

This year’s iteration will offer socially distanced ticket offerings from the grandstand to the luxury of the Flamingo Room, a VIP suite with a bird’s-eye view of the track. Race-day music and entertainment round out the day’s programming, which has captured the attention of celebrities, the racing industry, and fans from around the world. (pegasusworldcup.com) —Juliana Accioly

JANUARY 2021

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AVENTURIST NEW AND NOW

Neighborhood STROLL

A sneak peek inside the reimagined COCOWALK

Edward Beiner Trendsetting design meets technology at Edward Beiner, home to the independent designer’s selection of artisanal products, including his 3D eyewear collection and brands such as McLaren and Cartier. Customizable frames and eye exams are included in the one-stop shopping experience. (edwardbeiner.com)

COURTESY OF EUROPANN

Coconut Grove’s entertainment hub has received a revamp, and it’s shaping up to be the city’s hottest new destination. The redeveloped 150,000-square-foot CocoWalk now features an eclectic roster of dynamic art, trendy fashion, and innovative eateries. A central, open-air courtyard and lush public spaces pay homage to the beauty of Miami’s oldest neighborhood. One CocoWalk, a five-story, 85,745-square-foot office building, occupies the property’s east side. Ahead of your next visit, be sure to check out our two picks below. (cocowalk.net) —J.A.

PRIME Real Estate

ASSOULINE DEBUTS IN BAL HARBOUR

LINCOLN ROAD WELCOME S POP-UPS Cutting-edge concepts, new eateries, and eclectic artists can set up shop on Lincoln Road this season for a limited time. The Lincoln Road Business Improvement District has revealed a retail pop-up program, allowing emerging purveyors to use the open-air promenade as an experimental lab for their operations. Among those featured include Jozy DeFord of Renegade Rustlers, a funky boho-chic vintage boutique, and David Rosen, who owns his namesake art gallery and sculpture garden. Gabriel “Dash” Diaz will also operate his plant nursery, Plant Daddy, which has garnered a reputation among locals for its offerings and plant care know-how. Here, Diaz dishes on his retail concept future. (lincolnrd.com) —J.A.

Why open a plant nursery?

I walked into a plant store three years ago, and my life was never the same. I fell in love with the peaceful energy of the place, had a great conversation with the owner, and left with my first plant—a ponytail palm.

Now my apartment is home to 70 plants. During the early stages of the pandemic, I was reevaluating my life decisions, and something just clicked. I decided to turn my green thumb into a business, and Plant Daddy was born.

Why do you think plants are gaining popularity?

It is scientifically proven that plants make people happy and brighten up their space. People take a plant home, watch it grow, and that has a great effect on their well-being.

Europann Europann’s second location in Miami will transport you to the French Riviera at its 962-square-foot space in CocoWalk.

From swim shorts to Anorak jackets and loafers, the Saint-Tropez men’s clothing brand provides the dream wardrobe to those gents who love day-to-night, chic beach attire. (europann.com)

What inspired your shop selections?

I carry everything from plants that only need to be watered once a week to more exotic, rare species like Alocasia Polly.

What advice do you have for new plant owners?

When people come into the store, I help them match their choices with the space they have available. I also sell water globes, planters, and pots designed to self-water to help with proper maintenance. Plants are simple, really. You just gotta water them, love them, and let them thrive. (plantdaddymiami.com) —J.A.

You don’t have to be an avid reader to enjoy a visit to Assouline’s pop-up at Bal Harbour Shops.

Get lost in a world of luxuriously crafted books, rare objects, and thoughtful gifts displayed inside a storefront that embodies Miami’s vibrant spirit.

Page-turners range from the brand’s Ultimate Collection of intricately handcrafted titles to new releases such as Horacio Silva’s Miami Beach, an illustrated coffee table book that takes readers on a tour of the Magic City’s vibrant history, landmarks, and culture.

The pop-up will run through February. (assouline.com) —J.A

20 AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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11/24/20 10:01 AM

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AVENTURIST ON EXHIBITION

RARE Treasures

Clockwise from far left: Marcel Katz; Salvador Dalí’s Saint George and The Dragon; Un Genereux Coursier

THE CONFIDANTE MIAMI BEACH

Art dealer Marcel Katz believes an ART RENAISSANCE is on the way

Marcel Katz is one Miamian to keep an eye on. Not only is he an art agent, dealer, and director, but he’s also the founder of Marcel Katz Art, an art gallery and dealership, and The Art Plug, an art and creative agency. His Art Plug Power House conceptual art fair and event platform established itself in 2018 during Miami Art Week with an over-the-top experiential event at a 30,000-square-foot police impound in Allapattah, which he turned into an interactive contemporary art gallery.

He now has a quickly expanding roster of more than 100 international artists and is the youngest authorized Salvador Dalí art dealer.

In partnership with New York-based art consultant and Salvador Dalí expert Bertrand Epaud, Katz has debuted the first-ever Dalí sculpture to exist in Miami, which will be exhibited through the end of the month at The Confidante Miami Beach. The collection of rare and treasured works titled The Real Surreal will feature modern art by the worldrenowned Spanish surrealist. Works of paper, bronze sculptures, and large-scale museum sculptures are available to view.

Those interested in catching a glimpse can purchase tickets in advance to confirm a time slot to explore the artwork with their group.

Guests can also purchase a “Plug Plus” package online, which will not only grant guests access 22

to the exhibit but also include several limitededition Art Plug and Dalí-themed exclusive merchandise.

A virtual component for those who want to experience the gallery from the comfort of their own homes will be available. Below, Katz discusses his partnership and the future of the arts in Miami. (artplug.com) What inspired your passion for the arts?

I got into art through my childhood. My mother was an oil painter, and I went to Europe a lot. I remember being blown away by all that, but I wanted to do something different. I worked in the Miami nightlife for a while, became familiar with both the social media and street art markets,

and had this vision of creating something that anyone could go to and not feel intimidated— something more approachable that at the same time would appeal to art collectors. Art is an outlet that can change people, and I wanted to make it more fun. I created the Art Plug based on the concept of interactive activations.

How has the global pandemic affected your work?

I believe coronavirus will lead to something like the Renaissance. After the [bubonic] plague, people realized how important culture was and that is also happening now. With so much falling apart, people want to enjoy the home they live in. We are actually selling more art than before the outbreak.

Why did you decide to debut this exhibit in Miami?

A century ago, Dalí himself lived in a reality similar to ours, and what he did for culture in his time is unparalleled. We’ve taken over The Confidante with his 800-pound structure Saint George and the Dragon, a reference to us overcoming 2020 and these turbulent times, along with Dalí’s egg, bronze sculptures, and works on paper. I also have six local artists doing tribute pieces with Dalí-esque influences throughout the hotel, two cabanas with photo-op experiences, and a pop-up tattoo station. The goal is to inspire and give people hope. We’re at a very tough time, but Miami isn’t canceled. We’re here to bring our city alive and make art accessible. The Real Surreal is here to represent the surreal reality we currently live in, and our will to overcome it. We are going to prevail because we always do. —J.A.

AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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11/20/20 4:04 PM

AVENTURIST GIVING BACK

Talents for GOOD

Rachael Russell Saiger’s nonprofit, Style Saves, combines fashion with philanthropy

By Melissa Puppo Back-to-school shopping for a new pair of sneakers or backpack is an annual childhood rite of passage. But for some underprivileged kids, it’s a ritual that’s out of reach. That’s why Rachael Russell Saiger launched her nonprofit Style Saves in 2011, uniting philanthropy and fashion to help those underserved in MiamiDade County.

The Rhode Island native’s passion project began during her start in Miami, styling ad campaigns for Ford Models. She was often surrounded by unused samples and excess back stock. During a school-shopping trip with her younger brother, she realized she could use her talents—and fashion connections—to style kids in need.

“Back when I started, kids weren’t required to wear uniforms, so there was a disadvantage the kids had in terms of not feeling equal to peers based on the financial status of their family and whether or not they could afford new outfits,” says the 32-year-old, who is also fashion director of the accessories line Miansai.

To get started, she hosted a fashion show fundraiser at the ultra-chic Soho Beach House during Miami Swim Week. With enough support secured, she held the first back-to-school event for several dozen kids. Nearly 10 years later (and operating from her office in Wynwood), Russell Saiger and her team dressed more than 7,500 students at her last event held in 2019.

The back-to-school bash usually takes place at Mana Wynwood Convention Center, because as Russell Saiger puts it, “that’s the only space big enough to accommodate us.” She works with a wide network to get the word out. “I target all of the migrant worker communities—any of the undocumented minors, undocumented families,” she says. “Any organizations that service those demographics I go to first, then we’ll reach out to all of the homeless shelters, the at-risk youth, Children of 24

Clockwise from above: Rachael Russell Saiger; the fashionable philanthropist (right) and Isabela Rangel Grutman; Style Saves’ back-to-school event

Inmates, and then I’ll go to the underprivileged communities.”

Kids are signed up ahead of time (with transportation provided) and are treated to a fun-filled afternoon of receiving free uniforms and school supplies along with getting haircuts, their faces painted, enjoying games, and more.

Style Saves’ outreach has since expanded from back-to-school to Halloween, holiday, and prom—where kids can stop by the Wynwood warehouse (now by appointment) and pick out lightly used clothing and accessories.

The organization also hosts a telethon fundraiser through social media with help from Russell Saiger’s partner Isabela Rangel Grutman and her husband, David Grutman (Miami

club maven and restaurateur extraordinaire), who encourage the community to donate and sponsor a student for back-to-school.

But Russell Saiger says she isn’t stopping there. Since the pandemic began, she’s gone all in to tackle the fallout from COVID-19.

“When the pandemic started, many people were like, ‘How can we help? What can we do?’” she says. Soon, she and her team were busy distributing protective gear and setting up weekly food drives with area restaurants such as Coyo Taco. Style Saves volunteers bring the meals to undocumented families who “can’t get food stamps, or unemployment checks, or the stimulus,” she says.

As word spread on social media, community support began pouring in, with restaurants donating meals and area families stepping up to create bagged lunches. “It’s very grassroots, very organic,” she says. “There are so many people that come together for Style Saves.”

When she’s not working on the nonprofit’s mission, she’s been busy collaborating with her husband, Michael Saiger, on Miansai, the luxury accessory line he launched nearly 12 years ago. They work in tandem to design the women’s and men’s collections, produce photo shoots, and the like. “That’s our family business,” she says. “I’ve moved on from being with an agency to being with my husband.

We work on that together, and of course on Style Saves.” (stylesaves.org)

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12/7/20 3:17 PM

May this coming year bring joy and health to you and your loved ones.

Sending my gratitude to you and your loved ones! There is no question that this year has been a challenging one for us all. Let’s hold our loved ones close to our hearts, the ones who are here and the ones we have lost.

Thankful for your business and support but most of all thankful for this community.

Turnberry Ocean Colony, Unit 1502 2 BD 2 BA 1 HB 2,235 SF $1,675,000

1420 Diplomat Parkway, Hollywood 5 BD 4 BA 2 HB 3,970 SF $2,470,000 Karen Matluck Luxury Real Estate Consultant 305.335.1010 karen.matluck@compass.com Not intended to solicit currently listed property. Š Compass Florida, LLC. Equal Housing Opportunity. All information furnished regarding property for sale or rent or regarding financing is from sources deemed reliable, but Compass makes no warranty or representation as to the accuracy thereof. All property information is presented subject to errors, omissions, price changes, changed property conditions, and withdrawal of the property from the market, without notice.

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11/25/20 8:53 AM

AVENTURIST

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Sustainable

SELECTIONS

Opt for pieces made using ecofriendly practices and materials

By Katherine Lande

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1. Bioluminesce felt hat in natural with a tonal grosgrain band butterfly bow ($1,325), Nick Fouquet, nickfouquet.com | 2. Jane bag in nude leather with rose-gold hardware (price upon request), Gabriela Hearst, gabrielahearst.com | 3. Mullu chandelier earrings in white onyx, red jasper, and rhodonite set in 24-karat gold-plated brass ($690), Monica Sordo, monicasordo.com | 4. Tortoise Bakelite bangle with red and pink inlay and pink sapphires ($7,840), Mark Davis, Betteridge, betteridge.com | 5. Crossbody Capsule handbag in scout tan ($159), Paravel, tourparavel. com | 6. Venturi tri-color sport sneakers in army ($175), Veja, Kirna ZabĂŞte, kirnazabete.com, veja-store.com

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11/24/20 9:16 AM

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11/25/20 9:11 AM

AVENTURIST THE LOOK

50 Shades of Denim

BLING RING Tiffany T T1 wide diamond bangle in 18-karat white gold ($30,000), Tiffany & Co., Aventura, tiffany.com

AN EVERYDAY FABRIC GETS REIMAGINED AND ELEVATED

By Katherine Lande TINY DANCER Viva ballet flats in denim ($675), Salvatore Ferragamo, Bal Harbour, ferragamo.com

TO A T Denim T-clasp shoulder bag ($2,950), Tom Ford, Neiman Marcus, Bal Harbour, neimanmarcus.com POSH PUFF Medium puffer monogram chain bag in denim and suede leather ($2,350), Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello, Aventura, ysl.com

SLICE AND DICE BB Knife denim mules ($950), Balenciaga, Bal Harbour, balenciaga.com

STYLE NOTES

CHANEL CRUISE 2021 Washed denim jacket ($2,950), washed denim jeans ($1,550), Chanel, Bal Harbour, chanel.com

COLOR STORY: Chambray, faded, and indigo shades look fresh this season.

ICE, ICE, BABY: Denim and diamonds make the perfect pairing for day or night.

CLASSICAL NOTES: Opt for accessories that have timeless shapes and styles.

OFF THE CHAIN XL Pill link necklace with baguette diamonds ($21,600), Deborah Pagani, deborahpagani.com PUMP IT UP Indigo denim pumps with crystal embroidery ($995), Jimmy Choo, Aventura, jimmychoo.com DARK BLUE Denim crossbody clutch with embellished strass buckle ($1,595), Roger Vivier, Bal Harbour, rogervivier.com 28

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11/24/20 9:17 AM

STAY CONNECTED! AVENTURA intrigues, entertains, keeps readers informed on trends in dining, fashion, beauty, the arts and entertainment, fun and celebrities. Meet locals who are making their mark and discover all that is happening in the area.

aventuramagazine.com

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3/25/20 9:36 AM

AVENTURIST

HUMAN EXPERIENCE Group (Simon and Schuster, $27), Christie Tate

THE EDIT

POETRY POWER What Kind of Woman: Poems (Harper Perennial, $30), Kate Baer

ENEMY SECRETS The Rose Code (HarperCollins, $17.99), Kate Quinn —Melissa Puppo, managing editor

SHORT GAME The Office of Historical Corrections: A Novella and Stories (Penguin Random House, $27), Danielle Evans —Kristen Desmond LeFevre, senior editor

Release Radar

OUR EDITORS SHARE TRENDING TOMES FOR YOUR READING WISH-LIST

By Melissa Puppo

HAUNTED BY MEMORY Invisible Ink (Yale University Press, $24), Patrick Modiano AESTHETIC GLOBETROTTER Travel by Design (Assouline, $30), Peter Sallick —Daphne Nikolopoulos, editor in chief REVOLUTIONARY READ How Beautiful We Were (Penguin Random House, $28), Imbolo Mbue SUPREME SUSPENSE While Justice Sleeps: A Novel (Penguin Random House, $20), Stacey Abrams —Abigail Duffy, web editor

NEAR AND DEAR Dearly (HarperCollins, $27.99), Margaret Atwood JUSTICE SERVED We Keep the Dead Close: A Murder at Harvard and a Half Century of Silence (Grand Central Publishing, $29), Becky Cooper —Mary Murray, executive editor 30 AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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11/23/20 1:31 PM

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Make 2021 a great year and may it be filled with health, peace and prosperity!

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11/19/20 1:27 PM

AVENTURIST BEAUTY BEAT

ASHLEY MEYER

HEMP HYPE

For skin in need of some serious post-holiday soothing, cannabidiol-infused formulas are cropping up all over. Hemp-derived CBD acts as an antioxidant and is a nourishing fix for inflammation and dryness. Try these products for help taming discoloration and more: Freeman CBD Destress Jelly Mask + Cleanser ($10, Ulta); Truly Unicorn Soothe & Glow Whipped Body Butter ($35, Ulta); Garnier Green Labs Pore Perfecting Serum Cream with niacinamide and cannabis sativa seed oil ($17, Target); Wldkat Saffron + Oat Milk Glow Serum with broad spectrum CBD ($39, wldkat.com); Flower Beauty Chill Out Calming Skin Serum ($16; flowerbeauty.com); and Common Ground Hydrating Serum with hyaluronic acid and hemp extract ($65, commonground-health.com). —Abigail Duffy

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11/25/20 10:00 AM

1 3 JEWELRY BOX

2

Have a BALL

CIRCLE takes the square with swanky spherical jewels

By Mary Murray 1. UNDER THE SEA Yvel earrings with gold and brown South Sea pearls and cognac diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $7,313. Yvel, Boca Raton (yvel.com) 2. ORANGE CRUSH Assael Beyond Rare Melo Melo natural saltwater pearl set in a detachable cage pendant with diamonds on a platinum chain, $480,000.

Saks Fifth Avenue locations (saksfifthavenue.com) 3. GUIDING LIGHT Seaman Schepps Nantucket Lightship bead necklaces in 18-karat gold, $15,475 each. (seamanschepps.com) 4. DESERT ROSE Cartier Cactus de Cartier ring with spinels and diamonds set in 18-karat rose gold, $19,400.

Cartier, Aventura, Miami Design District (cartier.com) 5. SOLID GOLD Bondeye Jewelry ring in 14-karat gold, $895. Neiman Marcus, Coral Gables, Bal Harbour (neimanmarcus.com) 6. PAINT IT BLACK Lagos Black Caviar bracelet with black ceramic caviar beading and diamonds set in sterling silver, $1,450. Bloomingdale’s, Aventura (bloomingdales.com) 7. THINK PINK Lugano Diamonds pink ball drop earrings with fancy pink and white diamonds set in 18-karat white and rose gold, price upon request. (luganodiamonds.com) 8. PARTY OF FIVE Kwiat bangle with diamonds and 18-karat gold and white gold, $4,650. (kwiat.com)

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11/24/20 2:51 PM

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

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11/25/20 2:32 PM

ESCAPE

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO BUCKET-LIST TRAVEL, QUICK GETAWAYS, AND THE ART OF TRANSPORTATION

WANDERLUST

Bahamian Rhapsody

With extraordinary beauty and a pedigree to match, The Ocean Club on Paradise Island returns to its aristocratic roots under the auspices of the Four Seasons

By Daphne Nikolopoulos

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ESCAPE

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Clockwise from top right: Yoga on the waterfront; the Cloisters; an oceanfront suite comes with a private terrace or balcony; the Hartford Courtyard; sip the preferred libations of famous previous guests at the Martini Bar.

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n a baby grand piano in The Ocean Club’s swank Martini Bar sits a black and white photo of The Beatles frolicking in the surf. Let your gaze wander past a lush lawn to an alfresco terrace and down a gentle slope to the beach, and you can see the precise swathe of turquoise in which they were standing.

The year was 1964, and the Fab Four were visiting the property’s owner, industrialist and society bastion Huntington Hartford. Hartford, the heir of grocery chain A&P, had famously bought the island in 1960 and changed its name from Hog to Paradise. It wasn’t just that Paradise was easier on the ears. Hartford had big ambitions for the island and its centerpiece, a 35-acre estate with magnificent tiered gardens inspired by the Palace of Versailles.

With the help of Palm Beach architect John Volk, he transformed the estate into The Ocean Club, a 52-room resort with amenities to capture the fancy of the international elite. Perhaps the most audacious feature, which today makes everyone who passes do a double take, was the installation of the Cloisters, a series of arcades from a twelfth-century Augustinian monastery, originally purchased, but never used, by William Randolph Hearst for his eponymous California castle.

The glitterati took notice. Aside from The Beatles, Hartford welcomed—with ample Champagne, no doubt—

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11/24/20 10:49 AM

luminaries like Benny Goodman, Elvis Presley, Burl Ives, and Sean Connery, who famously filmed Thunderball on the island.

(Long after the Hartford years, the 2006 Bond film Casino Royale was also filmed on property.)

It’s impossible to visit The Ocean Club— now a Four Seasons Resort—today and not hear the echoes of those heady years. The original rooms, designed by Volk, are still known as the Hartford Wing and retain much of their 1960s character. The Martini Bar is filled with photos of famous guests and serves their martinis of choice. And the four-bedroom Beachfront Villa Residence, immortalized in film, is synonymous with James Bond’s amorous escapades.

The resort’s glamorous legacy is felt most intensely in the Versailles Gardens. From the Hartford Wing, a path leads to the terraced gardens that epitomize the word “palatial.” The quarter-mile walk meanders through hedges, foliage, and a slew of imported fountains and sculptures, including Cupid and Psyche, circa 1897, by Italian sculptor Aristide Petrilli. Stone steps ascend to the edge of the property and its crown, the aforementioned Cloisters overlooking Nassau Harbor.

There is no better spot than this for a picnic. As part of its private-dining program, the resort offers a classic alfresco spread, with a customized menu and free-flowing Champagne, on the Versailles lawn. Blankets, pillows, and umbrellas make for a casual, cozy gathering ideal for couples or families, while the grandeur of the location elevates it to unforgettable status. For those who prefer a view of blue to green, private dining is also available on the shoreline.

For an epicurean experience curated by Jean-Georges

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Clockwise from above: Balcony in the Hartford Wing; the terrace at Dune; indulge in a private dinner on the beach; Versailles Gardens is a quartermile walk through foliage and sculpture.

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ESCAPE The resort’s infinity-edge pool overlooks the ocean. Dune by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten sits in the distance and offers creative takes on Caribbean standards.

Vongerichten, Dune reigns on a bluff above the ocean’s edge. Vongerichten’s signature French-Asian cuisine is localized with Caribbean flavors like coconut, tamarind, and passion fruit, and articulated in such dishes as Bahamian conch salad, local lobster with ginger-steamed bok choy, and roasted grouper with Malaysian chili sauce and basil oil. For a real local treat, opt for a breakfast of Bahamian boiled fish with johnny cakes and grits. In the hands of executive chef Curtis Smithen, the humble staple becomes a culinary wonder.

After dinner, the place to be is the colonial-style Martini Bar and Lounge. Order a Vesper martini and channel Daniel Craig, whose famous Casino Royale poker scene was filmed within the bar’s confines. With Champagne and martinis flowing into the night, the atmosphere is as effervescent as it was in the resort’s heyday. History repeats itself, and that’s a very good thing. (fourseasons. com/oceanclub) «

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11/24/20 10:49 AM

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12/4/20 9:44 AM

ESCAPE

HIGH ROAD

ROCKY ROADER

Land Rover’s long-awaited DEFENDER 110 can take the rough with the smooth

By Howard Walker Ever wanted to go giraffe spotting? Or gaze upward at some snowy mountain peak? Or watch a rocket lift off from Cape Canaveral? You can.

Just climb into the back seat of Land Rover’s Defender SUV and look up.

Yes, you’ll get a pretty unlimited skyward view through the panoramic glass roof. But the icing on the celestial-vista cake is the Rover’s socalled safari windows. These long, slender strips of glass—one on each side—are set in the curvy roof just above the rear doors.

No big deal, right? They’re just windows. But with today’s exhaustive safety requirements and strict roll-over protection rules, they’re a nightmare to create. So why did the engineers at Land Rover design, develop, and include them in this new Defender? One word: authenticity.

They’re there because the original Defender came with them. From Virginia McKenna’s rugged ride in the film Born Free, to the Queen of England’s pristine example she uses to bounce around her royal estates, pretty much every Defender since 1962 has had them.

Despite the old Defender developing an almost cult-like following around the globe, Land Rover decided—thankfully—not to do

a cut-and-paste version when it came to a replacement. If you’ve ever driven in such a car, you’ll know that it’s one of the most uncomfortable, jiggly-riding, drafty, gutless machines ever to roll on four wheels.

Instead, Land Rover gave it the authenticity of the old model by building in the kind of technology that will let it crawl up the side of Everest, cross the Sahara, and wade through Amazonian rainforest goop. It truly is the new off-roading benchmark, the ultimate go-anywhere-and-everywhere vehicle. Which is something you’ll no doubt take comfort in as you drive off that muddy Little League parking lot.

The four-door, long-wheelbase Defender 110 is best seen in profile, with its sliced-off rear-end, square-edged side windows, high waistline, and brawny shoulders. In addition to those iconic safari windows you’ll notice other authentic design cues, such as diamond-tread plates on the hood, semi-circular LED lights up front, and a spare wheel hanging on the back door.

At first glance of the interior, however, you might not be as impressed. It all feels very basic, spartan even, with acres of dark plastic. But look carefully to discover more of that classic

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11/24/20 10:39 AM

THE NEW HILTON A V E N T U R A

Defender style—door panels with hexaPOWER FILE gon screw heads, chunky grab handles, PRICE: FROM $50,500, and neoprene-like rubber. Plus, there’s $73,085 AS TESTED ENGINE: a ton of space, especially in the back 3.0-LITER TURBO IN-LINE SIX where kneeroom is positively limo-like.

POWER: 395 HP TORQUE: 406 LB-FT TRANSMISSION: There’s a third row available, but don’t 8-SPEED AUTOMATIC 0-60: 5.8 bother; no human should ever be asked SECONDS TOP SPEED: 119 MPH to sit there.

LENGTH/WIDTH: 198/79 Here in the U.S., we get to choose INCHES WEIGHT: 4,815 from two engines: a 2.0-liter 296-hp turPOUNDS WHY WE LOVE IT: bo-four that you won’t want and a 3.0-liBECAUSE IT ELEVATES THE ter turbo inline-six packing close to 400 CLASSIC DEFENDER WITH hp that you will. With the big six, the DeMODERN STYLE AND FINESSE. fender leaps off the line with power and strength. Unlike the original Defender’s engine, this is whisper-quiet, refined, and silky-smooth at speed. On the road, steering is precise and nicely weighted, and handling is surprisingly nimble.

Pricewise, a base four-cylinder Defender 110 will set you back $50,500, though start piling on the options and you can climb to more than $90,000.

Look out too for the upcoming, short-wheelbase, two-door Defender 90, which is like a Jeep Wrangler on steroids. Prices are from $46,100.

Yes, this new Defender has been a long time coming. But the wait has definitely been worth it. Think of it as the coolest four-by-four by far— with the coolest windows. «

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ESCAPE

HIGH SEAS

American BEAUTY

Huckins’ new 38 Sportsman combines CLASSIC STYLE with advanced hybrid-electric power

A Huckins 36 Sportsman circa 1936

By Howard Walker Anyone with a love of all things nautical would gaze in heart-palpitating joy at the sight of this classic Huckins 38 Sportsman rushing by at 35 knots. They’d smile in admiration at its sleek Art Deco design, its swoosh of mirror-varnished mahogany, the ease at which its classic hull slices through the water like a hot knife through butter.

Anyone who knows their boats would swear it was a painstakingly restored Sportsman 36 “woody” that Frank Pembroke Huckins began building at his Jacksonville yard back in 1936. If they caught up with the boat at the dock, they might gush with praise for the owner’s diligence in bringing such a beautiful piece of history back to life. Imagine their shock to discover that this particular 42

Huckins is brand spanking new from the keel up. Oh, and did we mention it’s a hybrid?

Full credit goes to Huckins Yachts for listening to owners who asked for a contemporary version of the iconic Sportsman 36, built with modern-day materials and state-of-theart propulsion. The result is the Huckins 38 Sportsman that made its debut at the recent Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

See this gray-hulled stunner in the fiberglass and there’s no mistaking its origins.

Unapologetically retro, it embraces its heritage down to its hull form, which is evolved from Frank Huckins’ original Quadraconic design. However, instead of trusty timber, this new 38 uses the very latest in marine construction materials, including Core-Cell M100

impact-resistant structural foam, Kevlar and E-glass, and carbon fiber.

Then there’s that hybrid diesel-electric power, which is the real Back to the Future feature here. Lift up a cockpit hatch to gaze upon a pair of beefy 380-hp Cummins QSB inline-six turbo diesels. Mounted behind each is a 20-hp Elco EP-20 electric motor juiced by a bank of nine (18 total) lithium iron phosphate batteries.

Owners will appreciate the duality such a system offers. Fire up the diesels and you can charge off to that favorite anchorage at a speedy 35 knots. Should you want to take friends and family on a laid-back sunset cruise and not upset the cheese plate, flick a couple of switches and the world goes silent as

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POWER FILE

PRICE: FROM $1.18 MILLION LENGTH: 38 FEET BEAM: 12 FEET, 6 INCHES DRY WEIGHT: 18,000 POUNDS POWER: 2 X 380-HP CUMMINS/2 X 20-HP ELCO ELECTRIC TOP SPEED: 35 KNOTS WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE THE PRETTIEST BOAT AT THE DOCK HAS THE POWER TO SURPRISE AT EVERY TURN.

the Elcos kick in. In full electric mode, the Huckins will glide along at an easy 7 knots for a couple of hours or more. Need to keep going? Trigger the hushed 8kW Phasor generator and, theoretically, you could run all day on electric.

The surprises and delights keep coming. With a fully charged bank of batteries, you can drop the hook and spend the night aboard in silent, air-conditioned comfort, with no need to call on the genset.

Speaking of life aboard, you’ll adore the honest simplicity of the Sportman’s accommodations. The cockpit’s U-shaped seating has comfy lounging space for five, with a retractable SureShade awning for sun protection. There’s even an available misting system to keep the crew cool.

Step up to the climate-controlled bridge deck beneath that hardtop and there’s an L-shaped settee to seat five more, a double-wide Stidd helm seat, and a single Stidd for the co-pilot. Step down into the cabin, which is open to the bridge, and there’s a modest but wellconceived galley, a head with a separate shower, and 6-foot-6-inch headroom throughout.

One really clever element is the V-shaped dinette up front. At the push of a button, the high-low table descends and the two sections of the V slide together to make a queen-sized bed. And because it’s a Huckins, the quality and craftsmanship of the woodwork is gorgeous.

Of course, all this quality, craftsmanship, and technical brilliance doesn’t come cheap. This hybrid Huckins starts at around $1.2 million.

But for lovers of 1930s style and elegance with a very modern twist, this 38 Sportsman truly stands out. «

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HAVE YOU MADE A STATEMENT LATELY? ESTABLISHED 1987 ALWAYS A DISCOUNT ON EVERYTHING

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ARTSMART How Jorge Pérez hopes to transform cities with art—starting with Miami

By Susie Stanton Staikos | Photography by Jerry Rabinowitz Sometimes called Miami’s “condo king,” real estate developer, philanthropist, and art collector Jorge Pérez is passionate about art and its traditions. Art, he says, is just part of his life. But his life’s work is making it part of Miami’s cultural life, as well.

“I’ve been collecting art for upwards of about 50 years, since I was a college student in Long Island,” Pérez recalls. Back then, Pérez and like-minded friends would pile into an old car and go into New York City on weekends to explore the museums and the galleries down in SoHo. “With a few dollars I would try 44 AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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Darlene and Jorge Pérez.; Opposite page from top: Artwork featured inside the couple’s home includes Alex Katz’s Alba hanging above the fireplace and John Chamberlain’s Buoy Crazy made of chromium plated steel; Ivan Capote’s Pain Killers.

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to buy limited-edition prints that in those days were inexpensive, but by very good artists, which I still have.”

“Art became very important,” he explains. “As I started developing and started to become more successful and economically able, I started to make art not only part of my life but also for the communities that I first built, and then the neighborhoods and the city around those communities.”

Even when he moved to Miami in 1976 after graduate school at the University of Michigan, Pérez continued to build his collection. “I started to collect Latin American art because I wanted to feel close to my roots. I was staying in the United States, and I wanted to continue to have that relationship with the Latin American culture from the countries that I was brought up in.”

Pérez began to recognize that immigrants from a number of Latin American countries were making Miami their home. “If we were truly going to become the capital of the Americas and the epicenter of the Latin American world, it was [imperative] for Miami to have a very, very important Latin American art collection that would make the city not just focused on tourism but on culture and art, so that people from Latin America who were buying condominiums in Miami would have a home away from home in the cultural sense. That’s why Latin American art became important for the city and that’s when it was important for me to make a

Above: Jose Manuel Fors’ Columna made of books, paper, and rope; Wifredo Lam’s Untitled ca. 1925; Jennifer Bartlett’s In the Garden #201.

Right: En la naturaleza no hay líneas rectos by Sandra Gamarra; Sandu Darie’s Untitled ca. 1950; Wifredo Lam’s Sol (Chino Sentado con Abanico en las Manos).

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Louise Nevelson’s painted wood sculpture titled Vertical Cloud takes center stage in the dining room.

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Above: Peter Halley’s Arcturus, Chantal Joffe’s Marina, Julio Le Parc’s Volumen Vertical, 196072; Left: Ruben Torres’ Uorca, The Fairest Art Collector of Them All.

contribution to that.”

To that end, Pérez donated 95 percent of his collection of Latin American art to the Miami Art Museum that now bears his name. He says the donation freed him up to look more seriously at abstract expressionism and European colorist painters that he had always loved.

Later, the discovery of contemporary art in Africa was a revelation.

“We went on a safari to South Africa and visited the museums in Johannesburg and Cape Town. I saw huge similarities between Latin America and Africa in that they were continents that were colonized by Europeans, producing terrible results, including slavery and almost the killing of the culture,” he recalls. “I saw the incredible emerging art coming out of Africa, which reminded me a lot of Latin American art,” he says, noting the connection he sees among the works of AfricanAmerican artists, Afro-Cuban artists, and Afro-Brazilian artists. “Those three countries were centers of the slave trade,” he says. “I really became enamored by the artists and the art that was being produced.” Since then Pérez

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has gone to South Africa and other African countries many times to buy African contemporary art and visit artists’ studios. Pérez notes that a lot of the work centers around the same social issues that Latin American artists talk about: colonialism, sexism, exploitation, and slavery. “All those issues were deeply reflected there in beautiful photography and videos, paintings, and installations and sculptures,” he says. “I was just hooked, and I have built what I think is a very important African contemporary collection.”

Much of Pérez’s collection is on display in Miami—a city that Pérez refers to as the “capital of the Americas.”

Both the Pérez Art Museum Miami (known as PAMM) and El Espacio 23 (EE23)—a private, 30,000-square-foot gallery space in Allapattah—carry works from his impressive art collection.

But exhibiting art for the public to enjoy isn’t the only way that Pérez is transforming the Magic City. There’s also the Jorge M. Pérez Family Foundation. Part of its philanthropic commitment is advancing the national arts and culture ecosystem. Another arm supports cul

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Clockwise from above left: Peter Halley’s Arcturus and Julio Le Parc’s Volumen Vertical; Ernesto Garcia Sanchez’s Untitled, from the Series of Paintings That Are Rather Born Dead; Frank Stella’s Scramble: Descending Green Values/Descending Spectrum.

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Clockwise from right: Helen Frankenthaler’s Vanilla; Rodolfo Morales’ Untitled pictured above kitchen cabinet; Special Etude by Abdoulaye Diarrasouba (Aboudia)

tural and educational needs in minority and economically distressed communities in the Miami area. The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has seen the foundation step up its level of giving to individuals who lost jobs and partnered with the school board to provide families with the necessary internet connections for distance learning.

From the time Pérez first observed art in public spaces while traveling in Europe as a young man, he has embraced this concept and has replicated it in his condo developments. In October 2020, the Foundation launched the inaugural Jorge and Darlene Pérez Prize in Public Arts & Civic Design. Created in collaboration with America for the Arts, the $250,000 prize is a first-of-its-kind national program, which will benefit artists, public art administrators, and professionals from the civic design field. The annual gift will celebrate the work of individuals who support, develop, and manage the incorporation of art into the design of places and spaces across the United States.

It includes a cash stipend and additional financial support for continuing learning opportunities.

Never one to rest on past successes, Pérez has big plans for Miami’s art scene in 2021. Through July 2021, PAMM will be presenting Allied with Power: African and African Diaspora Art from the Jorge M. Pérez Collection. An exhibition of over 40 works by 36 international African and African diaspora artists, including William Kentridge, 50 AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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“

I HAVE BUILT WHAT I THINK IS A VERY IMPORTANT AFRICAN CONTEMPORARY COLLECTION.” —JORGE PÉREZ

Clockwise from above left: Flesh Table by Elizabeth Murray; Jennifer Bartlett’s In the Garden #201, and Doris Salcedo’s Untitled, 2006; Herbert Brandl’s Untitled and Diana Fonseca’s Untitled, from the Degradation Series.

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Darlene and Jorge Pérez with Giorgio de Chirico’s Gli Archeologi.

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From below left: Walking Man

by Fernando Botero; Sandro Chia’s Le Bognanti.

Right: Another Time XV by Antony Gormley

Kiluanji Kia Henda, Guido Llinás, Misheck Masamvu, Zanele Muholi, Chéri Samba, and Yinka Shonibare.

Since December 2020, El Espacio 23 has been celebrating its first anniversary with Witness: Afro Perspectives from the Jorge M. Pérez Collection, with Zimbabwean guest curator Tandazani Dhlakama from the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art (Zeitz MOCAA) in Cape Town. One hundred works by African and African diaspora artists address themes of systematic oppression, intergenerational trauma, syncretism, identity, and territory.

“We are very pleased that Miami is going to have real significant African and African-American collections for the public to understand the depth and variety of the art coming from the African continent and its influences on the American continent,” says Pérez. “We will have a series of artist residencies. The one we have now, Masimba Hwati from Zimbabwe, is living at El Espacio, producing artworks here with the community, which will be part of other museum collections. In many ways, we are bringing Africa to Miami, which is very exciting to me.”

Pérez finds it impossible to name his favorite artists; there are so many of them from each continent and each genre, including many young up-and-coming artists. He sees philanthropy and giving back as the bulk of his future work. It’s work, he says, that can transform cities—not just through building structures, but through sharing culture.

It’s a mission he carried with him throughout his career. “My ultimate goal is to help others experience this link,” he says.

“To be remembered as someone who has contributed in a meaningful way to help make society a better place.” «

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AGENTof

CHANGE Guest curator Amanda Hearst, co-founder of Maison de Mode, demonstrates the versatility and timeless beauty of sustainable fashion

JOACHIM RØNNING

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GABOR JURINA

Above, on Amanda Hearst: Envelope1976 dress, Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com Opposite page: Amur Lucinda print bustier ($328), Annalise print skirt ($498); Aera Sally heels in silver mirror ($375); Marlo Laz Porte Bonheur enamel earrings ($6,400); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

Fashion editor: Katherine Lande

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Amanda Hearst believes that one does not need to sacrifice style for sustainability.

“It is my personal and professional mission to prove that luxury, fashion, and sustainability can be seamlessly blended,” says Hearst.

She co-founded Maison de Mode (maisonde-mode.com) in 2015 to give customers a convenient marketplace that brings together more than 70 ethical and eco-friendly fashion brands, with the goal of encouraging a shift toward a more sustainable future.

The garments sold on the Maison de Mode site adhere to certain standards of sustainability and are clearly labeled with icons that denote distinctions such as recycled, eco-packaging, cruelty-free, and organic. Maison de Mode also supports and features brands created by Black/Indigenous People of Color, as well as womenowned businesses.

In the spirit of sustainability, Aventura invited Hearst to guest curate our January fashion story featuring designs available through Maison de Mode. “This curation was inspired by the iconic bold and loud element historically associated with high fashion married with the modern ethos of sustainable fashion,

which emphasizes versatility, timelessness, and comfort over seasonal and temporary trends,” Hearst explains. She adds that this edit “is made up of pieces that can easily be worn for a casual day around town just as they can be dressed up for a night out.”

The backdrop for this fashion shoot is also a model of sustainability—this time, as it applies to architecture. Located on Palm Beach and designed by Daniel Kahan of Smith and Moore Architects, the home of Jim Held and Kenn Karakul demonstrates that sustainability can work in concert with timeless architecture and style. In 2019, the Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach honored the home with its annual Schuler Award for excellence in new architecture.

The home’s most impressive feat of renewable energy is actually only visible from above. Atop the roof, surrounded by low parapet walls, are 230 solar panels, all made in the United States. More often than not, the panels generate all the energy the house uses, between 350 and 400 kilowatts per day. Other notable features include builtin water-collection, water-purification, and fresh air–ventilation systems. —Mary Murray

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Amur Constance print romper ($398); Marlo Laz large Porte Bonheur enamel necklace ($4,880), Porte Bonheur enamel earrings ($6,400); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

Opposite page: Amur Allegra floral print gown ($698); Marlo Laz five-coin necklace ($20,880); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

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Campo Collection Lydia nightgown in milk ($575); Aera Audrey flats in black patent effect ($345); KBH earrings with Tahitian black pearls and diamond sweethearts ($2,400); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

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niLuu Monroe kimono ($920); Nayla Josefina slides in black fish scale ($275); KBH leaf ear climbers ($1,280), Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

Opposite page: Amur Miray top in white ($248); Marlo Laz heart pinky yellow gold ring ($1,495); Shashi Dakota necklace ($60), ring set ($65); KBH square bling ring in white gold ($6,995); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

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Michelle Waugh Joann double-breasted blazer ($995); Amur Apollo white shorts ($268); Aera Audrey flats in black patent effect ($345); Shashi Dakota necklace ($60), ring set ($65); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

Opposite page: Amur Jerre print blouse ($348), Ally print skirt ($348); Aera Sally heels in gold mirror ($375); KBH square bling ring in white gold ($6,995); Maison de Mode, maison-de-mode.com.

Model: Anastasia Bondarenko, Elite Model Management, Miami Hair and makeup: Heather Blaine, Creative Management, Miami Digital tech: Javier Sanchez Fashion assistant: Roxy Rooney, Honey Communications Aventura extends a special thanks to Kevin Condon for providing the location.

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ACCESSING ART

Valentina and Jeff Gutchess open their art-filled, waterfront Miami home for a dinner party complete with culture, cocktails, and conversation

A

By Linda Marx | Photography by Jerry Rabinowitz

rt is a medium of expression, like a second heart beating inside of us. It entertains, challenges us to think and feel, and gives voice to our emotions and opinions. For Valentina and Jeff Gutchess of Miami Shores, art also offers the opportunity for life and work to meet love.

In 2000, after a sun-soaked vacation, Valentina moved to Miami because the city was cosmopolitan and diverse, filled with Europeans and South Americans. She could see business was booming, and culture was heating up. In 2005, she met Jeff, a Cornell University-educated lawyer, who was raised in the leafy Finger Lakes town of Groton, New York. With his job defending multinational companies, he had moved to Miami in 2000 for work on a Bacardi case.

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“We were introduced at Casa Tua,” says Valentina of the romantic South Beach restaurant. “Jeff and I hit it off because we are both positive people who enjoy life. We take risks and push each other to be our very best. Our first date was a twomile run because we both love being outside with nature.”

Jeff, 53, who spent a few years adapting to Miami and its openness after spending his childhood in a small rural town, was impressed with Valentina’s moxie and spirit. “Valentina is entrepreneurial, a business person who seizes the moment, where I am more cautious as a lawyer,” he says. “We discovered immediately that we have many of the same interests like loving the beach, the sun, biking, boating, and the many interesting people in this growing city.”

They were married in 2006, had daughter Arabella, now 13, and a student at Miami Country Day school, and began col

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lecting contemporary art. Born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, Valentina developed an interest in art during her years traveling internationally. In Miami, she partnered in a retail store with the Peruvian born fashion designer Julian Chang, who has dressed Gloria Estefan, Paris Hilton, and Madonna.

“I like new challenges, fashion, clothes, and marketing,” she says of the experience. “I helped Julian expand his brand.”

About two years ago, Valentina encouraged Jeff to open his own law practice. He had shifted toward the plaintiff side, and was eager to go out on his own but had concerns about the costs. “Valentina was so inspirational that I finally felt confident to start with a new concept and no system in place,” says Jeff of his AXS Law in Wynwood. “She got all of the ducks in a row, streamlined us and helped implement our ideas to promote the talents of young lawyers, treat them fairly and

Opposite page: Jeff and Valentina Gutchess Above: The couple hosted an artcentric dinner party at their Miami Shores home.

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From left: The dinner party took place against a backdrop of the Intracoastal; beef with beets tartare and salmon cheesecake created by chef Andrea Marchesin featuring Typoe’s artwork in the background.

equitably in their compensation, and encourage them to enjoy life to the fullest, including the pursuit of extensive travel and outside interests.”

Valentina now manages the law firm.

When they’re not busy with work pursuits, the couple looks forward to relaxing at home, with its pure white living spaces, sleek contemporary furniture, splashy art, sculptures, and collectibles, all facing a magnificent and unblemished view of the Intracoastal Waterway. “I love design and wanted our personality reflected in the house,” says Valentina.

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“I mix and match our colorful art. It’s eclectic and fun and makes us happy.”

They love to entertain, hosting guests in their home with its relaxed vibe and chill waterfront location. Although they love dining out, too, they admit that they find it easier to have in-depth conversations at home rather than in a restaurant.

Valentina says she learned how to organize and entertain from her mother’s regular Sunday parties of 12-14 guests who gathered in their Caracas home for darts, dominoes, and dinner. “I learned from my mother that it is a host’s job to be sure everyone has fun,” she says. “We have hosted dinner parties for years because we have lots of friends and enjoy mixing them up,” Jeff adds. “We like to tell stories about the past, learn new things, and compare notes about life, law, and business.”

The couple recently invited a group of guests for an art-themed outdoor dinner party. Things started hopping inside around the open living spaces with a welcome drink of gin with basil, lime, lemon, and syrup. When Miami artist Typoe arrived, he walked past his own intriguing canvas of a large smiley face created with gunpowder, which dominates the foyer.

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(The artist also works with fire, plastic, spray paint, and found objects to create his message laden works and installations.)

Typoe has become friends with the hosts and enjoys their parties because he feels welcome and relaxed. “Valentina and Jeff are awesome people, and I love their serene living room that is so inviting with colorful couches scattered around,” he says of the bold decor.

As guests were introduced, they munched on passed appetizers of custom created beef with beets tartare, and light salmon cheesecake with special Italian made Calvisius Caviar created by chef Andrea Marchesin of Toscana Divino Hospitality. They also spent time admiring the art, including works by photographers Ryan Schude and Terry O’Neill and painter Santiago Rubino.

After a passing thunderstorm that produced a stunning rainbow, guests

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Clockwise from above left: The welcome drink made of gin, basil, lime, lemon, and syrup; Judy Sun of Divine Creations executed a tablescape adorned with colorful arrangements of pink roses and blue hydrangeas; Spanish octopus “puttanesca” with Florida heirloom tomatoes and capers.

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Clockwise from above left: Valentina with guests Bruce and Lilly Platt; French green bean salad with red wine vinaigrette, shallot, and Sicilian almonds; risotto with green asparagus, cured egg yolk, and Grana Padano cheese.

headed for the backyard, where the open tented tablescape next to the swimming pool dazzled with color, flowers, and floating candles atop mirrored squares.

Created by Judy Sun of Divine Creations, the long table showcased a creative runner made of branches from queen palm seed pod branches. They were dried, painted, and arranged artfully to accessorize the Born Blue orchids between each colorful arrangement. Hot pink roses, blue hydrangeas, and other florals repeated the colors of the art. “My floral design is touche´,” laughs Sun. “I get to use art to create art.”

Each place setting included gold-rimmed white china from Bavaria atop gold chargers, water glasses from Valentina’s family, clean lined Italian wine goblets, and Christofle flatware. The cloth napkins in lime green and fuchsia were artfully selected to match the theme and the flowers.

Chef Marchesin’s dinner started with a French green bean salad with red wine vinaigrette, shallot, and Sicilian almonds. It was followed by Spanish octopus “puttanesca” with Florida heirloom tomatoes and capers, risotto with green asparagus, cured egg yolk, and Grana Padano cheese from northern Italy, and freshly caught grouper with confit leeks and fumet sauce. For dessert, guests indulged in tiramisu served in bone china cups and saucers with a delicate rose pattern.

Guests chatted about food and art, their children, work, how to deal with COVID-19, travel plans (Valentina and Jeff are skipping Europe to explore Aspen, and hope to go to Israel and take a South African safari next year), and the many reasons Miami is such a great place to live.

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the couple’s life. “Even though I have a strong marketing and business background, I loved the art galleries and museums in Europe, so I enrolled in an art history program at the Louvre,” says Valentina, who lived in both Paris and London after graduating from college. “I really like artists and enjoy encouraging their work.”

Valentina and Jeff play active roles in broadening the reach of Miami arts, including the contemporary Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). Valentina supports the museum, and they both donate and volunteer. Several years ago, the couple partnered with a watch brand to host a PAMM fundraiser in their Miami Shores home. The couple has also has inaugurated art into the family law practice. “Access Art” is a continuing art exhibition where AXS hosts from eight to 10 annual art events in the office showcased with works from local Miami artists.

“We help organize the shows, and encourage our clients to view the art lining the walls,” says Valentina. “I love working on this, yet prefer being behind the scenes.”

As the party drew to a close, Valentina says that being surrounded by a diverse group of people who love art made the evening a success—enhanced by the creative hand of mother nature herself. “The rain made it more interesting,” she said. “It was beautiful to watch out of the windows amid our backdrop of art.” «

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Clockwise from left: The Gutchesses with daughter Arabella; grouper with confit leeks and fumet sauce; tiramisu was served in floral china cups for dessert; guests Fernando and Kim Crespo, Typoe, and the hosts mingle on the dock overlooking the Intracoastal.

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TheWATER of

LIFE

Curious about Cognac?

Consult our primer on one of the world’s most luxurious libations.

By Mark Spivak

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It’s been a gradual process. But isn’t the old saying that good things come to those who wait? That’s the story of Cognac. Over the past century, Cognac—a specialty brandy distilled from white wine—has established its position as one of the world’s leading luxury drinks. Because Cognac is a blend of spirits across vintage years, those blends became rich and complex as the producers grew older and acquired more reserve stocks.

Today the packaging and bottling of the top Cognacs is just as beautiful and compelling as the liquid contained inside. Some cost as much as an emerging artist’s canvas.

A hand-blown crystal decanter may not improve the taste of Cognac, but a beautiful bottle can be an enticement to indulge.

Here, we take a look at some of the most memorable Cognacs on the market today.

Rémy Martin

Louis XIII ($4,000): It’s appropriate to begin with the bottle that launched and defined the luxury Cognac category. In 1874, Paul-Emile Rémy Martin commemorated the 150th anniversary of the house by combining 1,200 of the finest eaux-de-vie from his Grande Champagne vineyards into a signature blend. Since then, every cellar master has done the same, using Cognac ranging in age from 40 to 100 years.

The decanter is patterned after a metal flask salvaged from the Battle of Jarnac in 1569 and is handmade by Baccarat, SaintLouis, and Cristallerie de Sèvres. Distinctive and striking, it features 10 spikes on each side and a neck of 20-karat gold.

Louis XIII Black Pearl ($30,000): To celebrate the 140th anniversary of the reign of France’s King Louis XIII, Rémy Martin released a 750-ml limited edition from a single cask blended by former Cellar Master André Hériard Dubreuil. Only 786 bottles were produced, in a decanter layered with titanium, carbon, and gold. A smaller version (375 ml, $13,000) was released five years later in an edition of 1,498 bottles in an equally impressive package, coated with palladium and featuring tiny pearl inlays on the medallions.

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The exquisite—and rare—Louis XIII Black Pearl features a bottle designed in partnership with the House of Baccarat.

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Plume Frapin is a blend of about 20 eaux-devie produced at Château Fontpinot.

Below: Hine Triomphe features a woody palate with hints of licorice, chocolate, and mild spices.

Frapin

Hine

Frapin Extra ($675): The Frapin family began as winegrowers and accumulated 300 acres in France’s Grande Champagne cru, which gave them a strong advantage when they shifted to Cognac production. Extra contains eaux-de-vie up to 40 and 50 years of age, bottled in a disc-shaped decanter with a gold cap. It’s distinctly fruity on the palate, and recommended pairings include desserts such as crème brulée and tarte Tatin.

Plume Frapin ($3,500): The apex of the Frapin range, Plume consists of some of the cellar’s oldest Cognac blended to produce a rich texture with flavors of candied fruit, prunes, and figs. Released in a limited edition of 500 bottles, the crystal decanter is embossed with images of feathers and capped with an 18-karat rose gold stopper.

Triomphe ($850): Founded in 1763 by Englishman Thomas Hine, the house is now run by sixthgeneration director Bernard Hine. Triomphe was launched in 1888 to celebrate the eradication of phylloxera, a pest that decimated many European vineyards. Composed of eauxde-vie between 50 and 60 years old exclusively from Grande Champagne vineyards, it’s presented in a sleek decanter with an Art Deco design.

Talent ($10,000): A work of art in every way, Talent is also sourced from Grande Champagne Cognac at least 30 years old, with some dating back to the nineteenth century. The signed and arresting Baccarat decanter is decorated with grapevines, as well as the signature Hine stag emblem.

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Hennessy Paradis Impérial ($3,000): Hennessy is the world’s largest Cognac house, founded in 1765 and responsible for 40 percent of global Cognac consumption. Eight generations of the Fillioux family, who have served as master blenders since inception, maintain stylistic continuity. In the Cognac region, “paradis” is a colloquial term for a special private cellar, usually located in the back of the property with restricted access.

In 2011, master blender Yann Fillioux used more than 100 eaux-de-vie between 30 and 130 years old to create Paradis Impérial. He took his inspiration from the Dowager Empress of Russia, who supposedly requested a blend of Hennessy’s finest Cognac in 1818 as a gift for her son, Tsar Alexander I. The spirit is bottled in an eye-stopping decanter designed by Stephanie Balini, intended to evoke the gowns worn by ladies at the Russian Imperial court.

Note: Don’t confuse this Cognac with the regular Hennessy Paradis ($1,065), introduced in 1979 by Maurice Fillioux (Yann’s uncle), which contains 100 slightly younger eaux-de-vie.

Courvoisier Richard Hennessy ($4,000): Named for the house founder, this drink represents the apex of the Hennessy brand. It is composed of 100 eaux-de-vie, spanning in age from 45 to 200 years. Brightly floral on the palate, it is rich and mellow in texture, filled with flavors of citrus zest and pomegranate, all packaged in a Baccarat decanter that takes 40 hours to make.

Initiale Extra ($500): Emmanuel Courvoisier and Louis Gallois founded a wine and spirits company in the Parisian suburb of Bercy in 1809, eventually moving to the Cognac region to improve the quality of their offerings.

Napoleon I supposedly paid a visit to Bercy in 1811, and later decreed that his armies be issued a Cognac ration. Courvoisier became known as “the Cognac of Napoléon” in 1869 when Napoléon III designated the house as the official supplier to the Imperial court.

Initiale Extra is a blend of Grand Champagne and Borderies eaux-de-vie between 30 and 50 years old, composed by master blender Patrice Pinet. Known for its Port-like richness and opulent mouth feel, it makes a perfect transition for the Cognac neophyte seeking to upgrade from an X.O. bottling.

L’Essence de Courvoisier ($3,200): L’Essence contains more than 100 Cognacs, some of which are more than a century old, resulting in an exotic and memorable mouthfeel.

The teardrop-shaped decanter, handblown by Baccarat, was designed to resemble the signet rings Napoléon I gave to his favorite commanders.

Right: Hennessy recommends enjoying the Paradis Impérial out of a crystal tulip glass. The spirit, which should be served at room temperature, goes well with sharp-tasting finger foods.

Far right: Courvoisier’s fifth master blender, JeanMarc Olivier, composed L’Essence. Its nose is redolent of sandalwood, cigar leaves, toffee, marzipan, and fresh honey.

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“

WE MAKE COGNAC IN THE MOST FEMININE WAY POSSIBLE. OUR STYLE IS SOFT, CLEAN, AND ROUND—SOMETHING YOU CAN ENJOY RIGHT AWAY.” —Bénédicte Hardy Right: Hardy’s Noces d’Albâtre has an aroma of candied fruit, almond, light vanilla, and delicate spices.

Left: Le Printemps captures the floral essence of spring.

FAST FACTS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COGNAC

• ALL COGNAC IS BRANDY, BUT NOT ALL BRANDY IS COGNAC. • COGNAC IS A MARITIME REGION LOCATED IN THE SOUTHWEST OF FRANCE, NORTH OF BORDEAUX. • THE REGION IS DIVIDED INTO CRUS, VINEYARD AREAS WITH DISTINCT CHARACTERISTICS: GRANDE AND PETITE CHAMPAGNE (NOT TO BE CONFUSED WITH CHAMPAGNE ITSELF), BORDERIES, FINS BOIS, BONS BOIS, BOIS ORDINAIRES, AND BOIS À TERROIRS. • TO MAKE COGNAC, GRAPES ARE FIRST MADE INTO WINE, AND THE WINE IS THEN DISTILLED INTO A SPIRIT IN A COPPER POT STILL.

Hardy

Prestige Series: “We make Cognac in the most feminine way possible,” says Bénédicte Hardy, fifth generation to steer the house since 1863. “Our style is soft, clean, and round—something you can enjoy right away.” Hardy also puts emphasis on their bottles, designed according to a “haute couture philosophy.” The Prestige Series includes five entries: Noces d’Argent ($200), Noces d’Or ($340), Noces de Perle ($1,065), Noces de Diamant ($1,292), and Noces d’Albâtre ($3,000).

Four Seasons Series: These Cognacs contain eaux-de-vie that Armand Hardy put aside between 1914 and1940, in decanters created exclusively by Lalique. Bottles such as L’Eté ($16,000) and Le Printemps ($17,500) are the ultimate expression of the glassblower’s art.

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• AFTER DISTILLATION AND DURING THE AGING PROCESS, THE SPIRIT IS REFERRED TO AS EAU DE VIE (“WATER OF LIFE”).

• COGNAC IS LABELED ACCORDING TO THE YOUNGEST SPIRIT IN THE BLEND. THE CATEGORIES ARE V.S. (VERY SPECIAL, TWO YEARS), V.S.O.P. (VERY SPECIAL OLD PALE, FOUR YEARS), NAPOLÉON (SIX YEARS), X.O. (EXTRA OLD, 10 YEARS), AND HORS D’AGE (BEYOND AGE, THE DESIGNATION FOR ALL THE COGNACS DESCRIBED HERE).

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Delamain

Le Voyage ($8,000): Delamain prizes maturity above all else as witnessed by the fact that their entry-level Cognac, Pale & Dry X.O., is aged 25 years rather than the minimum 10. The Cognacs comprising Le Voyage were drawn from their demijohn collection, ranging from 1847 to 1947. Like Frapin Plume, Le Voyage was released in a limited edition of 500 bottles. Both the presentation and the spirit itself recall horse-drawn carriages, leather trunks, and all the romance of nineteenth-century travel. «

Le Voyage’s case was inspired by the bellows of old cameras.

The drink’s warm amber color gives way to flavors of licorice, fig, walnut, spice, leather, and tobacco.

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Scents of Place

THE AGE OF COVID-19 HAS BECOME A TIME OF REMINISCING AND DAYDREAMING, OF CAPTURING MEMORIES THAT TRANSPORT AND SUSTAIN US. HOW CAN YOU GET AWAY FROM IT ALL WITH TRAVEL BANS IN PLACE? TRY BEING TRANSPORTED BY FRAGRANCE.

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JC PHOTO

T

hese past months of COVID-19 restrictions have social South Floridians wistfully recalling travel, galas, and dinner parties as though they took place in another life. People are reviving— or initiating—cooking skills over dining out and scuttling long planned-for international trips in favor of sojourns closer to home. Faux passport stamps mark journeys to the kitchen, the living room, and the pool.

Trips to Publix are considered an outing. Coping mechanisms are tested daily. Manifesting is a mantra.

Simply put: We need an escape to our happy place.

As overtaxed as our brains are right now, they are still capable of storing every scent (and its association) in an easily accessible memory recall box. It’s why Coppertone sunscreen takes you back to childhood and cinnamon awakens memories of the family kitchen—or the airport Cinnabon kiosk. It’s transformative.

“People are searching for comfort and happy times,” says Bhavika Mistry, co-owner with partner Maurice Locke of Osme, a niche perfumery in Miami’s Wynwood district. “Travel through scent and through your memory,” recommends Mistry. “Use perfume as an escape alongside cooking and gardening. It is an avenue if you want to use it that way,” she says.

Inside Osme’s perfumed oasis, customers can choose from 400 small-batch fragrances to spritz on the body, at home, and in the car; the possibilities are endless. Each product is made of between 18 and 34 percent essential oils and can last up to 18 hours on the skin. Locke says that typical designer fragrances have up to only 10 percent essential oils and quickly evaporate. Some niche fragrances are made by perfumers who, in love with travel themselves, create scents that evoke specific locales, experiences, and moods. “Clay Courts” transports the mind to summer tennis in the Hamptons; “You or Something Like You” is a mojito-laden beach getaway; “Baraonda” by Nasomatto is a finely aged scotch; “Birch”

To satisfy wanderlust, visit your favorite places through olfactory memories of perfume.

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JC PHOTO

Customers can choose from more than 400 niche, natural fragrances at Osme Perfumery in Wynwood; it also houses liquid art, scented decor, and skin care products.

by Icelandic perfumer Andrea Mack is a burning fire on the snow-covered tundra, while her “Coven” fragrance smells like… a potato patch. (If your father, like mine, had a prized organic garden, the scent will have you mentally digging in the dirt.)

“If someone says, ‘I want a perfume that reminds me of Egypt,’ you think of ingredients like oud, incense, myrrh, the spice market,” Mistry says, spritzing a perfume blotter with Luxor Oud by Memo. Notes of cypriol, mandarin, oud,

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patchouli, red berries, rose, styrax, and tonka bean waft through the air, transporting the mind to Cairo’s Khan Al-Khalil Grand Bazaar.

Aventura-based psychologist Dr. Jennifer Pechenik, explains why scent is so powerful: “The limbic system is one of the oldest systems in the human body and has been referred to as the ‘smell brain.’ When we smell something, the scent enters our nose and meets receptor neurons, sends messages to the olfactory bulb that processes the smell, then directly connects to the areas of the brain that are associated with emotions and memories,” she says. Because it’s compartmentalized in just one brain area, fragrances can trigger straightforward fulfillment. Consequently,

Pechenik says, “the use of scents can be very helpful to cope with the life changes we are experiencing.”

Scents return us to places and times in our personal history, which is why the heady scent of night-blooming jasmine may transport you to romantic evening walks along Lisbon’s cobblestone streets. Because scent is so indelibly linked to our experiences, we can deliberately select new fragrances for sojourns— a travel perfume—to etch new memories the mind recalls when it registers the scent.

“Even with travel restrictions, you can travel,” says Pechenik. “You may have purchased a cologne when you traveled to the Caribbean.

When you put the scent on now, you are back on a balcony in your beachfront hotel looking at the royal-blue ocean,” says Pechenik about the technique she recommends. “Practice relaxation, close your eyes, and put on your favorite scent; visualize yourself wherever you want to travel; see yourself there and breathe in your scent. Your mind will take you there,” she says.

Mistry agrees, echoing Pechenik’s suggestion to travel via scent while staying put in your home. “You build a fragrance library based on all the trips you take. Think about how you pack your suitcase for the climate you’re visiting; your

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outfits may be suited for the Swiss Alps or Bali, and your perfume can match that,” she says.

“On the beach, you want something fresh and breezy; if you’re trekking the Alps, you’ll gravitate toward a scent that feels more powerful, woodsy, and earthy. A scent can transport you to different places without leaving.”

Where does perfume fit into today’s new normal—when we see (and smell) far fewer people than we used to? “I think you are going to wear something that helps navigate how you want to feel or where you want to get to,” says Mistry. “Do I feel anxious and want to wear something that calms me, like lavender? Or do I want something that picks up my energy and makes me feel happy when I smell it?” she says.

Regardless, what motivates someone to choose a scent is inexplicable and a mixture of

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memory recall and associations. “Right now, people are reinventing themselves,” says Mistry. “Perhaps they want to feel regal with a fragrance like Alexandria II that contains Laotian oud, spices, and touches of bergamot. You might want to capture people’s attention, build confidence, be flirty, or show you’re aggressive.

Perfume can give you that power.”

Pechenik recommends building your own library of scents. “Scents can be used to support our physical and emotional health,” she says. “You can choose your path. It is so important today to find ways to enhance your well-being.”

Reminisce, daydream, recall childhood memories, embark on armchair travel, reinvent yourself, begin the next chapter. Because right now, we all need a happy place. «

JC PHOTO

“The use of scents can be very helpful to cope with the life changes we are experiencing.” —Jennifer Pechenik

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GOURMAND DRINK, EAT, AND REPEAT: THERE’S PLENTY OF DELICIOUS TO CHOOSE FROM

OPENINGS COURTESY MILA MIAMI

MAGIC in the MOONLIGHT Nightlife sophistication returns to South Beach with the opening of Mila Miami, a 250-seat rooftop restaurant and lounge serving “MediterrAsian” cuisine in a vibe-heavy setting, inclusive of vibrant Balearic beats. An amalgam of reclaimed woods, tropical plants, amber lighting, and reflection ponds sets the scene as the design channels exotic coastal elegance and woos an easy-on-the-eyes crowd to the 5,000 square-foot alfresco terrace.

The mixology program, led by award-winning duo Jennifer Le Nechet and Mido Yahi, yields the Instagram-worthy presentations (and flavor combinations) one would expect in such a high design setting.

Try the Mila Crusta, a modern take on the piña colada with plantation pineapple rum, St. Germain, vanilla, pineapple, and pandan.

Likewise, the food impresses with a commingling of dishes from the Mediterranean and Asia, including a black rock lava grilled prime filet and shawarma-spiced Wagyu gyoza. If that’s not enough social media fodder, consider ordering at least one or two items with tableside preparation, such as the flaming branzino or the smoking nitrogen ice cream for dessert. (milarestaurant.com)

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COURTESY MILA MIAMI

By Paul Rubio

From top: tomahawk steak; Mila’s rooftop bar flourishes with lush greenery and serene water features.

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GOURMAND FRESH FINDS

PLANTA SOUTH BEACH

Even hard-core carnivores can’t resist the plant-based dishes from this headlining, see-and-be-seen vegan restaurant. Choose among raw, Japanese-inspired plates and cooked eclectic dishes, from the ahi watermelon nigiri (which, in fact, tastes like tuna) to a kelp-based Caesar salad and a piled-high, veggie lasagna. Artisan pizzas, which can be made with gluten-free dough, fool the palate as nonvegan with core ingredients like cashew mozzarella “cheese” and mushroom “bacon,” both found on the Hawaiian and Godfather pizzas. Besides the current location in Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood, the more Asian-inspired, spinoff restaurant Planta Queen recently opened in Coconut Grove. (plantarestaurants.com) Planta Chef’s Selection

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Vegan Pad Thai

«

«

Whether your 2021 plans include a vegan, gluten-free, pescatarian, or keto diet (or some combination thereof), here are three restaurants for maintaining—and embracing—those New Year’s wellness resolutions. —P.R.

GARY JAMES

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU DELICIOUS RAW

There are so many great juice bars and bowl joints to choose from these days, but this fast-casual vegan restaurant in Sunset Harbour stands out for its wideranging plant-based ingenuity—hot and cold. Try, for example, the Nobl veggie burger topped with truffleinfused garlic Dijon, smoked aioli, and roasted portobello mushrooms on gluten-free bread, or the raw vegan Pad Thai, anchored by savory black bean noodles, mixed with crisp seasonal veggies, and topped with a signature sauce. For dessert, consider the vegan “cheesecake” on a homemade almond flour crust, or a Mocha Chaga Latte, infused with medicinal mushrooms (the legal kind, of course). (delraw.com)

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MAKOTO

«

Celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, this sushi-centric restaurant helmed by noted chef Makoto Okuwa and backed by famed restaurateur Stephen Starr remains as wildly popular as when it first opened, and it’s not hard to see why. To start, the location at Bal Harbour Shops is tops. But, more importantly, it’s Makoto’s thoughtful menu, rife with hyper-fresh sashimi, innovative maki, sublime robata-grilled selections, and globally inspired mains that keep patrons returning. Chef Okuwa, who hails from Nagoya, Japan, is an official master of Edomae-style sushi and an all-around talented toque. Expect an elevated sushi experience, inclusive of presentation and taste (both of which meld tradition and modernity) and conscious of dietary restrictions.

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With its diversity of fish and seafood options, Makoto is predominantly pescatarian and offers plenty of low-carb, ketofriendly choices, including some two-dozen sashimi options and the epic Kani Salad (fresh king crab, cucumber, avocado, yuzu kosho aioli) and robata grilled avocado (with sweet ponzu and chili oil). But strong vegan options can also be found on the menu in addition to Wagyu beef, a popular keto/paleo option. All this to say, this is one restaurant where the entire group can stick to their New Year’s wellness goals and love every second. (makoto-restaurant.com) From top: Makoto’s Hot Stone Kobe and Fruit Toban Yaki

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GOURMAND

Mocktail Motivation Alex Rodriguez, head bartender at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami, shares inspiration for surviving “Dry January” with two of the most popular non-alcoholic libations at the resort’s flagship restaurant, Lightkeepers. We’ll cheers to that! (ritzcarlton.com) — P.R.

MINT TO BE 2 oz. lemonade 1/2 oz. simple syrup Muddled fresh mint Fever-Tree club soda

YOU HAD ME AT ALOE 3/4 oz.

Iberia Aloe Vera oz. lime juice 1/2 oz. agave nectar Fever-Tree club soda 3/4

l INSTRUCTIONS Add lemonade and simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice. Shake and strain over a Collins glass lined with muddled mint and fresh ice. Top with club soda and garnish with a sprig of mint.

l INSTRUCTIONS Combine all ingredients in a shaker tin, except club soda.

Add ice and shake. Strain into a rocks glass. Top with club soda and garnish with a lime.

Asian Delights, Exotic Japanese & Tasty Thai

Open Daily for Lunch and Dinner beginning at 12pm 2775 NE 187th Street #1 - Aventura, Florida - 305.932.8080 11768 N Kendall Drive - Kendall, Florida - 305.275.9003 84 AVENTURA MAGAZINE

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PROMOTION

CONNOISSEUR DINING PICKS & HOT SPOTS >> PLEASE CALL FOR DELIVERY AND TAKEOUT OPTIONS <<

REUNION KTCHN BAR

Reunion Ktchn Bar has reached trendy status, as tagged by the neighborhood diners. Whether dining in, at the indoor/outdoor lounge, ordering out or delivery, the choices for eclectic, global cuisine are over 48 tapas styles strong! Tempting the eyes and satisfying the palate, our selection is both delicious and beautiful. This holds true for the handcrafted bar offering creative novel cocktails as well as the originals. The new RKB Lounge will welcome those that want the epicure experience. Here, the eclectic vibe continues with cheese board selections, charcuteries boards, caviar, wine and cocktails to transport your tastebuds to new delectable levels.

Daily 12-10PM, 18167 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura, 305.931.7401; reunionkb.com.

Subscribe Today @ aventuramagazine.com

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WEALTH

GOLDEN Years

With the proper planning, seniors can take full advantage of a plethora of housing options

By Judy Martel For many, the final decades of life offer opportunities that weren’t possible during the years devoted primarily to earning an income and raising a family. Volunteering, traveling, spending time with loved ones, and rediscovering old hobbies or finding new ones are all obtainable under the right circumstances. But seniors and their families often discover that locating appropriate housing to meet the demands of aging can turn out to be an unwelcome and emotionally wrenching decision.

For that reason, Barbara McVicker, an eldercare expert, author of Stuck in the Middle: Caring for Mom and Dad, and host of the PBS television special of the same name, notes that it’s never too early to look ahead to when seniors will slow down and potentially require more health care.

“If you run out of time, you run out of options,” she says. “When adult children are 40 and Mom and Dad are 70, if they haven’t already had the conversation, it’s getting too late. You want to be able to take advantage, physically and mentally, of all a new facility has to offer.”

With the plethora of choices in senior housing, McVicker points 86

out that research is crucial. “This is not something you’ll do in a weekend.” As a starting point, the U.S. Administration on Aging offers an eldercare locator by ZIP code or city. McVicker also shares a few tips to help seniors and their families get started in making a plan.

TAKE A CLOSE LOOK AT FINANCES. Affordability is one of the most important factors in the decision to move, so the first step is to sit down with a financial adviser to review everything, including insurance, says McVicker. And don’t count on Medicare alone. “Medicare has no long-term part to cover senior living, so if you’re banking on Medicare, you’re behind the eight ball,” she explains. Also look carefully at the payment options. Some facilities charge an upfront fee that is returned, in part, either to the resident’s estate after he or she dies or to the resident in the event that he or she moves out. Some offer fixed monthly fees for life, while others fluctuate depending on level of care or cost-of-living increases.

GET A FEEL FOR THE PLACE BEFORE COMMITTING. The emotional aspect of moving is difficult in the best of times, which is why it’s optimal to make the decision when seniors are still

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healthy, notes McVicker. In some cases, the need for medical care will dictate the type of facility needed, with nursing homes providing the most care, followed by assisted living, and, finally, independent living. The most costly continuing-care communities (which accept residents into independent living housing with the option of moving on to higher levels of medical care as needed) are ideally suited for active seniors who want to live independently, yet offer a full array of medical care options to meet their future needs. Once the type of care is determined, an on-site visit is a must, McVicker says. Check out the amount of green space, menu options, proximity to family and medical care, amenities, and activities.

MOVING IN WITH FAMILY? SIGN A CONTRACT. For some, staying with family is the best and least expensive option, but McVicker cautions that everything should be in writing. “Both senior and child need to have an actual contract that spells out expectations, tasks, and the tipping point for moving into a facility. Maybe it’s incontinence or dementia, but everyone needs to be on board.” She also advises people to factor in all the costs involved in care and upkeep or improvement on the house. “Technology is truly making some decisions to stay at home easier, from grocery delivery to sensors in a rug to detect changes in a person’s gait, which could indicate balance trouble.”

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Finding the appropriate situation for a healthy and fulfilling old age may take time and patience, but in the end, it can bring relief for seniors and their families. A Department of Health and Human Services statistic states that 70 percent of people age 65 or older can expect to use some type of long-term care, but with the range of housing options developed in recent decades, the reputation of eldercare housing as dim, depressing “warehouses” has changed drastically for the better, adds McVicker. “Let’s just say it’s not your grandmother’s retirement home.” «

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LAST LOOK

The Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel provides a new perspective of the Magic City’s skyline.

UP IN THE CLOUDS Miami’s skyline is continually changing, and with it comes the arrival of the new Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel soaring nearly 200 feet above Biscayne Bay. Designed by esteemed Switzerland-based designer Ronald Bussink, the Bayside Marketplace addition features 42 climate-controlled gondolas with music and video capabilities showcasing a whole new scope of downtown and the bay. A first-class VIP gondola is available for groups of two to four and features leather Ferrari-style bucket seats, glass-bottom floors, a longer ride time (a standard ride lasts about 15 minutes), and access to VIP food and beverage catered

by LandShark Bar & Grill. In compliance with CDC guidelines, face coverings are required, and people not living in the same household will not be seated together. Each gondola will be sanitized between boarding and can hold up to eight guests. (skyviews miami.com) —Melissa Puppo 88

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LE DEVELOP A D R DE G I N V E S TM E N T OP P ORT U MEN U NIT T LA S E E K I N IES

Lauderdale Development Corporation is currently seeking investment opportunities with businesses which meet any of the following criteria: • START UP COMPANIES • DISTRESSED COMPANIES • UNDER PERFORMING BUSINESSES • COMPANIES IN “OUT OF FAVOR” INDUSTRIES • SUBSIDIARIES OF LARGER COMPANIES LOOKING FOR SPIN-OFFS

If your company fits this profile or you are interested in more information please contact

248-691-1800 ext. 101

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Miamiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most comprehensive cardiac surgery program.

More heart.

Romualdo Segurola, MD, FACS Chief of Cardiac Surgery

We are leaders in cardiac surgery, because we care with all our hearts. Headed by renowned surgeon Romualdo Segurola, MD, FACS, this world-class team handles everything from minimally-invasive procedures to complex surgeries, while also specializing in compassion. Learn more about our cardiac surgeons and the comprehensive care they offerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;with heart.

Call 305-585-4564 or visit MiamiHeartLeader.org.

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