{Lexington’s Finest}
May/June 2021 five dollars
slmag.net
BITTNERS
.c o m
For your next chapter
1801 Sulgrave Road
Claire Alagia, 592.3459 | $5,750,000
UNDER CONTRACT
13905 River Glen Lane | Prospect
Tract 1,2 Rose Island Road
863 Cave Heights Lane | Rough River
4002 Woodstone Way
1418 Mockingbird Valley Green
2926 Harrods Crossing Boulevard
Josh Laughlin, 777.8904 | $3,350,000
Laura Rice, 593.3366 | $1,279,000
Judy Bradley, 553.2470 | $995,000
Nell Pearce Bradley, 338.2499 | $3,000,000
Melanie Galloway, 291.9210 | $1,300,000
Lynette Masterson, 643.4445 | $899,000
©MMXXI Lenihan Real Estate, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty Logo are service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC and used with permission. Lenihan Real Estate, LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each franchise is independently owned and operated. Any services or products provided by independently owned and operated franchisees are not provided by, affiliated with or related to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC nor any of its affiliated companies.
1116 Bellewood Road | Anchorage Terri Bass Team, 424.8463 | $4,850,000
5802 River Road | Prospect Jon Mand, 417.2837 | $3,495,000
UNDER CONTRACT
1912 Mockingbird Bluff Lane
2000 Millvale Road
3104 Boxhill Lane | Glenview
1514 Sylvan Way | Towne Orchard
39 Brownsboro Hill Road | Bonniewood
222 East Witherspoon Street. #1103
Pam Lawson, 558.7064 | $2,700,000
John Lenihan, 593.2024 | $1,295,000
Chuck Pence, 291.4739 | $829,000
Beth Schilling, 649.5251 | $1,998,000
Brandon Jones, 718.0044 | $995,000
Cynthia Kelly 558.6755 | $775,000
FIND YOUR NEXT CHAPTER AT LSIR.COM
Lenihan Sotheby’s International Realty | 3803 Brownsboro Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40207 | 502.899.2129 | lsir.com
The first electric car with a sports car soul. The Taycan. Starting at 79,900.*
Blue Grass MOTORSPORT 4720 Bowling Blvd. Louisville, KY 40207 502-894-3428 porschelouisville.com
pools for your lifestyle Using experienced architectural techniques combined with the latest lighting enhancements within a professional pool design, will have you entertaining for family and friends in a resort style living right in your own backyard. Define your lifestyle by allowing us to design and build your very own personal oasis.
PoolDesign Louisville’s Premier Outdoor Pool Builder
502.376.0732
pictureperfectlandscaping.com
CWD
CH R I S T O P H E R W E L S H D E S I G N S
INTERIORS
•
R E N O VAT I O N S
ALISE O'BRIEN
Classic designs, for modern life. CHRISTOPHERWELSHDESIGNS . COM
502.873.6002
LOUISVILLE
K Y S E L E C T P R O P E RT I E S . CO M
3 . 74 A C R E S
13909 River Glen Lane Offered for $1,425,000 SUZANNE ADES-POMERANCE | 502.550.5842 + S H A N N O N E D WA R D S | 5 0 2 . 9 3 8 . 1 2 4 1
412 Mockingbird Hill Road Offered for $995,000 S A N DY G U L I C K | 5 0 2 . 5 9 2 . 8 6 6 4
NEW LISTING
1612 Two Springs Place Offered for $895,000 BROOKE MILLER | 502.608.4457 NEW LISTING
1521 E Breckinridge Street price upon request ANN JAMES | 502.296.8849
©2021 Kentucky Select Properties. All Rights Reserved. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Thank You Louisville for 50 Beautiful Years.
3938 Dutchmans Lane (502) 897 5369 josephssalon.com
Three Generations Serving Residential Construction Bringing responsible stewardship and time honored quality and craftsmanship to your home.
New Construction & Remodeling View our portfolio online
502.243.1030
www.EspositoConstruction.com
NEW 2019 MASERATI
Gran Turismo MC Convertible
MASERATI LOUISVILLE | 4710 Bowling Blvd., Louisville, KY 40207 | Sales: (502) 894-3429 | maseratilouisville.com
{Lexington’s Finest}
{Louisville’s Finest}
May/June 2021
May/June 2021
slmag.net
five dollars
slmag.net
May/June 2021
five dollars
on the cover Louisville: Statement Makers: Fashion designer Didi Akinyelure, founder of April & Alex. Photo by Ty Bello. Lexington: Room Service; Beach swing at the Ithaafushi-The Private Island, part of Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand in the Maldives. Photo by Rupert Pearce.
54 Island Style
Mirabelle cachepot from AERIN by Aerin Lauder ($500; aerin.com)
14 slmag.net
20
Strength in Stitches
24
A Tale of Two Styles
33
Room Service
38
Fun in the Sun
40
Rainbow Connection
42
Bibliotaph
44
Stars of the Show
46
Pinot Off the Beaten Path
48
The Palm Beaches
54
Of Note... Island Style
56
The Electric Gran Turismo
58
Fearless Fashion
66
Sophisticated Stars
68
Not Your Nonna's Table
74
Garden Variety
80
Sophisticated Sustenance
82
Sophisticated Society
EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Bridget Williams ______________________________________________ ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kay Matton ART DIRECTOR Jason Yann CONTRIBUTORS Writers Patti Bailey Victoria Chase Matthew Cottrell Tracy Cottrell Colin Dennis Elliott Greene Lionel Haff Andre James Chris Witzke Photographers Tony Bailey Robert Burge Chad Henle Andrew Kung Rachel Lutz EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Claire Williams ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE 502.582.6563 ______________________________________________ CEO/PUBLISHER Eric Williams
Sophisticated Living is published by Sophisticated Living, LLC, P.O. BOX 1229, Prospect, Kentucky 40059 USA. All Rights Reserved. Sophisticated Living is published six times a year. All images and editorial are the property of Sophisticated Living, LLC and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission. Annual subscription fees are $25.00; please add $5 for subscriptions outside the US. Single copies may be purchased for $5 at select fine retail outlets. Address all subscription inquiries to: Sophisticated Living, PO Box 1229, Prospect, KY 40059. To order back issues or reprints of 100 or more, call 502.582.6563.
SLMAG.NET
From the Editor-In-Chief
I readily own up to being a stress shopper. However, I'm also a bargain hunter, which means that the momentary rush I chase to alleviate whatever is ailing me is (usually) not too much of a pain in the pocketbook. Extended time at home combined with sitting behind a computer all day certainly doesn't help curb my impulses. Particularly during this past year, the one-two punch of a barrage of bad news and an equal amount of pitches from online purveyors meant that nearly every day, I was scrolling through beautiful outfits that alluded to activities that were just out of reach. Examining both my online and in-person purchases over the last year, a pattern became clear: I sought out items that reflected what I wished to be doing, with the exception of a pizza party-themed Last Supper skate deck. I pined for Derby with a striped dress with over-the-top balloon sleeves purchased online and a vintage hat I picked up at Louisville's Fleur De Flea Market. With special events on hiatus, gowns are nearly being given away, and while I knew it was silly to buy even one, I can't pass up a deal (hello TheRealReal), and doing so gave me hope that I'll soon have an occasion to wear them. For as long as I can remember, clothes have always been more a vehicle for personal expression than simply utilitarian in nature. In more than one cringe-worthy photo from my teenage and college years, my apparel choices tell the story of an evolving persona as I navigated my way in the world. In the span of two weeks in late March and early April, I was thrilled that the notion of dressing the part took on wholly different meanings. I went from hobnobbing behind the stately hedges of Palm Beach to camping at the base of the Grand Canyon. For the former, I was excited to don a vintage caftan procured from 2023 on Frankfort Avenue, a dress I'd admired in the shop window every morning for a week while walking my dogs. The vintage frock's lively mood-boosting print was ideally suited for our stay at The Colony, which, under new ownership, has deftly walked the line between remaining relevant with improvements and staying reverent of its history. You can read the article beginning on page 48. I was just as giddy a few weeks later about outfitting myself in warm, waterproof wear for a Grand Canyon rafting and camping trip with Western River Expeditions. A belated birthday gift for my father to mark his 70th birthday, I wouldn't have traded all the jewels on Worth Avenue for this once-in-a-lifetime experience with the man who inspired my deep and enduring love for the great outdoors.
Bridget Williams, Editor-In-Chief
bridget@slmag.net
18 slmag.net
the elements collec tion
STRENGTH IN STITCHES Local artist Ciara LeRoy’s embroidered art garners national attention. Written by Bridget Williams
Like many new discoveries these days, I came across the work of Ciara LeRoy and her company Pretty Strange Design on Instagram (@prettystrangedesign). As someone who works with words, I was immediately struck by her unique ability to weave copy and colors together in a powerful way and wanted to know more about her. LeRoy, who recently relocated to Cincinnati from Lexington, has certainly left her mark throughout the Bluegrass as her brightly hued murals grace buildings, both inside and out in Lexington, Versailles, Louisville, Georgetown. SL: Tell me a little about yourself. LeRoy: I’m a Cincinnati-based independent artist specializing in lettering, hand embroidery, and mural art. I’ve long expressed myself through writing and visual art, so I naturally landed within a style that combines the two. I started off my career briefly working in publishing, and in the years since have worked my way up to being a fulltime visual artist. The main goal with my work is to unite imagination with the everyday—sometimes that imagination is surreal and wacky, and other times that means imagining a more just and equitable world. SL: Was there a particular moment that served as a spark for your career as an artist? LeRoy: My career really took off in the summer of 2020 after I embroidered a piece called “The Cycle” in response to the murders of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and Ahmaud Arbery. The piece was about how our society rides a cycle of outrage over and over again, but ultimately neglects to enact meaningful change. “The Cycle” was shared widely on Instagram and national media outlets began contacting me about the piece. That exposure got my work in front of eyes, companies, and decision-makers I had never engaged with before, and ever since then my client list has been surreal. SL: Who do you look to as a mentor? LeRoy: The person who immediately comes to mind is one of my best friends, Felice Salmon. Felice is an activist and community artist in Lexington, KY and she is the one who taught me modern embroidery techniques about three years ago. Not only did she teach me how to embroider, which is now a huge part of my work, but I am endlessly inspired by the way she bridges art and community engagement. 20 slmag.net
SL: Is there a particular medium you prefer working with? LeRoy: Spend an hour with me and you’ll learn that “favorites” are hard for me, so I can’t pick just one! My top two are fiber (embroidery, yarn, fabric) and acrylic paints. SL: What do you like about working with thread that is different from paint? LeRoy: As I mentioned earlier, my friend Felice taught me basic modern embroidery techniques, and since then, I’ve been learning other techniques on my own. The reason why I enjoy hand embroidery over paint sometimes is that it is often slower and more meditative than painting. As I stitch words, it allows me to consider those words on a deeper, more meaningful level. SL: How would you describe your style? What do you try to communicate through art? LeRoy: My style is heavy on bright colors, oddity, snarkiness, and deep conversation. With my work, I’m trying to communicate themes of joy, community, justice, self-love, and mental health. SL: What was your first commission or artwork that you sold? LeRoy: My early commissions were custom greeting cards. Whenever I send letters to friends, I decorate them really artfully, so early in my career, I had folks wanting me to design cards for them to send to their loved ones. SL: How did you become a sought-after muralist? LeRoy: I used to do branding, and one of my logo clients asked me to paint a mural of the logo inside of her retail shop. Even though I had minimal painting experience, I said yes, and the piece came out really well. Other local shop owners saw the work I did and wanted murals in their spaces too, so my mural client list began to grow organically through word of mouth. Now, a few years later, murals are a huge part of my artistic practice. You can see my murals in Lexington, Versailles, Louisville, Georgetown, and more places soon! A few of my favorites are the Black Lives Matter mural on Short St. in Lexington, the store mural inside of Street Scene Vintage in Lexington, and the murals I have done for Forage Plants in Lexington and Louisville. SL: Name ten things that inspire you. LeRoy: Strangers in coffee shops. Color theory. Fine dining. Fashion. Books. Music. Art museums. My friends. TV. Walks through cities. sl
Artist and activist Ciara LeRoy
slmag.net 21
Join Us Under the Moon Light! Monster Mash Bash | 13th Annual Breath of Fresh Air October Benefit Coming this Fall | October 2021 at 7:00 pm Christy’s Garden | 720 Brent St, Louisville, KY 40204 Tickets: $200 for 2 guests
$1,500 for Twilight Sponsor for 8 guests
Attire: Costume or Business Casual. Honorary Chair –Sponsors: Dr. Kenneth Anderson | Lung Health Adult Hero – Leah Philips Presenting Volunteer of the Year Award The evening includes: Dinner & Drinks, Live Music, Recognition of Lung Health & Community Honorees Bourbon Pull, Tree Pull – Giving back to our Louisville Community, Live Auction, Heads or Tails Each year this event raises significant funds in support of the American Lung Association. The challenges we currently face with lung disease and COVID-19 truly emphasize the value of your support. Our new COVID-19 Action Initiative is a $25 million investment that strives to defeat this virus and defend against future respiratory pandemics.
Questions? Loretta.Devine@Lung.org at or 502-363-2652.
Presenting Sponsors:
Media Sponsors:
Twilight Sponsors:
Outdoor Living. Elevated.
Summer Classics | Brown Jordan | Kingsley-Bate | Lane Venture Louisville’s destination for creating beautiful spaces to share with friends and family for over 20 years. 3905 CHENOWETH SQUARE
ST MATTHEW S
digshomeandgarden.com
A TALE OF TWO STYLES Interior designer Crystal Smith of Bittners creates a seaside-inspired family home employing both classic and contemporary elements. Written by Bridget Williams / Photography by Andrew Kung "I wanted a complete change," said the wife, whose previous residence was a traditional brick home on the outside and full of earth tones inside. Growing up in the Northeast, the wife's childhood architectural memories are strongly expressed in her family's new home's Nantucket contemporary character. Bringing the project to fruition was a team comprised of architect Daniel Grimm, Dave Weis of Meridian Construction, and interior designer Crystal Smith of Bittners. Having worked together for eight years before this project, Smith already had a good idea of the client's wants and needs. "I presented them with my ideas, and they said 'go for it,'" said Smith. Apropos for a young and active family, there is a playful juxtaposition of formal and classic motifs with carefully selected rustic and industrial elements. Judicious use of the color blue in hues from sea to sky recalls a seaside retreat and underscores an overall feeling of put-your-feet-up-ease. In the formal dining room, separated from the entry by a contemporary-style transom, Octavia sisal wallcovering from Schumacher's Orient Express collection dresses the walls above crisp white wainscoting. The captain's chairs are upholstered with chinoiserie fabric, the colors of which are also found in a lively abstract artwork casually resting atop the sideboard. Overhead, rough-hewn beams counter the contemporary lines of the black-and-brass nine-arm globe chandelier. A doorway at the far end of the room provides a peek into the wallpapered butler's pantry. A section of reclaimed beam accentuates the hood above the Wolf range in the kitchen. Pulled up to the long center island, painted blue to stand out against the prevailing white cabinetry, are bar stools upholstered with Schumacher fabric that coordinates with the wallcovering in the dining room. The fabric's octagonal pattern repeats on the chinoiserie bamboo chairbacks surrounding the rustic dining table. Above, light filters through a metal mesh screen of the industrial-style cage chandelier. The home's enviable positioning on a large lot bordered by mature trees negates the need for window treatments in rooms facing the backyard. Accordion doors in the family room, open to the kitchen, slide back to provide alfresco dining space for eight on the screened porch. The family room's seating, selected for its ability to be both comfortable and hardworking, is oriented around a fireplace flanked by built-in bookshelves.
24 slmag.net
Opposite page: Discreetly tucked off the kitchen is an adult-oriented retreat with a beamed, vaulted ceiling that continues the harmonious melding of classic, contemporary and rustic elements found elsewhere. Wallpaper is Acanthus Stripe, a sisal wallpaper in chambray blue designed by Celerie Kemble for Schumacher. This page: In the formal dining room, Octavia sisal wallcovering from Schumacher's Orient Express collection dresses the walls above crisp white wainscoting.
slmag.net 25
Bar stools in the kitchen are upholstered with Schumacher fabric that coordinates with the wallcovering in the dining room. The fabric's octagonal pattern repeats on the chinoiserie bamboo chairbacks surrounding the rustic dining table.
26 slmag.net
slmag.net 27
Rough hewn beams are a predominant architectural accent throughout the home. Accordion doors in the family room, slide back to provide alfresco dining space for eight on the screened porch.
28 slmag.net
slmag.net 29
The chic home office is defined by floorto-ceiling decorative wall paneling painted Air Force blue.
30 slmag.net
An exposed curved beam painted the same color as the ceiling in the vaulted primary suite is an interesting architectural element.
Discreetly tucked off the kitchen is an adult-oriented retreat with a beamed, vaulted ceiling that continues the harmonious melding of classic, contemporary and rustic elements found elsewhere. Accenting the wall behind the bar, notable for its live edge top, is Acanthus Stripe, a sisal wallpaper in chambray blue designed by Celerie Kemble for Schumacher. The classic motif is a fitting foil to the industrial edge of the open shelving. Surrounding a circular coffee table that resembles the stopper in a bourbon bottle are four swivel armchairs with ikat accent pillows. The linear pattern of the stone surrounding the room's floating fireplace is echoed in the tattersall-style rug. Ombre linen drapery and an abstract rendition of oversized oyster shells pull the entire color palette together and conjure up a relaxed happy hour in an easy breezy beach cottage. The restful primary bedroom is one of the most muted rooms in terms of color. Smith employed pops of aqua blue courtesy of bedside lamps, artwork, drapery, and accent pillows to add subtle energy to space. An exposed curved beam painted the same color as the ceiling in the vaulted area is an interesting architectural element. In contrast to the light and airy primary suite, the chic home office is defined by floor-toceiling decorative wall paneling painted Air Force blue. Suspended from the wallpapered ceiling is a mid-century-inspired six-arm brass chandelier with cone-shaped black metal shades. Continuing the mid-century glam is a pair of armchairs with exposed brass frames and textural upholstery, along with an X-base desk. "Colorful and lively, this home is a perfect reflection of the people who live here," said Smith. "There isn't a space that doesn't get used." sl
slmag.net 31
For more than 43 years
Louisville’s Best Kept Secret
Aesthetics in Jewelry 410 W. Chestnut St Suite 634 Louisville, KY (502)589-2728 www.aestheticsinjewelry.com
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, California
ROOM SERVICE Notable new hotel openings around the world Written by Victoria Chase
The Sable at Navy Pier
CALIFORNIA | The Alia brand brings its model of sustainable tourism, innovative eco-design, and intimate destination experiences to Southern California with Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas's opening on March 17th. "Marrying the striking design and artisanal luxury experience that the Alila brand is globally known for, with the authentic warmth and vitality of San Diego, Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas is truly a destination not to be missed," said General Manager Benjamin Thiele. "Our team is honored to open our doors to the local community and travelers to experience our new luxury resort in this breathtaking location." Located in an iconic seaside town along the coastal bluffs of San Diego, the 130-room Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas is complete with an oceanfront pool, culinary experiences by award-winning Executive Chef Claudette Zepeda, expansive indoor-outdoor meeting and event spaces, serenity-invoking Spa Alila, and thoughtful, locally inspired and restorative programming. With the hotel's namesake, "Marea," meaning "tide" in Italian and Spanish, the resort features a distinctly Southern California feel, in harmony with the area's natural landscape throughout, as well as from the vibrant surf and beach culture that surrounds the property.
Room rates at Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas begin at $639. For more information and reservations, visit alilamareabeachresort.com. CHICAGO | When it opened in March, the 223-room, seven-story Sable at Navy Pier, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, became the first hotel built "on top" of Lake Michigan. The $100 million build is a joint venture by James McHugh Construction Co. and Powers & Sons Construction Co. "A project like this comes around once in a lifetime, and it's the exact type of complex construction – from building over water to working around Navy Pier's 9 million annual visitors – that we excel at and like to execute," said John Sheridan, executive vice president of McHugh Construction. Named after the USS Sable, a naval training ship that served as a Great Lakes luxury cruise ship prior to World War II, the Sable at Navy Pier is more than 800-feet long and affords each of the guest rooms a one-of-a-kind views of the Windy City skyline. Also re-opening this spring adjacent to the hotel is another McHugh/Powers build— Offshore—the world's largest rooftop bar (as certified by the Guinness Book of World Records) on top of Navy Pier's Shelter building. Room rates at Sable at Navy Pier begin at $204. For more information and reservations, visit sablehotel.com.
slmag.net 33
Virgin Hotels New Orleans
NEW ORLEANS | Scheduled to open this summer in The Big Easy's up-and-coming Warehouse District, Virgin Hotels New Orleans will feature 225 guest rooms, the brand's flagship restaurant, bar and lounge Commons Club, a lush rooftop pool deck and lounge, state-of-the-art fitness center and dedicated meeting and event spaces. The new-build property will combine colorful, tropical architectural motifs with Virgin Hotels' signature style. Designed by local interior design firm, Logan Killen Interiors, the design will incorporate a Southern residential feel with elements such as an enclosed sunlight-filled porch and the brand's unique, home-y Chambers layout with two distinct spaces separated by a barnstyle sliding door. For more information, visit virginhotels.com/coming-soon/. MALDIVES | Unveiled earlier this year by the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand, Ithaafushi-The Private Island, is the largest Maldivian private island, a nearly 2.5-acre slice of heaven in the heart of the Indian Ocean. Its name, 'Ithaafushi', is translated to mean 'Pearl Island' in Dhivehi, the Maldives' local language, and represents the isle's beauty and distinction. "Designed for the most discerning of travelers, Ithaafushi – The Private Island is the epitome of exclusivity, perfectly placed within one of the most inspirational destinations in the world 34 slmag.net
where a dedicated team anticipates every need and delivers the brand's elegant and effortless service at every turn," said Nils-Arne Schroeder, vice president, Luxury & Lifestyle, Hilton, Asia Pacific. Located close to Malé, guests reach the private retreat via a 40-minute ride on one of the resort's six luxury Ithaafushi Princess yachts or via a 15-minute seaplane flight. The sprawling estate accommodates 24 guests in a two-bedroom overwater villa, a three-bedroom villa set within a lush garden, and a beachfront four-bedroom residence. The private island's dedicated culinary team promises to take guests on a diverse culinary journey, offering bespoke menus to be enjoyed in an array of extraordinary settings. Guests who want to explore the resort's various dining experiences can journey a short distance to the main island, where ten specialty dining venues await. A dedicated Wellness Concierge is on hand at the overwater spa to provide customized therapies catering to each guest's needs. The meditation and yoga pavilion, along with a fully equipped gym, offer magnificent ocean views. Young visitors will be in a paradise of their own on the private island estate with a dedicated children's pool and a gaming area. For information and reservations, email Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts MLEON.Hotel@waldorfastoria.com.
Aerial view of Ithaafushi-The Private Island in the Maldives
Interior of the two-bedroom overwater villa at Ithaafushi-The Private Island in the Maldives
slmag.net 35
Hotel Drover in Fort Worth, Texas
TEXAS | Forth Worth's Hotel Drover, an Autograph Collection Hotel that opened in late March, is nestled alongside Marine Creek in the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. Notable for its kitschy-glitzy style that aims to bring the spirit of the pioneering West to life, the 200-room property embodies a true sense of place as the anchor of the award-winning Mule Alley district. This $175-million redevelopment project is comprised of beautifully restored, 100-year-old horse and mule barns that are now home to a varied collection of restaurants, entertainment venues, retail heritage brands, and creative workplaces. Greeting guests is a signature neon Cowboy installation by Austin's famed Evan Voyles. Global and local artists alike are showcased throughout public spaces and the no-two-are-alike guest rooms. Unique features include Hotel Drover-branded leather check-in booths, a two-story lobby library filled with Texas-inspired books, custom antler and blackened steel chandeliers, and cowhide lounge chairs. The property boasts a pair of "one-of-a-kind" retail shops — Lucchese Custom Collection, a truly bespoke experience offering custom and made-to-fit items, and Little White Lies, a beautiful, hand-curated artisan shop with a decidedly feminine yet rustic flare. 36 slmag.net
Featuring a hearty contemporary Texas fare menu, the hotel's signature eatery, 97 West Kitchen & Bar at the Fort Worth Stockyards, is led by Executive Chef Grant Morgan. Outside, The Backyard at Hotel Drover provides a unique space to enjoy live music along with a burger and a frosty adult beverage. The ranch-style heated pool and hot tub in this sprawling outdoor retreat are enveloped by a mix of towering mature oaks, cypress, maple, pines mixed with agave plants, and saguaro cacti. Further setting the scene are cabanas with hanging daybeds and crystal chandeliers, creekside bar seating, yard games, and firepits. Room rates at Hotel Drover begin at $180 per night. For more information and reservations, visit hoteldrover.com. NEW YORK | Bringing a Blackberry Farm-type experience to the Catskills, The Chatwal Lodge, which opened in April, is located at The Chapin Estate, a 2,500-acre gated residential community in Bethel, NY. Architect and designer Steve Dubrovsky specializes in 19th-century Adirondack style, and he is also a four-time circuit champion of the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association.
The Chatwal Lodge in Bethel, New York
Casa di Langa in Italy's Piedmont region
Accommodations include ten suites, with private patios overlooking the 1,000-acre Toronto Reservoir Lake; a 1,000-sq.ft. treehouse that rises 25 feet off the ground; and an 850-sq.ft. glam tent. Activities range from fly fishing in the on-property trout stream and kayaking with a to-go picnic, to private music classes at the Lodge and priority access to exhibitions at Bethel Center of Performing Arts. Room rates at The Chatwal Lodge start at $1,200 per night. For more information and reservations, visit thechatwallodge.com. ITALY | Scheduled to open in June in the heart of northern Italy's Piedmont region, just 1.5 hours from Milan, the 30-room boutique hotel Casa di Langa combines traditional Piedmontese design with a solid commitment to sustainable practices. "From our first visit to Piedmont, my wife and I were struck by the grandeur of the landscape, the unforgettable food and wine, and, most of all, the generosity of the people," shares Kyle Krause, Chairman and CEO of the Krause Group, an American company that owns a diverse set of businesses in Italy including the Serie A Italian football club Parma Calcio 1913 and Vietti and Enrico
Hyper-local cuisine is featured at Casa di Langa in Italy's Piedmont region.
Serafino vineyards in Piedmont. "With this hotel, I'm proud to have the opportunity to share the Piedmont we love so much with our friends and guests from all over the world," he added. Head chef Manuel Bouchard, who worked at five Michelinstarred restaurants in Italy before turning 25, will guide the cuisine at Fàula Ristorante, the hotel's fine dining establishment. At Sorì Cocktail Bar, guests can indulge in wines from around the world and neighboring vineyards, including rare bottles from its sister wineries, Vietti and Enrico Serafino. Guests will be privy to a thoughtful selection of authentic experiences. These encompass exploring historic vineyards via Vespa; a wine academy offering the opportunity to attain certification from the Wine & Spirits Education Trust; on-property truffle hunting with Lagotto dogs, and a dedicated truffle concierge; and, hands-on cooking classes using ingredients sourced from an on-site garden and greenhouse. An eco-luxe spa, heated infinity pool, and state-of-the-art fitness center round out the guest amenities. Room rates at Casa di Langa begin at $526 per night. For more information and reservations, visit casadilanga.com. sl
slmag.net 37
FUN IN THE SUN
An American entrepreneur brings a British Classic back to life. Written by Andre James
Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis in the 1950s for the British Motor Company (BMC), the original Mini Moke, the site of which conjures images of the breezy beach party era à la Annette Funicello and Frankie Avalon, was originally intended for use by the British army as a parachute-droppable vehicle. Too-low ground clearance and an underpowered engine made the classic Moke unfit for military service. However, when BMC pivoted to public sales in the 1960s, the quirky car quickly gained popularity among the civilian sector, despite a laundry list of shortcomings that included a propensity to rust quickly. After BMC ceased Moke production in 1968, the brand persisted in Australia, where it was built from 1966 to 1981 and known first as the Morris Mini Moke and then the Leyland Moke. Between 1980 and 1984, 8,500 "Californian" Mokes were built at British Leyland's subsidiary in Portugal. The final iteration of the original Mini Moke was produced by Italian motorcycle manufacturer Cagiva. From 1990-1993 Cagiva’s build of 1,500 Mokes is a small fraction of the more than 50,000 that were manufactured between 1965-1993. Entrepreneur Todd Rome, the founder of Blue Star Jets, first fell in love with the curious Mini Moke while vacationing on the tiny Caribbean paradise of St. Barts. After selling Blue Star Jets, he founded Moke America in 2016 and set about reengineering the 20th-century icon into a 21st-century E-car. To tackle the ground clearance issue, Rome's Moke sits on 14-inch wheels. The glass windshield has been redesigned to be larger and sit higher to accommodate taller drivers better. A refinement of the painting process for the steel and fiberglass chassis better fends off rust. There's also a four-wheel drivetrain, hydraulic steering, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, a parking brake, a Bluetooth sound system, and a backup camera. For the ultimate ease of use, the car can be fully charged in eight hours (providing 40 miles of range) by plugging it into any standard household 110 outlet. Street legal and completely customizable from roof-to-rims, each Moke is made at the company's plant in Sarasota, Florida, and takes approximately 90 days from order placement to delivery. While the Moke's cool factor is undeniably off the charts, you won't be breaking any land speed records as it has a top speed of just 25 MPH, which drops to around 15 MPH on steep grades. At present, Moke America is producing a 007 San Monique edition that pays homage to the classic Moke James Bond drove in LIVE AND LET DIE during his visit to the fictional Caribbean island of San Monique. The eco-friendly electric vehicle is presently shuttling guests around at resorts including Hotel Joaquin in Laguna Beach, Isla Bella Resort in the Florida Keys, SLS South Beach in Miami, and The Menhaden in Greenport. Moke America has partnered with brands including Louis Vuitton, Vilebrequin, and Serena Williams Fashion on bespoke Mokes, and the company boasts a cadre of celebrity fans who pop up behind the wheel on the company's Instagram feed. Starting at $19,475 you can build and order your Moke at MokeAmerica.com. sl
38 slmag.net
slmag.net 39
RAINBOW CONNECTION Colored gemstones to wear with pride
Clockwise from top left: PF&B Safari Ombre Ring ($1,255; foxandbond.com). Mara Rainbow ring from GFG Jewellery ($1,872; gfgjewellery.com). Rainbow sapphire tennis necklace from Graziela ($13,250; grazielagems.com). Nicole Rose rainbow sapphire and garnet heart ring ($1,950; nicolerosejewelry.com). Sorellina Mini Monroe crescent white onyx earrings ($6,000; sorellinanyc.com). Gold and enamel Fidget ring from Origin 31 ($5,408; origin31.com). All You Need earrings from Aisha Baker ($3700; aishabaker.com). Rainbow Mega Swirl earrings from Graziela ($1,990; grazielagems.com). Somewhere Over the Rainbow green amethyst earrings ($2,275; mateonewyork.com).
40 slmag.net
Clockwise from top left: Sphaera gemstone Hex ring from Laura Caspi (lauracaspi.com). Oyster Perpetual DayDate 36 with 10 baguette-cut rainbow-colored sapphires on the dial (price upon request). Available from Richter & Phillips in Cincinnati, OH; The Diamond Cellar in Columbus, OH and Nashville, TN: Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville; Simons Jewelers in St. Louis, MO; and rolex.com. Yael Sonia Perpetual Motion Solo long tiered pendant ($6,950; yaelsonia.com). Rainbow bracelet from Sweet Pea Fine Jewellery ($790; sweetpeajewellery.com). 45mm Hublot Big Bang Unico Full Baguette King Gold Rainbow timepiece. Available at Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, IN; King Jewelers in Nashville, TN; and hublot.com.
slmag.net 41
Bibliotaph... Nutured by Nature
Compiled by Victoria Chase
Originally written as journal entries addressed to a friend, this series of poignant essays by poet and filmmaker Gretel Ehrlich chronicles her first years on “the planet of Wyoming,” where she moved in 1975 to make a series of documentaries following the death of her partner. Gretel Ehrlich—The Solace of Open Spaces—paperback, 144 pages, Penguin Books (penguin.com) In this essay by famed philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson, he lays out the foundation of transcendentalism, the idea that we should live in harmony with, rather than domesticate, nature. Ralph Waldo Emerson— Nature—paperback, 128 pages, Penguin Books (penguin.com)
A vibrant collection of short stories culled from Susi Seguret’s experiences growing up in rural Appalachia's natural settings before moving to France for two decades to hone her culinary skills. Susi Gott Séguret—Child of the Woods: An Appalachian Odyssey— paperback, 176 pages, Hatherleigh Press (hatherleighcommunity.com)
42 slmag.net
Beautifully photographed, this book offers 70 solution-oriented recipes to make cooking outdoors easy and enjoyable. Emma Frisch— Feast by Firelight: Simple Recipes for Camping, Cabins, and the Great Outdoors—hardcover, 208 pages, Ten Speed Press (crownpublishing.com)
Though best known for his work with Weimaraners, William Wegman is also an accomplished painter, draftsman, writer, and avid outdoorsman. In this highly personal volume, Wegman shares ways to look to nature for inspiration and how its interpretation in popular culture and the arts forms the roots of his aesthetic. William Wegman—Hello Nature: How to Draw, Paint, Cook, and Find Your Way—hardcover, 176 pages, Prestel Publishing (penguinrandomhouse.com)
bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf ]: a person who caches or hoards books For those who have sought solace in the great outdoors during the pandemic, this guided journal features inspirational quotes, an activity log, a state-by-state list of top outdoor destinations, and thoughtful journaling prompts to make the most of being nurtured by nature. Ink & Willow—Get Outside: A Journal for Refreshing Your Spirit in Nature—hardcover, 224 pages (penguinrandomhouse.com)
Scores of people discovered the joy of being a plant parent during the pandemic. This lively illustrated book is full of interior design ideas, plant care and troubleshooting tips, and recommendations for more than 70 houseplants. Emily L. Hay Hinsdale—Never Put a Cactus in the Bathroom: A Roomby-Room Guide to Styling and Caring for Your Houseplants—paper over board, 208 pages, Tiller Press (simonandschuster.com)
Stylist, best-selling author and columnist Selina Lake shares her advice for utilizing materials best suited to a natural living look to create beautiful, sustainable, and stylish rooms throughout your home. Selina Lake—Natural Living Style: Inspirational Ideas for a Beautiful and Sustainable Home—hardcover, 160 pages, Ryland Peters & Small (rylandpeters.com)
Countless studies have shown that the simple act of going outside is really good for us. Each chapter of this book combines anecdotes and literature alongside recent medical and scientific discoveries to show how nature can heal us and how to utilize this information in your everyday life. Alice Peck—The Green Cure: How Shinrin-yoku, Earthing, Going Outside, or Simply Opening a Window Can Heal Us—paperback, 144 pages, CICO Books (rylandpeters.com) Available on June 15, this book showcases new ways to escape into Europe’s vast and eclectic landscape, with an emphasis on environmentally-friendly travel. Gestalten and Canopy & Stars—Stay Wild: Cabins, Rural Getaways, and Sublime Solitude—hardcover, 256 pages, Gestalten (us.gestalten.com)
slmag.net 43
STARS OF THE SHOW Jewelry designs that are heaven sent
Clockwise from top left: Ashley Zhang Belcher chain with dog clip clasp and onyx diamond star charms (ashleyzhangjewelry.com). Emily Kevin Stella Cluster necklace ($3,700; emilykuvin.com). Starstruck pendant from Eden Presley ($3,300; edenpresley.com). Nouvel Heritage medium star ring ($1,600; nouvelheritage.com). Patek Philipps 6102P Celestial. Available from Reis-Nichols in Indianapolis, IN; The Diamond Cellar in Columbus, OH; and patek.com. Frédérique Constant ladies Slimline Moonphase Stars timepiece ($4,695). Available at King Jewelers in Nashville, TN; and us.frederiqueconstant.com.. Buddha Mama enamel star huggie hoop earrings, $1,050. Double moon tassel diamond earrings from Sig Ward Jewelry ($5,500; sigwardjewelry.com).
44 slmag.net
Clockwise from top left: Show and Tell Read 2 Embrace mini pendant from NeverNot ($1,613; nevernot.co.uk). Hera ring from Bondeye Jewelry ($1,875; bondeyejewelry.com). EF Collection diamond Mini Moon & Star stud earrings ($500; efcollection.com). Celestar ring from Samantha Tea ($436; samanthatea.com). Hands to the Stars brooch from Anthony Lent (price upon request; anthonylent.com). Istanbul bracelet from Selim Mouzannar ($9,200; selimmouzannar.com). OMEGA Constellation Co-Axial Master Chronometer 36 MM ($30,700) Available from Moyer Fine Jewelers in Carmel, IN; Richter & Phillips in Cincinnati, OH; Genesis Diamonds in Nashville, TN; and omegawatches.com. Ana Katarina Air hoop earrings ($2,070; anakatarina. com). Ring Concierge Starry Night ring ($1598; ringconcierge.com).
slmag.net 45
Christian, Michael and Hannes Reinisch Photo by Julius Hirtzberger
PINOT OFF THE BEATEN PATH Written by Bonnie Graves
Historically associated with France’s Burgundy region – most notably, the Côte d’Or, or “Golden Slope” – the pinot noir grape has had an ancient and varied evolution in the wine world. The six acres planted by the Zellerbachs in 1953, later part of the lauded Hanzell Winery in Sonoma, are considered to be the oldest plot in the United States with seminal plantings in Oregon and in the Finger Lakes happening shortly thereafter. But pinot was slow to catch on with American consumers, who initially favored cabernets and zinfandels, until a movie called “Sideways” re-established the grape in the minds of many. In the years since, California and Oregon have seen an explosion of pinot noir both in terms of acreage and brands. But where else does pinot thrive? For lovers of this grape, a grape known for being finicky to grow and transcendent to taste, getting off the established pinot path is a great way to fully experience its many expressions. Pinot noir thrives in more marginal climates, and most particularly needs a strong diurnal shift to ripen while preserving trademark acidity. Warm days need to be offset by cool nights, and threats like mold, hail, frost, under-ripening versus burned skins, etc., all combine to make pinot noir farmers nervous. But when the microclimate is right, pinot noir can be epic. Below are five bottles of pinot noir from places you might not expect. Each is made in small-lots, by hand and by winemakers who favor minimal intervention. Each of these speaks of its place, its “terroir,” with unique aromas and textures that are still 46 slmag.net
unmistakably pinot. From Austria to New Zealand to the UK to Chile to South Africa, these pinots are worth seeking out: Global warming is a key factor impacting many winegrowing regions; for Austria, typically a bastion of white grapes like riesling and grüner veltliner, it means that the potential to produce reds like pinot noir is expanding dramatically. As the vitis vinifera ripening band moves inexorably northward, places like Austria’s Thermenregion are making unexpectedly spectacular pinots. A favorite producer is Johanneshof Reinisch, where a trio of brothers are making waves just thirty minutes south of Vienna. With vines that are over twenty years old planted on limestone soils, the Reinisch pinots have beautiful, herbaceous notes of cedar with cherry and anise. 2017 Johanneshof Reinisch, “Grillenhügel” (Thermenland, Austria) SRP $35, www.circovino.com, www.j-r.at Another winegrowing region directly impacted by warming trends is in the United Kingdom, not an area typically associated with making wines, although mead and whiskey and beer have done just fine. Master Sommelier Laura Rhys is the Global Ambassador for Gusbourne Wines, located at the estate in Kent which dates to the year 1410. Her mission in tandem with winemaker Charlie Holland is to convince the world that English “fizz” and the pinot noir that often goes into it can be world-class. While much of their proprietary pinot is made into Champenoise-inspired bubbles, their still pinot noir is well worth ferreting out if you can find it.
Laura Rhys - Gusbourne
2018 Gusbourne Estate, “Boot Hill Vineyard” (West Sussex, UK) SRP $70, www.broadbent.com/usa, www.gusbourne.com A far cry from the chalky soils of Kent is the tiny Chilean region of Limarí, where a pocket of coastal limestone has proven perfect for pinot noir. The Legado reserva bottling from producer De Martino is an example of why sommeliers try wines blind – you’d never guess this amazing pinot is from a mostly unknown region in Chile and that it only costs about $20. It’s that good. With winemaker Marcelo Retamal recently named international Winemaker of the Year, the cat is out of the proverbial bag. Concentrated notes of red fruits and purple violets with a hint of forest combine in a medium-weight pinot noir that way overdelivers for the price and then some. 2018 De Martino Reserva, “Legado” (Limarí, Chile) SRP $20, www.broadbent.com/usa, www.demartino.cl Heading around to the other half of the Southern Hemisphere, we arrive at New Zealand where pinot noir has quickly established itself as a contender to its flagship friend, sauvignon blanc. While the bulk of NZ’s exports are still fairly inexpensive grocery store whites, winemaker and Master of Wine Steve Smith has tirelessly championed quality over quantity. Steve pioneered Craggy Range, one of New Zealand’s most successful wineries, before partnering with investor and friend Brian Sheth in 2017 to launch Pyramid Valley. Farmed biodynamically, the
Steve Smith and Brian Sheth - Pyramid Valley
wines from their two estate vineyards in North Canterbury and further south in Central Otago are impeccably pure expressions of just how great Kiwi wines can be. The 2018 pinot noir from Otago, widely considered to be one of the premium sites for the grape across the globe, is exceptionally silky with aromatic notes of lush cranberry spice, orange peel and juniper, and is also entirely vegan. 2018 Pyramid Valley Estate (Central Otago, New Zealand) SRP $50, www.pyramidvalley.co.nz Lastly, if ever there were an unsung country making amazing wines that aren’t exported widely enough, it’s South Africa. Wine importer TRUWINES is looking to change that as founder Jesse Balsimo’s mission is to bring small-lot, family-farmed wines from South Africa to the States. While chenin blanc and pinotage South Africa’s homegrown favorite - remain the most widely planted white and red grapes, the pinot noirs coming out of cooler climate parcels continue to impress. Oak Grove’s location in Elgin, a smaller subdivision of the Western Cape of South Africa, features south-facing slopes at nearly 1500 feet above sea-level, and its wines are remarkable. The 2018 Groenlandberg pinot noir is an homage to the Green Mountains that tower above. 2018 Oak Grove, “Groenlandberg” (Elgin, South Africa) SRP $50, www.truvino100.com, www.oakvalley.co.za/wines/groenlandberg sl
slmag.net 47
THE PALM BEACHES
The enduring appeal of America's First Resort Destination Written by Bridget Williams
The last time I visited The Palm Beaches in Southeast Florida, I was excited to attend a cabaret show at The Colony Hotel in the Town of Palm Beach. While the show, a bastion of a bygone era, lived up to my expectations, it was clear from the sea of silver topping the heads of my fellow showgoers in the hotel's celebrated Royal Room that my affinity for the genre was an anomaly for my age. When we headed up to bed that evening humming tunes from the Great American Songbook, I couldn't help but notice that the nearly 75-year-old hotel was certainly showing its age. The former raucous realm of the 'Rat Pack' crowd felt more "Sleepytime Down South," à la The Greenbrier. My how things have changed. The brainchild of Henry Flager, who, in 1893, declared Palm Beach a "veritable paradise," built the largest hotel structure in 48 slmag.net
the world—The Royal Poinciana—in Palm Beach, enabled by his Florida East Coast Railway system. Since then, The Palm Beaches has grown to encompass 39 towns and cities, stretching from Jupiter/Tequesta to the north and Boca Raton to the south. Even though The Palm Beaches has been a renowned warmweather getaway for 125-years, you'd think the world had discovered a new playground based on all of the buzz of late in travel magazines. "For generations, The Palm Beaches has provided matchless service that complements its definitive reputation as a world-renowned vacation destination. As the world embarks on a new era of travel, The Palm Beaches has remained enduring and timeless," said Nick Parks, Vice President Marketing, Discover The Palm Beaches. While there's so much newness, there's still a discernable level of comforting familiarity to be found for repeat guests.
The world famous waters under the Blue Heron Bridge and oneof-the-kind the Underwater Snorkel Trail make a premier spot for experienced scuba divers and beginner snorkelers alike. Photo by Scott Eddy.
slmag.net 49
The Colony Hotel
Interiors of the Aerin Lauder-designed Villa Jasmine at The Colony Hotel
Terrace of the Jasmine Villa at The Colony Hotel
In town for a long weekend to take in the Palm Beach International Boat Show (pbboatshow.com), The Colony once again served as our home base. Perfectly positioned to have a flipflop on the sand and a well-heeled toe on Worth Avenue, New York investment banker Andrew Wetenhall and his wife Sarah bought the 89-room property in 2016. They immediately set about transforming it into their vision of a family-friendly boutique luxury resort that nods to its legacy without leaning on it too heavily. A similar hint of nostalgia pervades The Palm Beaches during its current renaissance, due in part to affluent East Coasters, who, rather than WFH in the doldrums of winter, have decamped to a warmer and sunnier shore. At The Colony (rooms from $275/thecolonypalmbeach. com), a newly refreshed Living Room, designed in collaboration between Kemble Interiors and the venerable French firm de Gournay, is quintessentially Palm Beach and the most recent phase of a complete hotel restoration. Playfully popping up throughout the bespoke, hand-painted de Gournay wallpaper, the design of which is based on a mid-century mural that adorned the lobby when the hotel opened in 1947, is Johnny Brown, the hotel's mascot. The cheeky spider monkey pays homage to the island's most famous primate of the same name that was a fixture on the shoulder of famed architect Addison Mizner throughout the 1920s. "I discovered an old postcard image of the mural 50 slmag.net
titled 'The Early Days in Palm Beach,'" said Sarah Wetenhall. "We worked hand-in-hand with de Gournay to create this unique 'love letter' to The Colony and Palm Beach." With a host of small, inviting vignettes, each with head-turning furniture and accessories, the Living Room feels more like a private home than a lobby, a notion further supported by the steady stream of guests that choose to linger in the chic space. The Colony also recently unveiled 'AERIN Villa Jasmine,' a 2,100-square-foot guest villa that dates to 1929 and reimagined by Aerin Lauder using pieces from both her eponymous collection and woven rattan furniture by British brand Soane. If the Living Room is The Colony's heart, then Swifty's is its pulse. Launched this past December, the indoor/outdoor restaurant is a "pop-up" of a Manhattan institution beloved for decades until it closed in 2016. A hub of activity throughout the day, during dinner, the scene is the place to be seen, with the "who's who" of the area packed around the pool and under the tented hanging gardens. "Everyone is here," I heard one smartly dressed gentleman remark as he surveyed the room before sashaying into the crowd. Don't miss the crushed avocado appetizer, accompanied by addictive tortilla chips drizzled avocado honey and sprinkled with sea salt. The Colony's beach shuttle, topped by a paddleboard wrapped in the same whimsical sea grapes-leaf print found on its seats, is
Lionfish Delray. Photo by Eric George
"Angry" Lobster from Avalon Steak & Seafood
cute-as-a-button, but the beach setup provided to guests is even more so with pink-and-white striped beach chairs, fringed umbrella, a bubblegum pink Yetti cooler. History buffs will want to check out the nearby Henry Morrison Flagler Museum (flaglermuseum.us). Completed in 1902, this 75-room, 100,000-square-foot mansion truly embodies the opulence of the Gilded Age. For a more active pursuit, book a bike or walking tour with local Leslie Diver of Island Living Tours (561.309.5790), who provides a history behind the hedges experience, during which she imparts her palpable enthusiasm for the Town of Palm Beach's unique architecture. The Kennedys were among the area's most famous guests, and their enduring appeal is evidenced by a photo of a ski-masked Jackie in the window of many Worth Avenue boutiques reminding people to "mask up." The 35th President's "Winter White House" grabbed headlines when it sold in 2020 for $70 million. A lesserknown Kennedy connection lies across the water from the estate on Peanut Island in nearby Riviera Beach. Visit Palm Beach (visitpalmbeach.com) leads both kayak and boat tours of the eightyacre island near the Lake Worth inlet, which is also the site of a bunker built for President Kennedy. On nearby Singer Island, construction crews are busy working on the Amrit Ocean Resort and Residences (amritoceanresort.com), scheduled to open in late summer. Designed around mindful living
Lionfish ceviche from Lionfish Delray. Photo by Mas Appetit
Elisabetta's Ristorante
and proactive wellness principles, the centerpiece of the two-tower development is a four-story, 100,000 square-foot cutting-edge spa with a plant-centric restaurant. The property is part of a hotel building boom that includes the recently opened 32-room White Elephant Palm Beach, and a trio of properties scheduled to open in late 2021 and early 2022: The Ray in Delray Beach, the Mandarin Oriental in Boca Raton, and Banyan Cay Resort & Golf in West Palm Beach. During our visit, we checked out several newly opened restaurants. At Elisabetta's Ristorante (elisabettas.com) in downtown West Palm Beach, crowds packed the multi-tiered patio overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. The all-scratch kitchen includes a trio of pizza ovens imported from Italy, turning out pies that made this pizza lover very happy. Complementing the extensive menu is a 400-bottle wine list (with 70 wines available by the glass) and classic Italian cocktails. I loved the airy barrel-vaulted dining room at Lionfish Delray (lionfishdelray.com) on Atlantic Avenue. At this outpost of a San Diego sustainable hotspot (twice recognized as a James Beard Foundation Smart Catch Leader), the sea-to-table cuisine's quality mirrors the clever interior design. The restaurant's namesake is available to order in a multitude of ways, and we opted for a citrusinfused ceviche, as well as a deliciously spiced and perfectly grilled octopus. An inventive cocktail program includes house-made syrups and infusions.
slmag.net 51
Historic Former Coast Guard Station museum on Peanut Island. Photo by Aaron Lurie/VMA Studios
Lucky Shuck The Goldener Hirsch Restaurant
Avalon
52 slmag.net
Lucky Shuck
View of the Jupiter Lighthouse from Charlie & Joe's at Love Street
A few blocks away is Avalon Steak & Seafood (avalondelray. com), a concept from New York's veteran hospitality operators Host Restaurants. Sitting streetside on an elevated terrace bordered by a glass partition, we were rapt observing the dinner theatre in the restaurant as well as the constant parade of people from all walks of life making their way up and down the avenue. Their selection of premium wet- and dry-aged steaks are the centerpiece of the menu, and they arrive at the table with a perfectly seared crust. I particularly enjoyed the "Angry" lobster, enlivened by fermented house sriracha and ginger, and served with Pullman toast so as not to waste a drop of the delectable sauce. Decidedly more casual yet no less delicious is Lucky Shuck in Jupiter (luckyshuckjupiter.com), which opened this past February. Part of the Charlie & Joe's at Love Street (lovestreetjupiter.com) development founded by Charlie Modica and Joe Namath, this welcoming spot is located directly across the water from the Jupiter Lighthouse. Patrons benefit from an on-site boutique seafood
In the traditional manufacture of mezcal, a giant stone wheel is used to pulverize the cooked agave to create a pulp.
market that allows commercial fishers to directly sell their catch of the day to both Lucky Shuck and BEACON, which is the development's fine dining option. The Ahi tuna poke tacos were a highlight from Lucky Shuck's unique menu, a mashup of Southern and Far East influences. Evidently, we aren't the only ones who enjoy the tiny tacos as the restaurant serves as many as 4k each week. After a thoroughly enjoyable alfresco lunch, we conquered the 109-steps of the Jupiter Lighthouse (jupterlighthouse.org). Even with everything new and notable in The Palm Beaches, it's nice to know that some things remain the same. For me, no visit to the Town of Palm Beach is complete without a stroll through the exquisitely maintained botanical gardens at the Society of the Four Arts (fourarts.org). Founded in 1936, the 10-acre campus is home to hundreds of events each year. The mélange of visitors at any given time is a testament to the enduring appeal of "America's First Resort Destination." For more travel information and reservations in The Palm Beaches, visit thepalmbeaches.com. sl
slmag.net 53
Of Note... Island Style
Compiled by Colin Dennis
This page, clockwise from top left: Slim Aarons “Palm Beach Idyll” photograph mounted on aluminum and faced with museum-quality Plexiglas from Jonathan Adler (from $750; jonathanadler.com). Riviera tuffet from Jonathan Adler ($695; jonathanadler.com). Coral chandelier from Serena & Lily ($2,998; serenaandlily.com). Canopy custom-printed wall mural from Tempaper ($15/square-foot; tempaper.com). A Tall Handsome brass-plated cast aluminum statue from Bold Monkey ($1190; boldmonkey.com). Bac A Oranger planter box from Authentic Provence available in custom colors and multiple sizes (authenticprovence.com). David Francis Chippendale headboard in Worn White (to the trade; davidfrancisfurniture.com). Double Decker in Cabana Pink Dot fabric, with scalloped valance and Rose brush fringe from Santa Barbara Designs (santabarbaradesigns.com)
54 slmag.net
Orchid Edition Jungle BÔA sofa ($5,662; orchid-edition.com)
April pillows from Zuiver (zuiver.com)
Maria natural jute rug from Maria Sharapova + Rove Concepts (roveconcepts.com)
Samuel & Sons Treillage Lattice border (samuelandsons.com)
slmag.net 55
THE ELECTRIC GRAN TURISMO The 2022 Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT Written by Andre James / Photos courtesy of Audi
Chiseled like a supermodel's cheekbones, the head-turning architecture of the 2022 Audi e-tron GT and RS e-Tron GT looks every bit like a concept car brought to reality. "The most beautiful car I have ever drawn," said Marc Lichte, Head of Audi Design, who chose these words in the fall of 2018, when the brand presented the Audi e-tron GT concept at a show car in Los Angeles. The Audi RS e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT are the first EVs from Audi Sport to be sold in the United States. They represent the third and fourth all-electric additions to Audi's US portfolio and contribute toward its goal of achieving a 30% electrified model portfolio by 2025. "The Audi RS e-tron GT is a milestone in the development of electrified high-performance models," said Lucas di Grassi, Formula E driver and entrepreneur, at the world premiere of the vehicle this past February. The e-tron's enviable aesthetics have all arisen from attention to efficiencies. A lightweight, high-strength, five-layer carbon fiber reinforced plastic roof —a first for an Audi vehicle and a segmentexclusive feature—comes standard. Permanently excited magnets are an exhilarating performance element that the Audi e-tron GT 56 slmag.net
shares with the world's most thrilling roller coasters. Found in both the front and rear axles of the e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT, permanently excited synchronous motors (PSM) produce 235 horsepower at its front motor and 429 horsepower at its rear. A net combined output of 469 horsepower (up to 522 horsepower for 2.5 seconds with overboost launch control) allows the e-tron GT to repeatedly accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds on its way to a top track speed of 152 mph. In the RS, a more robust rear motor enables a net 590 horsepower and up to 637 with overboost, which shaves .8 seconds off of the 0-60 mph sprint. These acceleration figures place the RS e-tron GT on par with the V10-powered Audi R8 supercar. Standard in the RS model is the e-tron sport sound, a high-quality and progressive sound that the driver can activate and modulate its amplitude via the Audi drive select system. Audi drive select, the driving dynamics system with four modes and controlled damping, comes as standard in every e-tron GT. Standard three-chamber air suspension in the Audi e-tron GT enables a wide variation in spring rates to provide cushioned comfort for daily driving or a more reflexive tightness for track workouts. A
standard rear differential lock with fixed locking values assists during various thrust and traction scenarios. "As a fully electric gran turismo, the e-tron GT reinterprets this balancing act by not reducing performance to the sheer output but by attributing a special creative importance to efficiency as well," said Lichte. Thanks to its lightning-fast control operations, the electric all-wheel drive provides the e-tron GT with maximum dynamism, stability, and traction in any driving situation. When the driver releases the right-hand pedal, the gran turismo usually switches to coasting mode. While braking, the electric motors perform decelerations alone in the vast majority of all everyday driving situations. All Audi e-tron GT models in the US boast a 93.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a unique integrated cooling structure underneath the battery pack. The 800-volt electrical architecture comes standard with the ability to charge at an industry-benchmark 270 kW using DC fast-chargers, allowing the battery to replenish from 5-80% in just 22.5 minutes, which is among the quickest charging rates currently available of any EV. An e-tron route planner calculates the charging stops such that the
driver reaches their destination as quickly as possible. Preliminary manufacturer's estimated ranges based on approximation of EPA test cycles for a full charge are 238 miles for the e-tron GT and 232 miles for the RS e-tron GT. Inside, the cabin is spacious and outfitted with recycled materials like Alcantara and Dinamica automotive suede in lieu of leather as standard (although Nappa leather is available). The instrument panel is based on Audi's "monoposto" design that angles the 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit and 10.1-inch MMI touch response displays toward the driver. An Alacanara-wrapped full-circumference and flat-bottom steering wheel is standard, with capacitive hands-on detection available. The rear luggage compartment has a volume of 14.3 cubic feet, with another 2.9 cubic-feet available beneath the hood. Those looking for the ultimate in personalized can look to the Audi exclusive range from Audi Sport GmbH. The 2022 Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT will arrive in the US this summer. MSRP for the e-tron GT quattro Premium Plus is $99,900; $107,100 for the e-tron GT quattro Prestige; and $139,900 for the RS e-tron GT. sl
slmag.net 57
FEARLESS
Statement-making looks from both up-and-coming and established designers
FASHION
Written by Chloe Gellar
58 slmag.net
Ziad Nakad
By the time he was a teenager, Lebanese-born Ziad Nakad knew that he wanted to work in fashion. Fascinated by eccentric fabrics, intricate beading and the mystery of sheer embroideries, he incorporated these into early designs he sketched for family members. With the encouragement of his family, Nakad pursued formal education in dressmaking while apprenticing with masters of couture, and in 1997 his dreams took flight when he was invited to show in the Beirut International Fashion Show. Nakad's dreamy couture confections, cut to flatter and embellished to perfection, quickly garnered global attention, and women around the world can now sport his sophisticated styles. For his SS21 collection, Nakad sought refuge from news of the explosion in Beirut, from the pandemic, and from the inability to travel by crafting a collection ripe with color and symbolism. He calls the pieces "slightly frivolous" in an attempt to recall the carefree life pre-COVID. All hand-embroidered in the designer's atelier, the collection's pièce de résistance, an opulent wedding gown, required three full months of work, or, from Nakad's perspective, "three months of escape." ziadnakad.com, Photography Greg Alexander, courtesy of Méphistophélès Productions
slmag.net 59
A contemporary womenswear brand founded by Kanyinsola Onalaja following her graduation from Istituto Marangoni in 2014, the label aims to bridge the gap between Kanyinsola's Nigerian heritage and f lair for artisan crafts with Italian design aesthetics against the formality of British fashion. Recognized early as a person to watch in the industry, in 2009, she was named the FDA Young Designer of the Year. An underlying concept within all Onalaja collections always remains "Our Heritage Re-Imagined – The Africa We Don't See." The use of traditional fabrics such as Aso-oke fabric (from the indigenous Yoruba Tribe), the Tinko hand embroidery technique from the Hausa Tribe of Northern Nigeria, and other traditional basket weaving techniques play a key role within each of her collections and are juxtaposed with modern techniques and materials. Abstraction, often found within African art, is prominent in the designer's choice of patterns and embellishment. Onalaja and her mother are responsible for creating hand-painted details. onalaja.com, Photography courtesy of Onalaja
Onalaja
60 slmag.net
ME369
Who is the woman that chooses to wear ME369? The creative minds behind the playful brand, ripe with cheerful slogans, definitively respond that she is ageless, with a strong personality and life experience. She is flexible. She leads a diverse life, understands that everything is dynamic, and she “goes with the flow.” She is impeccable but never gives up on comfort. She loves vacations, restaurants, sports – the good life! She is not spoilt. She is full of contradictions, has many sides, and lives in peace with each one of them. Her colorfulness, courage, and her abilities shine on others. She is not arrogant, “she talks the talk.” She is a spirit with a unique point of view. She knows how to focus on what is important with a holistic mindset. She is full of passion, loving, bold, a true optimist, and has no boundaries. She is a winning combination of modesty, power, beauty, humanity, and ambition. me369fashion.com, Photography by Greg Alexander, courtesy of Méphistophélès Productions
slmag.net 61
Since 2013, Dallas-based Lindsey McClain and Jamie Coulter have been churning out a curated selection of feminine kaftans and kimono-inspired dresses designed to take you seamlessly from day-to-night. The statement investment pieces feature retro florals achieved through various mediums, including print and macramé, which bring a creative look to its staple silhouettes. laviestylehouse.com, Photography courtesy of La Vie Style House
La Vie Style House
62 slmag.net
Farhad Re
During the darkest hours of the COVID lockdown in Europe, Paris-based designer Farhad Re holed up in his atelier to transform no less than 500 yards of milky-colored silk organza into a 15 piece collection that revisits the myth of Pygmalion, the eternal story of an artist who falls in love with his creation. Trained as an architect at the University of Rome, Farhad applies a sculptural approach to his couture creations. He works almost exclusively with silk organza, a material he favors for its ability to be sculpted while still maintaining an ethereal feeling. For his SS21 collection, Farhad concentrated on creating a light and architectural silhouette. The bespoke pieces boast hand-formed geometric shapes and represent his notions of purity of renewal and freedom. Farhad says he is attached to the very essence of freedom through his personal history as his Persian mother fled her country to regain the privilege to think and dress as she saw fit. farhadre.fr/, Photography by Iris Brosch, courtesy of Méphistophélès Productions
slmag.net 63
This UK-based womenswear brand is owned by award-winning British/Nigerian journalist Didi Akinyelure. She says her inspiration stems from growing up watching the avant-garde fashion choices made by her grandmother and her mother, who owns a corporate tailoring business. Didi's love for edgy fashion pieces began in her teens, leading her to launch a fashion blog in 2011 and the April & Alex brand in 2018. Didi says April & Alex's mission is to create high-quality, contemporary womenswear that emphasizes boldness and shines a light on women's empowerment. The SS21 collection is named 'Audaz,' a Latin word meaning "bold." "The 'Audax' woman is willing to take risks while not being afraid of the unconventional," said Didi. "She is heroic, fearless, unflinching, courageous, and is not afraid to deviate from what is usual or proper." aprilandalex. co.uk, Photography by TY Bello & Luis Monteiro
April and Alex
64 slmag.net
2020
WINNER
THE 2021
Stelvio Ti
Best In Class Standard Horsepower, 0 - 60 Time, and Top Speed
ALFA ROMEO LOUISVILLE | 4710 Bowling Blvd, Louisville, KY 40207 | Sales: (502) 894-3436 | alfaromeolouisville.net
SOPHISTICATED STARS In May and June, we welcome eclipse season, with a full moon lunar eclipse in Sagittarius on May 26th and a new moon solar eclipse in Gemini on June 10th. Throughout history, eclipses have been respected and revered as harbingers of change. In the case of new moon solar eclipses, those changes can be exciting, like relocating to a different country or starting a new business or relationship. On the flip side, changes signaled by a full moon lunar eclipse (which is like a super-full moon on steroids), could represent an ending, such as a friend moving away or retirement. During the full moon lunar eclipse, my recommendation is to be vigilant and not engage in risky business such as bungee jumping for the first time or maybe at all. It's best to keep your schedule light to respond to any news. ARIES March 21st -April 19th What an excellent time to be an Aries! The eclipses in compatible air and fire signs will make the eclipse season the best for you. With the full moon lunar eclipse on May 26th, you may be longing for a getaway, but the stars suggest that you may want to postpone a trip until later in the year. The new moon solar eclipse in Gemini on June 10th, while Mercury is retrograde, might see you re-engaging with a contract or communications project that will bring you joy. At the new moon in Taurus on May 11th, you may be starting a new role or accepting a new client that will keep you excitedly engaged for the foreseeable future. TAURUS April 20th – May 20th Happy birthday Taurus! With the primarily friendly new moon in Taurus on May 11th, you can harness the energy, initiative, and drive it gives to bring a significant life-changing dream or goal to fruition. At the new moon solar eclipse in Gemini on June 10th, you'll start a new income-earning venture that will inspire and energize you. GEMINI May 21st – June 20th Happy birthday Gemini! The eclipses fall in both your sign and in your opposite sign of Sagittarius. Around the lunar eclipse in Sagittarius on May 26th, you may decide to end your single life with an engagement or marriage. Alternatively, this eclipse will highlight how things have been going, and you may choose to end a relationship, whether business or personal if you have not seen eye-to-eye of late. At the solar eclipse in Gemini on June 10th, you'll start a whole new exciting path that has your name on it. CANCER June 21st – July 22nd Cancer, it's summer, and that's your time to shine! This eclipse season emphasizes taking care of your health. The new moon 66 slmag.net
Written by Joy Yascone Elms MA
solar eclipse in Gemini on June 10th is an excellent time to start a wellness routine, like getting out in nature or working with a life or wellness coach to emphasize body, spirit, and mind. At the lunar eclipse in Sagittarius on May 26th, you may feel run-down, so plan ahead to start addressing any health concerns to be your ultimate best! This lunar eclipse may instead emphasize your current job. If you are not feeling happy with your daily work, you may decide it's time to pursue something else that brings you joy. LEO July 23rd – August 22nd Leo, with warmer days approaching, you are feeling in your element! Eclipses in fellow air and fire signs will help make the eclipse season go more smoothly. Before we look at the eclipses, you should note that the new moon in Taurus on May 11th will bring you quite a few new opportunities to shine in your career. This is the perfect time to apply for a promotion or new role that will challenge you in a good way. Around the full moon lunar eclipse in fellow fire sign Sagittarius on May 26th, you'll find out you're expecting or make a fateful decision about a romantic connection. VIRGO August 23rd - September 22nd Happy Summer Virgo! At the new moon in Taurus on May 11th, you may decide to book a long overdue trip for some rest and rejuvenation. At the full moon lunar eclipse in Sagittarius, you may be finishing up a home design project, moving, or deciding care for a parent. At the new moon solar eclipse in Gemini on June 10th, you'll welcome a life-altering career opportunity that will bring you much happiness! This new moon solar eclipse in your house of career status and acclaim is powerful and an excellent time to pursue what you love. LIBRA September 23rd - October 22nd Libra, here comes the sun! With the new moon on May 11th in Taurus, you'll bring in some new cha-ching in the form of an investment opportunity. Instead, this new moon may emphasize a new grant, loan, mortgage approval, or anticipated PPP funding. At the new moon solar eclipse in Gemini on June 10th, you'll look at opportunities to start a unique venture opportunity potentially abroad or based at a distance. Keep your passport handy, Libra, as you may also be planning an extended voyage overseas, leading to something life-changing. Some Libras may consider embarking on an exciting educational journey or a project involving publishing, PR, or broadcast media. Libras naturally excel at these industries as artistic dream weaver Neptune rules their house.
Vintage double-sided enamel and gold Gemini charm from Fox & Bond ($980; foxandbond.com)
June birthstones are pearl, alexandrite and moonstone. Assael ombré 36” South Sea and Tahitian pearl necklace (assael.com)
SCORPIO October 23rd - November 21st Scorpio, as the month starts, you'll welcome the new moon in Taurus on May 11th, landing in your 7th house of marriage. This new moon may see you making a more significant commitment towards love and marriage within ten days of this new moon. If you're single, this is an ideal time to get out and about to meet a commitment-minded partner. If already partnered up, plan to utilize this new moon to create exciting new plans together. At the full moon lunar eclipse in Sagittarius on May 26th, you may end one career role only to start a new financial venture at the new moon Solar eclipse in Gemini on June 10th. SAGITTARIUS November 22nd December 21st Sagittarius, at the new moon on May 11th, you'll be happy to have the support of the Universe to start a new fitness routine if you begin within ten days of this new moon. This same new moon may also deliver a new job or role that you love. The eclipses are currently in your sign and your opposite sign of Gemini, meaning that life is due for some major changes. The full moon Lunar eclipse in your sign on May 26th will speak mainly to Novemberborn Sagittarius or those born in the first five days of December. Sagittarius is an adventurer at heart. With this full moon lunar eclipse, I would suggest being mindful, as adventurous as you are, not to take any unnecessary chances as there are better times for that. The full moon lunar eclipse may also make you super emotional up to five days before and five days after this eclipse, so look out for your wellbeing and be sure to put yourself first at this time. Around the solar eclipse on June 10th in Gemini will be the best time, if single, to meet a commitment-minded partner or to link forces with someone in business. If you have hoped to get engaged or married, this new moon solar eclipse can bring that to you within ten days of the new moon solar eclipse! CAPRICORN December 22nd -January 19th Capricorn, your month will start before eclipse season with the new moon in Taurus on May 11th signaling love and romance!
Emerald is May’s birthstone. Petite pavé pinky ring with emeralds in 18K white gold from David Yurman ($7,300). Available from Davis Jewelers (davisjewelers.com)
This new moon could also usher in the news you are expecting or bring in a fresh and exciting creative project! At the new moon solar eclipse in Gemini on June 10th, you'll start a new fitness routine and potentially a new job. This would be an excellent role potentially involving communications. AQUARIUS January 20th – February 18th Aquarius, it's almost summer, and since you love being outdoors from the beach to the bike trail, I can feel your excitement. Your May starts with a new moon on May 11th in Taurus, emphasizing an exciting real estate purchase or renovation. This new moon may also bring desired family news. At the new moon solar eclipse in Gemini on June 10th, you'll welcome more love and romance into your life and potentially learn you're expecting or get other exciting news regarding your children. This same house governed by Gemini may deliver a creative project that will be life-changing. PISCES February 19th - March 20th Pisces, it's eclipse season, and the full moon lunar eclipse will fall in your 10th house of career and may signal an ending like taking a step up and ending a career role to obtain a promotion. It may also speak to accepting a new job or departing from a career to start a new path. Whatever happens, you seem to be excited at the new moon solar eclipse on June 10th that may see you moving or accepting an offer on a property. If you work in real estate or as a designer or contractor, this new moon could also speak to a new opportunity in your field. Some Pisces may find themselves relocating for a new role.
Sophisticated Stars Astrologist Joy Yascone Elms MA is the author and founder of The Power of Divine Timing; an annual sign by sign guide based on astrological timing helping readers to find and nurture their blessings and starve their challenges! Joy also offers Divine Timing coaching programs that help clients stay accountable to manifesting their goals and dreams based on their personal divine timing. Visit www.thepowerofdivinetiming.com for more info or email Joy at thepowerofdivinetiming@gmail.com.
slmag.net 67
Brie Cox, TJ Cox & Jonathan Lundy
NOT YOUR NONNA'S TABLE
Eschewing authenticity allows chef Jonathan Lundy and his team at ItalX to express the essence of Italian cuisine without being restricted by it. Written by Bridget Williams / Photography by Rachel Lutz of Andrew Kung Photography At downtown Lexington's ItalX, which opened this past October, the multi-sensory experience begins as soon as you cross the threshold. Underfoot, a patterned tile floor introduces the color scheme and calls to mind the familiar zig-zag pattern of a Missoni frock. Comprised of individual circular tiles, it took a team of two installers six weeks to lay. Varying shades of blush chosen by interior designer Cara Drion—from the veined stone bar top, to velvet stools, and on accent pillows artfully arranged on a channel-tufted banquette near the center of the dining room— seem to underscore Certified Sommelier TJ Cox's attestation that Italian brut rosé goes with everything. Touches of terrazzo, derived from 18th Venetian pavement, is banded with brass for tabletops. Antique mirrors, original paintings by Lexington artist Andrea Simms, and unique lighting fixtures that feel both retro 68 slmag.net
and modern conjure up feelings of a café in Capri. The only thing that's missing is a brine-scented ocean breeze. Located on the ground floor of the Residence Inn by Marriott Lexington City Center and across the street from 21c Museum Hotel, ItalX, which opened this past October, is the brainchild of chef and restaurateur Jonathan Lundy, TJ Cox, and Lee Greer, President of Greer Companies. The realization of an idea that had been percolating for several years, Lundy said that opening an avantgarde-style restaurant amid a pandemic was a blessing from a chef's perspective. "Rather than being slammed from the get-go, forced capacity restrictions gave us a controlled opening so we could get everything right," he explained. Greer is credited with coming up with the name, which alludes to Italy; Cox explained that replacing the "y" with an "x" signifies a break from the expected.
Little Neck Clams
Complementing the cuisine is an extensive wine list heavy on bottles from Italy.
Cara Drion is responsible for the interior design.
slmag.net 69
Lumache di Pollo
Pork Milanese
70 slmag.net
Calamari with lemon-basil aioli
Pizza Fritta
Avoiding any and all references to authenticity, Lundy says that the menu borrows from Italian cuisine in that the emphasis is on simple, fresh, and quality ingredients. The succinct menu is tweaked nearly daily, allowing Lundy to flex his culinary muscle and keep things fresh by using what's freshest. When asked how he's been able to go from the Kentucky cuisine featured at his Jonathan at Gratz Park restaurant (which ended an impressive 16-year run when it closed in 2014), to Latin-inspired dishes at Corto Lima (thriving just a few blocks away), and now Italianesque fare at ItalX, Lundy doesn't miss a beat in responding, "it's all just cooking." Cox quickly chimed in, adding that, "it's really about hospitality." "I've been cooking in Lexington since 1993, so I have a pretty good idea of what people want," Lundy added.
Focaccia
Carpaccio
Calling it the "Corto effect," ItalX Marketing Manager Brie Cox said that the menu is intended to be enjoyed tapas-style, with two people able to share five or six different dishes. Rather than stuffing oneself with a singular pile of pasta, manageable portions provide guests with an opportunity to graze the menu. During a recent visit, we treated our taste buds to Little Neck clams punched up with Calabrian chili; a dish of delicate and delicious slices of beef carpaccio; a round of warm burrata that when pierced with a fork opened to reveal its gooey goodness; Cacio e Pepe made with freshly extruded pasta that is the stuff that comfort food dreams are made of; and, an elegant and rich layered tiramisu. Both vegan and vegetarian dishes, as well as Gluten-free pasta, are available by request.
slmag.net 71
Tiramisu al Marsala & Vanilla Bean Gelato with Pignoli Cookies
Complementing the cuisine is an extensive wine list heavy on bottles from Italy. Cox, who is working towards becoming a Master Sommelier, spent four years compiling the wine list. A passionate oenophile, Cox is adept at reading a guest's level of interest in wine. He will just as easily go to great lengths to discuss the nuances of a particular grape as he will quickly make a pairing recommendation based on patron’s preferences. "It's not the sommelier's job to impose their will, but to discern what a guest wants," said Cox. 72 slmag.net
You won't want to miss capping off a meal with ItalX's 80-day house-made limoncello. Cox recounted that after one sip, a guest recently remarked, "'This just took me to Capri, and I haven't been there in twenty years!'". Even with a mask on, you can discern his great satisfaction in recalling an authentic and powerful connection between food and nostalgia. "That's how we know we've hit a home run," he added. sl Open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday, ItalX is located at 160 W. Main Street in Lexington, KY. Reservations are recommended and available up to 30 days in advance by visiting italx.com or calling 859.407.5100.
Garden Variety Written by Elliott Greene
For many of us, summer vacations—at least the most far-flung ones—will have to wait. Instead of pointlessly pining for what could have been, we tasked Ben Palmer-Ball, owner of Digs Home & Garden, to create mood boards that capture the je ne sais quoi found at a few of our favorite destinations—both stateside and abroad—at home. All products are available from DIGS (3905 Chenoweth Square in Louisville; digshomeandgarden.com; 502.893.3447).
Clockwise from top left: Poufs and cushion covers from Le Jacquard Français (le-jacquard-francais. com)Louvre Museum (maisonsarahlavoine. com/en/eshop/collection-tuileries). Velvet cushions and textiles from the Tuileries collection by Collection Louvre + Masion Sarah Lavoine (maisonsarahlavoine.com/ en). Scarf from the Tuileries collection by Collection Louvre + Masion Sarah Lavoine (maisonsarahlavoine.com/en). VIADURINI chairs (viadurinimilano.com). Brown Jordan outdoor kitchen in Baltic (brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.com). About Ben Palmer-Ball: Ben founded Digs more than 20 years ago as a resource for people who are passionate about their personal outdoor environment but offering products that stand the test of time. Digs was the first establishment in Louisville to recognize the trend toward more expansive outdoor living spaces and has evolved and grown in response to clients’ wants and needs. “Digs reflects our everyday reality—people live on budgets and collect their furniture and décor over time,” explained Ben. With their diverse inventory, as reflected in this feature, Digs’ customers can spend years mixing and matching with ease.
74 slmag.net
The Look: Tres Chic Inspiration: The Tuileries Garden in Paris, France (louvre.fr/en/explore/the-gardens) Designed by Catherine de Medicis and open to the public for 354 years, the Tuileries Garden in Paris sits between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde in the 1st arrondissement. In this living open-air museum, Impressionists painted light and color, famed photographers captured indelible images, and countless couples have become engaged.
The Look: La Dolce Vita Inspiration: Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria in Sorrento, Italy (experience.exvitt.it/en/) Surrounded by five acres of lushly manicured gardens and perched dramatically above the Bay of Naples on the Amalfi Coast, the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is comprised of a trio of distinct interconnected buildings resting atop Roman ruins. Sipping an Aperol spritz while watching the sunset from their iconic Vittoria Terrace, you can see why the famous Italian singer-songwriter Lucio Dalla was inspired to write "Caruso" here in 1986.
Clockwise from top left: Summer Classics Roma Collection in Slate. Summer Classics Havana Collection in Chalk/Natural Cane. Campania Anduze Urn in Riviera Blue. Campania Fleur de lis Planter in French Blue. Lillian August Teach Marseille Collection. Summer Classics Savoy Collection side chair in Navy and White. Napa Home and Garden Tuxedo Planter with Liner. Napa Home and Garden St. Regis Planter. Poster from the Tuileries collection of home goods and fashion accessories designed by Maison Sarah Lavoine in collaboration with the Louvre Museum (maisonsarahlavoine.com/en/ eshop/collection-tuileries)
Clockwise from top left: Brown Jordan Florentine Collection. Wendy Jane Outdoor Performance Pillow in Manado Ikat Mist pattern. Entrance to the Excelsior Vittoria hotel in Sorrento, Italy. Lane Venture Florentine Collection. Lane Venture Langham Mediterranean Collection in Dark Bronze finish. Campania International Picardie Urn with Mustard glaze. Anamese Garden Tavolina Planter in Coral/Aqua finish. Anamese Garden Contado Terra Cotta Planters. The Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is comprised of a trio of distinct interconnected buildings resting atop Roman ruins.
slmag.net 75
The Look: California Dreaming Inspiration: Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa in San Diego (ranchovalencia.com) Spanning 45 lush acres of gardens, nature trails, and meticulous olive groves that were once part of a 1,000-acre citrus ranch, this resort offers luxuriously appointed guest casitas and private villas. Guests will find 18 on-property tennis courts paired with an awardwinning tennis program, in addition to The Spa at Rancho Valencia, a transportive garden oasis that offers luxurious spa treatments, an array of expert wellness workshops, and a line-up of weekly fitness classes, including spin, Pilates, TRX, yoga and more in the scenic 1,000-square-foot Yoga Pavilion. Clockwise from top left: Gabby Home Moroccan Outdoor Carpet. Anamese Garden Korten Steel Collection. Gabby Home Prudence Outdoor Pendant. Brown Jordan Drift Teak Collection. Tuuci Manta Umbrella. Couples treatment room patio bath at The Spa at Rancho Valencia. Kingsley Bate Ojai Collection. Anamese Garden planters. Brown Jordan Fire Collections in propane or natural gas. Kingsley Bate Mendocino Collection.
76 slmag.net
The Look: Southern Comfort Inspiration: The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee in Greensboro, GA (ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/georgia/reynolds) Less than a two-hour drive from the airport in Atlanta, Lake Oconee offers the ultimate nature-inspired and relaxing lakeside staycation. Cradled in Georgia pines, The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, provides a strong sense of exploration and connection with activities for everyone, including indoor and outdoor pools, hiking, fishing, boating, and other lakeside activities, as well as s'mores by the fire each evening. Clockwise from top left: Gabby Home Prescott Outdoor Pendant. Unique Stone Pineapple Finial in Cast Stone. Summer Classics Montecito Woven Collection with Cloud Cushions. Kingsley Bate Teak Tuscany Table. Summer Classics Avondale Collection. The Linger Longer patio at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee. Lillian August “Live Edge” teak dining table/chairs. Currey and Co Concrete Creekside Table. Brown Jordan South Hampton Collection in Seagull finish
The Look: English Rose Inspiration: Coworth Park in Ascot, UK (dorchestercollection.com/en/ascot/coworth-park/) Providing the ultimate escape to the bucolic countryside, 70-room Coworth Park is nestled within 240 acres of picturesque Berkshire parkland just 45 minutes by road from Central London. The estate includes a luxury spa with an indoor pool and is the only UK hotel to feature its own polo fields and a full polo tournaments program, managed by Guards Polo Club. In addition to Restaurant Coworth Park, the hotel offers relaxed dining in The Barn and award-winning afternoon tea in the Drawing Room. Diverse lodging options include an enclave of rooms fashioned from the original estate's stables, light and airy cottages, charming individual residences complete with a private garden and patio, and well-appointed rooms and suites in the Mansion House. Clockwise from top left: Curry and Company Leagrave Concrete & Iron Bench. Campania Large Wickford Urn. Unique Stone Cast Stone Statuary. Detail from Summer Classics Teak Lakeshore Dining Table. The meadow outside The Manor at Coworth Park. Lane Venture Winterthur Collection. Kingsley Bate Teak Lutyens Bench.
The Look: Far East Movement Inspiration: Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang in Cambodia (zannierhotels.com/phumbaitang/en/) Inspired by Khmer architecture, the resort's 45 terrace and pool villas are tucked amidst 20-acres of lush gardens and rice paddy fields at the doorstep of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The resort's two restaurants incorporate produce and vegetables from onsite gardens. A Spa Temple boasts seven treatment rooms, a yoga pavilion, a gym, and an outdoor infinity pool. Unique children's programming immerses the resort's youngest guests in Cambodian culture and history. Clockwise from top left: Campania International Large Buddha Head. Unique Stone Pagoda Cast Stone Lantern. Gabby McKenna Outdoor Chandelier. Tuuci Durateak Shade Lounge. Campania Blue and White Collection. The Pool Bar at Zannier Hotels Phum Baitang. Photo by Patricia Parinejad. Lane Venture Mimi Collection. Gabby Home Outdoor Pillow. Tuuci Ocean Master Pagoda-Style Umbrella. Brown Jordan Calcutta Collection in Chalk Finish.
slmag.net 77
Presented by
Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021 • 6:30 to 10 p.m. The Bridgeman residence: Fleur de Lis Farm Enter to win a $100 gift card to each participating Bourbon & Bowties restaurant ($2,600 value). August Moon Chinese Bistro Bar Vetti Bourbons Bistro Brooklyn and the Butcher Butchertown Grocery The English Grill Equus & Jack’s Lounge The Fat Lamb Modern Kitchen & Bar Fork & Barrel Four Pegs Louisville Marriott Downtown Lou Lou Food & Drink LouVino
Martini Italian Bistro Mercato Italiano Mesh Napa River Grill Porcini River House The Seelbach Hilton Seviche Sweet Surrender Taco Luchador The Village Anchor Vincenzo’s Volare Italian Ristorante
The winner will be drawn Aug. 26, 2021, at 9 p.m., during Bourbon & Bowties. Need not be present to win. $25 per ticket; only 1,000 will be sold. Void where prohibited. Charitable gaming license #ORG: 0000851.
©Norton Healthcare 4/21 FDN-513455
Proceeds support Norton Children’s Hospital through the Norton Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Support provided by: Leighton-Oare Foundation
ab
The Gettelfinger family
®
First Urology
Dr. & Mrs. Owen K. Hitt
PMS 288 (Blue) PMS 1655 (Orange)
Jackson Family Wines
Supporting
The Audi e-tron® GT Family A kinetic design for an electric world.
Audi Louisville 4730 Bowling Blvd. Louisville, KY 40207 Sales : (502) 894-3427 | audilouisville.com 2 020
Louisville
W I NNER
Recipe and Image Courtesy of Sandy Pike and Mae Pike of Home Cuisine
PALEO, PALEO, PALEO
It seems like every time I turn around, I hear the word paleo, from my friends expressing "I have lost 15 pounds on paleo" to my doctor stating, "Keep following the paleo plan, and your test results will be normal in no time!" What is paleo, exactly? Paleo is the idea that we, current day, eat just what our Paleolithic ancestors ate (AKA: The Caveman Diet). So, what does THAT mean? Simply put, paleo meals are free of gluten, dairy, refined sugar, grains, or any of the other garbage in today's junk food. The approach is actually straightforward: tons of clean protein, veggies, a little fruit, sweet potato, coconut, and a tiny bit of maple. Best of all, it's delicious! At Home Cuisine, we were the first to bring paleo meals to our area, and we have never stopped making these meals better and better. This month we are pleased to share the easy-to-follow recipe for one of our most requested paleo dishes, Coconut Lime Chicken. Enjoy! Ingredients 1 shallot, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for topping) 1/3 cup lime juice (about 2 limes) 4 chicken breasts 2 tbsp avocado oil (or coconut oil) 1.5 cups Coconut Milk 1/4 cup Chicken or Veggie broth Salt and pepper Lime slices for topping (optional)
80 slmag.net
Directions 1. Prep shallot, garlic, ginger, and cilantro as noted. Juice limes and set aside. 2. Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of parchment paper and pound them down to make them even in thickness. Sprinkle each side of the chicken with salt and pepper. 3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil. 4. Once hot, add the chicken to the pan (you may have to cook the chicken in 2 batches depending on your pan's size). Cook, without disturbing for 3-4 minutes, until a nice brown crust has formed. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes on the other side until the chicken is mostly cooked through. 5. Remove chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Lower the heat to medium. 6. Add more oil if needed, and add the garlic and shallot to the pan. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. 7. Add chicken broth, coconut milk, lime juice, ginger, and cilantro to the pan. Stir to mix, scraping up any browned bits remaining in the pan from when you cooked your chicken. 8. Add the chicken breasts back to the skillet with the sauce. Cover and turn the heat down to low. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. 9. Serve with vegetables, potatoes, rice, or cauliflower rice. Spoon some sauce over everything for serving. Sprinkle with cilantro and garnish with lime slices (optional). About the authors: For 17 years, Sandy Pike, formerly of Jack Fry's, Café Society, and Queen of Tarts, and her daughter Mae Pike have catered to all culinary tastes and nutritional needs with Home Cuisine. Offering classic breakfast, lunch, and dinner; weekly paleo meals, Keto 14-day meal plans, and a three-day sampler plan, you can receive up to three meals a day, seven days a week, delivered right to your doorstep. For more information and ordering, visit homecuisine.com.
SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY
Every event seems to be written in pencil these days. While these events are all subject to change, we are extremely excited to begin publishing a social calendar again!
May 8 14 15 22
Night Under the Stars for CASA of Madison County, 6:30pm, Harkness Edwards Vineyards in Winchester A Tasteful Evening to benefit God’s Pantry Food Bank, 6pm, Keeneland; godspantry.org Walk MS; nationalmssociety.org Pawhibition for Paws 4 the Cause, 6pm, The Lyric Theatre; eventbrite.com/e/pawhibition-tickets-97937005219
June 11 11 11 12 12 19 26-27
Great American Brass Band Festival, 5pm, Downtown Danville; gabbf.org Pins for Paws; lexingtonhumanesociety.org Central Kentucky Heart Ball; ahalexington.ejoinme.org Michael Gaffney’s Flower School 101, 9am, Lexington Country Club, benefitting Liberty Hall Historic Site; libertyhall.org/visit/events-calendar KET Summer Celebration: I Want My KET, 7pm, Donamire Farm; ket.org Wild Hearts Superhero 5k & 10k, 8am, Keeneland; runsignup.com/Race/KY/Lexington/WildheartsFunRun Bluegrass Living Garden Tour sponsored by the Lexington Council Garden Clubs; lexgardenclubs.org
slmag.net 81
SOPHISTICATED GIVING: RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF THE BLUEGRASS
The Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of the Bluegrass knows that a family with a sick child is a sick family. Over the course of its history, RMHC has provided care and comfort to over 28,000 families going through a hard time. Now that is something to celebrate. Especially during the past year when celebrating looks radically different. For the past 37 years, RMHC of the Bluegrass has provided services that directly improve the health and well-being of children and strengthens families by keeping them close to their children who are receiving treatment at local hospitals. They do this through three core programs: The Ronald McDonald House, the Ronald McDonald Family Room and the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile. From a comfortable Tempur-Pedic bed to sleep on, home cooked meals prepared by Volunteers every night of the year, a warm cup of coffee and a snack in the Family Room at the Kentucky Children’s Hospital, to preventive dental care provided to children in Eastern Kentucky, RMHC of the Bluegrass is committed to supporting families and children in-need. RMHC knows the need is huge, so they work tirelessly to be part of the solution. And they would love for you to be a part of it too! Your support means when families are told their child is critically ill, RMHC can be there to keep families exactly where they should be- together. For more information about how you can make an impact in the lives of families with sick or injured children, please visit 6www. rmhclexington.com, call (859) 268-0757, or email Chelsi McDonald at cmcdonald@rmhclexington.com.
82 slmag.net
THE 2021 RANGE ROVER UNCOMPROMISED LUXURY
LAND ROVER LOUISVILLE 4700 BOWLING BLVD LOUISVILLE, KY 40207 SALES (502) 429-8085 landroverlouisville.com
2 020
W I NNER
SOPHISTICATED GIVING: BLUEGRASS GREENSOURCE
Bluegrass Greensource is a 20-year old nonprofit that provides environmental education, outreach, and resources to 20 Central Kentucky counties. With a motto of “Small Changes, Big Impact,” it is BGGS’s goal to provide the information and resources that people need to make changes in their daily lives that will add up to large-scale positive changes for our shared environment. To do this, we work closely with thousands of pre-K—12th Grade teachers and students, bringing the science of sustainability to life in the classroom (whether virtual or in-person). We also work closely with individual adults, businesses, and communities at large on water quality, energy efficiency, and general sustainability issues. This leads our team to have around 100,000 engagements with Central Kentuckians each year. Visit www.BgGreensource.org to learn more about our work and access resources to help you make small changes that will have a big impact. Connected with us on social media www.facebook.com/BgGreensource and instagram.com/bluegrassgreensource/ to learn about upcoming events throughout the year. 6
84 slmag.net
SOPHISTICATED GIVING: THE UK MARKEY CANCER FOUNDATION
Every hour, of every day someone in Kentucky dies of cancer. The UK Markey Cancer Foundation funded the building of the UK Markey Cancer Center and is now the philanthropic arm of Markey, Kentucky’s only National Cancer Institute-designated center and ranked in the top 5% of all cancer centers in the United States. Today, the UK Markey Cancer Foundation is leading the charge to reduce Kentucky’s shocking rates of cancer incidence and death. Through funding from generous donors in Kentucky and throughout the United States, the Markey Cancer Foundation funds 5 key areas in the fight against cancer: Patient Care, Research, Prevention, Patient Assistance, and Leading-Edge Facilities. You Can Support the Fight Against Cancer, Too! There are many ways you can support the Markey Cancer Foundation’s fight against cancer. Whether you make a one-time gift, give monthly, make a gift in your will, attend one of our fundraising events, or hold your own event to benefit Markey, every dollar saves lives!To learn more about supporting the Markey Cancer Foundation, please visit UKMarkey.org. Markey Women Strong One of the Markey Cancer Foundation’s unique philanthropic research endeavors is the Markey Women Strong program. Markey Women Strong is comprised of a generous group of donors which funds female-led cancer research at the Markey Cancer Center. Members join with a yearly contribution of $1,000 and then decide the awarding of $100,000 in grants to two researchers after reviewing proposals. This unique opportunity provides members with an exclusive look at the latest in cancer research. To learn more about Markey Women Strong or to become a member, please visit UKMarkey.org/ markeywomenstrong
slmag.net 85
SOPHISTICATED GIVING: GOD’S PANTRY
Mim Hunt returned to her hometown of Lexington, Kentucky, from New York City as a young World War II widow. After working as a social worker in New York’s settlement houses she saw her hometown with new eyes. Poverty and hunger, invisible to her during her youth, were crystal clear and, in Mim’s mind, demanded instant action. God’s Pantry Food Bank was created in 1955 when Mim started handing canned goods out of her station wagon, and collecting food on shelves in her garage. Soon she realized if hunger existed in Lexington, it also affected the surrounding counties. Since then, God’s Pantry Food Bank has joined Feeding America, the nationwide network of food banks, and expanded to serve 50 counties in Central and Eastern Kentucky. Yearly, the Food Bank distributes more than 41 million pounds of food throughout their service area including nearly 14 million pounds of fresh produce! It takes a lot of work to distribute that amount of food, and it is only possible through the commitment of more than 450 food pantries and meal programs. The faces of those experiencing hunger are diverse, and the Food Bank has different programs focusing on kids & teens, families, and seniors in order to meet people where they are and serve them in the best way possible. During the past year, God’s Pantry Food Bank has changed how distributions are operated so that everyone is kept safe during the pandemic. The increase in need throughout Central and Eastern Kentucky is unprecedented, but with the support of many community partners and donors the Food Bank has been able to6 meet the need. God’s Pantry Food Bank is reducing hunger by working together to feed Kentucky communities. To learn more about God’s Pantry Food Bank please visit www.GodsPantryFoodBank.org.
86 slmag.net
Photos courtesy of the Bluegrass Land Conservancy
1
BLC BENEFIT AT ASHBOURNE FARMS
Ashbourne Farms hosted a socially distanced dinner and performance by Wolfpen Branch to benefit the Bluegrass Land Conservancy (BLC). The organization’s mission is to protect land in Kentucky’s Bluegrass region through permanent conservation easements; since 1995, BLC has saved more than 28,000 acres of farmland. As a nationally accredited, community-supported nonprofit land trust, they work on a voluntary basis with landowners, community groups, and municipalities to encourage the preservation of land for agricultural viability, natural habitat, rural heritage, and scenic open space.
2
1) Chase Davis & Caroline Klein 2) BLC Executive Director Jessie Wilder addressing guests
slmag.net 87
The All-New 2021 F-PACe SVR Exhilarating PErformancE infusEd
with intElligEnt driving tEchnologiEs
JAGUAR LOUISVILLE 4700 BOWLING BLVD LOUISVILLE, KY 40207 SALES (502) 895-2451 jaguarlouisville.com
2 020
W I NNER
L I F E I S A J O U R N E Y. T R AV E L I T W E L L .
PROVIDING THE
ULTIMATE CLIENT EXPERIENCE
(800) 776-JETS [5387] Sales@PFAjets.com www.PFAjets.com
OFFERING FLIGHTS FROM LEXINGTON
CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO REQUEST A QUOTE TODAY!