LUX
December 2016
A GLIMPSE INTO THE WORLD OF THE GLAMOROUS
The 12 Drinks Of Christmas Self-described Head Honcho William Chase regales the history of Chase Distillery, and the steps that brought him to his current stead.
The Sarojin
Thailand’s Opulent Beachside Destination.
Hôtel du Triangle d’Or
A Certain Je Ne Sais Quoi Situated in the very heart of Paris. lux.acquisition-intl.com
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Contents Welcome to the December issue of LUX Magazine. As Christmas draws ever closer we showcase the very best of the best luxury products, establishments and comestibles from around the world. For those whose liquor cabinet is still less than brimming, we showcase the twelve drinks of Christmas with the help of William Chase of Chase Distillery, Britain’s first Single-Estate distillery where a lavish range of spirits are handmade on the family farm located in dreamy Herefordshire. After a hectic holiday season a luxurious trip away is in order. As such we showcase the very best hotels, B&Bs and travel agencies around the world, including Mauritius Holidays Direct, a fully-bonded award-winning independent luxury tour operator showcasing the beautiful island of Mauritius to discerning visitors. A selection of decedent establishments including The Sarojin, Courchevel 1850 and Hôtel du Triangle d’Or are all profiled here as we guide you through this festive season and into an exciting and adventure filled New Year. We hope that you enjoy this issue and everyone on the LUX team would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
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style drive explore pampering retreats
4. Top Gifts for Golfers This Christmas
8. Face-To-Face Meetings Deliver A £128,500 Boost to the Average Transport and Distribution Company
12. Mesmerising Mauritius
18. Five Tips to Beat the Bloat This Christmas
22. A Home Away from Home at the Exclusive Courchevel 1850 24. The Sarojin: Thailand’s Opulent Beachside Resort 28. A Certain Je Ne Sais Quoi
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32. A New Luxury Whisky Decanter for Christmas from Asprey 34. Don’t Drink It – Explore It 36. Chase Distillery – The Twelve Drinks of Christmas 40. Redbreast – A Fire in the Belly
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Top Gifts for Golfers This Christmas
The buying team at American Golf, Europe’s biggest golf retailer, have been busy sifting through the thousands of new golf products they stock to provide their pick of the very best kit available for golfers this Christmas. For men, their selection includes the following top-of-the-line options. 6
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1. Callaway Warbird Stand Bag (£79.99 at American Golf). Exclusive to American Golf, this great stand bag with the mighty credibility and desirability of the Callaway name is lightweight and comfortable with a dual strap for even weight distribution. A high mounted automatic stand system also provides added stability when you stop to play.
7. Cleveland Golf CG15 Wedge (2 for £100 at American Golf). This excellent wedge benefits from CG15 Tour Grooves, a breakthrough club milling technology that produces 25 per cent bigger grooves to improve shot consistency. It’s designed as a game improver suitable for any standard of golfer and guaranteed to get his game off to a flying start in 2017.
2. Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls (£34.99 per dozen at American Golf). Titleist is the Number One golf ball brand in the world and its exciting ProV1 ball features a durable design and soft feel that is designed to appeal to golfers actively looking to lower their scores. It delivers exceptional distance, more short game control and ‘stop-and-drop’ greenside control. The ProV1x ball offers the additional bonus of low spin from the longer clubs and a higher ball trajectory and is sure to help lower any handicap. You cannot go wrong with these as a festive gift.
8. Under Armour Performance Polos (£29.99 at American Golf). Available in Teal, Navy Blue and Mid Blue, these smart, subtly branded polos look at home on any golf course and provide an athletic fit with four-way stretch construction for ultimate performance when shotmaking. A Moisture Transport System also wicks away sweat to keep you cool and dry all round through.
3. Callaway Supersoft Bonus Pack (£19.99 for 15 at American Golf). Calloway’s softest ever golf ball, the Supersoft which also combines low compression and HEX aerodynamics to provide maximum distance as well as an incredibly soft feel is available in an amazing 15 ball bonus pack from American Golf. For once he can afford to lose a ball or two in the rough… 4. iCart Uno Trolley (£99.99 at American Golf). When it comes to design innovation, the iCart Uno Trolley stands out with its innovative, easy folding system and clutch of handy features including adjustable bag brackets (to fit any bag), soft touch handle, easy access centre console and Quik-Lok folding system. It’s a high-tech Christmas steal. 5. Tom Tom GPS Watch (£119.99 at American Golf). If he’s a gadget-head, look no further than the incredible Tom Tom GPS Watch. This provides the wearer with precise yardages to the front, centre and back of the green, as well as the distance to hazards. It is preloaded with more course data than any other device and is designed to raise your game. It also tells the time, too! Something great to play with during the Queen’s Speech…
Company: American Golf Name: Joe Murgatroyd Email: joe@brandnation.co.uk Website: www.americangolf.co.uk Phone: 020 7940 7194
6. Wilson Ultra Package Set (£249.99 at American Golf). If you really want to make a golfer’s Christmas, look no further than a new set of clubs! But if this sounds too expensive, think again, because the impressive Wilson Ultra Package Set includes a quality driver, fairway wood, irons five to nine, pitching wedge, putter, carry bag and head covers –all in one! And, what’s more, all for an amazing, accessible price.
9. PING Phoenix Polos (£20.99 at American Golf). You can’t go wrong with a golfing classic, and the iconic PING Phoenix polo shirt is constructed from supercool fabric which wicks moisture away from the body to keep you cool and sweat-free. It comes complete with UV protection and being made from crease-free fabric means it will look great at the 19th as well! 10. Callaway SMU Fleece (£49.99 at American Golf). This is the perfect, comfortable, stylish mid-layer for golfing in all weathers. If fights the cold and provides a comfortable, thermal layer that can be put on or taken off as conditions dictate. The Callaway branding shows he’s a player. 11. Under Armour Storm Fleece Sweater (£54.99 at American Golf). This incredible lightweight, heathered fleece sweater is available in blue, grey or navy and incorporates Storm Technology to repel water out on the course without sacrificing all-important breathability. A loose fit and ribbed collar, cuffs and hem enhance ease of movement and comfort. A perfect golf essential. 12. Footjoy AQL Shoe (£69.99 at American Golf). Made with a full grain leather upper to provide excellent waterproof protection, these shoes are renowned for day-long comfort and feature a number of innovations to keep feet dry out on the course. 13. Adidas Tour 360 Boost Shoe (£129.99 at American Golf). These tech-packed shoes provide superb quality, feel and comfort and as you might expect from adidas, look super-stylish, too! A new heel shape follows the natural contours of the foot for an improved fit and an ETC lining reduces friction and moisture whilst maintain foot temperature. 14. Emoji Golf 6 Ball Gift Pack (£9.99). It’s golf – but it’s cool too! Keep the kids on their toes with this fun golf ball gift pack that features six different officially licensed Emoji® golf ball designs all in a beautiful presentation gift box. LUX - December 2016 5
Call Us: +34 951 12 70 76 Email Us: info@lurentis.com
Sports and Super Car Rental Rent the Lamborghini Huracán across Europe From €1,600 per day! Available in Italy, Germany, Austria, France and Spain
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Lurentis DWC-LLC. Number 2521 Address: DWC Business Center • Dubai Aviation City - Logistics City • Dubai • U.A.E. • P.O. Box 390667
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Face-To-Face Meetings Deliver A ÂŁ128,500 Boost to the Average Transport and Distribution Company
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Face-To-Face Meetings Deliver A £128,500 Boost to the Average Transport and Distribution Company
The average company in the transport and distribution sector enjoys a £128,500 annual revenue boost from meeting faceto-face, according to a report published today by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) and Premier Inn, the UK’s leading hotel chain. The Measuring Face Value report demonstrates that, the return on investment is excellent for all businesses in transport and distribution. For every pound spent on business travel by organisations in the sector they see a 53 per cent return on investment. Every year, Premier Inn offers millions of business guests a great choice of hotels in over 740 locations across the UK. Premier Inn was named the UK’s top rated travel brand 2016 and the top-rated hotel chain for 2015 according to Which? This year, 89 per cent of Premier Inn hotels achieved a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, awarded to hotels that achieve outstanding guest reviews. On the YouGov Hotel Brand Index, Premier Inn has been rated the “Best Value” hotel chain since 2011, and in October 2016, Premier Inn was named Best Budget Hotel Chain at the Business Traveller Awards. Karen Plumb, Director of Business to Business at Premier Inn, comments: “We all know that when we are meeting virtually, whether on a video or phone call, not everyone is engaged 100 per cent of the time. Welcoming millions of business guests each year, Premier Inn understands how valuable face-toface interaction is for our customers. Guests stay with us when they’re travelling to all kinds of face-to-face business meetings – from site visits and conferences to new business pitches and brainstorms.” The Cebr and Premier Inn report establishes that when it comes to securing new business, just by walking out of their front door and going to meet prospects in person, a company in the transport and distribution sector is in line to increase revenues by an average of 18 per cent per year – equivalent to an average of £23,100 per company per year. Karen Plumb, Director of Business to Business at Premier Inn, comments: “Premier Inn commissioned this latest report as part of our ongoing research into the needs of our business guests. Human interaction has long been recognised as important in business but I am pleased that we can now pinpoint precisely how much it’s worth to UK companies.
Company: Brands 2 Life Name: James Boyd-Wallis Address: 111 Buckingham Palace Rd, London, SW1W 0SR Phone: +44 (0)20 7592 1200 Website: www.brands2life.com
“These figures may encourage some businesses to reflect on their own balance of virtual and face-toface interaction, and to consider how getting that balance just right can have a positive impact on their bottom line.” Nationally, face-to-face meetings make an annual contribution of £193 billion to the UK economy. This contribution is based on a representative study of the total number of UK private sector businesses. The research also demonstrates that the average UK company stands to gain an average income boost of £147,200 per year as a result of meeting face-toface.
Nina Skero, Senior Economist at the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr), comments, “Whilst our research does not prescribe a single, optimal balance of face-to-face and virtual communications, it clearly demonstrates that businesses should be striving for a blend of both. The proven financial contribution of face-to-face meetings to our economy is considerable and shows no signs of diminishing.” Cebr is an independent economics and business research consultancy established in 1993, providing forecasts and advice to City institutions, government departments, local authorities and numerous blue chip companies throughout Europe. Denise Taylor, chartered psychologist and career coach, suggests some of the drivers behind the effectiveness of face-to-face business meetings: • It’s often the case that on phone or video calls, attendees can zone out. They may respond to emails mid-call, or flick through their notes. 100 per cent engagement in the moment isn’t guaranteed when your meeting is virtual. • Body language plays a massive part in business communications. A subtle shrug or firm handshake can make a huge difference to the final outcome. • Doing business through a screen can make getting your point across challenging. People can miss the nuance or misunderstand far more easily than when you’re face-to-face. Communicating virtually may also put people off asking for clarification because there can be a sense of hurriedness. • There’s a great chance to build a sense of teamwork and co-operation when you’re in the same space. • Taking the time to step away from your desk and show customers, clients, suppliers or other associates that you care enough about your relationship to visit them in their own environment is a great message, and says a lot about your overall approach to doing business. • When people are together in the same place, they are more likely to feed off one another and spark creativity, innovation and solution-led thinking. The analysis was conducted by Cebr at firm level and then scaled up based on the total number of registered private sector businesses (with employees) in the UK as reported in ONS Business Population Estimates.
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Best in Honeymoons & Romantic Getaways
Mesmerising Mauritius
Mesmerising Mauritius Mauritius Holidays Direct is a fully-bonded award-winning independent luxury tour operator to the beautiful island of Mauritius. With a staggering choice of 57 hotels available to clients in their brochure - the largest selection on offer and with flights on offer across three major airline services, Mauritius Holidays Direct is honoured to have been recognised as one of the very best specialist operators to this gorgeous republic nation.
The amazing tropical island of Mauritius is situated 1,200 miles off the east coast of Africa and the Seychelles, and sits solitary as a sparkling gem in the shimmering waters of the Indian Ocean. Its glorious beaches, stunning blue lagoons, beautiful coral reefs and superb resorts give any visitor the opportunity to enjoy unparalleled luxury – a holiday experience that would compel anyone to keep coming back to Mauritius for more. The island’s African, Asian and European heritage, with their respective contrast of cultures, colours and tastes, makes this a fascinating and charming holiday destination, and one that Mauritius Holidays Direct take every enjoyment in offering to its clients. Those who love the outdoors and nature will be enchanted by the magnificence of the mountains, the nature reserves and the wildlife parks that dot the landscape, becoming minor tourist sensations in their own right. Those that love golf will be delighted with the many stunning championship golf courses even better, golf is mostly a complimentary option for guests when staying at a hotel that has its own golf course. Also, of course, for the romantics, Mauritius has proven itself time and again to be the perfect place for a wedding or honeymoon, with many of its resorts backing out onto white, immaculate beaches framed in palm trees and a stunning backdrop in the sapphire glint of the Indian Ocean – the perfect spot to begin a new chapter of life!
“ We have built our reputation by providing excellent personal service and outstanding value for money holidays with a best price guarantee policy” Mauritius would be perfect for weddings, honeymoons, land and water sports enthusiasts, golfers, families and the like. Excellent kids’ clubs, luxurious spas, big-game fishing and world-class scuba diving sites all add to the attractions of this wonderful piece of paradise. It is in this frame of mind that Mauritius Holidays Direct wish to bring the very best of the island to
its guests. Being so passionate about Mauritius, its people and its spirit, the team are there to provide the perfect bespoke Mauritius holiday experience for whoever is in search of it. “We have built our reputation by providing excellent personal service and outstanding value for money holidays with a best price guarantee policy,” is the company’s official line. “Our aim is to do it better than anyone else and our quality control practice, and our sales consultants will ensure we achieve our objective. Our consultants have first-hand knowledge of the product we offer and are renowned for their tremendous expertise, professionalism and friendliness.” Although the brochure probably provides the largest selection of hotels in Mauritius, no one brochure can offer a choice of holidays that will cater for every client’s personal requirements. Being specialists for holidays to Mauritius, the operator has built a hugely successful relationship with a vast number of hotels across the country, including Réunion Island; therefore, in terms of its staff, its passion and its key abilities to negotiate the very best deals for its clients, Mauritius Holidays Direct is perhaps the best-equipped Mauritius holiday company to create individual holidays at very competitive prices. Clients are further encouraged to propose their own ideas; if they do not see a holiday in the brochure that suits them entirely, a quick call to the operator’s personal travel consultants will give them all the information they require in order to best plan and organise the individual holiday that the client desires. Mauritius is, in no uncertain terms, an island paradise – Mark Twain once wrote, “Mauritius was made first and then heaven, heaven being ... for a glimpse of a Mauritian kestrel soaring on the thermals high above it all.” Mauritius Holidays Direct do, however, realise the cultural differences that exist between what some clients may expect from a holiday there and what is deemed within the realms of social acceptance on the island. As such, the operator makes sure to educate its clients on the various events, public holidays, and the certain restrictions that overseas visitors to Mauritius ought to abide by. Specifically, the occurrence of certain religious events and public holidays might cause
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lux some interference with specific plans, but with adequate planning beforehand, with the guiding hand of an experienced, well-versed representative from Mauritius Holidays Direct, these can be circumvented. Besides, with Mauritius being such a melting pot of great international cultures and faiths, the religious festivals on the island make for incredible displays of individual identity. The Cavadee Festival, starting at the end of January and going into February, is celebrated mostly by the Tamil-descended Indian population of the island, and is one of the most impressive festivals on the island. After a period of fasting, devotees partake in mesmerising displays of piercing cheeks, tongues and chests with needles – almost in a solipsistic trance all the while, before walking barefoot to the temple whilst carrying upon their backs the eponymous Cavadee, an arc of wood, metal or plastic adorned in flowers that represents the island’s sacred mountains. As a spectator event, this is a ceremony unlike any other, and a definite draw for tourists that attract a year-long appeal to the island. In addition, Mauritius Holidays Direct takes it upon itself to direct, to some extent, the behaviour of its clients, all in the interests of enhancing their experiences on Mauritius. “In general,” its brochure reads, “your own common sense must prevail… when booking local excursions and tours, please only use the services of our officially appointed local agents, and not of any companies or persons who may approach you otherwise, as these companies or persons may not hold the necessary government permits and licenses to operate excursions and tours.” This is not to say, however, that the operator leaves its clients especially lacking for options. Quite the opposite, in point of fact – as if a selection of nearly 60 hotels was not enough, there is a veritable host of options presented to clients of Mauritius Holidays Direct should they wish to leave the confines of their resort’s immediate vicinity and venture off into the wider island, to nose around the historical sights of a perfectly preserved Creole mansion, to take in one of the world’s best botanical gardens at Pamplemousses, or to experience the refinement of a catamaran cruise around Grand Baie, a location that the 17th-Century Dutch settlers called the ‘Bay Without End’, a modern hotspot with all of the virtues of beach resorts the world over. Neither does Mauritius Holidays Direct limit itself to a particular seasonal appeal – rather, the destinations that are featured by the company are available all year round. Some, of course, do have quieter off-peak periods, making them ideal for a romantic liaison where discerning couples might take full advantage of uncrowded beaches and more personal attention from the hotel staff. Mauritius is, of course, one of the most renowned places in the world for Honeymoon & Wedding holidays. Mauritius Holidays Direct is the specialist in arranging honeymoons and weddings in Mauritius. Most of the hotels featured offer tremendous deals and discounts for these special clients. The sales consultants are experts in finding these clients the perfect spot for their romantic stay, and at the
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perfect price as they know which hotels offer the finest special deals for these guests for their most romantic holiday. Some resorts are simply ideal for honeymooners and wedding guests because of their affordable luxury and characteristics; resorts such as Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok, Paradise Cove Resort & Spa (an adult’s only hotel), LUX* Grand Gaube, The Residence, The Westin, Outrigger Resort, Sofitel L’Imperial and Maritim Resort & Spa, to name but a few. These hotels are truly popular with Honeymoon and Wedding couples. In addition, the operator does not shy away from presenting some of the more popular spots on the island, where a greater influx of tourists in the peak seasons of travel make for a lively and exuberant display of Mauritian lifestyle. For example, hotels located in the north are perfectly placed for guests to have easy access to areas such as Grand Baie. Tamassa, an All-Inclusive resort located on the south coast beach at Bel Ombre, surrounded by impressive mountains and lush sugarcane fields is another example. Meandering pathways go around the resort’s three large swimming pools, en route to the long sandy beach. Active families can indulge in the wide-ranging on-site activities and the extensive PLAY and STUDIO 17 club facilities for children, while outgoing couples can enjoy their nights by dancing in the resort’s private nightclub. Nature has created a wonderful serendipity in Tamassa with winding white beaches leading to aqua-hued waters, making for a balanced experience of Mauritius that culminates in the experience of taking in a cinema screening whilst sitting under the mesmerising starlit sky of the Indian Ocean. “The choice of hotel is crucial to your holiday,” is the Mauritius Holidays Direct approach to this. “The hotels we feature have been selected for their location, their character, or their value…the final selection is, however, entirely up to you”. With an increasing volume of clients on the hunt for a truly indulgent, relaxing escape to the dreamy Indian Ocean, the very last thing that these holidaymakers want to be concerned about is the integrity and security of their financial investment in this enterprise. This is why Mauritius Holidays Direct take their involvement in maintaining the security of their clients’ finances, with full confidence and complete assurance. Being a fully-bonded tour operator with a licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL), many of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays that are on offer are financially protected by the ATOL scheme, under the company’s own ATOL number – ATOL 5744. The firm is also a member of The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA J5618/ W5490) and IATA (91275914). While ATOL protection does not necessarily apply to all holiday and travel services listed in this brochure, Mauritius Holidays Direct take it upon themselves to address their clients personally, so as to confirm what protection applies to their booking. With a certain level of financial protection guaranteed through the CAA, who will ensure that no customer is stranded abroad should the worst-case scenario ever happen, and with ATOL-protected booking allowing for a swift arrangement to refund any advance bookings.
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www.chrisjamesmindbody.com
Five Tips to Beat the Bloat This Christmas
Five Tips to Beat the Bloat This Christmas Chris James Mind Body, a premium health & lifestyle brand that offers a 360-degree natural solution to achieving optimum levels of wellness all year round. is supporting healthy eating this Christmas with ‘Five tips to Beat the Bloat’ to accompany the launch of daily sachets of its ‘Gorgeous Greens’. The new formulation now includes extra enzymes, lipase, amylase, papain, and protease, which help to ease digestion and prevent bloating. “I wanted to create a superior Greens supplement for busy healthy men and women. Enzymes are a key health trend as we head into 2017!” says Chris James, Founder of CJMB. “I also wanted to offer some simple steps that will help absolutely everyone to have a healthier Christmas while really enjoying every meal”.
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slice melon ¼ ripe avocado ½ orange 4 x ice cubes Almond milk to fill to level 1 serving x Gorgeous Greens Juice ½ lime (pealed)
The 5 tips from Chris include keeping an eye on the “3 P’s” - protein, potassium and probiotics (see end of release for all 5 tips).
Preparation: Juice the pears, melon, orange, spinach and lime. Put the avocado flesh into a blender along with the ice and Gorgeous Greens. Blend everything until smooth. Pour and enjoy!
CJMB’s “Gorgeous Greens” are delicious when added to freshly pressed juices and smoothies, and a range of recipes are available (see end of release for example recipe and details of samples for the media).
Chris James Of CJMB’s Additional Tips To ‘Beat the Christmas Bloat’ and Stay Healthy
Chris James Mind Body has sourced superior quality organic seaweed, (Ascophyllum Nodosum & Fucus vesiculosus) wheatgrass, alfalfa, kale, nettle dandelion leaf in addition chlorella and spirulina which together help to strengthen the immune system, help with regularity, restore pH balance, and owing to its antioxidant-rich formula inhibits agerelated enzymes and slows the ageing process. Apart from targeting the gut, “Gorgeous Greens” will assist in detoxifying other organs too. Results will leave you feeling less bloated, your skin more radiant, plus you’ll also notice how much better you sleep and how boosted your energy levels are. Gorgeous Greens are suitable for a wide range of dietary needs, being free from wheat, yeast, starch, gluten, lactose, soy, added colourings, sweeteners and preservatives. Suitable for vegetarians, we use organic ingredients whenever possible. Packaged in a very cool cuboid box that looks great in your kitchen, a month’s supply of “Gorgeous Greens” (20 sachets) is just £29. CJMB’s Gorgeous Greens Super Smoothie – serves two. Ingredients: • Large handful of spinach • ½ pear
1. Mind Your P’s Avoiding bloat isn’t only about avoiding foods; it’s key to eat more foods that are effective at battling bloat. Reach for a healthy helping of the three P’s: potassium, protein, and probiotics. You can benefit from a boost of potassium-rich foods like sweet potatoes, winter squash, citrus, bananas, and nuts, which help regulate excess sodium! 2. Consume Fibre Make sure you’re getting enough fibre amidst the trays of holiday snacks. If you know you’re going somewhere that you won’t have a lot of control over your food choices, a fibre supplement can help a lot. 3. Slow Down Eating too quickly can cause you to swallow more air, worsening bloat. Take a full 30 minutes to finish a meal, which will help you banish the bloat and listen for when your body tells you it’s full. 4. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate Water helps to speed up digestion and can counteract the effects of salt and carb-induced bloating. Aim for eight to ten glasses a day, especially during the holidays. 5. Start Again Tomorrow Most importantly, if you overindulge at Christmas don’t beat yourself up! Indulging once in a while is not that big of a deal—just start fresh tomorrow.
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A Home Away from Home at the Exclusive Courchevel 1850
A Home Away from Home at the Exclusive Courchevel 1850 France has long been the number one destination for UK skiers, and last year the country’s many winter sports destinations attracted more than 55 million visitors from around the world. There are few rivals that have the prestige of French ski destinations and, of the 56 biggest ski resorts in the French Alps, Courchevel – dubbed the St. Tropez of winter sports – is the chosen location for well-heeled visitors looking for first-class amenities. Courchevel 1850 is a favoured destination for skiers worldwide, as it boasts one of the longest Alpine seasons and some of the world’s best ski infrastructure. Long renowned for its designer boutiques and unrivalled cluster of Michelin-starred restaurants, this year the exclusive Six Senses Residences Courchevel will add an extra dimension to the Alpine hot spot with the opening of its new luxury spa. On-site Six Senses Spa Adds to Luxury of Courchevel’s First Fully-Serviced Residences The Six Senses Residences Courchevel is a collection of 53 exclusive apartments ranging in size from 70 to 260 square metres, including ten spacious duplex penthouses offering breath-taking panoramic mountain views, up to five exquisitely appointed bedrooms, bespoke wine cellars and triple aspect balconies overlooking the slopes. The interiors, designed by Alain Foeillet, carefully blend contemporary style with traditional mountain influences that celebrate the alpine aesthetic. Inspired by the natural environment, the apartments feature timber panelling, beams, stone and beautiful, organic materials. Furniture and accessories collections by award-winning Morpheus London are also available.
Kerry McClinton-King, Business Development Director at Six Senses Residences Courchevel Phone: +44 7983 614007 Email: kerry@one-courchevel.com
The spa, combined with the 24/7 concierge service, sets a new benchmark in Courchevel, giving residents an exceptional wellbeing experience. After a day on the slopes, those staying at the Six Senses Residences Courchevel will be able to relax and unwind, making the most of holistic spa therapy, indoor pool, sauna, steam room, gym and private residents’ lounge. An Investment in One of the World’s Most Desirable Winter Destinations
According to the latest Savills Alpine Ski Market Report, the Alps attract 43 per cent of all global ski visitors, compared to just 21 per cent in America and 15 per cent in Asia Pacific, and it is home to 35 per cent of the world’s ski resorts. Courchevel 1850 benefits from a ski season of 168 days, which exceeds the average season length of 4-5 months, and the resort has good, reliable snowfall. The Alpine residential market is largely driven by second home owners and investors. Properties in Courchevel have high capital values, reflecting the strong demand for homes here, while quality rental properties attract premium rents over an extended period. A major advantage of investing in the Six Senses Residences Courchevel is that the 20 per cent VAT-payable on the sales price can be recouped on renting the apartments out. Rental demand in Courchevel has typically remained robust, buoyed by its desirable location and large numbers of visitors every year. The new spa and hotel-style service at Six Senses Residences Courchevel is anticipated to make it the residence of choice, appealing to visitors looking for the ultimate luxury ski experience. With over 50 per cent already sold, apartments in Phase II are now for sale – prices range from 1.5 million to 9.65 million Euros.
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The Sarojin: Thailand’s Opulent Beachside Resort
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The Sarojin: Thailand’s Opulent Beachside Resort
The Sarojin is a gorgeous award-winning luxury boutique beach hotel, surrounded by the glorious Khao Lak landscape, offering an elegant setting for a truly unforgettable experience. Boasting a wide array of amenities and skilled, dedicated staff, this impeccable establishment makes for the ideal romantic getaway.
Since opening in 2005, The Sarojin has become a byword for luxury beachside breaks to Thailand, and as such made the perfect destination for a trip for LUX magazine, which aims to offer an insight into the very best of the best. Nestled amongst lush tropical gardens and opening out to a secluded 11-kilometre stretch of pristine white sand, this stunning beachfronted resort combines contemporary décor with traditional style to ensure that guests enjoy the very best of everything. Right from the beginning guests are treated tremendously, and we enjoyed a warm welcome with refreshing cocktails and a walk along the stunning beach, marking the start of what was to be a wonderful trip. The hotel offers guests a selection of spacious and luxurious residences, all with gorgeous ensuite couples bathroom, some with extra lounge areas and private pools, alongside a magnificent aquamarine infinity pool. Our room looked out onto a sumptuous and leafy garden setting, although the resort also offers Spa Suites – a premium accommodation option – which are privately tucked away on the upper floor of each building, and also include a complimentary 1-hour spa massage for each night of guests stay! Each room offers a home away from home for all guests, with comfortable and stylish furnishings made from only the finest materials, including natural wood. We were lucky enough to enjoy a stunning double room bedecked in sumptuous neutral colours, enveloping guests with the wonders of nature, boasting panoramic views of the hotel’s stunning surrounds. During our stay we were lucky enough to visit the hotel’s in-house spa, Pathways, a secluded haven that is integrated within the resort’s natural setting. Guests are lulled by the sounds of the Andaman Sea, looking out through a coconut grove and beyond. Rustic yet comfortable – and privately entered by a meandering boardwalk – Pathways is a place of intense discovery, and forms a key part of The Sarojin’s wellness experience. The luxurious treatments offered left us rejuvenated and relaxed, making for the ideal way to ensure that you leave this exceptional resort ready to face the world. Whilst The Sarojin feels secluded and intimate in its setting, the resort is highly accessible and guests can easily explore the glorious surroundings and indulge in local amenities. The Sarojin is located in Khao Lak, Phang Nga Province in Thailand, which is a mere one-hour drive north of Phuket International Airport and is beautifully ensconced in a lush tropical garden setting with direct private access onto a secluded 11-kilometre white beach by the Andaman Sea. By
virtue of being sheltered by Pakarang Cape, a coral cape headland, The Sarojin beach provides yearround swimming and water sports. Synonymous with romance, The Sarojin offers honeymoon packages as well as wedding and vowel renewal ceremonies. The gorgeous tropical location, which encompasses vast swathes of secluded white sands, also makes for extraordinary private dining experiences, boasting a number of enchanting outdoor venues – on a private sand isle or a secluded beach, in a pool island pavilion or at the foot of a near-by waterfall. Day or night, The Sarojin’s experienced and dedicated Imagineering team are on hand to give guests the most memorable and intimate experience possible. Making the most of its tropical location, The Sarojin also boasts a decedent array of on-site dining options, each of which invokes its own infusion of beautiful flavours through the use of fresh ingredients, as prepared by passionate chefs. Guests can choose to dine under the age-old Ficus tree or beside the shimmering Andaman Sea, and everybody is welcomed to indulge in the resort’s all day a la carte breakfast, served with sparkling wine. Wherever they choose to dine, guests can rest assured that every meal at The Sarojin is an occasion in itself, and a time to savour and remember. The hotel’s wine bar and multi-award winning wine cellar are also attractions not to be missed, stocking a wide range of the finest imported beverages and wines. In addition, the beach bar offers spectacular views over white sands and ocean, making it the perfect spot to sip on a cocktail or two. The food is truly exquisite and we indulged in fresh fruit, vibrant flavours and sumptuous dishes throughout our stay. The private dining experiences allow a real intimacy which is unique to this glorious hotel, and staff are both supportive and unobtrusive, catering to guests’ every need whilst ensuring that their presence goes almost unnoticed, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in peace and tranquillity. During our stay, we were treated to a sumptuous meal on the secluded beach, lit by 300 candles to sample the freshest, most succulent offerings available in comfort, style and seclusion. Surrounding The Sarojin are five spectacular national parks, with the world-famous dive sites of the Similan and Surin Islands, less than an hour away by boat, direct from The Sarojin beach. Phang Nga Bay, renowned for its dramatic limestone islands and captivating sea cave canoe journeys, is also a mere 45-minutes away. Sportier guests can also take advantage of three close-by 18-hole golf courses.
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The Sarojin: Thailand’s Opulent Beachside Destination
For those that wish to be more adventurous whilst remaining on the hotel’s grounds, there are a variety of amenities including The Sarojin’s magnificent soulsoothing infinity pool, which is set amidst spacious and lush tropical gardens, blending harmoniously with nature. Every detail in the swimming pool’s design and service has been carefully made to reflect and create an oasis of pure relaxation, and it is the perfect place to take a quiet dip following a day of pampering. A range of water sports and bikes are also available for complimentary use by hotel guests, with facilities including a 16-foot sailing hobie cat, Omega Topaz dinghy suitable for four people, as well as a stand-up paddle board, sea kayaks, windsurfers and mountain bikes. There is also an on-site fitness centre which includes a treadmill, lifecycles, multi-gym and free weights. Alongside the on-site facilities, the hotel also boasts a luxury boat, The Lady Sarojin, which is exclusively available for guests use, including private charters that allow guests to cruise, snorkel and SCUBA dive at the Similan Islands, Surin Islands or Phang Nga Bay. We tailored our itinerary to suit our own preferences and we spent the day in the sunshine exploring, sea cave canoeing amongst the dramatic and mountainous limestone seascape and snorkelling small islands in the south of the bay. For an authentic Sarojin experience, the hotel offers guests the opportunity to hire the entire establishment for private functions, with bespoke experiences tailored to suit the event and the desires of the guests. All 56 guest residences and the entire hotel’s facilities are available for private parties, celebrations, weddings, meetings or exclusive events. The Sarojin offers gorgeous locations, spacious yet intimate with beautiful beach and garden set-tings, exquisite tailor made services and experiences. At the Sarojin the limits for a private celebration are only your imagination. It is this combination of quality, luxurious setting and the hotel’s dedication to perfection which makes this the perfect setting for a truly indulgent Thai break. Whether guests are looking for romance, relaxation or simply deluxe new experiences, The Sarojin has it all. To book your stay or find out more, visit the hotel’s website: http://www.sarojin.com or email reservations@sarojin.com
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Name: Hôtel du Triangle d’Or Web: www.hoteldutriangledor.com
A Certain Je Ne Sais Quoi
A Certain Je Ne Sais Quoi Situated in the very heart of Paris, Hôtel du Triangle d’Or delivers a truly luxurious and awe inspiring stay for its guests. We got the exciting chance to visit this truly wonderful establishment and explore all it has to offer.
Hôtel du Triangle d’Or embodies just about all of the rich and vibrant qualities associated with the city and culture of Paris. In fact, the hotel’s chic and contemporary are characterised by numerous musical and artistic references.
With their welcoming ambience, custom designed furniture, bright and airy feel and tasteful decor, the hotel’s classic rooms are elegant and relaxing, with plenty of space to accommodate up to two occupants in perfect comfort.
Take the reception for example, which contains some very bold and evocative lighting, or even the multimedia section which provides customer headphones for guests to enjoy music. Furthermore, there is a djembe drum serving as a bedside table and gold discs proudly displayed above the beds.
Outside of the hotel, Paris’ world renowned music hall Olympia is just a hop, skip and a jump away from the establishment. Also within walking distance are the Place de la Concorde, the Opera and the Madeleine, making it the ideal stay for any connoisseur of culture.
This music themed setting was designed by architect Philippe Maidenberg, who is an avid music fan and wished to incorporate his love of music with the interiors of the establishment. The rooms were designed in collaboration with famous musicians from a number of different backgrounds, ranging from folk musician Rickie Lee Jones to French rapper MC Solaar. As such, each room contains its own distinctive flavour, all adding to the truly unique atmosphere at the hotel.
The boutique hotel is also close to many other locations in the City of Light, such as the ChampsElysées, the Place Vendome, the department stores on the Boulevard Haussmann, rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and the Louvre.
Although there are a myriad of amazing hotels in Paris, what distinguishes Hôtel du Triangle d’Or is its quirky and charming setting. The dedicated and friendly staff at the boutique hotel add to the establishment’s truly unforgettable experience. From check in to check out, staff are always at hand to meet any requirements, however big or small.
Art lovers, music enthusiasts and those seeking the wealth of culture that Paris has to offer will appreciate the presence of auditoriums, theatres and museums in the vicinity of the hotel. This strategic location is suitable for both getaways and business stays. Rich in shops, in entertainment and fine dining, the area is also fortunate to be perfectly served by various public transport options (bus, Metro and RER). Ultimately, Hôtel du Triangle d’Or provides the typically luxurious Parisian stay, but at the same have their own distinctive qualities that allow them to provide a wonderfully unique stay for its guests. As such, Hôtel du Triangle provide the perfect place to wind down and rest after a long day exploring the sights and sound of Paris. Magnifique!
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Alice Power, freuds Phone: +44 (0) 20 3003 6469 Email: Alice.Power@freuds.com
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A New Luxury Whisky Decanter for Christmas from Asprey
A New Luxury Whisky Decanter for Christmas from Asprey Leading luxury blended Scotch, Johnnie Walker Blue Label has commissioned luxury British brand, Asprey to create a limited-edition decanter gift set, the perfect gift for this Christmas. Celebrating life, every day, everywhere, is the bedrock of Asprey’s efforts to create a truly special gift that will enrichen this year’s Christmas tipple for anyone that desires it.
Just six sets have been created and each features a stunning, hand-blown whisky decanter accompanied by two crystal tumblers and a 70cl bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label. The bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label has been hand engraved with a festive message by Phillip Lawson Johnston, who holds the Royal Warrant as the Queen’s Official Hand Engraver of Glass. Each individual item is hand-made in Asprey’s London based workshop on New Bond Street and will be available to buy from October 2016 across select luxury retailers including Selfridges, Harrods and The Whisky Shop. The lead-free crystal 70cl decanter’s hallmarked silver topper is hand-crafted into the shape of the infamous Johnnie Walker ‘Striding Man’ and a specially designed hot air balloon pendant engraved with ‘since 1820’ hangs around the neck of the bottle, marking the rich heritage of the brand. Each item of glassware features a custom-made, hand etched emblem signifying the craftsmanship and heritage behind both brands. Only one in 10,000 casks, chosen from the four corners of Scotland, are suitable for use in the JOHNNIE WALKER BLUE LABEL blend, which is widely considered to be a real ‘game-changer’ in the whisky industry. The rarity and craftsmanship that every bottle of JOHNNIE WALKER BLUE LABEL represents make gifting it the ultimate expression of gratitude. Asprey was founded in 1781 and has developed over generations into the preeminent British jeweller and luxury goods house. This grand tradition of offering the best in craftsmanship, quality and design continues today at the Asprey workshops and around the globe as timeless treasures are created for the exclusive Asprey clientele. Asprey is renowned for fine jewellery, timepieces, leather goods, silver, china, crystal, rare books and its unrivalled bespoke service.
Scott Gamble, Asprey Corporate Manager, commented, “Asprey was thrilled to receive this special commission from Johnnie Walker, a brand that shares a similar heritage, rooted in Luxury. The beautifully designed crystal decanter is a display of true craftsmanship, created by Asprey’s highly skilled artisans, and we are very pleased with the results.” Whisky Brand Ambassador, Colin Dunn, said, “this exclusive gift is perfect for the discerning Scotch drinker this Christmas. It not only locks in the aromas and flavours, but also creates a luxury drinking experience for you and your guests.” The Johnnie Walker Blue Label Asprey gift set is presented in a beautiful dual-branded bespoke gift box, retailing at £2,750. The gift set will be available to buy from Harrods, Selfridges, Whisky Shop, Hedonism, Whisky Exchange and Royal Mile Whisky Shop. Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, JεB, Buchanan’s and Windsor whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness. Diageo is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice.
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Don’t Drink It – Explore It Company: Clementine Communications Name: Clémence de Crécy Email: Clemence@ClementineCom.com Phone: +44 (0)20 7471 8730 Address: 52 New Kings Road, London, SW6 4LS
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Don’t Drink It – Explore It
This fall, the House of Metaxa, the iconic spirit House from Greece, is relaunching METAXA 12 Stars, the refined expression of the House’s signature style, following the appointment of a new Ambassador for METAXA 12 Stars, Mike Horn. Inspired by METAXA’s pioneering founder, Spyros Metaxa, the 12 STARS alignment with Mike Horn reflects both the bold and innovative nature of METAXA’s quest to create an amber spirit. Delivering new levels of smoothness, the 12 Stars expression is a complex spirit to be explored, heightening the senses and embodying both Spyros Metaxa and Mike Horn’s values of courage, exploration and authenticity.
The House of Metaxa was founded by Spyros Metaxa in 1888. METAXA, The Original Greek Spirit, is the blend of aged distillates and fine Muscat wine from the Aegean islands. METAXA owes its celebrated smoothness to the intensely aromatic Muscat grapes grown, tended and harvested by hand, under the touch of the Aegean sun. METAXA owes its desirability to its celebrated smoothness, recognised and enjoyed the world over. Ever since the House of Metaxa came to be, the signature smoothness of METAXA has been the ultimate responsibility of a single Creator at a time. Today, Constantinos (Costas) Raptis is the fifth Metaxa Master since the inception of the House. He is the man who guarantees the continuity of the authentic character of METAXA. As the designated keeper of the House’s secrets on taste, Costas masters the arts of selecting, ageing and blending that give life to the extraordinary smoothness of METAXA. His talent is unique in the world of spirits. Costas Raptis’ devotion to METAXA began more than 30 years ago when he joined the House fresh out of the University of Athens, with degrees in Chemistry and Oenology, and a passion for wine. Throughout the years, Costas Raptis has signed a number of the creations of the House of Metaxa, including METAXA 12 Stars. The unique smoothness of METAXA 12 Stars is an expression of exceptional craftsmanship. The radiant amber spirit invites the drinker to explore the depth of its character and elegant nature. When served neat or with a large cube of ice, subtle fragrant notes of toasted oak wood, fruits and spices, are the concentrated aromatic first impression that tingles the senses. Dried flowers and spicy herbs, coffee and chocolate work together with dried prunes and orange peel, offering a velvety, silky feeling. Once sipped, memories of dark cocoa come in to enrich the experience, spiced up with a touch of playful liquorice, the awakening tanginess of dried orange, all rounded up with a kiss of honeyed figs and prunes. A hint of spice and orange peel come in for the rewarding finale of a story told through fascinating notes. The drinker will then explore the complex tastings notes of dark cocoa, liquorice, dried orange, honeyed figs and prunes which develop on the palate, completing the sensory experience. “After an achievement to be shared in a moment of authentic friendship, I enjoy a fine drink, naturally a METAXA 12 Stars” says Mike Horn. Premium new packaging for the 12 Stars features Spyros Metaxa’s signature, engraved elegantly
on both sides of the bottle, and also bears the emblem of METAXA: a golden Salamina Warrior standing proud as a symbol of courage, carrying the roots of the House. The bottom of the bottle aims to bring to mind a fine drinking glass and is sealed with a deep blue cap. The revived METAXA 12 Stars truly takes each drinker on a sensory journey of discovery and exploration, from the clink of the ice in the glass to the tightening of the cap on the bottle, paying homage to the House of Metaxa’s heritage, craftsmanship and boldness. METAXA 12 Stars is a one-of-a-kind amber spirit, offering an exceptional drinking experience that is now represented through the life and the achievements of Mike Horn, one of the greatest explorers of his time. The new campaign for METAXA 12 Stars is an invitation to a sensorial journey led by Mike Horn. The digital campaign is an actual invitation to explore. Explore METAXA 12 Stars, explore yourself and explore the world! The exploration part of dontdrinkexplore.com intends to introduce and educate users on the philosophy of METAXA 12 Stars, by using the main campaign film and Mike Horn’s experiences for an inspiring journey. The sensorial journey requires interaction from the user’s side in order to unfold. Within each of the senses “Look”, “Listen”, “Sense”, the user is able to explore deeper in order to feel and connect with the mindset of the METAXA 12 Stars universe though quick and dynamic videos that always end up with a motivational message. At the end of this digital exploration, users will be presented with a call to join a once in a lifetime real exploration! Several European fans of METAXA 12 Stars, including 1 coming from the United Kingdom, will travel between April and October 2017 with Mike Horn to an unknown destination, among Australia, New Zealand, Japan, India, Mongolia, and Russia. A videographer will accompany the group, capturing the thrilling experience of this unique expedition and sharing it live across METAXA own media. By entering dontdrinkexplore.com, you walk into a whole new world of exploration. The exploration of METAXA 12 Stars through the eyes of Mike Horn. Once you let your own senses guide you through this fascinating virtual experience, you can submit your name and details on the contact form and have a chance to be one of the winners selected by drawing lots, at the end of the contest. LUX - December 2016 35
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Chase Distillery – The Twelve Drinks of Christmas
The Twelve Drinks of Christmas At Britain’s first Single-Estate distillery, there is very little leeway when it comes to producing nothing short of the best-quality products. At Chase Distillery, a lavish range of spirits are handmade on a family farm located in dreamy Herefordshire, each of which bears its own unique story, and a firm reminder of not only the prowess of British luxury markets, but also of the heartfelt value in lovingly-crafted products.
William Chase presides over a very special team of passionate people at Chase Distillery. He and wife Kate, along with his sons James and Harry, are at the centre of a dynamic operation, as together they move in a unified mission to tell their story and introduce their products to the world, whilst not forgetting to have a bit of fun along the way. In the immediate run-up to Christmas, William regales the history of Chase Distillery, and the steps that brought him to his current stead.
needed a bespoke rectifying column. It was hard work, but eventually we found a great family firm with over 100 years of experience to supply us with one.
Herefordshire-born and -bred, William feels very lucky to have been brought up in such a beautiful part of the world. Growing up in this rural space of England, he farmed potatoes for 20 years, mostly supplying supermarkets as a commodity, which left him, as he describes it, “feeling detached, without any feedback from the end customer.” With the continual price pressure coming from the supermarkets in addition to this, William realised that a change in direction was necessary. While he wanted to remain in farming, he recognised the need to explore different options that would allow him to take his treasured potatoes and create something brand new, something exciting, something daring.
And so, Chase Distillery was born. The next shock that William had to face, though, was how little volume he produced: he discovered that 16 tonnes of potatoes made only 1,000 litres of alcohol. To other producers this might have seemed disheartening, but in fact it is testament to the quality of the vodka that William and Chase Distillery produce. With this supreme quality over all of the other mass-produced vodka, William was sure it would work.
“I was hit one day with the ‘eureka’ moment to turn my potatoes into chips,” he recalls. “I spent 2002 travelling the world to source the equipment and recipe to make potato chips. By the summer, Tyrrells was born. “As Tyrrells grew, I was searching for the next step. In 2004, whilst travelling in the USA, looking for packaging equipment for the chips, I stumbled on a small distillery making potato vodka and thought, ‘this would be a great new chapter to life’. “I returned home, thought about it, and decided it would definitely be more fun making vodka. I researched the market and found it to be full of a lot of ‘twee’ marketing stories or large corporate companies. I thought there would be a market if we could make a quality product and sell it with the proper provenance and pedigree. “I sourced a traditional type of still to make the vodka base, but my research told me that to get the best quality, without filtering out all of the character, we
“From the initial idea in 2004, it took us until April Fool’s Day 2008 to harvest the first of our potatoes, making the first batch of vodka in June of that year. Upon tasting the very first drop from the column before filtering, I was so enamoured and proud of it that I decided to call it Chase Vodka.”
As Chase Distillery’s performance, has proven, William was certainly right to stick with his instincts. Retaining the family stronghold in Herefordshire, the company benefits from a region that boasts some of the richest farmland in the world. It is here that William and his family grow King Edward and Lady Claire potatoes for the distillery, as well as cider apples for the Naked Chase Apple Vodka and Williams Gin product lines. “Having the distillery located on the farm allows us to keep a watchful eye over how our potatoes and apples move from field to bottle,” William says. “It is this single-estate approach that makes us different – there is something discernible that you can taste in our award-winning vodka.” In the last year alone, there has been a multitude of exciting developments for the Chase brand. Also, while the family-owned business enjoys a year-round appeal with its loyal base of Chase consumers, it has also enjoyed recognition on an international level, with its Williams GB Gin earning the Best Tasting Gin Award at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2016, repeating their win of the same accolade back in 2010. Also, only last month, as a part of their so-called ‘Great Chase Tour’, the Athens Bar Show gave William and the team a chance to
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lux showcase their product in front of a new discerning audience, lending further credentials to the growing global appeal of their brand. To what does William ascribe this success? Just how does a Herefordshire potato farmer transform himself and his business into such a successful enterprise, whose products have attained worldwide demand? In answer to this, William points the finger squarely at the input of his family. “We’re innovators,” he says definitely. “Our business is entirely family-owned and family-run. I work with two of my four boys: James, who is our ambassador and spends most of his life on planes, and Harry, who takes care of everything on the farm. The other two have a few years left at school yet before I can introduce them to work!” There is also a sort of stubbornness at the heart of William’s approach to conducting business – a resilience to do things in his own speed and manner that is as stout as his gins. “If I want to do something, I don’t go and ask the experts to write reports on what people might think about it,” he professes. “I trust in mine and my team’s judgement, and we just follow our nose. We have the true provenance that very few can boast, and we are also small and entrepreneurial enough to give things a go when we want to. This year is no exception, some of our offerings are just objectively wonderful.” Case and point, Hallowe’en, whilst not a holiday per se, gave Chase Distillery a chance to truly unleash their creativity, presenting their followers with a demonstration of their versatility in the form of Marmalade Vodka Toffee Apples, made using their own Chase Marmalade Vodka. The Chase Distillery has proven its appeal on both an annual and international level, and William relishes in the opportunities of the upcoming Christmas period. This being the time of the year when their consumers take the opportunity to be more discerning in their choice of drinks, Christmas is often Chase Distillery’s busiest period, but it is never a time of year that William dreads.
Chase Distillery – The Twelve Drinks of Christmas
season. Having come straight off the back of their potato and cider apple harvest and diving right into Christmas, William expresses the hope of maybe getting a day off between Christmas and New Year. When pushed, he summarises the experience as “a bit bonkers, to be honest.” Bonkers maybe, but a stunt it is most certainly not. The achievements of Chase Distillery in crafting such exquisite products, with such a homely feeling and luxurious appeal, is all the more impressive considering how the family have broken into such a highly competitive space. “There are so many twee marketing stories out there, particularly in the gin world,” William observes. “The whole market is essentially built around mass-produced neutral grain spirit being packaged and marketed and named after some town or someone’s dog. We are proud to be just that little bit different, and we have absolute control over everything that we produce, because everything we produce is done from scratch, right from the seed to the bottle. “It’s a mad and laborious way of doing it,” he admits, “but if you want to produce the best then you need to do the hard work without cutting any corners. We are really proud about what we have built on our farm; our story and identity is so very genuine, our products are fantastic, and we love seeing people who can identify with how we approach life and can hopefully be inspired by it.” It is this deeply-rooted appreciation of the customer, and the valuing of the opinions, that keeps William in the positive frame of mind to continue doing the work that he does in leading his family business to new and greater heights. “I really love to hear from our customers. I am often heard telling them, ‘please tell me what you think of our products, and where you think we can improve.’ There is no book of rules, and I love to hear from others on their ideas and their own innovations; it’s what keeps me going to work every day.”
This Christmas in particular is set to be unlike any other that Chase Distillery have faced. For a start, after their recent recognition, the family have released an aged sloe gin for the first time this year, the creation of which was effectively a nine-month process. As if this was not enough of a timeconsuming labour of love for the distillery, then an aged sloe mulberry gin, matured for 12 months in oak casks, is further testimony to the Chase family’s devotion to their craft. What is more, “we also produced our first ever Chase Advent Calendar,” William adds. “It makes every day in December that little bit more interesting.” The Chase Advent Calendar has proven to be a great new festive addition to Chase Distillery’s product range, as the festive season takes hold, but William is already hinting towards Christmas 2017. in fact, he reveals that he and the rest of the Chase Distillery family team have been exploring this since the start of Autumn. It is, however, a closely-guarded secret as to what exactly he might have in store. All in all, William has choice words about Chase Distillery’s efforts in the run-up to this Christmas LUX - December 2016 39
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Redbreast – A Fire in the Belly There is something to be said for whiskey at Christmas, particularly those of a single pot still variety. The rich infusion of dark fruits, toasted oak and marzipan, along with more than mere hints of spices, are worthy of igniting a deep, slow burning that will see most through the winter chill. One of those leading the pack of these resilient brands is Redbreast, whose unique collaborations and prestigious selection of crops yielded year upon year of exceptional flavours, made especially ideal for the upcoming Christmas season.
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Nathan Nye nathan@rtc.london +44 (0)20 73887421
Redbreast – A Fire in the Belly
The Redbreast tradition has its roots in 1857, when W & A Gilbey was founded in a small basement cellar at the corner of Oxford and Berwick Street, right in the heart of London. The first official reference to the brand name ‘Redbreast’, though, would not appear until August 1912, when the family brand was selling ‘Gilbey’s Redbreast J.J. Liqueur Whiskey 12 Years Old’, and describing it as one of their “famous” brands. By the 1920s, with political turmoil and economic uncertainty making money for fine whiskeys only available to the considerable status and comfort enjoyed by Ireland’s clergy, Redbreast found its way into many a church presbytery – hereafter, it became affectionately known as ‘”The Priest’s Tipple”. Over the next decade, Redbreast’s appeal and cultural significance would only spread further; so much so that an advertisement in 1933 for the brand read: “Redbreast Liqueur Whiskey at your service. You could not wish for a stauncher, truer friend. Always ready to help. Refreshing you through the sultry, thirst making, days of summer, shielding you from the piercing winds and driving rains of winter, and in every season proving itself a most welcome and peace-bringing nightcap.”
Year’. Owing to its rich balance of berry fruits and aromatic olds, matured in a combination of Spanish Oloroso sherry casks and American Bourbon barrels, this is most certainly a deserved title, even today.
They don’t make advertising like they used to.
On the Lustau Edition, Leighton comments, ‘we seized the opportunity to celebrate the iconic sherry influence on the Redbreast range, and to do this we turned to our old friends at Bodegas Lustau to source the finest Oloroso sherry casks in the world. I am honoured to be able to finally reveal Redbreast Lustau Edition to the world as it represents the mutual bond, based on our commitment to excellence in craftsmanship, which we have built over time with Bodegas Lustau. Language is no barrier to this marriage of Spanish and Irish craft, and the result is an exceptional new Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey that champions the iconic sherry influence of the Redbreast range, and I hope that whiskey drinkers the world over enjoy it.”
Evidently, it worked. Accumulating a following, by the mid-1960s, Redbreast was being bottled annually in batches of approximately 4,000 gallons – 18,000 litres - to satisfy a steady and thirsty demand for the brand. Acquired by Irish distillers in the 1970s, Redbreast cemented its solid reputation as the whiskey of choice for those that truly knew the liquor. For nearly a century prior to this, the London-based family company has been maturing whiskey that has been crafted using the single pot still method by which some would obstinately define proper Irish whiskey, made its way into the hearts, souls and drinks cabinets of Irish people, even when times were hard. With this acquisition, it could be said that Redbreast was coming home.
“Redbreast Liqueur Whiskey at your service. You could not wish for a stauncher, truer friend. Always ready to help. Refreshing you through the sultry, thirst making, days of summer, shielding you from the piercing winds and driving rains of winter, and in every season proving itself a most welcome and peace-bringing nightcap.” Fast-forward to relatively recently, to 2005, and the seminal Redbreast 15 was released. This bottling was produced for long-time champion and French distributor of Redbreast, La Maison du Whiskey, Paris, as part of their 50th Anniversary celebrations. The whiskey, which is comprised of a slightly different formulation to the venerable 12-Year-Old, was bottled at 46 per cent alcohol by volume and was, quite significantly, non-chill filtered. The whiskey has since proven to be an instant and enduring hit – only the following year, it was chosen by the celebrated Jim Murray as the Whiskey Bible’s ‘Irish Whiskey of the
Alongside the celebratory status of the 15-Year-Old, which is now a permanent expression of the family brand having originally launched as a limited edition, Redbreast also makes its staunch continuing presence felt through a number of other prominent contributions to the enduring market for single pot still whiskeys. To begin with, Redbreast has achieved perhaps the finest representation of its signature sherry style through a 21-year-old vintage, whose remarkable aroma, spinning tropical fruits and nuts into an inherently complex but rewarding taste experience, makes this perhaps the richest expression of its style ever produced. On top of this, the new Lustau Edition, with its rich infusion of dark fruits, prunes, dates and figs, along with liquorice and marzipan, is a testament to a partnership with the prestigious Bodegas Lustau in Jerez, Spain.
Meanwhile, however, the appeal of Redbreast’s 12-Year-Old only continues to accentuate with every new batch. The magic of this blend begins when it is brought up to the light, and the glass shines with a rosy glow, like burned gold. Through its Oloroso sherry maturing process, and the spicy notes that intermingle with the toasted wood, Redbreast 12-Year-Old is still largely unbeaten, if nothing else than for its heritage and its cultural significance. It is still an incredibly important, sentimental statement made by Redbreast when they stamp the words ’12 Years Old’ onto the side of the bottle – this does not refer to the age of all of the whiskey, but rather to the youngest of the whiskeys in the particular blend. As Billy Leighton says, “it is important to use various ages of whiskeys in a blend, in order to achieve the right combination and balance of tastes and characteristics. Because of this, we will use a range of ages – the youngest being 12 years.” Billy concludes by stating, “it is often said that the distiller is the scientist and the blender is the artist.” Only once all of the tastes have been perfected, the distilling process perfected, and the liquid been allowed to mature for the right amount of time, in the right sort of barrels, can he and his colleagues at Redbreast even begin to think about creating the whiskeys that will uphold Redbreast’s worthy, historic name, and further enhance the legacy of Irish single pot still whiskeys.
LUX - December 2016 41
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