U PSCALE Living
J A N U A R Y 2012 upscalelivingmag.com
HUAYRA + ZONDA CINQUE
Experience The Difference www.upscalelivingmag.com
™
CONTENT
Arts & Entertainment 20 Russian Artist, Rinat Shengareev
Fashion 32 Adolfo Sardina, fashion designer
36 Berlin, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week
Jewelry & Timepieces
34 Marco Bicego Jewelry Collection 38 Lionette Designs by Noa Sade
Home Décor & Architecture
22 Home Trends 27 Griferias Majer—Luxury Faucets
Travel 46 Thailand, Country of Soul, Sensation & Luxury
Real Estate 39 Coolest Real Estate Beach Homes
Wines, Spirits & Cigars
66 Cigars and Ports—A Couple of Luxuries
Culinary
60 Chef Zouhair Zairi, The Man Behind
“Moorish Fusion Cuisine” - Conquering The New World. 64 Fabulous Cuban Sliders—Only at Anthem Kitchen + Bar
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FEATURE
14 Pagani Zonda Cinque
Exhilarating Wheels
60 Around The World
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CONTRIBUTORS
EMMA DANCE
Emma has been a journalist for almost eight years and is currently based in the beautiful city of Bath in the UK. Her main passions in life are luxury travel, gourmet food and fine wines and spirits, and sharing her discoveries through her writing. She has travelled extensively across the globe, as well as within the UK, visiting around 20 countries in the past three years alone. Emma’s work has been published in regional publications in the UK, as well as on numerous websites. She also has a thriving blog which attracts an international audience. In her spare time Emma enjoys cooking and planning her next adventures. She lives with her partner.
PAUL E. KANDARIAN Paul is a Boston-based freelance travel writer/photographer whose work has appeared in The Boston Globe, Cape Air in-flight magazine, Go Caribbean, Yankee and many others. Paul prefers warm-weather climates but will go wherever the fun... he means work, is.
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KAREN H. BERLINER Karen Holly Berliner is a seasoned freelance journalist with a true love and flare for luxury food, wine and travel writing. Her passion for journalism coupled with her appreciation and driving interest in food and luxury travel, coupled with an insatiable wanderlust to boot, inspires her to explore this big world and bring back her finds to the local reader. Her work has been featured prior in English Magazine, Simply The Best Magazine, Downtown NYC Magazine, Singular Magazine, Los Angeles, Westchester Magazine, Bergen County Magazine, New Jersey Life, Edible East End (The Hampton’s), Social Life (The Hampton’s), No. 3 Magazine, NYC, Ocean Style, Gladys national glossy magazine, Haute Living and the NY Journal News among other publications. She offers expertise in niche travel markets such as getaways, luxury resorts, cultural itineraries, spa finds and culinary & wine treasures. From local spa escapes to 5 Star Caribbean Resorts and Hotels, native New Yorker Karen Berliner will happily share her luxury travel experiences with you. “Let me describe your paradise” she urges her readers, old and new.
KATHRYN J. ADAMS Kathryn is our Copy Editor for Upscale Living Magazine and edits websites as well. She has been involved in the fashion industry for twenty years as a model, writer, and assists in the photography shoots. She enjoys working with people and spends her time between Nantucket and Cape Cod.
RAY CHATELIN
Chatelin has won awards for travel journalism, screenwriting and classical music criticism. He has authored or co-authored 14 travel books and his work has appeared in a variety of major magazines, newspapers, and websites including National Geographic Traveler, LA Times, Musical America, San Diego Union, Hemispheres, Christian Science Monitor, and Traveling Times Publications, among others. His real passion is in golfing the world’s great courses.
NATALIE KING
Natalie graduated cum laude from Umass Boston. Her interests include Fashion, Interior Design and travel. An appreciation of design is a reflection of her families love of renovation and restoration projects. Beginning her career as a model, Natalie has continued her relationship with photographers, and now collaborates as an art director on editorials to showcase luxury residences, resorts and fashion. She divides her time between Boston and her families country home in North Carolina, where they currently renovate a 19th century southern plantation. For this issue, Natalie has worked with custom home builder Cindy Stumpo, Pauli and Uribe Architects of Boston, designer Michael De Paulo, the Mandarin Oriental Boston and Cambridge Beaches Resort in Bermuda. Natalie.king@upscalelivingmag. com
NEIL MACMILLAN
Neil is a New York based freelance writer where he resides with his wife Peggy and two cats. Neil is a Civil War re-enactor (Union Infantry) and a Navy veteran of the Gulf War. January 2012 digital issue
UPSCALE Living
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magazine
ADMS PUBLISHING GROUP, LLC
P u b l i s h e r / E d i t o r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alina R. Cabral V P o f S a l e s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rich Murowski C o p y E d i t o r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kathryn Adams Sales Executives ............................................................................ ............................................................................ ............................................................................ ............................................................................
Rich Murowski Diane Dorval Ann Bailey Laurel M.
Contributing Writers ............................................................................ ............................................................................ ............................................................................ ............................................................................
Ray Chatelin Paul Kandarian Kay Fernandez Linda Chappetier
D e s i g n & Tr a v e l E d i t o r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Natalie King Tr a v e l P h o t o g r a p h e r s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fran Grenon M u l t i m e d i a C o r r e s p o n d e n t . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kasey Grenon
ART & DESIGN D e s i g n S t u d i o . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A.R.C. Design A r t D i r e c t o r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alina R. Cabral Graphic Designers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jacklyn Dana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Michael V. W e b D e v e l o p m e n t . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A.R.C. Designs
Upscale Living Magazine™ is published four times a year by ADMS Publishing Group, LLC. Upscale Living Magazine™ is distributed via direct mail to private homes, selected newsstands nationwide, hotels, country clubs, private jets and other targeted locations frequented by our discerning audience. Complimentary issues are distributed at selected high profile events. Upscale Living Magazine™ and ADMS Publishing Group, LLC © 2009 All Rights Reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication, by any means, without written permission from the Publisher is prohibited. Advertising Inquiries: advertise@upscalelivingmag.com Promotion Inquiries: promotions@upscalelivingmag.com Partnership Inquiries: partnerships@upscalelivingmag.com Miscellaneous Information: info@upscalelivingmag.com Subscribe to our digital magazine: subscription@upscalelivingmag.com
PAGANI
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MANIA
HUAYRA + ZONDA CINQUE
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PAGANI
MANIA
HUAYRA
L
ike the Zonda, the Pagani Huayra uses the Mercedes-AMG V12 powerplant, but Pagani chose to add twin turbochargers to exceed 700 horsepower. With a 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds, a top speed of 230 mph and the capability to achieve 1.5g of lateral acceleration, this driving machine is not for the faint of heart. The AMG derived engine is shared with the SL65 Black Series, but has Pagani specific mods for reduced turbo lag and improved throttle response. Power is applied to the Pirellis via a 7-speed sequential gearbox. Unlike its predecessor, the Huayra incorporates
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active aerodynamics. Multiple flaps, computer controlled, actuate to reduce drag, prevent body roll, increase downforce and function as an airbrake. Under severe braking, several flaps act to transfer weight for increased stability. From the titanium exhaust, to the carbotitanium chassis construction and the use of advanced composite materials, this vehicle is designed to be driven; and driven fast. For those of you who choose not to part with the $1,150,000 cost of entry, look for the Pagani Hauyra in upcoming Forza Motorsport 4 video games.
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PAGANI
MANIA
ZONDA CINQUE
T
he swoosh of air funneling into the carbo-titanium monococque brings the 678hp Mercedes-AMG V12 powerplant to life, channeling its ferocious power through the 6 speed gearbox, to the tamed adhesion of its Pirelli P-Zero claws. Key features include a new, increased front splitter, a revised underbody and rear diffuser and a rear wing that adjusts to your driving style. New brake ducts were added to increase airflow and cooling capabilities to the brake disks and wheel hubs. The gearbox adapts to the driver, offers blistering fast gearshifts; while providing the necessary comfort for everyday use, in heavy traffic. Zonda does not believe in driver compromises‌ With current issues with fuel efficiency, new
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technologies and materials are prevalent in the design. The use of carbon fiber and carbon titanium are widely used. Even forged aluminum wheels and titanium lugnuts were used to significantly reduce unsprung weight. Ohlins had its hand in the suspension development, providing the fully adjustable shocks and titanium springs. Inside the cockpit, Toora leather racing seats and 4-point belts hold you in place for the performance. Grab the wheel, feel the ergonomic shifter paddles and experience the level of precision expected for full immersion in the pleasure of speed and refinement The Zonda Cinque; the most radical road legal Zonda ever. Treat yourself next year as the (5) specimens, scheduled for production, are already sold out.*
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| By Alina Rosa Leyva
R
inat Shingareev is an Islington-based Russian artist currently living in London. His colorful portraits disclose icons like Prince Charles, President Obama, Prince Williams, Madonna and many others. Through the character of his paintings, Shingareeve expresses his respects and believes that art should be an interpretation of positive feelings. Upscale Living Magazine had the opportunity to sit down with Rinat, and here is what he had to say: How did you first started in this field?
What are your goals & achievements?
Since my childhood. I was not only interested in arts, but music and design too. I was probably meant to be an artist as I remembered as a child I felt the desire to create something. Another thing in my life which influenced my creativity was the Art school in Russia I attended as well as The Academy of Fine arts in Italy.
My goal is simple - to acquaint the world with my art! As for my achievements, my work has been published in many international magazines and websites. My work has graced the cover of Maxim, who named me one of the most talented artists in the world. The known Italian journalist and TV presenter, Luca Telese, has written an article about me. My art has led to familiarity with many famous and influential people. I recently received compliments from Ferrari President Luca Cordero Di Montezemolo. But I’m not going to stop there, as I’m only in the beginning stages of my life.
What/Who motivates you? I’m motivated by many things: from politics and show business, to music and fashion. I watch closely the tendencies and changes in the world to create interesting and actual works. But I believe and stress that the most important purpose of my art is a desire to change the world to be the best, it will make me happy to know that at least I made a difference in the outlook of one person. Who is your favorite artist? Undoubtedly it is Warhol! This artist was ahead of the time. I appreciate him for what he accomplished: “Erased the lines between art and business without having done much harm to the art as a whole”. The artist must be well fed and free to create masterpieces.
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Where are you from? I’m from Russia, but for 10 years I have lived and worked in Italy. I’ve never stood still in one place as I’ve done many travelling. New places, cultures and people have also influenced my art.
------------------------------------------------------------------To learn more about Rinat Shingareev please visit his Facebook Page at http://www.facebook.com/thebestartistalive
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TRENDS T E M P O L U X U RY H O M E CO L L E C T I O N
TM
Crystorama Polished Chrome Chandelier Draped with Oyster, a very popular Hampton Collection offers fashion forward designs with soft crystal accents. 32”W x 26” H. Crystorama Brand.
Rug Bench - Tibetan hand knotted 100% silk rug. Size 4’x6’. Custom sizes available. For more information visit www.tempoluxuryhome.com
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Schumacher introduces chic and modern ottomans that are versatile in shape and size. The Tribeca Ottoman with its square silhouette and Chelsea Ottoman with its cylindrical form, are available in either a plain or a mitered and buttontufed top.
A Koke furniture Collection, “Orchidea” is manufactured in Portugal, and its fully customized to meet a designer’s requirement.
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griferias maier Luxury Faucets
“On The Move” by Roger San Miguel
WE ARE COLLECTORS/DEALERS OF FINE ART.
“Thinking” by Victor Zaldivar
We offer an exciting variety of original art of FINE ARTISTS from various countries. WE SHIP WORLDWIDE.
“Fruits & Wines” by Paco Gorospe
Tel/Fax: (212) 977-3374 www.benarifineart.com 26
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When you think of Griferias Maier luxury faucets, you think luxury at its best. Designed with Swarovski crystal, the Maier faucets can be customized to either chrome, gold or satin gold finishes. Every Maier bathroom fixture comes with a guarantee of workmanship for five years.
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GARCIA IMPORTED TILE Where quality and client satisfaction is our Priority! We travel anywhere in MA, RI, CT & NH www.garciatile.com
32 Weir Street, Taunton, MA 02780 - (508) 824-2868 | Fairhaven Office: 410 Main Street, Fairhaven, MA 02719 - (508) 991-4455
Special
EVENTS
Baume & Mercier Event “Maison D’Horlogerie Geneve 1830”
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Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabu LOVE Ecstasy White PURE lous HAPPY Glamour Fa Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC tastic LOVE Ecstasy White Fabulous HAPPY Glamou PURE Elegant Beautiful EC our Fantastic LOVE Ecsta ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPP White PURE Elegant Beaut Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ec ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPP White PURE Elegant Beaut Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ec ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPP White PURE Elegant Beaut Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ec ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPP White PURE Elegant Beaut Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ec ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPP White PURE Elegant Beaut Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ec ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPP
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TIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fantastic te PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabumour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White PURE CLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fany White PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White utiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY GlamVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful us HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy ant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful us HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy ant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful us HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy ant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful us HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy ant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful us HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy ant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful us HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy
Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous HAPPY Glamour Fantastic LOVE Ecstasy White PURE Elegant Beautiful ECLECTIC Fabulous
fashion
icon
Fashion Designer
| By Lisa Tavares
B
orn Adolfo Sardina in Havana, Cuba, this talented and well-known designer emigrated to New York in 1948 and worked as an apprentice millinery designer at Bergdorf Goodman. In 1951, Adolfo moved to Paris to work at Balenciaga before returning to New York to rejoin Berdof Goodman where he designed hats under the name Adolfo de Emme. Adolfo’s dream was always to open his own atelier that would focus on ladies’ apparel and he was able to accomplish that in 1962. His innovations include jersey visor caps, hats with removable googles and huge fur berets. The clothes he designed to wear with his hats had a costume feel to them. Adolfo’s suits, dresses and unique evening gowns earned him the admiration and loyalty of the world’s most elegant women, including Nancy Reagan and the Duchess of Windsor. In 1969, he was presented with a special Coty Award for his contribution to design “from head to toe”. In 1993, after a long and successful career creating the finest women’s clothing, Adolfo closed his East 57th Street couture salon to focus on his licensing business, Adolfo Enterprises, with which he is still involved today. One of Adolfo’s most notorious statement was “I don’t believe in following convention. And the only rule I know for any kind of design is to follow intuition.” Today, everyone in the industry knows that an Adolfo lady showcases a simple, classic and comfortable look, the very essence of his designs. 32
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Gold Bountiful Luxury Beautiful GOLD Mine Abundant CLASSY Sensual YELLOW Gorgeous PRESENCE Gold Bountiful Luxury Beautiful GOLD Mine Abundant CLASSY Sensual YELLOW Gorgeous PRESENCE Gold Bountiful Luxury Beautiful GOLD Mine Abundant CLASSY Sensual YELLOW Gorgeous PRESENCE Gold Bountiful Luxury Beautiful GOLD Mine Abundant CLASSY Sensual YELLOW Gorgeous PRESENCE Gold Bountiful Luxury Beautiful GOLD Mine Abundant CLASSY Sensual YELLOW Gorgeous PRES-
MARCO BICEGO
S
ince the launch of his eponymous jewelry line in 2000, Marco Bicego has redefined the phrase “today’s luxury” with sensuous, extraordinarily beautiful jewellery which blends old world Italian hand craftsmanship with tradition, passion, and imagination. His uniquely crafted pieces are exceptional enough to make a statement, yet personal enough to wear everyday. This unique combination has attracted many modern and cosmopolitan women to this artisan’s work. Bicego began his training as a gold artisan in the Veneto region of Italy, at his father’s fifty- year old atelier. His instincts were refined at the workbench and led him to create unique, multi-textured items that were both beautiful and unexpected. Today, the Marco Bicego brand is found in over 1,000 of the finest jewellers around the world. His global representation includes cities such as New York, London, St. Tropez, Tokyo, and Moscow, just to name a few. The Marco Bicego success story will continue to be one of openness to the future with a respect for tradition that is invigorated with passion and imagination. We are sure that Marco Bicego will continue to lead the fine jewellery industry with his unique positioning between precious jewellery and today’s luxury.
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| By Alina Rosa Leyva
Mercedes Benz Fashion Week
“ We are expecting 2012 to be an especially exciting and groundbreaking year in the fashion industry”
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M
ercedes-Benz Fashion Week it has now become a popular industry get-together and one of the most eagerly awaited events every year. Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin: the MercedesBenz & VOGUE Fashion Night in the Restaurant Borchardt. On Wednesday evening, the most elite people in the fashion industry and numerous VIPs accepted the invitation to partake of this wonderful event. Around 350 guests get together and celebrate and chat well into the night over drinks and delicious finger food. We are expecting 2012 to be an especially exciting and groundbreaking year in the fashion industry. In addition to the first day’s shows in the event venue on Straße des 17. Juni, the global economic situation and its effects on the industry was naturally a topic on everyone’s lips. It is precisely this blend that makes the Mercedes-Benz & VOGUE Fashion Night so popular. Some of the attendees included the mayor of Berlin, Klaus Wowereit, photographer and filmmaker Alex Prager, the creator of this year’s key visual for the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, also, celebrities such as Top model Karolina Kurkova, Hannah Herzsprung, Matthias Schweighöfer, Marie Bäumer, Clemens Schick, Julia Malik, Dennenesch Zoudé and art collector Christian Boros rubbed shoulders with fashion-makers including Dorothee Schumacher, Michael Sontag, Dimitri Panagiotopoulos, Guido Maria Kretschmer, Michael Michalsky, Dawid Tomaszewski, Gerd and Luca Strehle and René Storck at a stimulating get together. Today is just the second day of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin, and so far it has been a fabulous get-together, there is a lot more to come and see, upcoming fashion designs for 2012 promises to be the best year ever in the fashion industry!
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W
LIONETTE DESIGNS By Noa Sade 38
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hen it comes to fashion, Lionette designs slashes barriers, outruns the trends and roars in the face of convention. Noa Sade of Israel and China-born, NYC-raised, fashion guru Vanessa Lee joined forces as women entrepreneurs confidently claiming their territory in the jewelry jungle. Their designs crafts armor-worthy body jewelry, oversized pendants, and layers of chains were designed with a bold and incessantly fashionable woman in mind. This designs makes a statement and demands attention, and meanwhile can’t help but be charming. It’s Lionette’s versatility, at once elegant and ornate, that makes it irresistible and keeps you guessing. Noa and Vanessa live the Lionette life, and they hope to spread the energy and beauty behind the lifestyle to all of women. With Celebrity fans such as Hillary Swank, Brandy and TV hosts of Hollywood, Lionette designs has become a globally inspired jewelry line. Lionette by Noa Sade is available online at www. lionetteny.com and at various high end international retailers.
REAL ESTATE homes
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68-1070 Honokaope Way - HAWAII Located in 49 Black Sand Subdivision.
The seamless integration of architecture, landscape and interior design give this spectacular estate an open tropical feel that immediately invokes relaxation. The home rests on a gentle cliff top overlooking the ocean and is the definition of indoor/outdoor living. The home is designed for many to enjoy quiet and privacy. The grandly scaled media room, workout room with sauna, and office are all appointed with state of the art equipment and technology. Two outside covered sleeping areas beckon leisurely afternoons. A magical courtyard contrasts the dramatic oceanfront setting, and carved Indonesian temple entries frame door and garden entrances. The pool and spa look out over the Pacific and lush tropical planting, water features and koi ponds lend serenity. This home is offered fully furnished with impeccable interior design elements: extensive recessed lighting; custom glass fixtures; focal art from Hawaiian artists; accessories from around the world; mahogany casework, trim and doors; travertine floors; stone counters. This magnificent property provides the ultimate luxury island escape. It is incredibly private yet has the recreation conveniences of Hawaii’s world-class resorts very close by. SELLING PRICE: $12,900,000
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Credit: Brodie Callender - MacArthur & Company Sotheby’s International Realty. Photo courtesy of TopTenRealEstateDeals.com. 40
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219 Ocean Bl, Golden Beach FL
This ultramodern +/-7795 SF oceanfront estate on park-like grounds showcases granite and wood floors, curved walls and ceilings, a spectacular cantilevered floating staircase, and an amazing glass-enclosed suspended second floor bridge and family room. Daylight streams in from multiple skylights making the interior cheerful and bright. Wonderful features and amenities abound in this stunning home such as a media room, gym, European kitchen and formal dining room. Even more amazing is the two-story oceanfront guest house with electronic roof that exposes the artist studio. An infinity-edge pool visually connects to ocean and white sand private beach. You will always experience be best in privacy and security inside this walled property, also protected by custom stainless steel gates.
SELLING PRICE: $13,500,000
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Credit: The Jills速 of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate. Photo courtesy of TopTenRealEstateDeals.com. 41
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32013 Point Place, Laguna Beach, CA
Includes state-of-the-art garage with commercial-grade hydraulic lift with subterranean parking and secret tunnel entry!! Imagine floating high above a white sandy beach and cove below, with breathtaking views of the Pacific, Laguna Beach coastline and beyond. This exquisite, private oceanfront residence is the embodiment of the best of soft contemporary architecture and elevates living and entertaining to an art form. Premium fixtures and custom finishes abound where disappearing walls of glass seamlessly open to terraces with extraordinary views, unforgettable sunsets, and sounds of the crashing surf. Access to the broad beach below is through a secured staircase. The stylish floorplan also includes a Gaggenau gourmet kitchen, office, meditation area, family room (+F/P) and game room. The upper level master bedroom has 180+ degree views. All bedrooms are en suite and feature Philippe Starck fixtures. A state-of-the-art garage showcases a commercial-grade hydraulic lift with subterranean parking. Home is not visible from street and has a “secret” tunnel entry!
SELLING PRICE: $ 9,995,000
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Credit: Donna Pfanner - International President’s Elite Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. Photo courtesy of TopTenRealEstateDeals.com. 42
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129 Dune Rd, Westhampton, NY
Innovative and dramatic best describe this exceptionally designed Contemporary home on desirable Dune Road. The beach home sports six bedrooms and 7 bathrooms on an acre, with 100 feet of pristine oceanfront and a rooftop deck from which to enjoy the incredible views. The home has a 38-foot-tall welcoming foyer, a great room with a sculpted fireplace, a chef ’s kitchen and dining room, an elevator, a theater-style media room, a hot tub and a three-car garage. It has four bay-front guest suites as well as a thoughtfully designed master suite with dual bathrooms, dressing rooms and closets! Outside is an infinity edge pool and spa along with a poolside screened-in dining area with a kitchenette and a double cabana with a full bath, changing room and laundry. The home has dock access as well as walls of glass with a sweeping view of the ocean. This is a welcoming house to invite your family and friends and is perfect for more formal entertaining.
SELLING PRICE: $10,000,
____________________________________________ Credit: Horst Design International based in Cold Spring Harbor, NY. Photo courtesy of TopTenRealEstateDeals.com. 43
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Special
EVENTS
IWC Schaffhausen launched its new Pilot’s Watch Collection under the motto “TOP GUN” Geneva on January 17th, 2012
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THAILAND
A country of soul, sensation and luxury | Paul Kandarian 46
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wake at 5:30 a.m. in my huge, 57th suite at the luxurious Lebua at State Tower in downtown Bangkok, make fresh coffee in the kitchen’s Nespresso machine and amble out to one of four concrete balconies in my corner digs, the Praya River snaking darkly below in the sunrise’s gathering light. I stand and hear a throaty growl that hums in the distance, and think it is a jet taking off from Suvarnabhumi Airport, 20 miles away. But how can that be? It’s too far and the sound doesn’t ebb a single decibel, but lingers in a steady, low roar. It hits me: It’s the city herself. Bangkok is a crazily busy metropolis, never quiet, ever alive. The sound I hear, and will every time I step onto a balcony, is the city’s voice, the collective buzz of her 12 million people who call it home and all the mechanized things that carry them around, all converging in a steady, unending growl.
It is, simply put, part of her soul. I have never been to the Far East but have to many other areas of the world and feel completely secure saying this: Thailand is a country with the most soul I have ever seen, a country of beautiful, mindful people, a country that is 97 percent Buddhist and as such, has a peaceful center in her collective soul I’ve not felt anywhere else. There is squalor here to be sure, what some may call poverty, with people living in riverside hovels that seem intent on tumbling into the water, but is it poverty by their definition or ours? It’s not poverty to those who live their lives, always smiling, day by day and know no other way. In many places, Thailand is a country of opulence, luxury and extremely attentive service, such as at the Lebua (www.lebua.com), a five-star, all-suite upscale hotel that towers over the rest and offers stunning views of the city and river below, day and night. You’ll never open a door yourself if a staffer is nearby and there is always one nearby, ever smiling and polite, always bowing with hands clasped to face in the traditional Thai greeting that is far more graceful and genuine than our handshake. It is a massive building of glass and stone, with my suite offering more than a single traveler could ever need, with sprawling, open rooms, floors of gleaming hardwood, a kitchen with marble countertops, a dining area nearby, a wide living room and two bedrooms with full baths, including inviting soaking tubs. One of the bedrooms ha a bed removed with a massage table put in for in-room massages – which I take advantage of my first night there after a grueling 24-hour trip. Aor is my masseuse this night, a delightful young Thai who provides me with traditional massage clothing, in my case an tight-fitting tank top and Capri pants that is awkwardly snug on my six-foot, 210-pound frame. But she is incredible, hands capable and strong, giving my first-ever Thai massage that includes bending and stretching me every possible way in a treatment that seems more submission wrestling than massage. But it works, leaving me more relaxed than I’ve felt in ages. Not to be missed at Lebua is the Sky Bar on the 64th floor, said to be the world’s highest open-air lounge, with a neon bar that changes colors as guests gather round. It is located just below and to the side of the hotel’s iconic Sky Dome, a gorgeous, gold-tinted tower and where Sirocco is located, one of the hotel’s restaurants and serving world-class food along with live jazz music. It is the most spectacular place to imbibe and eat I have ever seen. While in Bangkok, you must check out the legendary street markets, with rows of desiccated fish of all colors, sizzling meat and vegetables in the inexhaustible supply of street woks, and the constant smell of who-knows-what filling your nostrils wherever you walk. There is food here I do not recognize but try anyway, caught up in the cackle and chatter of the city’s people engaging in their daily lives. It is a sensory experience of taste, sight, sound and smell like nothing else you will ever see. If you love to eat, you’ll love Bangkok. And if you love to cook, do check out the Amita Cooking Class (www.amitathaicooking.com) located on a canal, lovingly lorded over by Tam Piyawadi Jantrupon, a former lawyer and fashion designer who opened it in 2008. It is a small, well-organized place with an astounding herb and vegetable garden. Your welcome starts by eating amazingly good flash-fried flowers, before you take hands-on lessons to make things like traditional pad Thai. You can also take classes at the Blue Elephant Cooking School, located at the world-famous Blue Elephant restaurant, all owned and run by one of the country’s best female chefs, Nooror Somany Steppe, in kitchens spotless and well appointed where you’ll make exquisite food to dazzle the folks back home including stuffed chicken wings that are labor intensive to prepare but drop-dead delicious when you do. After Bangkok, we venture to northern Thailand and check into the superupscale Four Seasons Chiang Mai (www.fourseasons.com/chiangmai) , a rural setting that is a far cry from the crowded capitol city. It is a glorious fivestar resort, with Lanna-style pavilions as rooms, set in an arc around working, terraced rice paddies tended by local farmers, with the crop donated to local charities. They toil daily here, often accompanied by giant, lumbering water buffalos, offering the most unique resort view I have ever seen, relaxing and compelling, with the Doi Suthep mountain range looming in the misty
distance. My room here is superb, mostly one of teak and rattan, with a huge bathroom area, one wall of which is entirely glass, surrounding the shower and soaking tub, tastefully hidden from outside viewing by vegetation and lattice. Exquisite doesn’t come close to describing the digs, with free Internet, huge comfortable bed, chilly air conditioning to fight the Thai heat and hand-made toiletry holders of blue, woodash glaze and products by L’Occitane en Provence to fill them. Each morning, I take French press coffee from my room and wander down a 40-foot boardwalk to my private, covered and furnished veranda, just watching, and listening to the early-morning cacophony of insect and birds and the occasional clacking growl of the many gecko lizards. It is a sublime place to watch the day begin, the sun coming up and bathing the grounds and huge reflective pond, at the far end of which, a yoga class is held to stretch and greet the day. At night, it is a splendid place to relax as well, watching a worker lighting tiki torches around the paddies to burn long into the Thai night. While the Four Seasons is a wonderful place to relax, there’s plenty to do, with ample walking and 48
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biking opportunities. The restaurants here are worldclass, including one with outdoor terrace overlooking the resort, near the gorgeous infinity pool, and adults-only one below that, a most restful place to relax and be doted on by super-attentive staffers. All around, there are terra cotta urns that the resort’s gardeners fill daily with an ever-changing pattern of local flowers. Here you can learn to cook as well, at the resort’s celebrated cooking school. One day I am part of one taught by Pitak Srichai, a master chef of passion and easy laughter who learned his craft at his mother’s elbow, later working his way up through restaurants, from dishwasher to chef. That night, I dine at the chef ’s table in the massive, open-air cooking school feasting on a 13-course offering that by number nine, makes the last four a tasty challenge to complete, surrounded by fellow guests enjoying our meal communally, the way great meals are meant to be enjoyed. If you visit Thailand, you will likely come home with not just rich memories, but many other reminders, be it jewelry, recipes, food or clothing. But whatever you take home, the sense of soul you will feel is the one likely to last the longest.
January 2012 digital issue
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Around The World | By Ray Chatelin, Photos by Toshi
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ittle can prepare you for the majesty of the Taj Mahal. No glossy photo, no video, no printed page can equal the impact on your senses as you stand in the middle of the East Gate entry point that frames what is arguably the world’s most perfect piece of architecture. This marbled monument to a tragic love story changes character with every nuance of light that peaks through the dawn mist and with subsequent visits throughout the day and evening. At first light, the Taj Mahal, with its inlaid precious and semi-precious stones, and intricately carved floral embellishments is a pearly pink. Later, in the last light of evening, it radiates a delicate opalescence. You marvel at the simplicity of its power and then let the mind wander to the emotions of the man who promised his dying wife that he’d create a monument to her memory. And what a tribute this mausoleum is - an iconic work of symmetrical art that can never be forgotten. But, the Taj is just one element of a cruise through Southeast Asia, India and the Mid-East from Hong Kong to Athens aboard Oceania’s Nautica, an upscale 648 passenger ship that because of its size provides an intimate sense of cruising without sacrificing quality. As wonderful as the cruising experience is in this relaxed atmosphere of haut cuisine, spas, fitness center, string quartets, and celebrity lecturers, Oceania cruises are port intensive. This itinerary – scheduled again for April/May of 2012 - appeals to the traveler who wants to visit exotic places with the convenience of a floating luxury hotel. It’s not for cruisers whose cruising plans simply involve a suntan and lots of umbrella drinks by the ship’s pool, though the pool and its nearby bar area is a good meeting point on at-sea days. Southeast Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Indian sub-continent, are culturally complex parts of the world and there’s certainly no easier way to experience these exotic destinations. The widely separated destinations of Singapore, Oman, Mumbai, Alexandria, Phuket, Hong Kong, the Suez Canal, as well as side trips into Cambodia, the ancient sites of the Middle East and elsewhere, can be explored in luxury with knowledgeable guides, and safety in a social environment that protects and informs passengers. (Continues on Page 56) 52 | Upscale Living Magazine | January 2012 digital issue
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Once leaving Hong Kong, still a vibrant and exciting city that deserves several days of exploration, the ship offers an itinerary that highlights many of the world’s cultural heavyweights. Among them are the French Colonial houses, pagodas and Chinese assembly halls of Hoi An, Viet Nam; the 12th century ruins at Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptures in Sien Reap, Cambodia. The ancient Nabataean city of Petra, carved from the limestone rock in Jordan, is a major side trip, as are the towering temples of Luxor and Karnak in ancient Thebes that give a brief glimpse into the workmanship and skills of ancient architecture; as does exploring the still inner tombs at the Valley of the Kings in Egypt with their still colourful art. In the vast desert of Wadi Rum, experience a Bedouin feast where camels roam the same area where Lawrence of Arabia was filmed. There’s the Suez Canal and, of course, the many sights of Athens and the Greek Islands. Oceania has created a luxury experience that’s one of the cruise industry’s best value-for-money options in upscale cruising. Once aboard you’ll find yourself pampered in a way that separates the line from its higher-priced lines by dispensing luxury without pretentiousness, elegance without excessiveness. The quality of staff and surroundings exudes opulence without the worry of bumping into the furniture or spilling a drink. Premium staterooms are characterized by butlers, yet regardless of which kind of stateroom you have – ranging from inside to balcony suites, and 1000 sq. ft. luxury penthouse suites - the line presents an air of social equality with its relaxed dress code of resort-casual dress, open seating dining, and an absolute intolerance of smokers. Break the no-smoking edict and you could find yourself disembarked at the next port of call. Nautica and its mirror-imaged sister ships (Regatta and Insignia) has four restaurants including three specialty restaurants without additional charges. Menus in all restaurants are extensive and the food quality is generally acknowledged as among the finest in the industry. The line’s newest addition, the 1250 passenger Marina, offers more amenities without sacrificing intimacy. While 16 of the 35 days are at sea - the South China Sea, Andaman Sea, Indian Ocean, Red Sea, Gulf of Eden, and the Mediterranean - they are hardly wasted. They offer the opportunity to catch your breath, sort photos, to discuss with fellow passengers what you’ve seen, take classes, and to prepare yourself for the coming day(s). Several air flights, offered as options away from the ship, are necessary to experience the best of the destinations. From Ho Chi Minh City (still called Saigon by the locals), for example, an Air Vietnam flight transports fellow passengers to Siem Reap’s modern terminal in Cambodia for the Angkor Wat segment. After three days of being housed in the luxurious Le Meridien Hotel, Dragon Air returns passengers to meet the ship elsewhere. Both airlines fly new Airbus 320s. And in India, a private jet (again in a new A320) flew from Goa, India to Agra for the Taj Mahal experience and then to Mumbai three days later to meet the ship. In Agra, the Taj Mahal was not just a onepony show. Visits to the deserted ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri, the massive Agra Fort and the exquisite tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah – all important Indian cultural sites – helped expose passengers to the rich cultural and historical depth of Indian society. The ports of call in what amounts to an around-the-world travel experience, resonate long after the ship reaches its final destination. And the image of the Taj Mahal in the early morning light will likely be with you forever. * 56
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Chef Zouhair Zairi, The Man Behind “Moorish Fusion Cuisine” Conquering the New World
hef Zouhair Zairi, a Moroccan born headed for America at the tender age of 19 with a dream of pursuing his passion “culinary art”. His first job was washing dishes in a Mediterranean restaurant in Atlanta, but after a while, his responsibilities were increased lending him the opportunity to learn all aspects of the business. After a while and many sacrifices in his carer, Zouhair’s skills and eye for food presentation led him to a rewarding career in the hospitality/culinary industry. In 2002, Zouhair became the executive chef and director of his own restaurant, Spices in Maui. It was named Best New Restaurant by Maui No Ka ‘Oi Magazine. In 2004, Zouhair earned the coveted Culinary Excellence Award from the JW Marriott Resort & Spa and a Certificate of Appreciation from the White House. With his extensive training and experiences throughout various regions of the country, Chef Zouhair relied heavily upon memories of his mother’s and grandmother’s fare in his youth letting to this ground-breaking cookbook “Moorish Fusion Cuisine” where he introduces a unique approach to a mouthwatering ancient gastronomy and represents a personal homage to the Moorish cuisine of his homeland. “My approach is to showcase the ingredients and keep it simple. I have a knack of combining herbs and spices and transforming them
into complex, aromatic blends that I sprinkle onto meat, poultry, and fish. I enjoy using traditional ingredients, like rose petals, orange blossom water, and precious argan oil, in new ways. I add rose water to my vinaigrettes, which adds a beautiful fragrance and is soothing to the palate.” He was quoted saying Now, at the age of forty, Zouhair has come full circle. Having accomplished his dream of becoming a success in the culinary world, his greatest joy is spending time at home with his wife and two sons in beautiful Maui, while creating and sharing new culinary delights with home cooks. Here are some of Chef Zouhair culinary delights.
Tomato, Fennel, and Saffron Soup with Olive Oil–Poached Artichokes Serves 6 to 8
In this recipe I combine two of my favorite ingredients, fennel and artichoke. This light, healthy, saffron broth is a perfect soup any time of the year. Preparation: 25 minutes Cooking: 1 hour, 30 minutes 4 whole artichokes, cleaned and quartered (leave stem on for presentation) 1 cup olive oil, reserving 1-1/2 tablespoons 2 quarts fennel broth (see recipe below) 1 pinch saffron, toasted 1 shallot, julienned 2 garlic cloves, sliced very thin 1 whole fennel, julienned (reserve top part for stock) 8 organic grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes Kosher salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste Garnish: Zest of 1 lemon and Fresh parsley leaves Method: Poach the artichokes as follows. In a small sauce pot, over medium heat, place the artichoke quarters in the olive oil and poach for about 15 to 20 minutes or until the artichokes are tender. Keep warm. 60
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In a medium soup pot, bring the fennel broth to warm, add the toasted saffron, and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes, allowing the saffron to release all its flavors. Meanwhile, in a separate soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sweat the shallot and garlic for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the shallot and garlic don’t burn. Add the julienned fennel and cook for a few more minutes. Pour the saffron broth into the mixture and cook for 15 more minutes. In a small sauté pan, heat ½ tablespoon of oil over high heat and sauté the tomatoes for a few seconds or until their skins start to blister. Add to the soup and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. To serve, ladle the soup into medium bowls and top with artichoke quarters crisscross. Sprinkle with lemon zest and garnish with fresh parsley leaves. Serve at once.
Fennel Broth Yield: about 3 quarts
2 fennel bulbs with tops, roughly chopped 1 tablespoon fennel seeds 2 bay leaves 4 parsley stems 4 quarts cold water Method: Combine all ingredients with 4 quarts of water in a large stockpot. Bring to a boil and simmer for 45 minutes. Strain and reduce to about 3 quarts. Chill and use according to recipe. The broth can keep for up to 5 days.
Coriander and Rosemary–Scented Lamb Rack with Brown Lentil Salad Serves 4 to 6
Lamb is frequently used in Moroccan cuisine and throughout the Mediterranean region. The combination of fresh rosemary and ground coriander elevates the flavor of the lamb chops, which are perfectly matched with a light lentil salad. Preparation: 25 minutes + 2 hours to marinate Cooking: 15 minutes Lamb: 2 pieces rack of lamb (7 to 8 ribs each, Frenched) 5 garlic cloves, sliced 1 tablespoon ground cumin 3 tablespoons ground coriander 4 sprigs fresh rosemary 2 tablespoons olive oil Kosher salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste Lentil salad: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 shallot, finely chopped 1 tomato, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped 2 cups cooked brown lentils ½ teaspoon ground cumin ½ teaspoon paprika 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, chopped Kosher salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste Garnish: Fresh rosemary sprigs Method: Trim any excess fat from the lamb racks and French cut down between the bones of each rack of lamb to create chops (about 4 double lamb chops from each rack). In a medium bowl, combine the lamb chops, garlic, 1 tablespoon of cumin, coriander, rosemary, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and toss gently. Cover and marinate for 2 to 3 hours. For lentil salad, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium pan, and sauté the shallot until translucent. Add tomato, cooked lentils, ½ teaspoon of cumin, and paprika, and cook for 5 to 10 minutes. Add parsley, season with salt and pepper, remove from heat, and set aside. Preheat oven to 375°F. Remove the lamb chops from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. Place the lamb chops in a hot sauté pan and sear over medium-high heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Roast in the oven for 10 minutes or until cooked medium rare. To serve, spoon a large amount of lentil salad on a plate. Place 2 double lamb chops on top and garnish with fresh rosemary. Serve hot.
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YOUR PORTAL TO THE WORLD OF LUXURY w w w. u p s c a l e l i v i n g m a g . c o m
774.271.0365
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January 2012 digital Issue
Only at Anthem Kitchen + Bar
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anging out in Faneuil Hall is a common day-to-day enjoyment for tourists and residents to do; especially in warm New England weather! Beautiful sightseeing, fabulous shopping and mouth-watering cuisines, all in one place! But hey, it doesn’t need to be summer to enjoy Faneuil Hall. Even in the middle of Winter, Bostonians know how to have fun! Walking through this wonderful place, my friends and I decided to stop at Anthems Kitchen + Bar, a casual, upscale restaurant right in the heart of it all. Employing space on two levels, Anthem’s ground floor houses a large windowed greenhouse perfect for people watching, while a spacious upper level loft features a sun porch overlooking the action below. Upon our arrival, one of their friendly waitresses took us to a nice table where we sat and decided to freshen up our day with a savory concoction, so far, everything was turning out like we expected and more! Born in Havana Cuba myself, it’s not often that you find a place, here in New England, that offers authentic Cuban cuisine. At least not authentic enough!! Looking through the menu, I decided to try their Cuban Sliders; and what a surprise I was in for! To describe them?.... Delicious!!!! These sliders are mini Cubans, made like a pressed mini roll featuring slow roasted pork, turkey, ham, cheese, pickles and a spicy mustard-mayo. It’s a deceptively simple sounding dish although the flavors are actually very layered and complex. Everything about this sandwich was delicious and it brought me back to my childhood and the many great places that I visit when in Miami. So after great conversation, a couple of drinks and these perfect bites, we were off to more shopping! All I have to say is Anthem, I will be coming back for more! | By Alina Rosa Leyva Photos courtesy of Anthem Kitchen + Bar
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January 2012 digital Issue
CIGARS AND PORT A Couple of Luxuries | By Jennifer Jordan
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igars and alcohol have been a dynamic duo for thousands of years. From scotch and a Montecristo to brandy and a H. Upmann, they have been escorting each other to weddings, galas, and celebrations all over the world. Though there are shelves of alcohol that go well with cigars, there is one that smokers often overlook: Port wine. Sitting in the back of a wine cellar simply waiting for someone to drink in its glory, port wine knows it important when it comes to cigars. Nearly as sweet as a spoonful of sugar, Port would probably have been the preference of Mary Poppins had she let her hair down and decided to have a drink. Known also as Vinho do Porto, Oporto, and Porto, Port is fortified wine hailing from the northern parts of Portugal. Though there are Port-like wines made in other countries, such as the US, Portugal lays claim to true Port. The others are, in a simple alliteration, Port Posers. Made from grapes in the Douro Valley, Port has a long and colorful history. Produced in Portugal since the mid 1400’s, it didn’t gain popularity until the Methuen Treaty of 1703. A treaty that was used to – as treaties are known to do – solve war related conflicts, this agreement also put Port on the European map by strengthening the Port wine trade. Soon, England was very important to the world of Port. The process of making port is an arduous one. It initially involves picking grapes, smashing them (don’t worry, they use stunt doubles), and then placing the remnants in a tank where they are chopped further into tiny pieces. After sitting in this tank for close to twenty-four hours, the grapes begin to ferment and their sugar evolves into something else: alcohol. With Port wine, after fermentation begins, timing takes over. This is where Port becomes somewhat special and a whole lot different. Once half of the grape’s sugar has been converted, fermentation must be stopped. In order to do this, the wine is mixed with clear brandy containing a proof of 150. The alcohol in the brandy kills the yeast in the wine, causing fermentation to cease. The ending result is a wine that is sweeter and higher in alcohol content than most. Though there are many styles of Port - White Port, Ruby Port, Young Tawny Port, Aged Tawny Port, Vintage Character Port, Late Bottled Vintage Port, Traditional Late Bottled Vintage Port, Vintage Port, Single Quinta Vintage Port, Crusted Port, and Garrafeira Port - most styles fall into two broad categories: Bottle aged or Cask aged. Because doing the tiniest thing different will result in a different taste of wine, the two Port processes greatly dictate the flavorful outcome. While Bottle aged Ports generally behave like wine on Botox, keeping their color and their fruitiness well into maturity, Cask aged Ports lose flavor quickly. They are ready to drink right away and should be consumed quickly. Some of the best Ports to know are the Taylor Fladgate Tawny Port, W. & J. Graham’s Tawny Port, Smith Woodhouse Vintage Character Port, Niepoort Vintage Port, Quinta do Infantado Single Quinta Vintage Port, and Adriano Ramos-Pinto Late Bottled Vintage Port. Port wine, because of its innate sweetness, is usually served with desserts, and cheese. But, when accompanied with a cigar (hand rolled ones make a particularly ideal pairing), desserts don’t hold a candle and the cheese, as a Tawny Port ditches a block of cheddar for a Camacho Corojo, stands alone. * 66
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......................................................................................................................... About The Author: Jennifer Jordan is an editor and staff writer for www. whatsknottolove.com. At home in a design firm in Denver, Colorado, Jennifer writes articles specific to the finer things in life.