Sophisticated Living Cincinnati May/June 2023

BIGELOW PLACE MT. AUBURN

OREGON STREET MT. ADAMS

ROOKWOOD PL II & III OAKLEY

BIGELOW ST & DORCHESTER AVE

Nine four-story townehomes featuring with roof-top lounge with terrace. Optional elevator. Two-car attached garage. 3BR/3.5BA. LEED tax abatement. $779,900+

3 CUSTOM HOMES

Three-story homes. Roof-top lounge. Optional elevator. Two-car garage.

3 BR/3 Full/2 Half Baths. City, park & Ohio River views! Full Platinum LEED certified. $2,195,000+

EDWARDS RD & ATLANTIC AVE

Four-story townehomes with Oakley views from covered rooftop terraces. LEED Gold. Two-car garages. 3BR/3.5BA.

Phase II: $779,900+

Phase III: $1,195,000+

Custom ranch and two-story homes

Top-of-the-line finishes • Minutes to restaurants and shopping Construction begins Spring 2023 $999,000+

RD (S OF KENWOOD CC) TO WEST ON WINDRIDGE DR TO HICKORY CT

When you walk through our doors, bring an idea. A dream. A vision. Our showroom is designed to inspire you with on-site chefs, product experts, and exclusive events - all so you can fully experience everything your kitchen can be.

We’ll bring you the showroom experience you’ve been waiting for.

One Highland is a Way of Life

When you call One Highland home, you’ll discover all the things you love most are just steps away. With engaging places to shop and gather at street level and luxury residences above, there are plenty of nearby amenities to enjoy.

From exceptional landmark architecture to spacious one-level living, each home at the Residences at One Highland features interiors with expressive designer finishes. And convenient elevator access to enclosed reserved parking.

Fort Thomas is unrivaled for those seeking an engaging lifestyle in a walkable neighborhood with beautiful parks, tree-lined streets and small-town atmosphere. Residences at One Highland places you in a most desirable location, five minutes from the best dining, arts and entertainment in the region.

Jody Brosey: 859-760-3277

Madison Eisenman: 859-815-9972

Cincinnati’s

Premier European Destination

Bold | Modern | Urban

Website: chezreneecincy.com

Instagram: chezreneecincy

Facebook: chezreneeboutique

Phone number: 513-271-2689

Address: 8181 Camargo Rd. 45243

Hours:

Tuesday-Friday 10-5pm

Saturday 11-4pm

Closed Sunday & Monday

Photo by Robert Rieger courtesy of Aman New

Photo by Andrew Kung

May/June 2023

HOMMÉS Studio & #tapisstudio present NEOCOSMOS - TAKE ME TO THE SUN, a cosmic exhibition that will take part in Milan #design Week 18-23 April on the Palazzo delle Meraviglie at Museo Bagatti Valsecchi on MonteNapoleone District. NEOCOSMOS is a tribute to the sun, the center of our solar system and the oldest star in the universe. #neocosmos celebrates a deep connection with nature, and life, a contemplation of the divine energy connecting all living beings on earth. NEOCOSMOS is beyond a #design concept but a vision for the future of human living spaces. It challenges traditional notions of what a home should be and explores the possibilities of what it could become. By embracing a multisensorial approach to #design and incorporating innovative materials and technologies, #neocosmos embodies a new way of thinking about living spaces, both imaginative and transformative.

Meg Fiora, Interior Designer George Paxton, Photographer

EDITOR - IN - CHIEF

Matthew Millett

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Bridget Williams

CONTRIBUTORS

Writers

Sheree Allgood

Patti Bailey

Dr. Matthew Bessen

Ellana Bessen

Scott Harper

Amelia Jeffers

Austin Pembroke

Lisa Stephenson Powell

Photographers

DeShon Von Able

Tony Bailey

Mark Byron

Tyrone Daniels

Andrew Kung

Ryan Kurtz

David Long

Mary Strubbe

Michael Wilson

ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE

513.205.3300

Eric Williams - CEO

Bridget Williams - President

Greg Butrum - General Counsel

Jason Yann - Art Director

May and June always feel like special months. While the weather changes and warms it’s nice to spend more time outside and enjoy it with family and friends. I am really looking forward to celebrating a couple of my favorite ‘holidays’, Mother’s Day May 9th and Father’s Day on June 20th. Still working with my parents gives us time to discuss larger family business issues, however we don’t often get the time to sit down and relax together and enjoy each other’s company. Having an 18 month old is also an especially fun time. Cherishing these moments with the Maxwell and his grandparents also makes it extra special. I look forward to trying to sit down and cherish personal moments better this season, as I would encourage all of our readers to do.

With the turning of spring showers and the blooming of May flowers, the warmth of summer grabs ahold of us all. The days extend and become longer and a rejuvenated youthfulness embrace all ages. The sun shines bright and vibrant greens, reds, yellows, and blues decorate not only the landscape but also the clothing, palettes, and lifestyles we share. We have put together an especially vibrant and youthful issue of features that will help inspire you to grasp the colorfulness of the season. Some great travel features, including a special look into the Greenbriar, should help inspire some ‘close-to-home’ vacations. We also feature the newest restaurant in Hyde Park square, the Italian ‘Spot’ Al-Posto. You can find this terrific restaurant behind its large blue door and blue planters in the old Dear location in the center of the square. Be sure to try all of my favorite dishes I discuss in our feature within.

As always, my hope is that you take away an inspired interest in the beauty that these coming months bring. The social calendar is packed with festivals and events all around town for all ages and interests. I hope you feel inspiration with the longer days, Enjoy!

TAKE ME HOME, COUNTRY ROADS

The Greenbrier’s stunning new luxury residential community

Written by Jeffrey Cohen

Late last fall, my wife, our two teenage children and I were delighted to be guests at The Greenbrier Sporting Club, where we were fortunate to spend a few nights in one of the luxurious custom-built homes that now populate the hillsides of this magnificent country estate. Set within the grounds of The Greenbrier, The Sporting Club is located in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia–a historic town

tucked into the rolling hills and valleys of the southern Alleghenies. Built into the mountainside that forms some of the resort’s 11,000 acres of pristine landscape, The Sporting Club is a residential community of distinctive neighborhoods offering creekside, mountain, fairway and wooded luxury homesites that saw its first phase developed and immediately sell out in 2000.

The Greenbrier Sporting Club features The Snead, a Tom Fazio-designed golf course.

Ranging in style from cottage to lodge to colonial French, over 300 homes now occupy prime sites up the mountain, with room for more. Constructed in collaboration with approved architects and builders, the community of mostly second homes must rank as one of the most singular in the country. Those who purchase property at The Sporting Club are not required to build on their lots, but upon going under contract, are obliged to join the club, whose services are available to members only, as distinct from the main resort, which is open to the public. Drawn by the property’s history and unique character, many individuals have purchased sites purely to become members of The Sporting Club.

Famous for its world-class golf, tennis, fine dining, more than 55 activities, designer boutiques, a world-renowned mineral spa, and the only private casino in the U.S., The Greenbrier is unique among resort destinations. In addition to these luxury leisure pursuits, members of The Sporting Club enjoy private amenities unavailable to resort guests, such as two distinct lodges featuring what some members have called “a resort within a resort,” with infinity pools, restaurants, lounges and a sport and fitness center. Members

also enjoy exclusive access to the club’s Tom Fazio-designed golf course, The Snead, their own spectacular tennis facilities, and a host of outdoor activities including personally guided hunting and shooting, world-class fly fishing, horseback riding and more.

On a previous visit to The Greenbrier, we stayed in an historic home (one of the resort’s Estate Homes available for short-term rental) that over the centuries had hosted dignitaries and luminaries of every stripe. Our dining table alone sat twenty-two; one can only imagine the conversations that took place in that room after the brandy started to flow. If walls could talk… This time, we opted for a modern and quite beautiful private residence across the road, charmingly nestled in the woods beside a creek at the foot of the mountain. As a family of tennis enthusiasts, we were excited to have arrived in time for the annual Greenbrier Champions Tennis Classic, which celebrated its 10th anniversary by once again playing host to a number of the biggest names in tennis. The event was held at Center Court at Creekside, the resort’s 2,500-seat stadium. This was a real treat for the entire family, and the day also included a catered lunch and question-and-answer session with the players, moderated by The Tennis Channel’s Brett Haber.

The famed Greenbrier resort

The Greenbrier’s amenities are available to all Sporting Club members.

Dining al fresco overlooking the golf course Sporting Club members enjoy a host of outdoor activities including hunting, fly fishing, horseback riding and more.

As the weather was still quite balmy, we settled into a somewhat active daily routine that included tennis, swimming, cycling and a round of golf. I began each morning at The Sporting Club’s Fitness Center, followed by coffee at the Greenbrier Gourmet and Coffee Bar, or a more substantial breakfast with the family in The Main Dining Room at the resort; we also availed ourselves of the beautiful kitchen in our home and made breakfast occasionally. Our son and daughter especially enjoyed having an entire house at their disposable, making full use of the amenities and even taking the occasional opportunity to simply relax and hang out together.

Dinner our first night was at The Summit, an exclusive membersonly lodge located 3,300 feet up, at the top of the mountain. This splendid establishment is Adirondack in style, with stunning views of the valley below, an outdoor fireplace and nearby fire pit adding to the pastoral ambiance. A massive, double-sided fireplace of locally quarried stone is the centerpiece of this rustic, elegant space that features dining on one side and a lounge and full-service bar on the other. My wife and daughter dined on perfectly prepared filet, and our son, fried chicken, while I opted for the Chilean sea bass. From the concise and well-designed wine list, we chose a refreshing rose from the Amador Foothills, hoping to evoke a bit of summer in the glass before the sun went down over the distant hills.

The following morning, while my son and I cast flies at some particularly recalcitrant trout, my wife and daughter enjoyed a peaceful morning at the Ananda Spa, another members’ exclusive. Having eventually coaxed a couple of decent-sized rainbows to take the bait, we returned home to cook up a quick trout almondine

for lunch. There is nothing quite like a fresh fish straight out of the river, and I am sure that my son felt vindicated after having filled approximately half our trunk with his fishing tackle on the trip down.

Early that evening, a resort shuttle picked us up at our house and took us to The Greenbrier’s Creekside Gardens on the banks of Howard’s Creek for a one-of-a-kind wine dinner, providing the opportunity to dine in a picturesque outdoor setting and enjoy a gourmet meal featuring locally grown ingredients. This impressive farm-to-fork affair began outdoors, but was hurriedly moved inside by the extraordinarily industrious staff when it began to rain, a Herculean feat to be sure. Our meal, especially the trout native to the Greenbrier Valley, and the locally raised beef, chicken and pork, was absolutely wonderful despite the apparent chaos. It was clear that the expert staff at the Creekside had everything under control.

As this is our daughter’s last year at home before she heads off to college, it seemed fitting that we should all enjoy a steak dinner together; she is emphatically carnivorous, the redder the meat the better. Fortunately, Jerry West’s Prime 44 in the hotel was more than up to the task of catering to her needs. I hope she has a long memory, because this kind of meal will be well beyond her means at college.

A piece of heaven in the wilds of West Virginia, The Greenbrier Sporting Club offers a beautifully bucolic resort lifestyle at one of the world’s most stunning retreats. Our brief stay gave us a glimpse of what homeowners there enjoy regularly–the feeling that life is a vacation. For my part, I’m happy to visit whenever they will have me. sl For more information, visit greenbrierliving.com

The Prime 44 Steakhouse at The Greenbrier, honoring NBA legend and West Virginia native Jerry West, is a carnivore’s paradise.

THE ART OF PURPOSEDRIVEN TRANQUILITY

Written

In a world where busyness is too often touted and revered, the Andaz Mayakoba quietly and adeptly brings the art of purposedriven tranquility back into focus.

Just beyond Playa del Carmen, the Riviera Mayan coastline humbly beckons visitors to rest, recharge and recreate at its newest luxury resort, the Andaz Mayakoban.

Poised as one of four resorts pristinely tucked into a tropical rainforest, under the Mayakoban umbrella of high-end, luxury resorts, the Andaz has taken great care to respectfully reside amongst the twisted mangroves, winding canals, impossibly clear lakes and cenotes, and the ever-turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Guests can indulge in an array of activities as colorful as the curated native bird murals stitching the buildings together against a verdant backdrop. Or, one can consider slipping into the world of stillness: daydreaming, bird watching, napping, reading, or thoughtful conversation.

While the default mode, woven throughout the Andaz, is "oneness with nature," you can build your day accordingly. The menu of options is rich and satisfying: a wellness spa, yoga by the beach, water sports (hydro biking, kayaking, wind sailing, snorkeling from a boat or with sea bobs), scuba diving, jet skis, playing golf on Latin America's first PGA-toured golf course, the sea of gastronomic delights and a slew of cultural adventures. All events are at your fingertips and waiting to be tailored to your liking by the effusively warm and abundantly available staff.

Wanting to gain my bearings, I scheduled the lagoon boat trip, which canvased the area as our guide spotted unique wildlife (crocodiles, quirky birds, camouflaged iguanas). Home to 330plus species that roam freely (and I do mean freely) through the lush 620-acre property, you quickly realize the expansive measures taken to preserve and cultivate these tropical environments. As a result, the Andaz proudly voices a call to action within the world of tourism, garnering it a handful of awards and nature certifications. Cruising gave us a grand overview of wildlife while also whetting our appetite for the varied dining options.

After my initial meal, dining became an active pastime for me. Choosing from one of five on-site restaurants, thankfully, became the most challenging part of my day. Each restaurant sources fresh local ingredients and combines them with authentic cooking techniques to create dishes graciously served by a kindhearted and impeccable waitstaff.

Centrally located and residing next to the poolside pavilion, Casa Milagros produces food as beautiful as its setting. The interior decor pairs stone, locally crafted tile, and local tzalam wood. It offers authentic Mexican, Latin, and unique international dishes. We circled back on a few different nights as the melt-in-yourmouth tuna tataki and pork ramen tempted us to return. But food is only half of the draw as we quickly developed a fondness for the doting staff; Louis made an impression as strong as sticky rice pudding with coconut milk.

by Ashley Gude / Photography courtesy of Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya

Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya

The Sanctuary

Photo by Tadeu Brunelli

Presidential suite terrace view.

Photo by Tadeu Brunelli

Sanctuary interior

Photo by Tadeu Brunelli

The Apothecary Bar

We frequented Tinto del Pulpo because of its accessible location (poolside) and lovely staff. The consistency of the quality of the Mexican fare and locally-crafted artisan beers made this a mainstay. The fresh ceviches and homemade churros with tapioca ice cream also may have had something to do with me being a repeat offender.

The Vegan Bar was a stone's throw away. They are always happy to whip up a fresh smoothie or healthy drink at a moment's notice.

They also offer various unique vegan options, including my new favorite, a rice ball salad (fried rice with polenta, mashed red pepper with truffle, green peas, avocado, and spinach salad).

If you're looking for the elusive perfect photo op, head to Sotavento. An Insta-worthy setting awaits as tables and softly cushioned chairs lap the edges of the Caribbean Sea. Set under the romance of string lights, with feet buried in the sand, you can select from fresh seafood, gorgeous salads, and prized desserts (almost too pretty to eat … almost).

Rounding out the dining options, Casa Amate serves up memorable Latin American cuisine interestingly set amidst what

is best described as an "eclectic traveler's home." You can sample creative local cuisine from the comfort of different eye-pleasing rooms of the "house" (dining room, library, bar).

While the sea is the primary source driving the culinary menus, it also provides a rich marine landscape when scuba diving. On two diverse occasions, I explored the peaceful underwater world of the Mayan barrier reef. Only a short boat ride from the shore immersed me in a grand collection of wildlife. The highlight was spotting a family of eagle rays at a depth of 48 feet right at the conclusion of one of our dives.

Luxury reigns supreme across the landscape of the Mayakoba. Whether in the pursuit of experiencing artful cuisines or endorphin-raising adventures, the biggest luxury is choice. The ability to choose your day is not lost on guests, whether you prefer a quiet, contemplative, restorative day or a day brimming with activities fueled by the exotic lush backdrop of the beckoning blues of the Caribbean Sea. You will certainly want more, no matter what you choose, just like the coconut tapioca. sl

Duffy boat

Photo by Tadeu Brunelli

LOVE & STAY

Living the private island life on Lovango in the USVI

Unable to resist the allure of a good origin story, I admit to being very intrigued by the competing name origins of Lovango island, between St. Thomas and St. John in the USVI. While I've yet to uncover a sea shanty attesting to the legend, the predominate theory is an interesting yarn nonetheless. The island, inhabited since the mid-1700s, is said to have been home to the only brothel in the area, and the pirates' shortened the name of their "Love and Go Island" to Lovango. However, documents from the St. John Historical Society contend that there's a less spicy reason behind the name: an affiliation with a 17th-century trading post in the Congo, sometimes written Lu'ongo or Loango.

Nantucket-based hoteliers Mark and Gwenn Snider, owners of Little Gem Resorts, purchased 42 acres of Lovango island in 2019 and immediately set about building the first new resort in the USVI in three decades. Designed as an off-the-grid-getaway a stone's throw from the hustle and bustle of St. Thomas, Lovango Resort & Beach Club offers laid-back luxury that doesn't sacrifice creature comforts.

Easily accessible via a short ferry ride from the American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook on St.Thomas, the tranquil 15-minute journey across Pillsbury Sound immediately puts the mind in a more relaxed vacation state of mind.

Written by Claire Williams / Photography by Nicol Canegata / Photography with interior design/creative direction from Michael Thomas & Co.

Lovango Bay Village

Lovango Restaurant Glamping

View from a glamping tent.

As the resort master plans call for it to be fully built out over several years, during our visit, a reception and breakfast area for overnight guests was under construction atop a hill overlooking the beach club. There are 17 glamping tents and treehouses on the island's "backside," staggered on the steep hillside amidst a dense tropical landscape. The accommodations face an uninhabited island designated as a bird sanctuary, lending the feeling you are a million miles from civilization. In addition to providing a unique guest experience, the tents serve a practical purpose as they can be disassembled during hurricane season when the resort is closed.

We split our stay between a glamping tent and a treehouse. While both were stylishly outfitted and boasted a large cantilevered deck, the additional elbow room in the treehouse and an outdoor shower made it my favorite. MALIN & GOETZ toiletries and Matouk towels are among the elevated in-room amenities. Screens in the louvered doors and windows allow the trade winds in and keep the bugs out. The drapery and netting

of the canopy bed conceal a clever air conditioning system that regulates the temperature within the sleeping area and kept a hot sleeper like me comfortably cool.

While there isn't a gym on the property yet, making the 500foot vertical trek from the beach club to our room several times a day was all the workout we needed (golf cart transport is also available on call). There are also several hiking trails, including one that leads down to rocky and remote Crescent Beach (guests are given snorkeling equipment at check-in). A yoga mat and blocks are provided in each room.

Owning seasonal resorts on different schedules is a boon for the Sniders, who allow the staff at their properties to cycle between Nantucket and the USVI. Having seasoned staff from day one allows the newly opened resort to operate on a level similar to one that's been up and running for years.

The Sniders are hands-on owners, and it's not unusual to find the couple going from table to table at dinner, chatting up

Poolside cabana at the Beach Club

Covered terrace of a glamping tent.

Chef Stephen Belie's award-winning, globally-inspired cuisine

guests and soliciting feedback. When I asked him why he and his wife wanted to take on such an ambitious project on a tropical island, Marc responded, "I like being in the business of making people happy."

Our first-night feast was a global culinary whirlwind, with Caribbean lobster schnitzel, sea urchin gnocchi, green papaya and tea leaf salad, and Thai-inspired Caribbean seafood stew. Ferry service is available for non-overnight guests who want to come to Lovango's waterfront restaurant for lunch or dinner to enjoy chef Stephen Belie's award-winning cuisine.

The buzzy Beach Club is the heart of the resort. Offering day passes, a rotating lineup of events including a quite competitive water balloon toss, 'sand pit' games, an infinity pool, private cabanas, and excellent food and beverage service encompassing both healthy and "vacation calories don't count fare," it's the ideal anecdote for Type A folks needing a respite from their in-room relaxation. In short order, the Sand & Stars

party at the Beach Club on Friday nights has quickly become a must-attend event.

For a special souvenir, pick up a bottle of Little Gem Spirits’ Sweet Tamarind Rum, Caribbean Spice Whiskey, or Sorrel Lime Vodka from the cute boutiques lining the sandy boulevard near the beach club. The Sniders worked with St. Croix chef Todd Manley— credited with creating Mutiny Island Vodka distilled from the Breadfruit tree—to create spirits infused with flavors of the island. While they make an exciting addition to craft cocktails, I found they are perfect summer sips on their own.

Overnight guests are offered off-island excursions, including a water taxi across Caneel Bay to Honeymoon Beach on St. John's for two hours of snorkeling and relaxing. Regular ferry service between St. John and St. Thomas and private day charters are also available. Treasuring the tranquility afforded on the island, we honestly didn't feel a strong pull to "love and go" from Lovango during our threenight stay, as the diversity of offerings kept us amply occupied. sl

A NEW NEW YORK STATE OF MIND

Written by Bridget Williams / Photography by Robert Rieger courtesy of Aman New York

In the City that Never Sleeps, the ebb and flow of hotel openings and closings happen so regularly that they often register as a ripple in the Hudson to those outside the Big Apple bubble. However, when Aman New York opened its doors in August of last year after a series of delays, it made a full cannonball-style splash.

With its takeover of the historic Crown Building, Aman New York delivers the peace promised by Aman's Sanskrit-derived name and the palpable tranquility of its Asian roots to a covetable corner of 57th and 5th Avenue in the heart of Manhattan. The stepped skyscraper with a gilded chateau-esque tower, completed in 1921, has long held the distinction of garnering some of the highest rents in the city. The mixed-used building has a fascinating and diverse tenant and ownership roster including being the first site of the MOMA from 1929-1932 in a rented 12th-floor six-room suite.

Long-time Aman collaborator Jean-Michel Gathy, a Belgian architect whose three-decade dossier in all-exclusive luxury resort design includes Aman's exquisite Venice property on the Grand Canal, spearheaded the building's renovation.

When I tell you this place is magnificent, I mean it. There's a beguiling generosity of space and a harmony of design that instantly envelopes all the senses. Both overt and subtle design elements hearken to the brand's Asian roots. Intended to be a vertical resort, seating in public areas is oriented to keep the gaze inward on the beauty and serenity of surroundings rather than the city's frenetic

energy. We found it to be such a haven that throughout our two-night stay, we only (and reluctantly) left the confines of the haute hotel twice: once to meet an old friend for lunch and the other for a long walk in nearby Central Park, as a petite penance for all of our glorious and gluttonous indulging and imbibing at the property's signature restaurants—Arva and Nama—and its subterranean jazz club.

If you are someone desiring to feel like someone, this is the place for you. A team of attendants awaits at the front door, with more security at the elevator that takes guests up to the reception area on the 14th floor. As soon as the door opens, it's difficult not to be gobsmacked by Aman New York's bold minimalist view of a luxury urban hotel.

Calm, cool, and curated, the lighting design beckons you to want to see what's around the next corner. Fire is a recurring element, and a fireplace in the reception area helped to take the chill off a cold February morning while we completed the check-in process. The reception level is the heart of the hotel and populated with beautiful people from day to night. At present, only residents and registered guests have access to these elevated areas. Still, I can't imagine the powers that be at Aman will be able to fend off the requests for extended access, particularly in the summer months, when its exquisite 7k square-foot Garden Terrace, replete with extensive landscaping, fire-centered water features, retractable roof, and chic seating areas are fully availed.

The Bar Lounge. Artist Peter Gentenaar created the paper and bamboo sculpture that “floats” overhead.

Aman brings its Asian-inspired tranquility to the heart of Manhattan

Interior of Nama

The Garden Terrace

Garden Terrace Bar

Corner suite living room

Each suite boasts a large-scale art mural on rice paper inspired by the 15th-century masterpiece Pine Trees (Shōrin-zu byōbu) by Hasegawa Tōhaku.

Junior suite bathroom.

Bedroom in a corner suite.

The 83 suites are located on the floors beneath the lobby, as well as the spa, which encompasses 25k square feet over three entire floors (more on that later). The attention to detail and lighting extends to the guest rooms and suites, which are colossal by NYC standards.

As soon as the door to our room opened, my eye was drawn to the warm glow emanating from a fireplace—a rarity in Manhattan hotel rooms—at the far end of the room between a pair of windows overlooking Bergdorf and the crowds assembled to ogle the animatronic Yayoi Kusama painting her signature polka dots in the window at Louis Vuitton's midtown store.

To my left, a wall of handsome cabinetry concealed a generous amount of closet space, a coffee station with beautiful handmade ebony stoneware cups and saucers, and a minibar. On the right, a series of shoji-like screens, softly illuminated from within and mounted on swivel hinges, allowed for a "choose your own entry" into the spa-like bathroom with a low soaking tub and TOTO smart toilet. A clever console inside the door allows bags to be stored out of sight to maintain the feeling of feng shui.

Complementing the aesthetic while creating a dramatic focal point encompassing nearly the entire wall opposite the bed was a large-scale art mural on rice paper inspired by the 15th-century masterpiece Pine Trees (Shōrin-zu byōbu) by Hasegawa Tōhaku. After the giddy chatter of our reaction to the room subsided, we were met with something that's often a rarity in big city hotels—

complete silence. And, when the inevitable siren did find its way into our cocoon, it was more of a whisper than a wail.

Having visited five Aman properties, I can now count myself among the "Aman Junkies" club members. As such, the food and beverage program at Aman New York is heads and shoulders above what I've experienced at other Aman properties where the setting and architecture were the scene stealers.

Arva is located adjacent to the double-height buzzy Bar Lounge, where sinuous saffron-colored paper and bamboo sculptures that reminded me of a koi fish in motion (but were created by Peter Gentenaar to resemble Oriental lanterns) "float" between four stone columns. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner under the direction of Italian Chef de Cuisine Dario Ossola (whose previous gig was at Aman's Venice property), the Aman brand's signature Italian restaurant Arva pays homage to Italy's rustic, cucina del raccolto tradition with seasonally rotating, elevated comfort food served in refined spaces around a central open kitchen. Arva strives to source seventy-five percent of its ingredients locally via partnerships with Grow NYC and Our Harvest, representing over 750 farmers and managing at least 100 farmer's markets in and around New York City. Lucky for us, it was truffle season during our stay, and we went decidedly nonlocal, opting to have the fragrant fungi crown nearly every course of our leisurely lunch.

Chef de Cuisine Takuma Yonemaru at Nama, Aman's celebration of Japan's washoku dining tradition.

The heated pool is the centerpiece of the three-floor Spa at Aman New York.

A double treatment room in a private Spa House.

Dramatic cubes of chiseled rock mark the entrance to Nama, Aman's celebration of Japan's washoku dining tradition. Just inside the entry, a Japanese Hinoki wood counter is the site of twicenightly seatings for a 15-to-18-piece omakase-style fine dining experience. The staggered Complementing Frank Lloyd Wrightinspired ceiling and lighting pendants is a feature work created by local artist Melissa Hart.

Chef de Cuisine Takuma Yonemaru's sublime cuisine shines with every course, and we enjoyed sitting at the "kitchen counter," where we ate with our eyes before feasting on everything from sashimi to fork-tender Wagyu sirloin sprinkled with Moshio mineral salt and presented on handcrafted tableware emblematic of the Japanese notion of wabi-sabi. My better half, who has traveled extensively throughout Asia for work, remarked that it was the best Japanese food he'd had outside Japan.

Attesting to the property's ability to engage and satiate from morning till night is a basement-level speakeasy-style Jazz Club, one of the few venues "slightly" open to the public by reservation and boasting state-of-the-art acoustic technology. The intimate area is populated by crescent-shaped banquettes along the perimeter and tables near the draped stage, where a vintage Steinway sits in residence. Six-time Grammy nominee Brian Newman is the venue's creative director, booking a well-rounded group of acts encompassing contemporary jazz to the Great American Songbook. Live acts preceed late-night DJ sets (which, despite our best

intentions were unable to stay awake for). We fully expected the food to be an afterthought, but I am still craving just one more bite of their truffle grilled cheese some four months later.

If you are serious about self-care, the sanctuary offered by the vast Aman Spa is for you. At its heart is a 20-meter pool ringed by fabulous cone-style fireplaces and sleek seating areas. En route to your treatment, be sure to check out the boutique, featuring a selection of Aman-branded Goyard-esque leather goods, and Aman's eponymous apparel, skincare products, and fragrances; a whiff of the latter is enough to transport me back into a vacation state of mind.

As someone who checks out a hotel's gym on their website prior to booking a stay, the generously sized fitness facility was a dream for a workoutaholic like me with both tried-and-true equipment and high-tech offerings, including an anti-gravity treadmill.

Unique to New York City, Aman's indulgent and private Spa Houses, used for full or half-day retreats, offer either a Hamman or a Banya (a wood-clad sauna), in addition to a double treatment room, a living area with fireplace, and a large canopied outdoor terrace with hot and cold plunge pools for an utterly personalized spa experience. My chosen spa treatment, the two-hour Aman New York Signature Journey, focused on the healing, stabilizing, and balancing benefits of the fluorite crystal and, with apologies to Billy Joel, put me in a new New York state of mind that I could easily get used to. sl

For more information about Aman New York, visit aman.com/hotels/aman-new-york.

The Jazz Club at Aman New York

OOH LA

Graziela Ascension ring ($8,750; grazielagems.com). Suzanne Kalan diamond heart necklace (suzannekalan.com). David Yurman Streamline Tag in platinum with baguette diamonds ($18,000). Available through Diamond Cellar in Columbus, Moyer Fine Jewelers and Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, and davidyurman.com. Ananya Fine Jewelry Chakra ring ($5,400; ananya.com). Fred Leighton 1950s platinum diamond waterfall pendant earrings by Boucheron ($310,000; fredleighton.com). Effy Nature black and white diamond butterfly ring ($6,440; effyjewelry.com). Shahla Karimi long baguette V ring ($7,400; shahlakarimi.com).

Xpandable Gold Accent bracelet from Picchiotti ($66,300). Available from Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers in St. Louis and at picchiotti.it/en. LXI OOAK sunset V-shape scatter ring from Ellis Mhairi Cameron ($3,010; ellismhairicameron.com). Nadine Aysoy Le Cercle ring ($14,060; nadineaysoy.com). Sig Ward Manifest charm ($4,050; sigwardjewelry.com). Yessayan baguette diamond statement earrings ($28,000; yessayan.us). Halleh pearl and baguette diamond earrings (halleh.com). Walters Faith Ottoline rose gold baguette hoop earrings ($9,950; watersfaith.com). Hoop earrings from Albarré Jewelry in St. Louis (price upon request; albarre.com). Harakh colorless diamond men’s ring ($6,800; harakh.com).

HAVE JEWELRY WILL TRAVEL

Left to right: Brent Neale pendant ($14,500; brentneale.com) OERA ring from Tabayer ($2,850; tabayer.com) Chris Ploof Oak Mokume Gane ring in red and yellow gold and silver ($3,150; chrisploof.com). Ileana Makri Cascade bracelet ($32,782; ileanamakri.com). Akaila Reid wavy collar necklace ($15,000; akailareid.com).

Left to right: Arman Sarkisyan silver snake cuff ($3,550; armansarkisyan.com). Guita M rough cut gemstone necklace ($14,000; guitam-jewelry.com). Tabbah Reptilia necklace (tabbah.com). Maya Gemstones The Odyssey talisman ring white enamel, black rhodium and diamonds ($5,750; mayagemstones.com). Sylvia Furmanovich Bastet marquetry earrings ($8,360; silviafurmanovich.com). Begum Khan Scarab earrings (begumkhan.com)

Left to right: Sun symbol earrings from Elena Votsi ($650; elevavotsishop.com). Sorellina La Luna earrings ($11,000; sorellinanyc.com). Temple St. Clair 18K Sole Ring ($3,200; templestclair.com). L’Atelier Nawbar 3 In 1 Day and Night Ring ($1,800; lateliernawbar.com). Never Not sunglasses pendant with opal and diamond ($4,084; nevernot.co.uk).

Left to right: Rainbow K Imperial choker (rainbowkjewelry,com). Matara Studio The Breeze of Wealth pendant ($4,850; matarastudio.com). Turquoise and golden South Sea cultured pearl Modernist earrings from Assael ($14,000). Available through Diamond Cellar in Columbus and Nashville and at assael. com. Tahitian pearl necklace from the Yoko London Starlight Collection ($4,500; yokolondon.com). Cynthia Ann Jewels antique seed pearl crown pendant ($6,525; cynthiaannjewels.com).

Marie Lichtenberg Love You locket ($3,430; marielichtenberg.com). Yvonne Léon bracelet ($12,500; yvonneleon.com). John Hardy Manah station bracelet ($495). Available through Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville and at johnhardy.com. Deborah Pagani heart hair pin ($110; deborahpagani.com). Tabbah Talisman earrings (tabbah.com).

The City of Love

Sin City

Available in St. Louis through Elleard Heffern Fine

Pink

($4,700). Available through Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis and

Left to right:

Pamela Love Claude pendant ($4,700; pamelalove.com). Jovana Djuric Jewelry Horus Diamond Ego Pincher ring ($10,995; jovanadjuric.com). Rainbow K handcuff earring (rainbowkjewelry.com). Vram Chrona double cuff ($15,600; vramjewelry.com). Vernier Mon Jeu rose gold and titanium bracelet ($2,580).

Left to right: Argyle Pink diamond halo necklace by J Fine (jfinediamonds.com). Bondeye Jewelry emerald cut rose quartz pendant and chain ($1,390; bondeyejewelry.com). Anna earring from Emily P. Wheeler ($3,800; emilypwheeler.com). Nouvel Heritage pink sapphire earrings

at nouvelheritage.com. Andrew Geoghegan Chocolate Box Viva Magenta cocktail ring (andrewgeoghegan.com). Melissa Kaye Lola pink ring ($1,550). Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis and at melissakayejewelry.com.

Left to right: Gismondi Genesi emerald bracelet ($20,600; shop.gismondi1754.com). Chose emerald ring with Columbian emerald from Reza’s ‘Facette’ series ($86,900; worldofreza.com). Lionheart Jewelry Lovey charm ($2,685; lionheartjewelry.com). Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 in18 ct Everrose gold with green aventurine dial. Available through the Richter & Phillips Company in Cincinnati, Diamond Cellar in Columbus and Nashville, Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, and rolex. com. Tanya Farah emerald and diamond small flower necklace ($3,600; tanyafarah.com)

Mandarina Duck Logoduck + Glitter beauty case ($125) and expandable cabin trolley ($225; mandarinaduck.com)

DIVINEO

Breaking tradition in Burgundy

Written by Claire Williams

To truly know French people, one must completely grasp their food and wine culture and the rules they abide by. The need to have a baguette accompanying every meal to soak up that leftover jus on your plate; the direct eye contact made with every santé as glasses raise in a toast; and the ritual of a coffee and cigarette on an outdoor terrace after a long day.

But then the question comes to mind: when is it the time to break those rules and go against tradition to create something truly exceptional? DIVINEO does just that in the wine world by breaking the traditional codes of French wine to give a new life and reputation to Vins de France.

In 2021, after discovering a preserved valley in the heart of the Languedoc region, in the southwest of France, a group of friends from varying backgrounds, including an ex-CEO of OranginaSchweppes and winery owners, founded DIVINEO and embarked on a journey to take grapes from the South and mature them in Burgundy in the east of France. DIVINEO aims to show that it's possible to make great wines by freeing themselves from traditional codification and appellations while highlighting terroirs that sometimes go overlooked.

During the early 20th century, wine production in France was plagued by fraud and low-quality wine that prompted the creation of the Institut National del'Originee et de la Qualité (INAO), an organization charged with regulating place of origin, quality, and style of French agricultural products such as wine and

cheese. Under the INAO, the wine classification system, known as Appellation d'originee contrôlée (AOC) —French for controlled designation of origin—sets the standards for wine in France. The wine produced outside an AOC is referred to as Vin de France, denoting only that the wine comes from France. Such a designation is historically associated with wines of lesser quality and often sold under brand names.

In Burgundy alone, there are 84 AOCs, ranging from Grand Cru to Régionale appellations, which guarantee the authenticity of a region's wines, reflect the diversity of the terroir and that of its winemakers, and typically secure a higher price point. Most connoisseurs and lovers of wine are attached to specific appellations, and each have their preferred AOC; a Pauillac from Bordeaux or a Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the Rhône Valley are all examples of this.

An AOC guarantees quality and protection in the production of wine; it can also make wine predictable. While each cuvée varies yearly, most are attached to certain AOCs because it's familiar, and consumers have come to know what to expect in the bottle. This is where DIVINEO comes in: their winemakers work with Southern grape varieties in Burgundian cellars to create a new universe of sensations oscillating between intensity and freshness. DIVINEO's founders boldly aim to be the dawn of a new era of wine in France by not being classified as an AOC and reinventing the Vin de France category.

DIVINEO owns 19 hectares (nearly 47 acres), with nine under vine in the Robiac Valley. The valley offers a micro-climate of cool

nights, advantageous elevation, and a forest environment. DIVINEO hasn't shied away from embracing variety in their grapes. They cultivate Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris, Vermentino, Roussanne, Picpoul, and Bourboulenc for their white wines. The main grape varieties already planted for their red wines are Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault. Their remaining land will be planted little by little in the coming years, with Chenin, Petit Maseng, Carignan Blanc and Gris, and Aligoté all on the agenda.

Clodéric Prade manages DIVINEO's vineyards. A selfproclaimed Languedocien winegrower with a Burgundian palate, he is one of DIVINEO's co-founders and also the owner of Domained'Erianee in Saint-Mamert-du-Gard. In the time between DIVINEO's 2021 and 2023 cuvées, five other winemakers passionate about their aim to make revolutionary wine joined their team. The newest member of the DIVINEO team, Maëlys Jardin, says of their unusual method, "Our winegrowers are free to express all their knowhow and passion in their wines. The maturing in Burgundy barrels allows us to obtain wines characterized by their freshness and elegance. They are always high-quality wines, made with precision and care."

DIVINEO, like most wineries in France, grasps the importance of biodiversity in their vineyards and attempts to have as little intervention as possible, such as using indigenous yeasts and very low doses of sulfur in the winemaking process. With an emphasis placed on agroforestry and organic farming, DIVINEO wants their terroir and the talent of their winemakers to speak for themselves.

DIVINEO produced five cuvées for 2021 that genuinely express the journey from the Robiac Valley to Burgundy.

Of the five, the Grenache Vieilles Vignes—a blend of Black Grenache and Syrah—is one of their most unique and prestigious wines, made with grapes from 60+-year-old vines from vibrant terroir that imparts the grapes with a taste rarely seen in Southern territories. With notes of black fruit, spice, and a touch of smoke, this prestige range is limited to only 700 magnum bottles and will be available as of April 2023.

Creating a sense of community is also a core business goal, with DIVENEO fans invited to join their Club des Affranchis, "The Freedmen's Club". Club members are privy to exclusive convivial events in Paris, Languedoc, and Burgundy and can access members' only cuvées

While DIVINEO is just beginning its journey, the possibilities seem endless as they grow by exploring new grape varieties and continually innovating through winemaking. Julien Petitjean, one of DIVINEO's winegrowers, said he sought guidance from winegrowers on the verge of retirement to "opt for know-how over knowledge" as he forged his path to creating wine free from preconceived notions. While the time and UNESCO-honored French food and wine culture resolutely persists, DIVINEO's challenge of the status quo may lay the groundwork for new traditions to take root. sl

You can taste DIVINEO wines at Domaine

de la Roseraie in Nolay (winemaker Julien Petitjean), Domaine Petit Roy in Chorey-les-Beaune (winemaker Seiichi Saito Wang), and at Domaine Nicolas Perrault in Dezize-lès-Maranges (Perrault family winemakers). Learn more at vindivineo.com.

Seiichi Saito Wang Julien Petitjean Clodéric Prade

Clockwise from top left: Eres Aquarelle swimsuit in Limonade ($390; eresparis.com). Gandhara men’s Egeo swim trunks ($150; costumigandhara.it/en). Bea Bongiasca x Linda Farrow sunglasses (starting at $350; available starting 5/1 on netaporter.com). Grober sunglasses from MOSCOT ($350; moscot.com).

Opposite page, clockwise from top left: From Lele Sadoughi’s Contemporary Collector Spring Collection (lelesadoughi.com): Lime Zest knotted headband ($195), Marigold stud earrings ($85); Papaya & Day Dream Marigold crochet mini totes ($195/each), Natural Maya mini tote ($345), Sherbert Showers raffia ruffle handbag ($425), Pastel rainbow crochet tote ($195), and Geometric Jumble Maya mini tote ($375). Image courtesy of Lele Sadoughi. From My Beachy Side: Left: Sabrina triangle bikini ($195) and Sabrina tie-font hoodie coverup in white ($630) Right: Ginger Shell string bikini ($125) and Sabrina tie-font hoodie coverup in multi ($630; mybeachyside.com). Ceclia sunglasses from LAPIMA ($554; us.lapima.com). Alepel + RECESS pickle ball paddle ($98; alepel. com). Lele Sadoughi Jet Peggy ($145), Canary Confetti ($165), Pearl Elton ($165) and Check Mate Palm Springs ($165) sunglasses and Confetti Lily earrings ($195; lelesadouhi.com). LUISA SPAGNOLI Catapulta striped dress ($850) and Icaria bag ($370; luisaspagnoli.com). My Beachy Side Ali crochet halter top ($255) and Faye wide leg pants ($405; mybeachyside.com)

Clockwise from top left: Jurney dress from Trina Turk ($498; trinaturk.com). Honolulu board short from Mr. Turk ($228; trinaturk.com)

through a blend of traditional stainless steel or powder-coated framing and center panels, (danver.com/urbane). This page, clockwise from top left: ISLA modular outdoor collection from Gandia Blasco is available in seven color combinations (gandiablasco.com). The signature Flamenco® from Santa Barbara Umbrella, shown in watermelon awning-weight Regatta® solution dyed acrylic canopy and whitecap braid trim (santabarbaradesigns.com). Photo by James Chen. Mah Jong outdoor by Jean Paul Gaultier for Roche Bobois (roche-bobois.com). Available in three colors, Voyage from Trex Outdoor Kitchens features a full height door base for storage and a grill base with additional storage underneath (tree-outdoorkitchens.com). The D.150.5 solid wood chaise longue, designed by Gio Ponti for Molteni & C. ($9,780’ shop.molteni.it). Poltrona Frau's Leather Pots in the newly-developed Pelle Frau® Motif Weavers motif (from $200; poltronafrau.com).

DRIVEN BY PERFECTION

Rolls-Royce celebrates the 160th anniversary of the birth of co-founder Sir Henry Royce.

Written by Andre James / Photos courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

Sir Henry Royce's uncompromising command, "Strive for perfection in everything you do. Take the best that exists and make it better," is one of the most famous quotations in automotive history. It is also a maxim that rings down the ages and still inspires and informs the company that bears his name.

The price for a bespoke Rolls-Royce regularly eclipses the tens of millions. Making an appearance at the 2021 Concourso d'Eleganza at Villa d'Este on the shores of Italy's Lake Como, a Rolls-Royce Boat Tail allegedly hand-built for Beyoncé and Jay-Z is rumored to have cost an eye-popping $28 million. It's a price tag that would likely seem unfathomable to Henry Royce, who experienced hardship, poverty, and disadvantage in his early life.

Royce was born in 1863 as the youngest of five children. His family's perilous financial circumstances worsened when his father, a miller, was jailed after being declared bankrupt, the punishment according to the era's laws. Determined to make a better life for himself, by age ten, he was working in London, first as a newspaper seller and then as a telegram deliverer. Then, in 1879, with financial backing from an aunt, Royce landed an apprenticeship at the Great Northern Railway workshops in Peterborough. He quickly demonstrated his aptitude for design and a natural ability to work with tools and varied materials.

Undeterred after his Aunt could no longer subsidize his annual apprenticeship fee, Royce returned to London in 1881 to work at the fledgling Electric Lighting & Power Generating Company,

forsaking traditional engineering for the emerging field of electricity. Unregulated at the time, the lack of oversight and the need for formal qualifications to work in electricity proved to be a boon for Royce, who by age 19 was named Chief Electrician to a company supplying electric lighting to Liverpool. Unfortunately, hard times came knocking before his twentieth birthday when mismanagement forced the company into receivership and Royce into unemployment.

Relying on his savings, hard-earned knowledge, and an unrelenting work ethic, in 1884, Royce founded F H Royce & Co in Manchester, which initially produced small items such as battery-powered doorbells before moving into heavy equipment. Despite this success, a life of unrelenting personal and professional struggles took a toll on his health, and in 1901 his physician persuaded Royce to embark on a 10-week holiday to visit his wife's family in South Africa. On the return trip, he picked up a copy of The Automobile – its construction and management, and his life's trajectory took a monumental shift.

Reinvigorated from his respite, in 1904, Royce acquired his first motor car upon his return to England, a 10 H.P. Decauville. The finest car available to him, he immediately dismantled it with the stated intention to "take the best that exists and make it better." He began by building three two-cylinder 10 H.P. cars based on the Decauville layout, followed by the three-cylinder 15 H.P., four-cylinder 20 H.P., and six-cylinder 30 H.P., each of which represented significant advances in automotive design.

Dutch fashion designer Iris Van Herpen collaborated with Rolls-Royce on the haute couture-inspired Phantom Syntopia. The interior’s ‘Weaving Water’ starlight headliner is the most complex in Rolls-Royce history. It is also the first Rolls-Royce to use a bespoke scent.

At the end of March, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveiled Black Badge Wraith Black Arrow to mark the end of production of one of the most transformative cars in the marque’s history. Limited to just 12 examples worldwide, this bespoke vehicle is the last V12 coupé Rolls-Royce will ever make, as the company embarks on its bold new electric era.

Sir Henry Royce with an experimental Rolls-Royce car, 6ex

In 1906, two years after the initial meeting between Henry Royce and the Hon. Charles Stewart Rolls (who, in contrast to Royce, was a younger, aristocratic, Cambridge-educated aviation pioneer and racing driver), at the Midland Hotel in Manchester, England, Rolls-Royce Managing Director Claude Johnson persuaded Royce to adopt a 'one model' policy. In response, Royce designed the 40/50 H.P. 'Silver Ghost,' demonstrating Royce's almost uncanny instinct for using the right materials for components long before scientific analysis could provide reliable data. He also discovered that fluids' properties alter with speed, so he designed the Silver Ghost's carburetor with three jets that came into play at different throttle openings, thereby eliminating 'flat spots'. At this same time, Rolls-Royce acquired a site on Nightingale Road in Derby to accommodate the burgeoning business, where Royce personally designed and oversaw building a brand-new, purpose-built factory.

Once again, maintaining a crushing workload caused Royce to suffer a health crisis, and in 1911 his doctor prescribed a period of extended rest. Royce opted for an epic multi-continent road trip with Johnson. During a stop in the south of France on the return, Johnson bought a parcel of land in Le Canadel, near Nice, and commissioned a new house for Royce, plus a smaller villa for visiting drafters and assistants. For the rest of his life, Royce sensibly spent his winters at Le Canadel and summers in the south of England.

From 1917, Royce's English residence was Elmstead, an 18th-Century house in the village of West Wittering on the Sussex

coast, just eight miles from the present-day Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood. Elmstead had some adjoining land, where Royce resumed his long-standing interest in fruit farming. Inevitably, he brought his desire for perfection to this activity, too, studying every book he could find to become an expert on all aspects of husbandry, particularly soil chemistry and fertilizers. Even though farmers came from miles around to admire his crops and livestock, Royce never called himself a farmer, preferring the term 'cultivator.'

Whether he was designing car components or aircraft engines, Royce's search for perfection never waned, yet even he acknowledged that it was, in fact, unattainable. His mantra for his drawing-office staff was "rub out, alter, improve, refine." During his long and varied career, Royce filed 301 patents – an astonishing feat for a largely self-educated engineer. An instinctive, intuitive engineer, Royce firmly believed that if something looked right, it probably was right. He was awarded an OBE in 1918, and in 1930 he was made a Baronet – thus becoming Sir Henry Royce – for his services to aviation. With characteristic modesty, he wrote to all Rolls-Royce employees, thanking them for their contribution to the honor.

As his biographer Sir Max Pemberton noted, Royce was convinced to the end of his days that “only by production is a man making the best use of his time." Royce was still drawing designs within hours of his death, at Elmstead, on a custom work table fitted to his bed. The power of his ethos and legend still informs and inspires the company that bears his name 160 years after his birth. sl

The prototype for the Rolls-Royce all-electric Spectre undergoing extreme hot weather testing in South Africa.

The House of Rolls-Royce debuted ‘Cullinan-Inspired by Fashion’ at Art Basel Miami. Comprised of two prêt-à-porter collections– the bold Re-Belle and striking Fu-Shion, these bespoke examples take inspiration from vibrant hues and textures seen in the world of high fashion, reflecting the eclectic tastes and lifestyle of the luxury clientele.

Rolls-Royce Boat Tail, 2021

Rolls-Royce 'The Silver Spectre' (Chassis 1601, 1910)

Grilled Branzino with caper & parsley gremolata, toasted almonds, lemon

AL-POSTO ‘At the Spot’

Restaurateurs Austin Heidt and Giovanni Ranieri combine their philosophy on food, family, and experience to create a lively Southern Italian dining ‘spot.’

Written by Matthew Millett / Photographed by Andrew Kung

When experienced sommelier and front-of-house restauranteur Austin Heidt wanted to re-imagine an approachable dining experience in Hyde Park Square, he considered his knowledge and love for Italian wine and cuisine. Austin knew of the passion firstgeneration Italian Giovanni Ranieri had for food, and with a background in hospitality, the two paired up to create Al-Posto.

Al-Posto translated means ‘at the spot’. In this case, the “spot” is behind the 12’ tall “Italian Blue” door on the north side of Hyde Park Square in the old Teller’s and Dear restaurant locations. Touches of the same blue as the front door appear on most of the chair cushions, with green banquets on the right side of the open two-story dining space decorated with a large modern wallcovering. On the left is a large glass wine cellar and a long bar with seating for ten. At the end of the dining area is the original vault door from the bank that decades ago had its home there. Today, the vault offers intimate dining for small-to-medium-sized parties. An upstairs mezzanine offers similarly outfitted dining areas and an oversized patio and rooftop bar.

The lively and active bar offers house specialty cocktails and select wines on tap. Italian influence permeates the cocktail menu, including classics like the Negroni and Aperol Spritz. It is also infused within the Al-Posto Margarita, made with Tequila and Orangecello, and the Sicilian Martini, which utilizes an oversized caper berry to add a touch of saltiness. Don’t miss the Espresso Martini, made with local Deeper Roots coffee and both Baileys and Kahlua. As noted on the menu, Austin Heidt also does a great job of suggesting unique wines to pair with various dinner plates.

Traditional Apulian Italian (“heel of the boot”) recipes, handed down to Giovanni from his family, heavily influence the dinner menu. Looking closely at the menu, you will notice subtle references to family members, such as the Gnocchi Alla ‘Marcella’, ‘Mama Flora’s’ Spaghetti and Meatballs, and the ‘Bob Approved’ Cheeseburger Americano. Executive Chef Evan Hartman reconceived these family gems and selections to make them unique to the restaurant.

After studying at the Cincinnati State Culinary Institute, Evan worked six years as Executive Chef at Pleasantry. Evan’s collaboration with Giovanni and his ancestors via their recipes results in a fresh and inspired menu of classic Puglian dishes.

The antipasti and insalata dishes consist of classics like arancini, panzanella, focaccia with pomodoro, and funghi fritti. However, the star is the house-made burrata. A few dollops of sweet strawberry mostarda atop the burrata enhances the sweet coolness from fresh bursts of mint. The burrata comes with fresh grilled focaccia made with a sourdough base and finished in butter and olive oil.

All of the ‘Primi’ pasta noodles are made fresh in-house, and the dishes again offer classic Italian staples such as Cacio e Pepe, eggplant Parmigiana, gnocchi in a vodka sauce, and spaghetti and meatballs. Chef Evan, however, adds unique touches to elevate the flavors in these dishes. For instance, the meatballs in Mama Flora’s Spaghetti and Meatballs are boiled in the sauce and have a gamier flavor courtesy of fennel and Duroc Pork. The Gnocchi Alla Marcella, prepared in a vodka sauce, presents a slight touch of heat melded with sweet pea. Orecchiette, considered the signature pasta of Apulian cuisine, is a light and flavorful dish with a light Lacinato kale and lemon flavor paired with fennel sausage. The star of the Primi dishes, though, is the Spaghetti Allo Scoglio. A medley of classic Italian seafood is cooked in a garlic white wine sauce and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. The use of bottarga, garlic, and bread crumbs leaves a savory, ‘scrape the plate’ worthy topper.

Executive Chef Evan Hartman

Swordfish Alla Ghiotta with tomao, anchovy, caper, calabrian chili, basil, pine nuts

Spaghetti Allo Scaglio with clams, shrimp, bottarga, garlic, bread crumbs

Burrata with strawberry mostarda, mint, extra virgin olive oil

The Pesce options such as grilled branzino in a caper and parsley gremolata; dryaged salmon paired with fregola (classic Southern Italian pasta), fennel, and radish in a white wine balsamic vinaigrette; and garlic shrimp Diavolo with oregano, garlic, and chili, highlights classic Apulian and Southern Italian cuisine.

However, the swordfish Alla Ghiotta is an umami bomb of flavor and one of the menu’s high notes. Dried fish, anchovy, olives, capers, Calabrian chili, and pine nuts are all cooked and reduced together and then melded with tomatoes and further reduced to create a spicy, peppery, herbal umami of flavor, topping the thick swordfish filet. Extra focaccia can come in handy to sop up any remaining Ghiotta sauce.

Carne entrees focus on the Pollo, Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, and Pugliese Braciole Steak. The Pollo is similar to a piccata preparation, focused on a lemon caper butter sauce and topped with fresh Parmigiano Reggiano. The Bistecca is a classic, and true to its Florentine heritage, utilizes a 28oz porterhouse cut of beef that is well buttered and herbed. Finally, the Pugliese Braciole uses skirt steak rolled with prosciutto, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The steak is then cooked in a ragu meat sauce, resulting in a fall-apart, melt-in-your-mouth entree.

Executive pastry chef Kayla Hunley puts together all of the in-house Deserts. Tiramisu, cannoli, panna cotta, and house-made ice cream café affogato (hot espresso over ice cream) are staples. However, each comes in traditional and seasonal ways, such as a blood orange tiramisu or pistachio-filled cannoli. In addition, a large selection of amaro digestifs is available as an after-dinner drink, including Nonino, Averna, and Braulio Amaro, offering different levels of bitter and herbaceousness.

The philosophy for Al-Posto is simply good cuisine, good wine and spirits, and an exceptional dining experience within a friendly, lively atmosphere. We hope to see you at ‘The Spot.’ sl

Al-Posto is located at 2710 Erie Ave, in Hyde Park Square 45208. 513.321.2710. al-posto.com. Open Tuesday through Saturday.

Exectutive pastry chef Kayla Hunley offers up traditional Italian deserts

OVER-THE-RHINE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

In 2022 the Over-the-Rhine International Film Festival was named one of the 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the world (yes, WORLD) by MovieMaker Magazine. Experience the festival for yourself this July 6th–8th in the heart of the Over the Rhine district of Cincinnati.

The festival, organized by leading disability services and advocacy organization LADD, is known as the nation’s premier diversity film festival. The mission of this film festival is to create a sense of shared humanity through stories, conversations, and

action. The festival’s vision is focused on giving a voice to the voiceless, empowering filmmakers who are more often than not forced into the margins of media, and telling untold stories that deserve to be heard.

You can keep up to date on pre-festival events, and parties, purchase film passes, and learn more about the festival at otrfilmfest.org or by following Over-the-Rhine International Film Festival on social media. sl

SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY

May

June

LUNAR NEW YEAR GALA

The Lunar New Year Gala by Midwest USA Chinese Chamber of Commerce is our opportunity to celebrate the most important holiday in Asian culture together. We bring the business community of Midwest USA (and beyond) together to mix, mingle and enjoy a fine evening of Chinese cultural celebration. In 2023, the Year of the Rabbit, we are proudly joined by Ohio Senator George Lang, White House Senior Liaison for Asian Affairs Erika Moritsugu (via video) and Tibetan Buddha Mipham Rinpoche, as well as many business executives, community partners, and members and friends of the Chinese Chamber. The event was held at the Hard Rock Casino in OTR and the award-winning journalist with WKRC TV, Channel 12 Cincinnati, David Winter served as master of ceremony. Art groups from the Columbus Academy of Martial Arts performed for the guests in a great festivity.

1) Mark & Michelle Moody with Sang & Dr. Phuoc Tran 2) Jamie Hu, Ling Yu and Sean Xie 3) Lynnette Morgan, Stephie Foctk, Dave Bailey, Lee Wong 4) Mipham Rinpoche, Leo Chan, Lee Wong and George Lang 5) Natalie & Charles Galvin 6) Dennis Lopez and Sapna Susarla 7) Jennes Zhang, Jerry Lux, Lee Wong 8) Michael Tinoll, Andreas Brookmqnn, Tony Strttholt, Bryan Gearin and Lee Wong 9) Brent & Caroline Xia 10) Andreas Brockmann, Barbara Stucke, Tony Strittholt, Debbie & George Lang 11) Sofia Difrancesco, Lynnette Morgan and Tammy Hollander

slmag.net

EAT, PLAY, GIVE ANNUAL SIDS BRUNCH RECAP

On Sunday, March 5, 2023, kids and grownups alike enjoyed food and beverages from over 30 chefs, restaurants, and vendors at eat.play.give, the Friends & Family SIDS Brunch, hosted by The de Cavel Family SIDS Foundation at The Midwest Culinary Institute at Cincinnati State. In addition to the delicious food & drinks, there was an incredible Silent Auction featuring artwork, jewelry, dining experiences and more. The de Cavel Family SIDS Foundation raises money for SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) awareness, education, and support, as well as the Tatiana de Cavel Scholarship Fund at The Midwest Culinary Institute at Cincinnati State.

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1) Winter Myers, Don Mueller & Jenny Server 2) Ruth Ann Kanitz with Amy Hunter 3) Monica Burlingame & Daniel Klemens 4) Rachael Bernstein & Rachael Desrochers 5) Michele Parisey & Rem Sivakumaran 6) Cynthia Grow, Chuck Hong, Sheri Bessler, Jayne Menke & Jack Coors 7) Jacob Quinn & Erica Bock 8) Annette Pfund-de Cavel & Miki Reilly-Howe 9) Melissa Ohntrup & Pamela Ashmore 10) Judy Dockendorff & Firsten Dockenderff 11) Mark Coper & Julie Thurman 12) Reagan McPhedran & Rene McPhedran

Join Us To Support KICKS

C . A .R.E . S . GALA

Saturday, September 9th, 2023

100% of proceeds directly benefit trans youth and the Living With Change Center At Cincinnati Children’s Hospital!

THE GOOD SAMARITANS’ 38TH ANNUAL GALA

On Saturday, February 4, friends of the Good Samaritan Foundation gathered at Cincinnati Music Hall for The Good Samaritans’ 38th annual gala, “All That Glitters.” For the second year in a row, the event raised a record-breaking amount! This year, a total of $687,335 will support Forever Forward along with annual support of the Good Samaritan Free Health Center and Medical Education Research Fund. The evening’s activities, entertainment, and meal were underwritten by sponsors and Forward Partners, with the gala’s presenting sponsor being PFS Group. Visit gshfoundation. com/gala for a full recap of the event.

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1) TriHealth President and CEO Mark Clement, Mary Clement, Ralph (Mike) and Ann Michael, Jason and Brandi Dzanski, Debbie and Jeff Groski, Meredith and Andrew DeVoe

2) Mark Bourdenko, Orane Douglas, Raymond Ruiz, Nia Washington, Mike Schlund, Justina Schlund, Greg Maddrey, Taylor Douglas, Brian Spendley 3) 2023 Gala Committee Members Melody Weil, Lisa Martin, Joyce Lehmann, Renita Homan, Tessie Hayden, Lesley-Ann Gracey, Shiva Ghazi 4) “All That Glitters” guests dancing the night away to AMFM Band 5) 2023 Gala Physician Champion Dr. George Kerlakian, Forever Forward Chair and Good Samaritan Foundation Board Chair Kip Heekin, TriHealth President and CEO Mark Clement

CINCINNATI INTERNATIONAL WINE FESTIVAL CHARITY AUCTION LUNCHEON

The 2023 Cincinnati International Wine Festival’s annual Saturday Charity Auction Luncheon was a sold-out record breaking event. 200 guests bid on exclusive wine, dinner and travel lots while enjoying food provided by Renee Schuler and Eat Well Catering and expertly paired wine. Funds raised from the luncheon auction, grand tastings, and diner events at local restaurants will be donated back to 30+ local non-profits. For more information, visit: winefestival.com

1) Karen Caruso, Caryn Scott, Melanie Etheridge, Murray Sinclaire, Cynthia Grow, Jack Coors and Dan Greathouse 2) Rhonda Folzenlogen, Stephanie Coley, Michael Folzenlogen, Shane Coley 3) Sheri Kessler & Chuck Hong 4) Co-Chairs Matthew Millett and Sue Mills 5) Graig Smith, Clayt Daley, Carol Monnin, Janet Smith, Paul Parks 6) Kim Holleim & Janet Reynolds 7) Marcus Relthford and Eileen Sweeney 8) Amy Spiller, George & Jeane Elliott, Dave Sheehy 9) Larry Holiday, Julie Crow, Jeff Hanna, Peggy Eberhardt 10) Yen Hsieh, Connie Wiles, and Jill Leslie 11) Kate Fortlace, Michal Lee, Richard Blatt, Karen Blatt and Jayne Menke

MARDI GRAD FOR HOMELESS CHILDREN

Mardi Gras for Homeless Children celebrated Fat Tuesday, February 21, 2023, with a one-of-its-kind event to support homeless youth. It was a huge success! With initial results showing that the event raised about $200,000 for Brighton Center’s Homeward Bound Shelter, Bethany House Services, and Welcome House, Inc. Mardi Gras for Homeless Children was created by Northern Kentucky Restaurant Association (NKRA) in 1992 in response to the death of 3 local homeless children in an abandoned garage fire. This annual event continues to raise money and increase awareness regarding the challenges faced by homeless children in our community.

1) Eric & Bonnie Summe with Jim & Clara Hilgefort 2) Keele Ferguson, Karly Crone & Martha Hamblen 3) Mary Fluff, Angel Hogan, Lyn Dizon 4) Bethany & Michael Beegle 5) Sheryl Helner & Joanie Lych 6) Mark & Susan McDonald with Kurt & Ellie Adams 7) Herlan Mendelson & Stephanie Pitts 8) Sam & Matt Rowekamp with Carrie Taylor 9) Erika Gay, Molly Hamm and Theresa Eberly 10) Tom Powers & Amy Goetz 11) Cynthia Grow & Jack Coors 12) Giovani Bernard, Scott Sloan and Sheila Gray

VICTORIAN AT RIVERSIDE GALA

On February 11th, The Victorian at Riverside Assisted Living and Memory Care Home held their Valentine themed “Have a Heart for VAR” Gala. Awards were given to philanthropic leaders in the community, Chuck & Julie Geisen Scheper, Cincinnati Foundation for the Aged and Matthew Millett of Sophisticated Living Magazine for their contributions to the betterment of our community. Presenting sponsor was Fedders Construction with bronze sponsors First Financial Bank and Paul Listerman of Wells Fargo Advisors.

1) Barbara Baxter & Doug Jones 2) Mark & Susan Whitman 3) Cathy Doyle, Alex VanDerzee, Patricia Layne, VAR Board President, Ron Padgett 4) Philanthropic Award Winner Cincinnati Foundation for the Aged Trustee, Shannon Crutchfield, Victorian at Riverside CEO, Carrie VanDerzee, Cincinnati Foundation for the Aged Secretary, Heather Jansen 5) VAR Advancement Director, William Konop, Miss KY Hannah Edelen, Cedric Vogel 6) Miss Kentucky 2022, Hannah Edelen, Jim Goldman, Sarah Goldman, Caroline Prem, David Prem

OHIO VALLEY VOICES RAISES $300,000 AT 15TH ANNUAL GALA

Nearly 500 people attended Ohio Valley Voices (OVV) 15th Annual Gala at the iconic Hilton Netherland Plaza to celebrate the success of OVV’s programs, children, and alumni. It was the largest event in Ohio Valley Voices’ history, raising $300,000! The program spotlighted OVV children and was hosted by OVV alumni. For their contributions to Ohio Valley Voices, the night honored Mr. John Caulfield as the Raise Your Voice Award Recipient and Ms. Louisa Peet as the Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient. The event was sponsored by Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. and Ohio Valley Founding Families, and was chaired by Jennifer & Steve Burns. All proceeds raised at the event will support OVV programs and children. https://ohiovalleyvoices.org/ 90 slmag.net

1) Bill & Charlotte McBrayer with Chuck & Ginny Myer 2) Cliff Theis, Joy Sorter, Ann Milburn & Dick Murgatroyd 3) Jennifer & Steve Burns 4) Sophia Blessing, Mikey Rico, Lailah Sellers 5) Christine & Charles O’Bannon 6) Ben & Brooklyn Ballein 7) Kim Parker, Barbara Gargiulo, Lousia Peet, Joseph Gargiulo, & Claudia Peet 8) Maria Sentelik & Distinguished Alumni award recipient Louisa Peet 9) Maria Sentelik & John Caulfield 10) Entertainment provided by the Naked Karate Girls 11) Tom Bosse, John Caulfield & Molly Wellman

PWC TOOLBELT BALL:

People Working Cooperatively celebrated the 25th anniversary of its annual fundraiser, ToolBelt Ball presented by Macy’s, on March 25 at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati. The gala raised more than $390,000 for the nonprofit’s Modifications for Mobility program to help low-income, elderly homeowners and people with disabilities in the Tri-State to stay safe and healthy at home. pwchomerepairs.org

1) Tom Westrich & Anne Wiseman 2) Joe & Angie Butcher 3) Damien & Monia Rushing 4) Kim Mott & Mike Demneemann 5) Tim & Jenny Whitestone 6) Brian & Nicole Cash 7) Katie & Brian Ruschman, Jeanne Trifilio & Brent Cooper 8) Andreu Johnson with Megan & Jim Ullrich 9) Nick & Kaylie Lehman 10) Tim Spitzmueller, Phillip Pierce, Tom Groll & Kim Zang 11) Julie Vorholt & Tom Colvin 12) Sylvester & Sonya Dunnom

SOPHISTICATED GIVING LAUNCH PARTY

Non-profit leaders and philanthropists gathered at the Cincinnati Art Museum to celebrate the release of the 2023 Sophisticated Giving Charity Register. Generously sponsored by The Western & Southern Financial Group and The Fort Washington Investment Advisors, WSFG President John Barrett gave remarks on the power of giving and the special connection philanthropy holds in the TriState region. Visit the Sophisticated Giving online edition at www.sophisticatedlivingmag.com/home/cincinnati

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1) Kelly Came, Michelle Kiigi & Debi Haines 2) Cynthia Grow, Matthew Millett & Julie Raleigh 3) Peter Alpaugh, Tracey Stofa & Cindy Tsai 4) Matthew Millett, Maribeth Rahe & John Barrett 5) Janine & Dan Hueber 6) Jamie Wallage, John & Ginny Corsini, Mallory Spiess 7) Assistance League of Greater Cincinnati volunteers with Matthew Millett and John Barrett 8) John Banchy, Teri Shirk & Aaron Bley 9) Sharon Civitello & Debbie Weitz 10) Bill Burwinkel, Erin Mullen, Katie Andress, Sonya Fultz & Evan Clinkenbeard 11) Karen Wirthlin, Dana Saxton & Amit Dutta

MADI’S HOUSE ROAST

The Honorable Simon (Si) L. Leis, Jr., 87, recently diagnosed with stage IV terminal cancer, was roasted and toasted on February 25th by Former Mayor Jerry Springer, and the likes of Cincinnatians Jeff Ruby, Buddy LaRosa, Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey, Police Chief Terry Theetge. The event raised $400,000 for Madi’s House, a mental health hangout for recovering young adults. Si is the grandfather of the late Madison Raleigh who committed suicide at the age of 24, for whom Madi’s House was founded by parents Julie and Steve Raleigh. Proceeds will be used to build a fitness center bearing Mr. Leis’ name on the Madi’s House campus.

Honorable Simon L. Leis, Jr., is pictured with friends and patrons at his roast. Proceeds from the event will be used to build a fitness center bearing Mr. Leis’ name on the Madi’s House campus.