Camper & Nicholsons Has Sold the Majestic Lady Moura

After 554 days on the market, Camper & Nicholsons has announced the in-house sale of the impressive 105 meter Lady Moura. Delivered in 1990 by Blohm+Voss, Lady Moura’s buyer was represented by broker Fernando Nicholson, whereas the seller was represented by Arne Ploch and Andrew LeBuhn. With an asking price of $125,000,000 USD, Lady Moura was both one of the largest and most expensive yachts on the brokerage market. According to Camper & Nicholsons “this sale represents the fastest known brokerage sale of a 100+ metre vessel in the last ten years.”

“I am extremely pleased we achieved such a result and the timeframe in which we achieve it makes it even more exceptional. I would like to thank all the people involved, across our Marketing, CRM, Legal, Brokerage and Management departments as this was a truly joint effort that makes me so very proud to work for this company, with every single team member we have today,” comments CEO Paolo Casani.

Lady Moura’s size, amenities, and pristine condition set her within a class all of her own. Following three decades of storied history hosting both royalty and the political elite, Lady Moura was placed on the market for the first time to great industry fan faire. Often regarded as a Monaco landmark, due to the fact that the vessel frequented Port Hercules, yet until Lady Moura was placed on the market, the vessel was shrouded in so much mystery. Only within the last couple years was Lady Moura’s marvelous Luigi Sturchio-styled interior revealed, as until then it remained a true secret. Lady Moura was primarily used as a private family residence and was never made available for charter.

At launch the seven deck Lady Moura was one of the most advanced and luxurious vessels afloat, boasting a cinema, helipad, top deck indoor pool, generous guest accommodations, and a cutting edge beach club with some of the first hydraulic fold-out balconies.

_{Image credit: Camper & Nicholsons}

The best of Bordeaux from Petrus to Haut-Brion

Nearly five hundred lots of fine Bordeaux will hit the auction block in Hong Kong on the 25^th of this month. The single owner auction features one of the largest private collections of Chateau Haut-Brion ever offered. Vintages in the collection span over 100 years and include rare bottles of 1945 Chateau Haut-Brion and 1961 Chateau Haut Brion in large format. Additional highlights are the over one dozen unique vintages of Petrus as well as verticals of Cheval Blanc. However, our personal favorites are the lot of 3 bottles of 1934 Chateau d’Yquem and the 5 bottles of 1967 d’Yquem. According to Sotheby’s, the auction is estimated to fetch between “HK$10.5 – 15 million/ US$1.4 – 1.9 million.”

“This is one of those rare windows into wine history that mark a lifetime of vinous discovery. When they come your way, it is always breathtaking, as they evoke times remembered, vintages that vary with the weather and social conditions, extraordinary memories of scent and taste, occasions of joy and wonder and the sheer delight of knowing that these bottles, magnums, double magnums, jeroboams and imperials still exist. It reminds me of childhood fairy tales, of treasures slumbering for decades and then miraculously revealed. In this case, the sleeping took place in perfect cellar conditions and these legendary wines emerge from over a century ago, in one instance, to shine a light on what fascinates us all – the mystery of how wines evolve. This collection provides an unrivalled opportunity to follow this thread, through the lens of the First Growths of Bordeaux” – SERENA SUTCLIFFE, M.W. HONORARY CHAIRMAN, SOTHEBY’S WINE

Image courtesy of: Sotheby’s

10 Million Dollar Condo at NYC’s Plaza Hotel

Two bedrooms, two and a half baths, and 55 feet of stunning park views, that’s what $9.995M USD will get you at New York City’s iconic Plaza Hotel. If you’re chasing stunning views of Central Park and would like to join the ranks of past residents like F. Scott Fitzgerald, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Tommy Hilfiger; few residences can compare to this nearly 2,500 square foot condominium.

“1 Central Park S, Apt 401 is located in New York City’s Plaza Hotel, a 100+ year-old historic building that boasts luxury, hotel-style amenities,” says Nick Agostinelli of NYC residential brokerage Elegran. Daniel Toder of Elegran added, “The two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom residence also features oversized windows that showcase 55-feet of stunning Central Park and New York City views.”

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Represented by Nick Agostinelli and Daniel Toder of NYC residential brokerage Elegran, apartment 401’s 13 foot high ceilings, custom cabinetry, and office space set the residence among NYCs best available pied et tierres. The unit boasts a ‘gracious entry foyer with a half bath for guests’ and two bedroom suites with plush marble bathrooms. Unique services at the Plaza include access to butler service that offers in-room dining and twice-daily housekeeping, 24-hour Concierge, and the Warren Tricomi Salon among convenient use of the hotel’s celebrated restaurants and ballroom.

Images courtesy of: Elegran via Quinn PR

A Coach Built Masterpiece | The Rolls Royce ‘Boat Tail’

Unveiled just a few days ago, is the ‘Boat Tail’, a nod to Rolls Royce’s coach building past. This all-new one of one commission is a tribute to a time when discerning clients would personalize almost every detail of their bespoke Rolls Royce. Although custom commissions like ‘Boat Tail’ are few and far between, Rolls Royce sees the “Coachbuild” program as a permanent fixture within the brand’s future portfolio.

Speaking on the program, Rolls Royce Head of Coachbuild Design, Alex Innes states: “Coachbuild provides freedom to move beyond the usual constraints. Normally, there is a natural ceiling to Rolls-Royce Bespoke by way of the canvas. At Rolls-Royce Coachbuild we break through that ceiling, embracing the freedom of expression afforded by coachbuilding to shape a concept directly with our commissioning patrons.” Adding “With Boat Tail we have achieved this. We have created a trio of exceptional cars which, although they share a common body style, are each imbued with the unique, highly personal imprint of the commissioning patron, thereby telling differing stories. Boat Tail is unprecedented. Boat Tail is a distinct counterpoint to industrialised luxury.” 

• 

• 

Despite being entirely unique, the ‘Boat Tail’ instantly reminds Rolls Royce aficionados of the 2017 Sweptail, a Coachbuild example that won the manufacturer much praise. The design of the sweptail was often compared to a J Class sailing yacht, a defining highlight of early 20^th century design. An element of vintage inspiration in the design of the ‘Boat Tail’ was taken from BOVET, the Swiss watchmaking house born in 1822. Following years of close collaboration, Rolls Royce and Bovet were able to integrate a mechanical dashboard clock like never before. A passionate collector of BOVET timepieces, the commissioner of ‘Boat Tail’ was pleased to reimagine the dashboard with two fine reversible timepieces for him and his wife. According to Rolls Royce, the watches have been designed to be “worn on the wrist, or, placed front and [center] within Boat Tail’s fascia as the motor car’s clock.”

Speaking on behalf of the collaboration, Pascal Raffy, owner, BOVET 1822, commented, “I am so proud of the BOVET 1822 team, who worked in tandem with the elite design team at Rolls-Royce to produce something spectacular. These two pieces, and the mounting system, are completely unique and unlike anything we have ever done before.”

Like its older sister, the ‘Boat Tail’ contains a myriad collection of discreet features executed to the highest standard. A defining highlight, in our humble opinion is the picnic chest, perfectly equipped for a luxurious al fresco dining experience. Half of the chest is devoted to aperitifs, whereas the other half is cuisine focused. The latter half has a pleasant surprise, a set of Christofle flatware engraved with the name ‘Boat Tail’. But you may ask yourselves ‘what meal is complete without a bottle of champagne?’ Well for this, you need not worry, as Rolls Royce has equipped the ‘Boat Tail’ with a refrigeration unit complete with color matched polished surrounds to accompany your favorite vintage of Armand de Brignac. An exacting requirement of the Boat Tail’s wine enthusiast commissioner was that the refrigeration unit must have the ability to rapidly cool champagne to 6 degrees centigrade. Finally cocktail tables open on either side of the ‘Boat Tail’ and are complemented by blue leather stools, which match the interior hide. Developed through a collaboration of Rolls Royce and celebrated Italian furniture maker Promemoria, the slim-line interlocking stools can be discreetly stored.

• 

• 

• 

As opposed to most Rolls Royce models, which anticipate England’s rainy forecast, the ‘Boat Tail” is optimistic for sunshine. For this reason, a parasol can be effortlessly deployed from underneath the rear centerline via a telescopic movement. With this in mind, we’ll hope to see the ‘Boat Tail’ along the French Riviera this summer season.

All images courtesy of: Rolls Royce Motor Cars

From DRC to Petrus – Sotherby’s is Set to Auction a Remarkable Single Cellar Collection

An impressive collection of European wines are set to be auctioned at Sotheby’s Hong Kong on May 28^th of this year. The 970 lot auction, which is estimated to fetch a total of between $7.7 and $10.6 million USD, are the contents of a single cellar assembled through decades of visionary collecting. Rare and impressive labels span three centuries, and include Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Lafite Rothschild, and Yquem, among others. Through the development of personal relationships with premiere producers and a passion for academic collecting, a devoted connoisseur amassed this enviable cellar.

“It is a great privilege for us to be entrusted with the sale of such an extraordinary cellar, one of the most historic collections to come to market in recent memory. Both in terms of scale and provenance, this collection is a glorious testament to a visionary collector. But as so often happens, that passion can lead to cellar overcrowding, resulting in a truly wonderful opportunity for wine lovers from across the world to appreciate and nurture these spectacular bottles,” said Adam Bilbey, Head of Sotheby’s Wine & Spirits, Asia and Europe.

This auction presents a unique opportunity for aficionados and devoted collectors to season their cellars with some of the most brilliant wine from the best French producers. The Bordeaux collection boasts 63 lots of Petrus, which span nearly one century and include the ultra coveted 1945 and 1947 vintages; not to mention a brilliant collection of 83 lots of God’s golden nectar, Chateau Yquem, with vintages dating back to 1865. Additional noteworthy lots include two bottles of 1898 Chateau Lafite Rothschild and a host of vintages by Mouton Rothschild that are available in a wide variety of formats.

An exceptional collection of Burgundies includes 75 lots of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti span seven decades and are estimated to fetch over $900,000 USD. The DRC lots include a 12 bottle case of La Tâche 1985 and a single bottle of Romanée Conti 1990 in its original wooden case. On the other hand, devoted followers of Henri Jayer will be pleased to see 75 unique lots by the maker (estimated in excess of $3.8 million USD). The Henri Jayer lots include 29 lots of Vosne-Romanée Cros Parantoux, including a 1978 in magnum, 1990 in magnum, and 1999 in original carton.

Alsacian collectors will take note of the one dozen lots Trimbach spread across 40 years and include 10 lots of Trimbach Clos Ste Hune. All said, this truly remarkable auction is one of the most impressive offerings of elite French wines in recent history.

Images Courtesy of: Sotherby’s

Talking Art with Trevor Martin of Post Gallery

When we imagine a great cultural exhibition, rarely does our mind transport us to a resort art gallery, but Post Gallery is no ordinary gallery, nor is Post Ranch Inn an ordinary resort.  The Post Gallery which is situated near the center of the 100 acre property that is Post Ranch Inn is an exciting cultural oasis in the no man’s land of Big Sur, California. Post Ranch, seated prominently on a ridge that is 2,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean enjoys the surrounding of nature’s bounty. The Post Gallery’s Director, Trevor Martin describes the environment of his gallery as being “surrounded by coniferous forests and meadows, with a multitude of resident species including deer, raptors, turkeys and the occasional bobcat.” The gallery has some rather interesting neighbors too, being just adjacent to the resort’s furniture workshop and a garden for Sierra Mar, Big Sur’s premiere dining destination.

Trevor Martin, previously of FIFTY24SF Gallery in San Francisco, takes a unifying approach of transcendence and love to his exhibitions at Post Gallery. Martin, whose passion is immediately apparent when describing the space, is quick to credit the Gallery and neighboring garden as the “soul, or spiritual center, of Post Ranch Inn.” The Gallery which is filled with unique fine jewelry, photography, and sculpture is curated through a collaborative approach that Martin shares with Post Ranch Inn Founder, Mike Freed, Buyer, Stacy Lauer, and local artist Trevor Meeker. Together the team selects what Martin calls “exquisitely hand-crafted products and objets d’art that are synonymous with the experience we create for our guests here at Post Ranch.”

To learn more about Trevor Martin and his unique approach to the Post Gallery, read our Q&A below.

---

Do you employ any particular philosophy when selecting new pieces?

“While we represent artists across a wide range of styles, universal criteria that we employ when selecting new pieces include: excellence in execution, unequivocally representative of the artist’s unique voice, and restraint. As far as exhibitions are concerned, we look for continuity, character development, rich storytelling, and a cohesive narrative that takes the viewer on a mini-journey within their experience here at Post Ranch.”

What special step do you take to ensure an exhibit, or piece truly connects with the environment at Big Sur?

“Our visionary founder, Mike Freed, laid the groundwork for what Post Ranch has become today back in the 80s. Having worked with renowned architect Mickey Muennig to create a unique design language throughout the property, we rely on the framework of the environment and buildings themselves to inform the artwork selected. Our goal is that each exhibit or piece be intrinsically connected to the original vision and current spirit of the environment at Post Ranch.”

• 

With the reality of most resort galleries being rather mundane, to what specific element do you credit your unique inventiveness?

“We are lucky to have local artists and friends of Post Ranch who are incredibly creative individuals. We feel a responsibility to honor the incredible beauty, both natural and man-made, that surrounds us here, challenging us to select works of art befitting of this special place. One artist that exemplifies this is Trevor Meeker, who also happens to be the Curator of the entire property. He has worked as a fine artist locally for the last 20 years, creating collages of recycled metal, and producing truly incredible work. He creates vibrantly colorful, painstakingly crafted works of art from discarded metal that would otherwise have been melted down or ended up in a dump.”

One specific element that truly sparkles, is your collection of fine jewelry by artist Sasha Samuels. Can you tell us about some of your favorite pieces from the collection?

“My favorite thing about Sasha’s work is its connection to the artist, herself. I asked her one day, “How do you even do that?” To which she answered, “Just 40 years of hard work, is all.” I am humbled by the opportunity to represent an artist with the uncommon ability to master ancient techniques, such as Etruscan-style 22k gold granulation. Her expertise and artistry was recognized with “The Contemporary Etruscan Jewel” award from the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, located in Pontecagnano, Salerno, Italy.

The amazing thing about Sasha is that she has achieved an extremely high level of specialization while still managing to produce exceptionally well-executed work across a wide spectrum of styles, ranging from art nouveau, to art deco, to avant garde. Unlike many artists who tend to stick to one discipline, she is always challenging herself and seeking new inspiration; you never know what kind of work she’s going to surprise you with next. Her eye is unparalleled and her technique unrivaled.

I am particularly fond of the Tanzanite Wave Ring that features a superb trillion-cut tanzanite stone. The contrast of the deep violet with the 22-carat granulated gold bezel is scintillating. However, the Watermelon Tourmaline Shard Suite really takes the prize. Just the pure audacity required of someone to even consider attempting such a creation is hard to fathom. In this suite, Sasha has beautifully brought together a set of hand-fabricated, geometric, gold-linked earrings and matching bracelet with a jaw dropping shard necklace. The bracelet hooks into the necklace modularly to extend it if desired, and the cohesive design language throughout makes for a one-of-a-kind treasure. “Cosmic high-priestess” comes to mind when attempting to describe this beauty.”

• 

In addition to jewelry and sculpture, the gallery also showcases black and white photography, with that said; can you walk us through your latest exhibit by Robert Knight?

“Robert is one of our most talented local artists who has a fine art photography gallery located in Carmel. Not only is he full of positivity and love for his craft, he’s truly a joy to work with. In the current exhibition entitled “Spiritus,” Robert takes us on a spiritual exploration of his journies to Bhutan and Myanmar during some of their more peaceful times. Robert’s artist statement says it best:”

“I see my work as opportunities in mindfulness. Each photograph is a meditation. The work on display is from journeys to Myanmar and Bhutan.  The prints are celebrations of the people and icons of these countries, honoring their devotion to Buddhism. The prints are expressions of this connection and moments on the path to enlightenment.” 

“I hope the photographs provide a peaceful emotional response when viewing them. For me they feel like an opportunity to take a deep breath and remember the importance of awareness and compassion.”

• 

One piece that visitors find difficult not to be infatuated by, is a drawing of a dystopian scene of Paris, titled MORIAPOLIS by Octave Marsal and Theo De Gueltzl. How do you believe this specific piece fits into the collection at Post?

“Yes, these two young artists are on-fire at the moment, having recently completed some very impressive product collaborations with the French luxury designer, Hermés. We are truly lucky to have had the opportunity to collaborate with Theo and Octave on exhibiting this piece, entitled MORIAPOLIS, which is a “4 handed” pen & ink drawing (they happen to be ambidextrous) that took over a year to complete. This massive and mind-bendingly complex drawing fits squarely into our sustainability ethos which has been part of Post Ranch Inn since its inception. It’s a foreboding warning against global-warming, outlining the aftermath of a mysterious cataclysmic event in 2106 that left the human race with only fragments of nature, preserved within giant glass terraria. The inspiration for this piece came from the phantasmagorical novels of Thomas More and Yevgeny Zamyatin.”

• 

What’s next for the Gallery?

“We are just finishing the installation around 20 large-scale bronze sculptures throughout the property by a group of Bay Area based artists including Jud Bergeron, Mars-1, Wayne Shaffer, Albert Dicruttalo and Grant Irish. The work ranges from cubic/geometric, to industrial, to wildly psychedelic, to dystopian hyper-futuristic. We can’t wait to share it with our guests our ongoing guided art tours , every Friday and Saturday at 1:30pm.

Where can we follow you?

IG @PostGalleryBigSur / Postranchinn.com

Images Courtesy of: The Extravagant & Post Ranch

8 Must Try Dishes in Miami

As Covid 19 vaccines are dispersed, travel is continuing to increase and with it, culinary destinations such as Miami have prepared for a surge in visitors, expecting no less than a gastronomical wonderland. In this list, which spans Mila Miami to MR CHOW; we have assembled a guide to 8 of Miami’s most exciting dishes this Spring Summer season!

Lobster Ravioli at Ambersweet at the Confidante Miami Beach

Located within the Confidante Miami Beach, is Ambersweet, a fusion restaurant boasting a retro glamour atmosphere and exceptional culinary creations, such as the Lobster Ravioli: a delicacy crafted from ingredients the like of buttermilk, a carrot reduction, burnt orange and chervil. Ambersweet is named after the superfluous Ambersweet Orange, a hybrid of grapefruit, tangerine and sweet orange. Nearly every dish at the restaurant includes a citrus element.

Tempura Beech Mushroom at Buya Izakaya + Yakitori

Buya, which means small fire in Japanese, was founded by Chef Michael Lewis and Steven Haigh of KYU; with Buya, the pair partnered with Michael Sponaugle to create a new concept. Modeled after an Izakaya (an informal Japanese bar), the restaurant serves high quality street style dishes as well as inventive cocktails, such as a Sake Juice Box. One menu item that is a particular stand out is the Tempura Beech Mushroom, reminiscent of a “bloomin onion” the dish is a mix of crispy and crunchy, featuring an umami beech mushroom bomb at the center covered in an Asian twisted ranch. According to Buya, the dish lands on almost every table.

The Swag Burger at BurgerFi Miami

The third dish on our list, may appear to be a simple burger, yet is anything but. BurgerFi’s super spicy SWAG Burger is available for just a few more weeks. The limited time burger, ground from Wagyu-Brisket, is beloved by Martha Stewart and is said to pack heat without being painfully spicy. Candied ghost pepper bacon is the not so secret ingredient.

Lobster Crudo at MILA Miami

The all new “MediterrAsian” menu at ultra-chic MILA Miami is filled with incredible highlights. The all-star culinary team brought life to a selection of fusion cuisine with rich flavors and inventive presentations. One particular stunner at this rooftop restaurant is the Lobster Crudo, marinated in citrus juice and crafted through a traditional Japanese “Konbu-jime” technique, the Lobster is cured in seaweed and served Ceviche style to share.

Baklava French Toast at Estiatorio Ornos a Michael Mina Restaurant

Yes, you read that right, Baklava French Toast. Estiatorio Ornos a Michael Mina Restaurant’s Executive Chef, Nikolaos Georgousis has developed a fantasy worthy treat. This classic eastern Mediterranean dessert has been reinvented as a brunch favorite. Notes of cinnamon, honey, and Florida citrus awaits.

Wagyu Gunkan at Zuma Miami

Now over one decade old, the chic Miami eatery, Zuma, is defined as a modern destination and favorite among Miamians. The restaurant’s remarkable view of the Miami River offers a renowned selection of contemporary Japanese delicacies right in downtown Miami. Our favorite among the menu’s many highlights is the Gunkan, which translates to “War Boat” in English. Small boat shaped cylinders of Japanese rice are wrapped in seaweed and topped with Wagyu beef. The design is a brilliant nod to the yachts which fill Miami’s many waterways nearby.

MR CHOW NOODLES at MR CHOW Miami

Magical noodles simmer in anticipation at the renowned MR CHOW Miami. The show worthy experience at MR CHOW’s Miami establishment is truly epicurean theatre. All of the noodles at this eatery are hand pulled towards the tableside to allow guests to watch the noodle making process from beginning to end. The experience allows guests to develop an intimate connection between themselves and the cuisine. Whether Flambéing Bananas Foster or pulling Bejing-style noodles, the art of table side service has steadily, yet unfortunately declined in fine dining. This is why you should support MR CHOW’s commitment to handcrafted excellence; the experience is truly remarkable and entirely entertaining.

Watermelon Salad at Mila Miami

Last, but certainly not least, we end this list of gastronomical splendor with a familiar name. Back at Mila Miami another highlight, albeit lighter than the Lobster Crudo, is the refreshing Watermelon Salad. The refreshing summer dish is sweet and savory with the combination of watermelon and organic tomatoes. Mila Miami’s culinary team uses “modern techniques and sauces to fuse the ingredients.”

Featured Image credit: MR CHOW

_{All images provided via Quinn PR}

Four Most Magnificent East Coast Mansions For Sale

Are you in search of American Splendor? If so, you’re in luck, as we’ve assembled a list of four remarkable super luxurious North Eastern estates. From the 50,000 square foot Darlington Mansion in New Jersey to Maryland’s Fairview estate, this list encompasses some of the most impressive properties currently for sale in the United States.

---

• 

• 

• 

Stonewall Farm – Westchester County, New York

Situated on 740 acres in Westchester County, Stonewall Farm is an estate with immense poise. Listed at $100 million USD, the property delivers nearly everything a passionate equestrian could desire. Just one hour from Manhattan, Stonewall Farm enjoys sweeping views of rolling hills, apple orchards, generations old stone walls, woodlands, parklands, and ponds. Situated on 18 deeded parcels, the estate is the largest deeded property in Westchester County according to Christies International Real Estate.

For the past forty years the estate has been the passionate home of owners with a deep admiration for world class equestrian activities. Stonewall has sporting amenities, which include a turf racetrack, riding trails, a 40-stall yearling barn, two 24-stall broodmare barns, round pens, and 4board-fenced paddocks and pastures with run-in sheds. Despite the immense list of equestrian facilities, Stonewall still saves something special to accommodate its owners too, a 24,000 square foot colonial manor. The home, which was designed by Rebecca Rasmussen, contains an elegant interior decorated by Kelly Hoppen. Inside a wine cellar, game room, pub, and elevator ensure a welcoming environment to return to after a day of riding. The manor house benefits from an elegant landscape by Edmund D. Hollander made up of French gardens and formal grounds. Stonewalls immense grounds also host an impressive amount of auxiliary structures such as guest house, caretakers home, eight staff residences, and a 4,000 square pavilion style pool house with a 60-foot swimming pool, spa, gym and attached kitchen.

Stonewall Farm is represented by Kathleen Coumou of Christie’s International Real Estate and David Sanders and Gabriel Pasquale of Christie’s International Real Estate Westchester | Hudson Valley.

• 

• 

• 

Fairview Estate – Easton, Maryland

The Fairview Estate is a grand timeless compound located in the heart of Chesapeake Bay’s storied Eastern Shore and steeped in American history. Set among the great estates of Talbott County, Fairview is located at the end of a peninsula on the Miles River, a 12.9-mile-long tributary of Chesapeake Bay. The 74 acre estate with two main residences dates back to the 1,600s. Today a renovated 18^th century manor house and contemporary 20^th mansion offer the best of entertaining options. 19^th Century formal gardens, a tidal pond with pier, entertaining barn, and 2,100 feet of shoreline with a private beach are spectacular highlights. However, best of all is the fact that Fairview is bordered by thousands of acres of conservation land. The Fairview Estate consists of 14 bedrooms, 14 full bathrooms, and 8 eight partial baths spread across over 30,000 square feet of interior space, including staff residences and apartments. The estate is located an average of just 80 minutes from Washington D.C.

Fairview is listed for sale with an asking price available upon request. The property  is represented by Cornelia C. Heckenbach and Kornelia Stuphan of Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc., an Affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate.

• 

• 

• 

Darlington – Mahwah, New Jersey

Set on twelve acres just 25 miles from New York City, Darlington is an American Gilded Age masterpiece. The estate, originally constructed between 1901 and 1907, boasts close to 50,000 square feet of luxurious living space. A meticulous seven year renovation has returned Darlington and its 58 rooms to their original glory while incorporating a host of modern amenities. Unique additions include a new wine cellar with tasting room, cigar room, beauty salon, cinema, game room, and a massive spa with a steam room, sauna, gym, massage room, and lap pool. Despite the extensive modern amenities, Darlington has maintained a firm grasp on its classic design elements. Principal living spaces are immense and feature highlights such as a rare 1906 Aeolian Player Pipe Organ in the Great Hall, which boasts 30 foot high ceilings. The library’s 15 foot high ceiling is adorned by a mural that was painted by James Wall Finn, who is well respected for his work at the New York Public Library. A tea room, formal dining room, restaurant style kitchen, and double master wing are some final stand out amenities within the main residence.

Darlington’s landscape is splendid with a tennis court, two impressive fountains, and stunning views of the Ramapo Mountains. The grounds of the estate are completed by an eight car garage, gate house, and staff quarters with five suites. Darlington is listed by Sonja Cullaro of Christie’s International Real Estate Northern New Jersey.

• 

• 

• 

High Point – Middletown, New Jersey

Also located in the great state of New Jersey is High Point on the Navesink River. The property, spanning 15 acres, is complimented by an 18,000 square foot residence of stucco and limestone. Just one hour outside of NYC, the French inspired estate enjoys particularly stunning views of Navesink River. The Robert AM Stern designed home was constructed in 1999 and contains 6 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, and 2 partial baths. Immaculately manicured grounds frame the Chateau style home in a park like setting. A massive entrance driveway delivers guests to brick courtyards, elegant gardens, and a home with tall chimneys, slate roofs, and French balconies.

Stepping inside the house at highpoint is an experience; masterfully painted spaces by Pierre Finkelstein complement the architecture with 18^th and 19^th century patinas. Real wood graining, gold gilding, and plaster finishing work is both understated and elegant. The most impressive space, you may ask, well that is most certainly the first and second floor foyers with their Venetian Plaster walls. It’s difficult to describe Highpoint’s living spaces as anything less than grand. The fifty foot long living room has 12 foot high ceilings and a fireplace complemented by elegant plasterwork and parquet flooring. Adjacent to the living room is a bar with stunning river views. When the owners finalized the design brief or the formal dining room they included a round table for 18 and an exquisitely painted massive French mirror, thus allowing every dinner guest to enjoy the views. Final highlights include 750 feet of river frontage and grounds originally landscaped by the Olmsted Brothers.

Highpoint is represented by Kathleen Coumou of Christie’s International Real Estate. The asking price is available upon request.

Oceanco & Pininfarina Team Up To Create KAIROS

A new yacht concept dubbed KAIROS is the product of a unique collaboration between Dutch custom yacht builder OCEANCO and famed Italian automotive design studio, Pininfarina. This new superyacht concept has been designed around a sustainable ideology and design brief. KAIROS has been developed with an E-Hybrid propulsion concept with a primary source of power being generated from batteries. The KAIROS concept is designed to delight potential customers imaginations by showcasing a design with few conventional boundaries.

“KAIROS is a remarkable vision shared by three passionate, forward-thinking partners: Pininfarina, Lateral and Oceanco,” commented Marcel Onkenhout, Oceanco’s CEO. “When Owners see the Oceanco NXT endorsement on a yacht’s design, they know they can expect elevated standards of life onboard that are in tune with new perspectives on sustainability and lifestyle.”

The KAIROS concept was developed in line with OCEANCO’s NXT initiative, a companywide philosophy to deliver sustainability through innovation. This particular project, which benefited from technical design work and engineering by Lateral Naval Architects, will help pave the way and offer insight into how current technology will serve as a foundation for a sustainable future among superyachts.

“Our passion as designers is to imagine new concepts of space that are capable of bringing enchantment to every moment of the yachting experience,” comments Paolo Pininfarina, Chairman of the Group.

Although details on KAIROS are brief now, we expect more information to be released by OCEANCO in the coming months. Ironically, the name KAIROS is taken from the ancient Greek word for ‘time’.

Image & Video courtesy of: OCEANCO

‘Art In Resonance’ At The Peninsula Bangkok

An impressive collection of embroidered works crafted by Narissara Pianwimungsa are now on display at the Peninsula Bangkok. The exhibit, which is on display until March 31^st 2021, was commissioned by The Peninsula Hotels’ global art programme that focuses on collaborations with local artists to deliver a unique, artistic experience. Through this program, the Peninsula hosts artists in residence that are able to utilize the hotel’s studio and interact with guests and visitors regularly.

Currently on display in the lobby and studio, Pianwimungsa’s ‘Gravity of Thoughts’ series is comprised of 3 works of sculptural embroidery completed by the artist during her stay at The Peninsula Bangkok. The Thai born artist brought together all of her passions, such as “poetry, drawings and paintings.” The resilence of nature and the fragility of human life were also central concepts explored by the artist. Another avenue of inspiration was the artist’s routine travels across Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River.

“During these rides I could feel the constant flow of nature, which endures no matter how many changes affect human life,” Ms. Pianwimungsa said. “Sometimes the flow appears gentle; other times it seems harsh. But there is a balance to it, and to life. This balance is what ‘Gravity of Thoughts‘ explores.”

Two works hang in the hotel lobby and bring forth a clear representation of nature’s infallibility and the fragility of human life. The most significant piece in the series is a fabric sculpture, which is located in the hotel’s artist studio. The work, being weighted to ensure precise balance, hangs from the ceiling. The embroidery depicts open eyes and reminds one of something akin to a flying carpet.

Speaking on the subject of the exhibition, The Peninsula Bangkok’s General Manager explains how the series exemplifies a thought provoking dialogue. “Art programmes such as this allow us to fulfil an important mission,” Mr Sampermans said. “As well as providing artistic enrichment to our visitors with exhibits, artist talks, and studio visits, we are also supporting local working artists – and ensuring the health of the cultural ecosystem in our home city.”

To arrange an Artist Studio Tour at the hotel personally guided by Ms. Pianwimungsa, you can contact The Peninsula Bangkok at +66 2020 2888 or email: pbk@peninsula.com.

Image credit: The Peninsula Hotels

Poubel: The Charm Bracelet for Those Who Know

Luxury has always had a serious side, however, Poubel takes the opposite approach.

Founded by the anonymous creator behind The Gstaad Guy, Poubel is a London-based jewelry label built around humor, individuality and the little obsessions that define a life well lived. The name comes from the French poubelle, meaning trash, while “à la poubelle” became part of The Gstaad Guy’s playful vocabulary for dismissing the absurdities of everyday life.

The result is a jewelry collection that is as much about personality as it is about precious materials. Poubel rethinks the traditional charm bracelet. Rather than allowing charms to dangle and jingle from a chain, its modular system places charms side by side within the bracelet or necklace itself, creating a cleaner, more architectural silhouette. The pieces are crafted primarily in sterling silver and gold vermeil, with hand-painted enamel bringing many of the designs to life.

The charms themselves are deliberately playful: a vintage car, passport, golf ball, champagne bottle, surfboard, suitcase, bateau, palm tree or evil eye. Each becomes a small reference to a particular passion, destination or inside joke.

That is perhaps Poubel’s greatest appeal. The jewelry isn’t trying to tell everyone who you are. Instead, it gives those who know you something to recognize. A golf charm might recall a favorite course. A vintage car can reference an obsession with automobiles. A passport might say more about someone’s lifestyle than an entire monogram ever could. The pieces can also be worn beyond the wrist, with charms designed for necklaces, handbags and even dog leashes.

Poubel’s universe has quickly expanded through collaborations and limited editions, including projects with The Alpina Gstaad, St. Moritz Tourism Board, Bombardier, Acqua di Parma and Jondal. A Poubel collaboration with The Alpina Gstaad, for example, features charms inspired by the resort and its surroundings, including a G Wagon, moonboot, cow and the hotel’s distinctive tower.

What makes Poubel compelling is its refusal to treat luxury as something that must always be solemn. Its pieces are beautifully made, but the real value lies in the story behind them. In a world of increasingly predictable luxury, Poubel offers something more personal: a little wit, a little nostalgia and a way to wear the things you actually care about.

And, naturally, if you know, you know.

Explore the collection at: Poubel

The Craft Behind the Cup: Aurum Roasting Co

Coffee has long been part of the rhythm of daily life, but in recent years it has evolved into something far more considered. From the origin of the bean to the method of roasting and the final pour, every detail can shape the experience. Along California’s Central Coast, Aurum Roasting Co. is part of that evolution, approaching coffee with the same attention to craftsmanship and provenance found throughout the region’s food and wine culture.

Founded in 2023 by Cameron Langshaw and Austin Hala, Aurum began with a simple curiosity about what makes truly exceptional coffee. That curiosity quickly became an immersion into the industry, researching coffee production, studying roasting techniques, tasting and evaluating different beans, and learning the nuances that distinguish an ordinary roast from one with character and depth.

Today, Aurum approaches roasting as both a craft and a form of hospitality. Its coffees are roasted in-house and to order, with each batch carefully evaluated before making its way into the cup. The philosophy is straightforward: begin with quality green coffee, treat it with precision, and allow its natural character to remain at the forefront.

That philosophy extends to Aurum’s choice of equipment. The company exclusively utilizes an electric roaster, bringing a distinctly modern approach to a craft traditionally associated with large, gas-powered roasting machines. The technology allows Aurum to maintain consistency while pursuing a cleaner, brighter style of roasting designed to highlight the natural qualities of each coffee.

But for Aurum, the story does not begin at the roaster. It begins with the bean itself. The company places an emphasis on specialty-grade coffees and ethical sourcing, recognizing that exceptional coffee is ultimately an agricultural product shaped by its origin, the people who cultivate it, and the conditions in which it is grown. Roasting, then, becomes an exercise in revealing rather than masking those qualities.

There is a natural connection between this philosophy and the culture of the Central Coast. Here, craftsmanship is often expressed through restraint; a vineyard allowing the character of its land to speak, a chef building a dish around exceptional ingredients, or an artisan refining a familiar object until every detail feels intentional. Aurum takes a similar approach to coffee.

The result is something that feels both contemporary and timeless. Aurum is not attempting to complicate coffee; it is paying closer attention to it. The ritual remains familiar, but the thinking behind it is more deliberate.

In the end, that may be Aurum’s greatest distinction. A great coffee does not need to announce itself. It simply needs to be thoughtfully sourced, carefully roasted and given the opportunity to speak for itself. For Aurum Roasting Co., that philosophy has become the foundation of every cup.

For those looking to bring the Aurum experience home, the company’s coffees are available to purchase online, with selections ranging from distinctive single-origin offerings to signature roasts. Follow Aurum Roasting Co. on Instagram for new releases, behind-the-scenes glimpses and the latest from the roastery, and visit the official website to explore the current collection and order freshly roasted beans for your own morning ritual.

Follow Aurum Roasting Co. on Instagram and discover more at aurumroastingco.com.

The Ferrari 308 Turns 50 in Carmel

At the Ferrari Owners Club’s third annual Concours Carmel, Maranello’s most recognizable shapes take over Ocean Avenue

There are few places where a Ferrari feels more naturally at home than Carmel-by-the-Sea.

On a summer morning during Monterey Car Week, Ocean Avenue trades its usual rhythm of cafés, boutiques and galleries for something altogether more theatrical. The sound of Italian engines fills the streets, polished bodywork catches the California light, and some of Maranello’s most celebrated creations take their place among Carmel’s architecture.

Today, that scene belongs to the Ferrari Owners Club’s third annual Concours Carmel, an increasingly anticipated fixture of Car Week and one of the few events that brings the Ferrari experience directly into the heart of the village.

The 2025 edition carries particular significance. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Ferrari 308, the mid-engine V8 that became one of Ferrari’s defining designs of the 1970s and 1980s, and gained an entirely different kind of fame through Magnum, P.I. The anniversary gives this year’s concours a natural centerpiece, celebrating a car whose wedge-shaped profile has become inseparable from the visual language of the Ferrari era. But the 308 is only part of the story.

The Ferrari Owners Club expanded this year’s footprint to approximately seven blocks of downtown Carmel, with cars displayed along Ocean Avenue, Dolores Street and Lincoln Street. The result is less a traditional car show than an open-air automotive promenade, allowing visitors to move from one Ferrari to the next while experiencing the restaurants, galleries and boutiques that make Carmel such a distinctive Car Week setting.

More than 100 cars were expected for the expanded 2025 field, joined by Italian motorcycles and a special display honoring Maserati as this year’s guest marque.

For enthusiasts, that combination makes the event particularly compelling. Ferraris from different generations sit within walking distance of one another, offering an unusually intimate look at the evolution of the marque, from the elegant proportions of earlier grand tourers to the sharper, more aggressive language of later models.

And unlike a concours staged behind barriers or across a sprawling golf course, Concours Carmel places the cars directly into the fabric of the town. It is easy to pause beside a Ferrari, study the details, then turn a corner and find another. Owners and enthusiasts mingle around the cars, conversations develop naturally, and the event maintains a social character alongside its concours credentials. Music, a strolling emcee, owner and guest interviews, and an awards presentation add to the atmosphere throughout the day.

There is even a playful nod to the 308’s television legacy, with a Tom Selleck look-alike contest celebrating the car’s association with Magnum, P.I., a reminder that some Ferraris become cultural icons far beyond the world of collectors and concours judges.

That sense of accessibility is part of the event’s appeal. While the cars themselves represent some of the most coveted machinery in automotive history, public viewing is free, allowing anyone strolling through Carmel to experience the spectacle. There is also a charitable dimension to the gathering, with event support extending to local organizations including the Carmel Harrison Memorial Library, The Carmel Foundation, First Tee Monterey and Rancho Cielo Youth Campus.

Still, the real attraction remains the cars, and the people who care for them. Ferrari has always sold more than speed. Its most enduring models represent a particular Italian interpretation of performance: engineering balanced with sculpture, competition DNA softened by elegance, and mechanical purpose transformed into something emotional.

In Carmel, that philosophy feels particularly appropriate. The town has long attracted collectors, designers, artists and travelers who appreciate craftsmanship and restraint. During Car Week, that sensibility simply shifts from architecture and fashion to automotive design.

For one day, Ocean Avenue becomes a gallery of Italian motoring. And at the center of it all, turning 50, is the Ferrari 308, a car whose proportions, sound and cultural legacy continue to resonate half a century after its debut. For the Ferrari Owners Club, the third Concours Carmel is a significant step forward for an event that is quickly becoming part of Carmel’s Car Week identity. For everyone walking Ocean Avenue today, it is something simpler: a chance to experience a remarkable collection of Ferraris exactly where they seem most at home, on the streets of Carmel, with the Pacific just beyond them.

Pure Joy Is Reimagining Ice Cream on the Monterey Peninsula

The emerging Marina-based company brings sugar-free, high-protein indulgence to Carmel.

There is a problem with much of the so-called “healthy” ice cream on the market: it rarely tastes like a dessert worth looking forward to. Lower sugar often means less sweetness. Added protein can come at the expense of texture. And while plenty of products promise indulgence without compromise, few manage to capture the richness and creaminess that make a proper scoop of ice cream, or gelato, so satisfying.

That is the space where Pure Joy is making its entrance. The emerging Marina-based ice cream company is built around a simple but ambitious idea: create a sugar-free, high-protein ice cream that is every bit as creamy and satisfying as the real thing. Sweetened with monk fruit, Pure Joy offers an alternative to conventional ice cream without asking customers to sacrifice one of dessert’s most important qualities, pleasure.

And in Carmel-by-the-Sea, it has found a fitting home at Cafe dal Mare. The family-run café has become one of Carmel’s popular stops for Italian cakes, pastries, coffee and gelato. Its atmosphere leans into the pleasures of the traditional European café: a place to linger over espresso, discover something sweet and return for a familiar favorite. Pure Joy introduces something slightly different to that equation; a modern approach to indulgence that still belongs naturally beside those traditions.

The flavors move between the familiar and the unexpected. Vanilla, Chocolate, Mint Chip, Strawberry and Coffee provide the essentials. Then there is Coconut Mango and Cardamom, flavors that give the young company a more distinctive personality. Cardamom, particularly, feels like the sort of flavor made for discovery: aromatic, warm and just unusual enough to encourage a second look. Ordered as an affogato, it becomes something even more memorable, with the warm espresso and fragrant spice creating an unexpectedly refined combination.

The point, however, is not novelty for novelty’s sake. Pure Joy is attempting something more difficult: to create ice cream that happens to offer nutritional benefits rather than a nutritional product that merely resembles ice cream. That distinction matters.

The better-for-you food market has spent years training consumers to accept compromise. A dessert may be lower in sugar, but icy in texture. It may contain more protein but leave an unmistakable aftertaste. Pure Joy’s ambition is to challenge that expectation by keeping the experience at the center: sweet, smooth, rich and satisfying.

Monk fruit provides the sweetness without traditional added sugar, while the higher-protein formula adds another layer to the concept. But the real test remains the same one that has always defined good ice cream: would you eat it simply because you enjoy it? For a young local company, Carmel is an especially interesting place to begin building an audience. The town has long embraced indulgence, but its tastes are increasingly shaped by discernment. People care about quality, ingredients and craftsmanship. They want to know where things come from. At the same time, Carmel is hardly a place built around deprivation.

That balance makes Pure Joy a natural fit. At Cafe dal Mare, a visitor can still enjoy the café’s traditional Italian offerings while discovering a new kind of frozen indulgence. For those avoiding added sugar, seeking more protein or simply curious about what a monk-fruit-sweetened ice cream can taste like, Pure Joy offers another reason to stop in. It also represents something worth watching on the Monterey Peninsula: the emergence of small, independent food brands with ideas ambitious enough to compete beyond their hometown.

Pure Joy is still young, and there is something appealing about discovering it at this stage. The company is not yet surrounded by a polished national marketing machine. Its story is still being written, flavor by flavor, one local customer at a time. For now, its presence at Cafe dal Mare offers Carmel an early introduction.

And if Pure Joy succeeds in doing what it promises, delivering the sweetness, creaminess and satisfaction of authentic gelato without the added sugar, it may prove that the future of ice cream does not require giving anything up.

Sometimes, a better choice can still feel like a treat.

The Art of the Reset: The Carmel Signature Day Spa

Inside Signature Day Spa’s New Chapter at Carmel Plaza

Luxury, at its best, is rarely about excess. It is about the details that most people do not immediately see: the quality of the ingredients, the expertise behind the service, the atmosphere of a room, and the confidence that comes from knowing nothing has been treated as an afterthought.

That is the philosophy that has helped make Signature Day Spa one of Carmel’s most respected wellness destinations. Now, with a new home at the Carmel Plaza, the locally loved spa has entered its next chapter, bringing its approach to personalized care, premium products, and restorative treatments into the center of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Carmel has always had a particular relationship with quiet luxury. Unlike California’s louder destinations, it has never depended on spectacle. Its appeal is quieter and more personal: a hidden courtyard, a beautifully prepared meal, a small boutique with an unexpected discovery inside. The best experiences often feel as though they have been found rather than advertised. The Signature Day Spa belongs to that tradition.

A massage can be found almost anywhere. So can a facial. What distinguishes an exceptional spa is everything surrounding the treatment itself. At Signature Day Spa, that begins with a commitment to quality. The products selected for the spa are not an afterthought or simply a name placed on a treatment menu. They are part of the experience, chosen to support treatments that feel personal, effective, and elevated.

The same consideration extends to the service. The experience of a great spa should never feel rushed or mechanical. It should feel intuitive. A guest should feel welcomed rather than processed, and a treatment should feel tailored rather than repeated from one appointment to the next. That is where Signature Day Spa has built its reputation.

Beyond its treatment rooms, Signature Day Spa offers a more complete approach to restoration, with amenities designed to make the experience feel like a true escape rather than simply another appointment. At the center is its private Himalayan salt room, an unexpectedly tranquil space where guests can settle into the warmth and stillness and let the pace of the outside world fall away. Combined with the spa’s massage therapies, advanced skincare and facial treatments, body services, and salon offerings, the experience allows guests to create an afternoon around wellness rather than just a single treatment. It is this range, paired with the personal attention and high standards behind each service, that makes Signature Day Spa feel less like a stop on the schedule and more like a destination in itself.

There is a difference between being treated and being cared for. It is subtle, but unmistakable. Large destination spas can offer extraordinary facilities, but independent spaces have something equally valuable: personality. The experience can feel more human. The people behind the business become part of its identity. Returning guests are recognized. Preferences are remembered. Relationships develop over time.

That sense of familiarity has become one of the increasingly rare luxuries in modern wellness. Signature Day Spa has developed precisely that kind of relationship with its clientele. For many guests, it is not simply somewhere to book an occasional massage or facial. It has become part of their routine in Carmel—a place to return to when the pace of life calls for a reset.

That loyalty is perhaps the most meaningful measure of a spa’s success. Awards and ratings can introduce a new guest to a business, but repeat visits are earned. The spa’s new location at Carmel Plaza places Signature Day Spa in the center of one of California’s most distinctive luxury destinations. Just steps from Ocean Avenue, the setting allows the experience to become part of a day in Carmel. A morning can begin with a walk through town. An afternoon might include shopping, lunch, or a gallery visit. Somewhere in between, the day can slow down completely.

Inside the spa, the rhythm changes. The new space offers the opportunity to experience Signature Day Spa in a more refined setting while maintaining the personal character that has defined it. Among its distinctive offerings is a private salt room experience, providing guests with a quiet space to step away from the movement of Carmel Plaza and simply be still.

And that may be one of the spa’s greatest strengths. It understands that wellness does not always need to be complicated. There is value in quiet. In a treatment performed with care. In quality products. In an hour when the phone is put away and there is nowhere else to be. The best spa experiences leave an impression not because of how much happens, but because of how different the world feels when you leave.

Carmel has always been a destination that encourages a slower pace. Its coastline rewards long walks. Its streets are designed for wandering. Its restaurants invite lingering. Even shopping here can feel less transactional and more like discovery. Wellness fits naturally into that rhythm. As travelers increasingly seek experiences rather than simply destinations, the idea of a spa has evolved. It is no longer merely an amenity attached to a hotel stay. For many people, restoration has become part of the reason for traveling in the first place.

Signature Day Spa answers that shift with an approach that feels both personal and appropriate to Carmel. There is no need for unnecessary spectacle. Instead, the focus remains on what matters: experienced service, exceptional products, carefully considered treatments, and an atmosphere designed to help guests step away from the demands of the day. It is a quieter definition of luxury—and perhaps the more lasting one.

The most successful luxury experiences often become rituals. The same table at a favorite restaurant. The same tailor. The same hotel. The same place one visits whenever the need arises to feel restored. Signature Day Spa has the potential to occupy that space in the lives of both locals and visitors. For Carmel residents, it offers consistency and familiarity. For visitors, it provides an opportunity to discover a more personal side of the town—one that exists beyond the beaches, galleries, and famous restaurants.

And for those who have already experienced it, the appeal is easy to understand. In a world increasingly defined by speed, convenience, and automation, there is something deeply valuable about an experience centered on genuine care. That is ultimately the signature of Signature Day Spa. Not simply the treatment itself. But the quality behind it. The people delivering it. The products chosen for it. And the feeling of walking back into Carmel after an hour or two away, calmer than when you arrived.

At its new home in Carmel Plaza, Signature Day Spa is not trying to redefine luxury. It is reminding us what luxury was supposed to mean in the first place.

For more information visit: Signature Day Spa

And you can book your appointment here

Jardin du Désert × Halore

A Fragrance Trunk Show in Carmel-by-the-Sea

There is something inherently intimate about a fragrance. Unlike a watch, a garment, or a piece of jewelry, it cannot be seen from across a room. It arrives quietly, settles against the skin, and becomes part of the person wearing it.

That intimacy is at the center of Jardin du Désert, an emerging fragrance house whose approach to perfumery begins with an idea rather than a conventional category. The name translates simply to “The Garden in the Desert,” but the philosophy behind it is considerably more layered. Jardin du Désert describes itself as a private intellectual fragrance house, creating perfume around what it calls a “State of Being”—an approach that considers fragrance less an accessory and more an expression of the wearer.

Created and bottled in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the house draws from the long history of Arabian perfumery while approaching it through a distinctly contemporary lens. Oud, musk, and amber form the foundation of the collection, but the intention is not to simply reproduce familiar interpretations of those materials. Jardin du Désert describes its fragrances as refined interpretations of these traditional pillars, with freshness coming through clarity rather than the expected reliance on citrus.

It is an interesting proposition at a time when fragrance has become increasingly crowded with familiar names and increasingly elaborate marketing. Jardin du Désert takes the opposite route. Its language is quiet. Its bottles are deliberately compact. Its fragrances are designed to travel. Even the brand’s philosophy around wear is treated almost as a ritual, with oils and intense perfumes intended to be layered rather than simply sprayed and forgotten. The house describes this as “quiet power,” depth without the need for volume. The collection itself reflects that philosophy.

Among its offerings are SUN Aged Oud, MOON Exaltolide Musk, and Rose Reborn 33, alongside more conceptual compositions such as Structured Silence, Divine Circuit, and Controlled Exhale. The names suggest that Jardin du Désert is interested in something beyond simply describing what a fragrance smells like. Instead, the scents are positioned as different emotional or psychological states. That distinction makes the house particularly intriguing in the context of luxury fashion.

A beautifully cut jacket changes the way a person carries themselves. A fine watch becomes part of a daily ritual. Fragrance operates in much the same way, although its effect is considerably more elusive. It is perceived rather than observed; and often remembered long after the person wearing it has left. That relationship between scent and personal identity is precisely what makes the upcoming Jardin du Désert trunk show at Halore particularly fitting.

Located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, Halore Modern Heritage has built its identity around a similar appreciation for craftsmanship, heritage, and the less obvious details of luxury. Its collection brings together established Italian houses such as Loro Piana, Kiton, Cesare Attolini, and Bontoni, alongside emerging designers and contemporary voices.

Jardin du Désert offers another dimension to that world. Clothing defines the silhouette. Fragrance defines the atmosphere. Together, they create something more personal than either can achieve alone.

The Halore trunk show will give Carmel guests an opportunity to experience the Jardin du Désert collection in person, discovering the fragrances through the house’s approach to individual “states” rather than traditional gender or occasion-based categories. The collection is explicitly unisex, following human states rather than conventional divisions between men’s and women’s fragrance.

It is also an example of the kind of discovery that has become increasingly rare in luxury retail. The most interesting houses are not always the largest. Often, they are the ones encountered almost by accident; a bottle discovered on a dressing table, a conversation with a perfumer, or a scent experienced somewhere unexpected and remembered months later.

In Carmel, where fashion, art, automobiles, and hospitality converge throughout the summer, Jardin du Désert feels particularly at home. Its arrival at Halore is less about adding another product to a boutique than about introducing another form of craftsmanship to the conversation. Because true luxury has never been solely about what can be seen. Sometimes, it is what remains in the air after you leave.

Learn more about Halore and JardinDuDésert

The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion Celebrates the Machines That Changed Racing Forever

Among the concours lawns, private unveilings, and multimillion-dollar auctions that define Monterey Car Week, there is one event where history refuses to stand still.

Each August, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion transforms WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca into a living archive of motorsport. Championship-winning race cars return to the circuit not as museum pieces, but as they were always intended to be experienced—accelerating through sweeping corners, climbing the hills toward the Corkscrew, and echoing across the Monterey Peninsula with the unmistakable sound of racing history.

For 2026, however, the Reunion takes on an even greater significance.

This year’s theme, “Salute to Japanese Motorsports: A Tradition of Precision & Heritage,” celebrates one of the most transformative chapters in modern racing. While European manufacturers long established the foundations of international competition, Japan reshaped the conversation through innovation, relentless engineering, and an uncompromising pursuit of performance. From endurance racing at Le Mans to Formula One, IMSA, touring cars, and rally championships, Japanese manufacturers proved that precision could be every bit as powerful as pedigree.

Throughout the weekend, that story unfolds on track through an extraordinary collection of historic competition machines from Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Mazda, Acura, Lexus, Yamaha, Mitsubishi, Infiniti, and other legendary marques whose influence continues to shape motorsport today.

Rather than presenting these automobiles behind ropes or polished display stands, the Reunion allows visitors to experience them exactly as their creators intended. Engines fire to life in the paddock, mechanics make final adjustments only feet from spectators, and decades of racing history return to the asphalt where they belong. It is this authenticity that continues to distinguish the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion from every other event during Car Week.

Adding to this year’s celebration is the appointment of Pete Brock as Grand Marshal. Few figures better represent the relationship between American racing and Japanese performance. As founder of Brock Racing Enterprises (BRE), Brock helped introduce Datsun’s racing success to North America, forever changing perceptions of Japanese automobiles through championship-winning design and engineering. His presence serves as both a tribute to the past and a reminder of the enduring influence that Japanese motorsport continues to hold across the global automotive community.

The Reunion also welcomes the return of Historic IROC Presented by Chevrolet, following its widely celebrated debut in 2025. Reimagining one of motorsport’s most recognizable all-star competitions, Historic IROC brings together an exceptional roster of champions from across racing disciplines. NASCAR legends Jimmie Johnson, Kurt Busch, and Bobby Labonte are joined by Indianapolis 500 winner Dario Franchitti, Formula One executive and accomplished racer Zak Brown, Trans-Am champion Scott Pruett, Indianapolis 500 winner Danny Sullivan, and a distinguished field of additional competitors, each piloting identically prepared race cars in a format that emphasizes driver talent above all else.

The spirit of innovation continues beyond the racing itself. For the first time in the event’s history, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion introduces a dedicated JDM Car Show, celebrating the culture that has elevated Japanese performance cars from enthusiast favorites to internationally sought-after collector automobiles. From meticulously preserved classics to modern icons, the exhibition acknowledges the growing influence of Japanese automotive culture within today’s collector market.

Equally notable is another historic first: motorcycles will join the Reunion’s program, with championship-winning machines and legendary riders sharing the spotlight alongside the automobiles. Their inclusion broadens the event’s celebration of competition while recognizing the parallel innovations that have shaped two-wheel motorsport over generations.

Yet despite these exciting additions, the essence of the Reunion remains unchanged. Unlike a concours, perfection is not measured in flawless paint or polished chrome. Here, value is found in motion. Every stone chip tells the story of a race contested. Every engine note recalls a championship pursued. Every lap serves as a reminder that these remarkable machines were engineered not simply to be admired, but to compete.

Few places embody that philosophy better than Laguna Seca itself. The circuit’s dramatic elevation changes and iconic Corkscrew have challenged the world’s greatest drivers for generations, providing a fitting stage for automobiles whose greatest achievements were earned under competition rather than beneath showroom lights.

As Monterey Car Week continues to evolve, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion remains one of its most authentic experiences, a celebration not only of remarkable engineering, but of the spirit of competition that brought these machines to life. This year’s tribute to Japanese motorsport, the return of Historic IROC, the debut of the JDM showcase, and the introduction of historic motorcycles mark an ambitious new chapter for an event already regarded as one of the world’s finest historic racing festivals.

Because some of the greatest automobiles ever built deserve more than admiration.

They deserve another lap.

For more information or to buy tickets, visit: Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion | Tickets & Info – WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

A Diamond Anniversary for Automotive Excellence: the 75th Annual Concours d’Elegance

Why the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance Remains the Ultimate Celebration of the Automobile

There are few places in the world where a single blade of grass carries as much history as the 18th fairway at Pebble Beach Golf Links. On an ordinary morning, it is one of golf’s most celebrated landscapes, framed by Monterey cypress and the Pacific Ocean. But for one Sunday each August, the fairway becomes something else entirely, a gallery without walls, where the world’s greatest automobiles are appreciated not merely as machines, but as enduring works of art.

For seventy-five years, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance has represented the pinnacle of automotive collecting. It is not a competition of horsepower or lap times. Instead, it rewards something far more difficult to achieve: authenticity, preservation, craftsmanship, and provenance. Here, history is measured in meticulous restorations, handwritten factory records, and stories that span generations.

This year carries particular significance. On Sunday, August 16, the Concours celebrates its 75th anniversary, marking a milestone that few events in the automotive world can claim. While many gatherings have come and gone, Pebble Beach has remained the benchmark against which every concours is measured—a place where winning Best of Show can instantly secure a car’s place in automotive history.

Yet what makes Pebble Beach extraordinary isn’t simply the rarity of the automobiles. It is the atmosphere surrounding them. Long before judging begins, collectors, designers, historians, and enthusiasts quietly wander the fairways, coffee in hand, pausing to admire details that might escape the casual observer. A perfectly restored dashboard. The hand-formed curve of an aluminum fender. The subtle stitching of a leather interior crafted decades before modern manufacturing. Every automobile tells a story, and every owner has become its steward.

Unlike museums, nothing here sits behind glass. The cars have arrived under their own power, many having traveled thousands of miles after years—sometimes decades—of painstaking restoration. Their value cannot be measured solely in dollars. More often, it is measured in time.

This anniversary edition will also celebrate one of the most influential automobiles ever created: the Lamborghini Miura. Widely regarded as the world’s first true supercar, the Miura turns sixty this year, and Pebble Beach is expected to host the largest gathering of the model ever assembled. More than forty examples—representing over five percent of total production—will line the fairways in a remarkable tribute to Marcello Gandini’s groundbreaking design.

Beyond the Miura celebration, this year’s featured classes reflect the depth of automotive history. Ferrari takes center stage with special recognition of Le Mans-winning cars, NART competition machines, and elegant Vignale-bodied examples, while additional classes highlight early American speedsters, classic streamliners, Japanese motorsport icons, and the aerodynamic Alfa Romeo BAT concept cars. The result is not simply a display of beautiful automobiles, but a carefully curated narrative spanning more than a century of engineering and design.

For many visitors, however, the Concours extends beyond the competition itself. Automakers quietly unveil future halo models. Designers gather to exchange ideas. Collectors reconnect with friends they may only see once each year. Conversations begun over breakfast often continue well into the evening at private dinners and charity galas throughout the Monterey Peninsula. It is this unique intersection of history and innovation that continues to define Pebble Beach.

A pre-war coachbuilt masterpiece may rest only a few fairways away from a concept car offering a glimpse into the future of mobility. The juxtaposition feels entirely natural. Both represent the same pursuit of excellence, separated only by generations. Perhaps that is the true magic of the Concours. While the automobiles remain the centerpiece, the event has always been about something larger—the preservation of craftsmanship in an increasingly digital world. Every polished chrome detail, every hand-stitched interior, and every carefully documented restoration reflects a belief that great design deserves to endure.

As Monterey Car Week reaches its finale, the crowds will inevitably gather around the final contenders for Best of Show. Cameras will rise. Judges will deliberate. One automobile will join an exclusive list of legends. But long after the trophy is presented, it is the experience that remains. The quiet Pacific breeze moving across the fairway. The unmistakable scent of leather and polished wood. Conversations between strangers united by a shared appreciation for remarkable craftsmanship.

For seventy-five years, Pebble Beach has reminded us that the greatest automobiles are more than transportation. They are expressions of artistry, ambition, and human ingenuity. And there is still no finer place in the world to celebrate them.

For more information visit: Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Piazza Motor Nights: A New Tradition for Monterey Car Week

Monterey Car Week has long been one of the world’s premier automotive celebrations, drawing collectors, enthusiasts, manufacturers, and industry leaders from around the globe. In 2026, the week welcomes a new signature event, PIAZZA Motor Nights, an immersive evening experience that blends extraordinary automobiles with culture, cuisine, entertainment, and hospitality.

Inspired by the vibrant public squares of Europe, Piazza Motor Nights is more than a traditional car show. It creates an atmosphere where guests can explore exceptional vehicles while enjoying themed experiences that celebrate the countries and cultures behind some of the world’s most iconic automotive brands.

At the heart of the event are six curated experiences, each highlighting a unique automotive heritage.

Le Pur-Sang des Automobiles pays tribute to French automotive artistry with legendary Bugatti models paired with French cuisine and elegant hospitality. La Dolce Vita celebrates Italy’s passion for luxury and performance, featuring iconic Italian automobiles alongside regional food, wine, and music.

Germany’s reputation for engineering excellence comes to life in Die Autobahn, showcasing precision-built performance cars in a modern setting inspired by innovation and design. The British Motor Club honors Britain’s grand touring tradition with classic automobiles and timeless sophistication.

Representing the United States, American Horsepower highlights the bold legacy of American performance, from classic muscle cars to modern supercars, complemented by elevated American cuisine and live entertainment. Completing the journey is The Rising Sun, celebrating Japan’s remarkable influence on the automotive world through legendary sports cars, cutting-edge engineering, and contemporary Japanese culture.

Together, these six experiences invite guests to travel across the world’s great automotive destinations in a single evening.

Beyond the vehicles, Piazza Motor Nights emphasizes the social side of Monterey Car Week. Guests are encouraged to relax, explore, and connect while enjoying live music, premium food and beverages, and an elegant atmosphere designed to bring together collectors, enthusiasts, and industry professionals alike.

Rather than simply displaying automobiles, the event creates an environment where every vehicle becomes part of a larger story; one that celebrates craftsmanship, innovation, and the cultures that shaped automotive history.

As the opening celebration of Monterey Car Week, Piazza Motor Nights offers a fresh way to experience the excitement before the week’s renowned concours, auctions, and showcases begin. It sets the tone for the days ahead by combining world-class automobiles with unforgettable hospitality and immersive cultural experiences.

Whether you’re a lifelong collector, an automotive enthusiast, or simply looking to experience one of Monterey Car Week’s newest attractions, Piazza Motor Nights promises an evening where exceptional cars, outstanding cuisine, and international culture come together to create a truly memorable start to the week.

For more information please visit: Piazza Motor Nights | The Opening Night of Monterey Car Week

The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering Returns as Monterey Car Week’s Most Refined Automotive Celebration

While Monterey Car Week offers no shortage of extraordinary automotive events, few have earned the prestige and global recognition of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. Returning on Friday, August 14, 2026, to the scenic Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel Valley, the 23rd edition promises another memorable celebration of automotive design, engineering, and craftsmanship.

Often described as the most elegant gathering of Monterey Car Week, The Quail has carved out a unique identity by combining historically significant automobiles with the latest innovations from the world’s leading manufacturers. The event’s intimate garden-party atmosphere encourages enthusiasts, collectors, designers, and industry leaders to experience remarkable automobiles in a setting that feels both relaxed and exclusive.

Unlike a traditional concours, The Quail embraces the full spectrum of automotive culture. Historic race cars, coachbuilt classics, modern supercars, motorcycles, and cutting-edge hypercars all share the same fairways, creating one of the most diverse displays of automobiles found anywhere during Car Week. The event has also become one of the industry’s preferred venues for significant vehicle unveilings, with manufacturers and boutique marques regularly choosing The Quail to introduce new models and limited-production creations to an audience of passionate collectors and enthusiasts.

For 2026, organizers have announced four featured classes that celebrate both automotive history and enthusiast culture. The 100th Anniversary of Route 66 pays tribute to America’s most legendary highway and the century of memories created along its nearly 2,500-mile journey. Italian performance icons will take center stage with dedicated celebrations of the Lamborghini Diablo and the legendary Ferrari F40, two automobiles that defined an era and continue to captivate collectors around the world. Rounding out this year’s highlights is The Legacy of Japanese GTs, recognizing the growing influence and collectability of Japan’s most celebrated grand touring machines. The Bruce Meyer Collection will also receive special recognition during the event.

Beyond the featured classes, visitors can expect hundreds of exceptional automobiles spanning more than a century of motoring history. From meticulously restored classics to groundbreaking modern performance cars, every display reflects the passion, craftsmanship, and innovation that continue to shape the automotive world. It is this balance between heritage and forward-thinking design that has helped establish The Quail as one of the defining experiences of Monterey Car Week.

As anticipation builds for this year’s festivities, The Quail once again stands as a reminder that great automobiles are more than machines—they are expressions of artistry, engineering, and human ambition. Whether drawn by the rare classics, landmark anniversaries, or the latest automotive innovations, attendees can expect an experience that continues to set the benchmark for luxury automotive events worldwide.

With Monterey Car Week fast approaching, The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering remains one of the most anticipated stops on the automotive calendar, offering a celebration of motoring excellence in one of California’s most picturesque settings.

For tickets visit: peninsula