Essential Magazine April 2022

ANDALUCÍA - SPAIN

N º 269 - APRIL 2022

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MARBELLA W

on-ATCH p VIDE age

OS

CARIBBEAN CRUISING

LAKESIDE

LIVING NEW PORSCHE

PANAMERA

JARED LETO

EXCLUSIVE BEAUTIFUL

BENALÚS

COOL CLASSIC

MOTORBIKES GRACE IN RIVIERA

BELOVED

BELFAST

CHANEL

2022 SPRING/SUMMER - P160

WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM I TRAVEL I TRENDS I CULTURE I LIFESTYLE I PROPERTY I GOURMET

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contents

ESSENTIALS

22 Publisher’s Letter GO TO SPOTLIGHT

32 Caribbean Cruising

48 A Big Year for Belfast

58 Belfast Artist Terry Bradley 66 Boho Club Marbella 76 Yacht Charters 88 Lakeside Living 96 Classic Motorbikes 110 The New Porsche Panamera 116 Jared Leto

144

GO TO TRENDS 124 Hot New Films 128 Cool New Series 132 New Book Releases 136 Sustainable Buildings and Offices 138 What’s Cool

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160

GO TO LIFESTYLE 144 Benalús 2nd Phase 154 Décor Trends 160 Chanel 22 Spring Summer Collection 168 Crufts 2022 Highlights

GO TO SPA 172 Prolific Charlotte Tilbury 176 Bedroom Setup for Optimum Sleep

214

GO TO ENTERPRISE 182 The Secret of Grupo Otero 188 Palo Alto – a Lifestyle Destination

96

194 Enterprise 202 Andalucia’s Succession Planning Benefits 204 The Vibe

GO TO GOURMET 214 Grace in Riviera 220 Gourmet Bytes

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224 Marcos Granda – Five Michelin Stars 228 Wine Critics

Golden Mile

6.000.000 € | E&V ID:W-02O2M7 6 BEDS, 6 BATHS. BUILT 943 M², PLOT 1.627 M²

Puerto Banús

Frontline Golf Nueva Andalucía

5.950.000 € | E&V ID: W-02NGUZ

3.995.000 € | E&V ID: W-02N7YN

5 BEDS, 5 BATHS. BUILT 796 M², PLOT 2.300 M²

5 BEDS, 5 BATHS. BUILT 495 M², PLOT 1.504 M²

Frontline Beach Los Monteros

Puente Romano

1.850.000 €| E&V ID: W-02L1VS

2.200.000 € | E&V ID: W-02NKXT

3 BEDS, 4 BATHS. LIVING AREA 235 M², TERRACE 190 M²

2 BEDS, 2 BATHS. LIVING AREA 141 M², TERRACE 21 M²

www.marbella-ev.com | marbella@engelvoelkers.com

Sierra Blanca

P.O.A € | E&V ID: W-02H45O 6 BEDS, 8 BATHS | BUILT 2.000 m², PLOT 4.200 m²

Frontline Golf La Alquería

Sierra Blanca

2.690.000 € | E&V ID: W-02MOZT

7.800.000 € | E&V ID: W-02O28K

5 BEDS, 4 BATHS. BUILT 908 M², PLOT 1.007 M²

7 BEDS, 7 BATHS. BUILT 1.320 M², PLOT 2.633 M²

Frontline Beach Los Monteros

Los Arqueros

2.500.000 €| E&V ID: W-02NQXK

640.000 € | E&V ID: W-02MOZN

3 BEDS, 4 BATHS. LIVING AREA 235 M², TERRACE 191 M²

2 BEDS, 2 BATHS. LIVING AREA 108 M², TERRACE 67 M²

www.marbella-ev.com | marbella@engelvoelkers.com

LOS FLAMINGOS BED 12, BATHS 12+2, PLOT 3.223 M2, BUILT 2.470 M2

VILLA OTTO 20.000.000€

DISC OV ER

M A R BEL L A´S L A RGEST S E L E C T ION OF T U RNK EY VIL L AS IN P RIM E L OCAT IONS P R O P E R T Y

D E V E L O P E R S

S OLVILL A.E S

&

A D V I S O R S

E X C L U S I V E L Y

NUEVA ANDALUCIA BED 4, BATHS 4, PLOT 1,171 M2, BUILT 350 M2

VILLA ROMA 4.495.000€

W I T H

S O L V I L L A

LOS FLAMINGOS BED 4, BATHS 6+3, PLOT 2,108 M2, BUILT 1,002 M2

LOS FLAMINGOS 88 9.500.000€

BAHÍA DE MARBELLA BED 5, BATHS 5+2, PLOT 1,322 M2, BUILT 665 M2

VILLA SHIRO 7.500.000€

VILLA MISTRAL 4.750.000€

PUERTO BANUS BED 7, BATHS 7, PLOT 911 M2, BUILT 587 M2

LA QUINTA BED 6, BATHS 8, PLOT 2.471 M2, BUILT 948 M2

LEO 2 8.900.000€

B L V D . P R I N C I P E A L F O N S O VO N H O H E N L O H E , M A R B E L L A C L U B H OT E L , O F F I C E 1 0 , 2 9 6 0 2 M A R B E L L A , S PA I N

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Issue 269 – April 2022

STAFF

PUBLISHER & DIRECTOR IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com DIGITAL & CREATIVE DIRECTOR ANDREA BLACKWELL andrea@essentialmagazine.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR MARISA CUTILLAS marisa@essentialmagazine.com DESIGN & LAYOUT ANDREA BLACKWELL, INMA AURIOLES design@essentialmagazine.com

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Beachside - Marbesa Villa Verde Mare stands out in Marbesa as the finest and most stylish villa available ready to move in. This luxurious modern five-bedroom home is built to the highest quality and is stunningly decorated, with a constructed space of more than 580m2, with plenty of space on covered and uncovered

terraces. Impressive living-dining area of 100m2, exceptional 90m2 master suite including a beautiful bedroom, a large dressing room and a spectacular terrace overlooking the sea. 5 beds, 6 baths. Built 585 m², plot 867 m².

E&V ID: W-02O10B. Price: 2.850.000 €.

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Frontline Beach - Los Monteros One of the most unique beachfront villas in Spain. Villa 7 presents an exeptional architecture inspired by Zaha Hadid. Set in the most prestigious location offering the epitome of modern luxury living, this villa sets a completely different standard in the real state market of Marbella. With a fluid interior

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E&V ID: W-02JNBD. Price: 11.750.000 €.

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home [həʊm]n.

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D WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

AUSPICIOUS APRIL

O

n writing this, it is raining and it has been for a week, with lots more to come apparently. By the time this issue is released, however, it should all be over as will be our concerns on an impending water shortage. Instead, we can look forward to a spring full of green vitality and blooming flowers, and the summer’s tourism boom has been saved!

This month’s magazine is also full of exuberance, with features on Caribbean Cruising, Yacht Charters, Lakeside Living and Classic Motorcycles. Join us on a visit to vivacious Belfast and enjoy our exclusive oneon-one with Jared Leto.

22 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

Closer to home, we have our senses sated at gourmet paradise, Grace in Riviera, savour a visit to Boho Club Marbella, and see why Benalús is a buyer’s dream.

Elsewhere in this edition, check out the new Porsche Panamera, cool new décor trends, and some of the winners from this year’s Crufts Dog Show.

All the Best!

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48

“APRIL HATH PUT A SPIRIT OF YOUTH IN

EVERYTHING” 172

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

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214 110

Los Flamingos Golf This stunning modern villa, recently completed, is situated in the picturesque

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areas with countless unique details such as an internal patio in-and-out stone

Spectre boasts an exceptional architecture and beautiful views right across the

fireplaces, games room, SPA and gym. 5 beds, 6 baths. Built 890 m², plot 1.420 m².

sea and the coastline. The villa offers magnificient large bedrooms en-suite all

E&V ID: W-02KQED. Price: 4.200.000 €.

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La Zagaleta This extraordinary resort style villa is one of the most beautiful properties situated in the most exclusive country club in Europe. With a unique beautiful design, and breath-taking mountain and sea views, the property offers stylish living spaces, built to perfection with spectacular craftsmanship and the finest materials. The

villa boasts a fantastic lounge area divided into 3 ambiences: a bespoke kitchen, 6 ample en-suite bedrooms and a SPA level including a gym, indoor pool and sauna. Separate staff apartment. 6 beds, 7 baths. Built 1.836 m², plot 5.312 m².

E&V ID: W-02KZ50. Price: 10.800.000 €.

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e back to CONTENTS

spotlight

WITH MULTIPLE NEW SAFETY MEASURES, CRUISING IS BACK IN VOGUE. YOU CAN ALSO CHARTER A YACHT FOR A SAILING TRIP, FUN DAY OUT OR AN EVENT. CHECK OUT THE STYLISH NEW PORSCHE PANAMERA AND REMINISCE ABOUT CLASSIC BIKES. JARED LETO TALKS EXCLUSIVELY ABOUT HIS METHOD ACTING AND HIS PRIZED ROLES.

GO TO PAGE 32 FOR CARIBBEAN CRUISING

GO TO PAGE 76 FOR YACHT CHARTERS

GO TO PAGE 110 FOR THE NEW PANAMERA

GO TO PAGE 48 FOR BELFAST

CULTURE TRAVEL HISTORY PEOPLE MOTORING 32 Caribbean Cruising 48 A Big Year for Belfast 58 Belfast Artist Terry Bradley 66 Boho Club Marbella 76 Yacht Charters 88 Lakeside Living 96 Classic Motorbikes 110 The New Porsche Panamera 116 Jared Leto

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There are cruises and there are voyages. I prefer the latter, which suggests we are going somewhere, perhaps with a touch of the unknown.

WORDS DAVID WISHART PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SILVERSEA, SEADREAM & SEABOURN

CARIBBEAN

VOYAGE 32 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

T

hat we got on our last voyage before Covid, when halfway from Singapore to Sydney it appeared bushfires in Australia would cut short our trip. At one point it looked like our best bet was to disembark at Brisbane and catch another ship to New Zealand, but we did manage to get to Sydney for a shortened visit, then went to New Zealand on what turned out to be a wonderful voyage.

The following winter in

Marbella was heads down as Covid seemed to be everywhere and cruises were out of the question, but at least we had good weather.

Last year was more of the same, with the added scare of Omicron, but the cruise industry was desperate to lower the gangways and introduced strict measures to protect the health of passengers.

By the autumn we were

also itching to travel again, and when it became clear that Omicron, while more transmittable was a less dangerous variant, we decided to see how things were at sea.

But where to go? We had booked two cruises to circumnavigate Australia, both of which were cancelled. Not being UK-based we could not go there, but anyway who wants to sail around the British Isles in the winter? ›

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The best bet was the Caribbean, which we had visited but not in depth, affording scope for an extended visit taking several ships, and then there was Florida and my favourite beach resort Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, just cosy low rise buildings, a pier and a beachside restaurant where an old boys’ band plays rock’n’roll.

And so we boarded Silver Moon in Lisbon, a happy reunion with one of the very best lines, where that much overused word luxury is taken seriously. But first we had to show we were fully vaccinated (including the crew), then had antigen tests dockside.

Champagne in hand, we were

34 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

off to Florida in the wake of Columbus.

Our designated cabin was on 9 deck, a very comfortable space with a huge bed, generous lounge area, walk-in closet and a fine veranda, but we did not stick around to even open our bottle of LaurentPerrier Champagne. With just 400 passengers on board, Silver Moon was sure to have bigger suites available, and last minute upgrades normally go at a good discount.

And so we sailed into a Silver suite on 11 deck (having retrieved the Champagne) whose balcony was fabulous, sporting two loungers, dining table and a panoramic viewing platform for diving sea birds.

All Silversea cabins come with butlers, and our man had a special touch – cleaning our sunglasses every night and wrapping them in neat little cloths. He also took our temperatures in the morning; in fact we were forbidden to leave our suite until he had done just that. He aways wore a mask, and we did too.

Then still masked up, we could go for breakfast, which for me was always La Terrazza at the stern, allowing for inside or outside seating. Nothing, absolutely nothing, beats a table at the very back of the ship where below the sea is churned into the wake. ›

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1--7--

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So, table secured, to the buffet. But first we had to pass the hand cleansing machines, crafty gadgets that do the job before you are allowed to get at the grub.

By now it was clear that Silversea was also serious about safety, and totally reassured, we got on with the business of enjoying the voyage.

Very quickly we learned that Silversea is better than ever, starting with complimentary caviar when and where you want it. The selection of restaurants is superb, although we became regulars at the Atlantide and the little bar next door.

For lunch, and a casual dinner, the Pool Grill was hard to beat, while a fine evening option was Silver Note, which offered a tantalising blend of live music, offbeat food and romantic lighting in a small room.

36 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

I like small, so every morning I had coffee in the Arts Cafe, often sitting outside in comfortable chairs with a book and the view.

Here there were also attractive sandwiches for a light lunch, and attentive staff. And if like like pizza, this is your ship!

Silver Moon also had a SALT kitchen, a clever idea to present food of the region we are in, but there was not much scope for that on a crossing. However La Dame, the occasion for a dressy night out, was most enjoyable.

Reception came with a smile, particularly when the IT man showed he could fix any computer problem in a flash.

Then, after 13 days we were there. Columbus would have been impressed. We certainly were.

Dockside at Ft Lauderdale was buzzing. Many passengers were hopping on Silversea ships to other destinations, some leaving the same day for the south Atlantic, others the Indian Ocean.

We took a taxi to Miami airport, had a PCR test, and flew to Barbados. American Airlines was serving alcohol in business class but not in economy. No food either. No doubt it would blame Covid when it’s just a lousy airline.

Not much wrong with Barbados when you have a big wallet, certainly at high season. Figure a thousand bucks a night for a good hotel, which we had in the Fairmont, probably one of the best beach hangouts I have experienced. ›

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The restaurants are seriously overpriced. As we had been eating sumptuously we avoided the likes of Sandy Lane, Tides etc, and had several fun evenings at the Sea Cat, where the owner fishes every day and serves it fresh in a room that might have been built by Robinson Crusoe on Man Friday’s day off. Go here for grilled mahimahi with a hot Bajan sauce.

It was the next best thing to breakfast at the Fairmont, where every morning the French manager was talking to guests.

But after a week the

38 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

sea beckoned, as did an antigen test before boarding SeaDream 1. It’s an old ship without balconies, but has been beautifully remodelled, does great food, boasts a stern marina, has the ability to land passengers by rubber boats on beaches and it carries just 100 or so.

There are two ships, which cruise the Med in the summer and the Caribbean in the winter.

Sadly not all the islands were possible to visit, or if we could go ashore it had to be in a bubble as a paid excursion.

We did set foot on Bequia,

which I had enjoyed in the past, along with nearby small islands such as Union and Palm, and I’ll never forget happy days standing under a palm tree by a perfect beach, beer in hand and listening to a steel band.

The nearest we got to that was at Mayreau, where we had a beach party with caviar on a surfboard, but the music, alas, was recorded.

However, do not be unduly discouraged, things have changed and next winter should be back to normal. ›

ST R A N D E XC LU SIV E TH E GEM OF ALTOS D E PU E N T E R OM A N O, V ILLA PIC ASS O

T H E M O S T A M A Z I N G S E A V I E W S W I T H I N WA L K I N G D I S TA N C E T O T H E B E AC H A N D T O P U E N T E R O M A N O B E AC H R E S O R T 7 B E D · 6 B AT H · B U I LT 4 6 6 M 2 · R E F : # S T R A N D 5 6 8 8 · 3 , 2 0 0 , 0 0 0 € R E Q U E S T A B R O C H U R E V I A W H AT S A P P/ E M A I L + 3 4 6 5 9 5 5 6 0 5 5 I N F O @ S T R A N D. E S M O R E O F O U R E XC L U S I V E L I S T I N G S AT W W W. S T R A N D. E S

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We did get to St Barts, very French, very expensive, where lunch on a beach came with wines starting at 200 bucks a bottle. I’ve never seen so many people sipping wine by the glass.

But some did fork out $500 to go to Nikki Beach, others to Pearl Beach and Eden Rock. Regular SeaDream passengers are an interesting bunch. They’ve been on all the best ships but what makes them really happy is having all their meals on deck, the very sociable topside bar and a bed beside the funnel (with PJs provided) to sleep under the stars.

Mind you the Caribbean can be windy and rough. We had plenty of that and several nights we trooped down to the handsome dining room.

Service was excellent from a mainly South African crew.

Beware that the Caribbean is not far from the US, and attracts a party crowd quite different to what you’ll encounter in the Med. And shore visits are mostly about beaches.

Covid was taken seriously with several group antigen tests, as well as a gadget at reception for daily temperature checks.

We had another hotel break at the Radisson on the south coast. Resting on a fine beach, the Radisson has had a major renovation but unfortunately this is not revealed on dated social media posts.Suffice to say it is great value and close to Bridgetown. › 40 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

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Then back to sea, this time on Seabourn Odyssey, still looking as good as our inaugural cruise in 2009. Odyssey was Seabourn’s first new ship in 10 years, carries 460 passengers while newer vessels hold 600.

This design was the first with Seabourn Square, which cleverly combines reception, library, coffee bar and shops in an appealing stern

42 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

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location. Here we negotiated a penthouse suite on 9 deck.

The cruise started well with fewer bubbles and a beach party on Carambola beach, with caviar and Champagne of course. But on the evening of our return to Bridgetown, 10 passengers in hazmat suits were seen leaving the ship.

Next day the chat in the square picked up on this, but

unsurprisingly there was little concern. We had been hearing Covid outbreaks were still happening on other ships, but passengers were not getting seriously ill and were isolating rather than cruises being cancelled.

Getting ashore was not always possible as some islands were off limits, such as St Barts this time, and Philipsburg on St Martin was closed for cruise lines. No problem for the Odyssey, which simply sailed to Marigot on the French side, and docked there.

One enterprising couple rented a car in Marigot and drove to the Dutch side, while others complained it was sometimes a long walk from the dock into the port with no shuttles provided.

Meanwhile the wind continued to blow, and terns entertained us with spectacular dives on to the white caps to catch flying fish. For us there was afternoon tea beautifully served in the Observation lounge, caviar anywhere, and living as good as it gets on any cruise ship.

Next up was meant to be the new Rotterdam out of Ft Lauderdale, followed by a voyage back to Lisbon on the Regent Mariner, but the latter cruise had just been cancelled, prompting a rethink. It was time to go home.

At press time the cruise industry was in pretty good shape. America’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has backed off from earlier warnings not to cruise; most ships are now at sea with protocols superior to land-based facilities such as theme parks, hotels - and supermarkets, as the cruise industry has been saying for a long time.

Shoreside, however, people continue to get infected from Covid, so it’s best to take care by avoiding areas with high casualty rates, and ships not given the best safety ratings.

Start with a cruise specialist travel agent, and good luck! e

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PRICE GUIDE €9,995.000 Tel 952 856 844 Mo 672 050 503. info@casa-cascada-zagaleta.com

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NOT BRANAGH’S

BELFAST

As wee drams of whiskey with an ‘e’ are raised Ulster-wide to Sir Kenneth’s Belfast the movie, up for seven Oscars at the time of going to press, explores the shiny Titanic city that grew up around the troubled streets of the director’s childhood.

B

elfast cab drivers didn’t used to get much call for Mountcollyer Street, a hotspot for sectarian violence during 30 years of ‘Troubles’. Half its row of terraced houses have been demnolished and weeds sprout from cracks in the pavement. But since the release of Branagh’s nostalgic homage to his native city, seen through the eyes of his nine-yearold self, tourists have been flocking to the derelict plot at number 96 where he grew up and the local

cinema that inspired his film career, now a Tesco superstore.

Set in 1969 at the outbreak of The Troubles, the movie has been hailed ‘a tourism-boosting Valentine’s card to Belfast’ with its focus on neighbourly Protestants and Catholics, stoic Irish humour and the bright side of the road, with many nods to Van Morrison.

The city has changed so much since then that the movie was mostly filmed on a reconstructed set at Farnborough Airport in Hampshire.

Branagh on the Belfast set in Hampshire 48 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

The Titanic Quarter has transformed Belfast

A Valentine’s Card to Belfast

Colour drone footage at the start of Branagh’s blackand-white film shows the extent of that renaissance, swooping over the modern metropolis on the River Lagan with its iconic yellow dockyard cranes, Samson and Goliath, and silver shipshaped Titanic museum, symbols of old and new

Belfast. Harland & Wolff shipyards where the doomed superliner was built once employed a workforce of 36,000. The cranes are part-timers these days and the old drawing offices and slipways lie under a fathom of concrete in the Titanic Quarter – one of the largest docklands regeneration

projects in Europe that has transformed Belfast’s skyline and its fortunes.

As well as a museum that punches the tickets of over 800,000 visitors a year, the Ulster version of Canary Wharf has given the city a new marina, a Maritime Mile of swanky waterfront hotels, shops and riverside restaurants; the 10,000-seater SSE Arena concert hall, shared by the Belfast Giants ice hockey team; and a film studios that went on to produce all eight series of Game of Thrones.

The HBO blockbuster is still the reason one in six overseas visitors choose Northern Ireland. ›

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Botanic Gardens of delight

In its heyday, the North was better known for linen and Belfast was the world’s biggest producer, nicknamed Linenopolis. Thankfully, there are architectural reminders of those glory days all over this astonishingly elegant postindustrial city: the neo-Baroque City Hall, built in 1888 when Queen Victoria awarded Belfast city status; the art deco Palm

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House conservatory at the Botanic Gardens, its grounds a venue for summer rock concerts; the Grand Opera House, where everyone from Laurel and Hardy to Laurence Olivier and Branagh have topped the bill; Stormont Parliament Buildings, an impossibly extravagant White House lookalike with Grecian columns and manicured green lawns

where you can picnic, jog and take afternoon tea; even the old red brick linen warehouses have survived as trendy galleries and restaurants in a reimagined Linen District.

What never changes is the warm Ulster welcome where all wee drams are large ones, encapsulated in Northern Ireland’s tourism slogan, Embrace the Giant Spirit.

With a newly-minted Game of Thrones attraction and a Titanic anniversary to celebrate in 2022, on top of a few Oscars, Belfast could make you tipsy this year! ›

Iconic skyline

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NUEVA ANDALUCIA Ref. VM11650 Modern villa, with 4 bedrooms, lots of light, facing south-west, sea views, large living room, dining room, open-plan kitchen, lift, underfloor heating, top quality, garage. Price: €3.995.000

NUEVA ANDALUCIA Ref. VM12065 Large villa in a superb location within a gated community with security guard and within walking distance to Puerto Banus and the beach. Six bedrooms, study, games room, garage for 3 cars.

Price: €2.350.000

NUEVA ANDALUCIA Ref. VM12159 Contemporary style villa facing west in a gated community with security and within walking distance of restaurants and amenities. Five bedrooms, open plan kitchen and living room, and a large roof terrace.

Price: €2.750.000

LOS NARANJOS Ref. VM11844 Lovely semidetached villa frontline on Los Naranjos Golf course. Small community of only four villas sharing a pool. Five bedrooms and beautiful views.

Price: €1.095.000

NUEVA ANDALUCIA Ref. VM11673 West facing apartment in top quality gated community, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, WC, large terrace, 24-hour security, clubhouse with heated pool, gym and spa, garage and store-room.

Price: €450.000

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Van’s The Man

Black cab Troubles Tours

THE TROUBLES

BY TAXI

Belfast is still a city divided by barricades, which takes newcomers aback.

The ‘peace walls’ were put up at the start of The Troubles to separate Catholic/Republican and Protestant/Unionist trouble zones but they’ve multiplied in number since 1998’s Good Friday Agreement.

Embellished with murals and messages of peace signed by Bill Clinton and the Dalai Lama, they snake for 30 kilometres through north and west Belfast in the world’s longest outdoor art gallery.

Most arresting are the propaganda murals along the infamous Falls and

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Shankhill Roads, some of them 1969 originals, depicting balaclava-wearing gun-toting paramilitaries and political heroes of the time. One scene in the film features the artwork.

The government would like to do away with the peace walls but black cab ‘Troubles Tours’ around the murals, led by driver-guides who are comedians as well as eye-witness historians, have become unmissable.

In the film, look out for a striking ‘mural’ of Sailortown dockworkers, painted by Belfast artist Terry Bradley whom we profile in this month’s edition. His vibrant art is collected by the likes of Madonna, Bono, Michael Flatley and Ronan Keating.

For Branagh there was only one musician evocative of the Belfast of his youth: Van Morrison. He’s all over the soundtrack which features eight classics and Oscarnominated Down to Joy, written for the film.

Sir George Ivan Morrison OBE left Belfast for Europe and America long before The Troubles and was charting with Brown Eyed Girl two years before the movie is set.

But he immortalised the city in his songs, growing up On Hyndford Street, a skip from Ian Paisley’s Cyprus Avenue and a couple of blocks from Branagh himself.

“He was already a legend back then,” says the director. “His hometown is in his work and to have his music in a film called Belfast seemed like a magical alliance and a real gift to this movie.”

Mural honouring Van Morrison and other local heroes

GoT-to-Visit It may be game over for the epic HBO series but the fantasy lives on! The world’s first Game of Thrones Studio Tour opened this spring at Linen Mill Studios, just outside Belfast, where epic scenes from the series were filmed. The interactive journey through the Seven Kingdoms brings visitors face to face with White Walkers and fire-breathing dragons on a trail that winds from Winterfell in the frozen north via Kings Landing, Dorne and Dragonstone to the iconic Throne Room.

The sets feature many of the original costumes, props and prosthetics and share the secrets of the incredible visual effects used to bring the show from script to screen. ›

Dunluce Castle/House of Greyjoy - one of 25 GoT locations

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Northern Ireland also boasts 25 outdoor GoT locations, all doable on a daytrip from Belfast.

The top tour takes in The Stormlands, The Dark Hedges and the country’s only Unesco World Heritage Site, Giant’s Causeway, reached along the breathtaking Antrim coast.

Round off the binge experience back in town on the Glass of Thrones Trail – six giant, stained glass windows along the Maritime Mile depicting iconic scenes from the series.

Game on for the GoT Studio Tour

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Glass of Thrones Trail

Titanic Belfast is a giant success

and Goliath. Sunday Afternoon Tea in the Titanic Suite beside a replica of the liner’s Grand Staircase is the icing on the cake.

A TITANIC ANNIVERSARY It’s 110 years this month since the ‘unsinkable’ liner went down on her maiden voyage. And 10 years since the first visitors stepped aboard Titanic Belfast to virtually relive the worst cruise ship disaster in history.

Clad in 3,000 silver aluminium shards to emulate the bows of a ship slicing through frozen seas, the building looms 38 metres above the River Lagan, the same height as Titanic’s hull. It took three years to build, the same time as the ship. The locals call it The Iceberg and until you’ve taken a deep dive into its nine immersive galleries, you’ve only seen the tip.

Don’t miss the ‘wee tram’ ride to the dry dock to meet Samson

PUB CULTURE “The Irish were born for leaving – otherwise the rest of the world would have no pubs.” Quote from Belfast the movie.

Going to the pub is practically a religion in Belfast and The Crown Liquor Saloon is its oldest temple, complete with stained glass windows. This Victorian National Trust treasure has resisted all renovation so you can put up your pins on the heated footstools and sup your Guinness and Bushmills by gas light. Or make that a Yardsman Ale and a Jawbox Gin – the produce of Belfast’s burgeoning craft beer and spirits scene.

The Cathedral Quarter abounds with quaint pubs

and cobblestones or, for the complete harps, fiddles and flutes experience, Fibber Magee on Victoria Street is one of several grand haunts for a hooley. Belfast is 2022’s Unesco City of Music. Check out its rock ‘n’ roll history at The Oh Yeah Music Centre where top local bands rehearse.

THE ULSTER FRY This traditional carb-packed start to the day could explain why the portable defibrillator was invented in Belfast! Think a Big Breakfast with the addition of soda farls, potato bread and black and white pudding. All fried in lard.

For more refined fare, Belfast has three Michelin-starred establishments and a waterfront heaving with fresh fish restaurants serving up Belfast Lough oysters and lobster hot dogs. ›

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The Balls on the Falls

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Aslan the lion in C.S. Lewis Square

Craic-ing Statues Irish humour is in your face as soon as you enter the city where two giant spherical objects dubbed the Balls on the Falls have been welcoming visitors since 2011. Visible for miles above the M1 West, close to the Falls Road, Rise is Belfast’s largest public artwork symbolising the rising sun and hope for the future. And don’t the locals love to take the rise out of The Testes on the Westes, as they also call it… or The Westicles for short. But the craic doesn’t end there: Z Nuala with the Hula in Thanksgiving Square is a 20-metre statue of a girl on a globe holding a hoop aloft. More properly known as The Beacon of Hope, that’s the Ring of Thanksgiving she’s holding.

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Z The Leaning Tower of Ulster is Belfast’s wonky version of Big Ben. The Albert Memorial Clock is subsiding into its marshy foundations and tilted at a rakish four feet off the perpendicular.

Z The puzzling statue of a man walking into a wardrobe outside the Holywood Arches Library is C.S. Lewis, Belfast-born author of The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe. Bronze statues of the lion, the witch and other Narnia characters are just down the road in C.S. Lewis Square.

Z If you should encounter a 10-metre ceramic salmon on the Lagan quayside that’s Big Fish, put there to welcome the return of the species to the river in 1999. Aka The Salmon of Knowledge, each scale tells a story about Belfast. e

Fish out of water

C.S. Lewis and wardrobe

Nuala with the Hula

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Irish artist Terry Bradley is making a name for himself, as he breaks through conventional stereotypes and brings his dramatic art to the eyes of art lovers across the world. Although he is already well known throughout Ireland, his work has now reached a new global audience in the form of his distinctive dockland piece which features in the recently launched Belfast movie from Kenneth Branagh, starring Jamie Dornan. Terry’s art bridges the gap between past and present in the opening credits and draws the viewer into the world of 1960’s Belfast.

Bradley’s own childhood growing up around the same streets that the movie is set in makes the piece even more significant.

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TERRY BRADLEY A

longside Bradley’s Belfast docker paintings, his work takes inspiration from the glamorously feminine models of the Dublin fashion scene and his images of strong, independent women from fashionable European cities during La Belle Epoque have a distinctive style and resonate with today’s modern women.

His solo art exhibitions from the early 2000’s developed into a series of pop-up

galleries across Ireland, New York and Marbella and has now evolved into permanent galleries of his own in both Belfast and in Bangor, Northern Ireland.

Over the years Terry has collaborated with brands such as Nokia and Harley Davidson on projects set to redefine the interpretation of what an artist could be.

Bradley’s unconventional rise in the art world sets him apart, allowing him to

use his artwork to reach out to people and connect on a very personal level. He is known the world over for his stylised canvases and original artwork, with his Dead Rabbit commissioned painting hanging in ‘The World’s Best Bar’ the Dead Rabbit in New York. His work has been snapped up by collectors as far afield as Australia and the US and hangs on the walls of the European Union’s Brussels office. ›

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Jamie Dornan in The Dead Rabbit in New York

Terry’s creative mind reaches even further than his artwork and fuels his desire to create new branches of his business.

He has recently ventured into a joint project with his wife Ashley to produce bespoke furniture pieces as Bradley’s most popular artwork is recreated on armchairs, cushions, and tables.

This range of dramatic statement pieces and visions recreated in velvet has added a whole new audience to Terry’s artwork, and his creations are quickly adorning homes across Europe.

Bradley now spends a lot of his time in and around Marbella.

He has found that the relaxed

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atmosphere, beautiful climate, and distinctive light bring out the best in his painting and he has made a semi-permanent base for himself and his family here. Terry and his wife now divide their time between Ireland and Andalucian Spain and have found the perfect balance between work and relaxation. Alongside his art, Terry has long been open about his own mental health struggles and how he uses artwork as a form of therapy. He considers his time in Spain as a release for him both emotionally and creatively and has plans for a Spanish exhibition of his work later in the year. e

g For more information on Terry Bradley and his art visit www.terrybradley.com or email info@ terrybradley.com or follow him on Instagram @terrybradleyart for his latest work and updates.

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BOHO CLUB A PLACE WHERE RELAXATION, ART AND GASTRONOMY UNITE Boho chic design, fashion, and living may be the buzzword in the lifestyle factor but the essence of this concept – the celebration of the beauty of the human-nature connection, has been at the core of the Boho Club concept since its launch in 2019.

This luxury resort, ensconced in the heart of Marbella’s Golden Mile, and recently regaled as the Best Luxury Boutique Hotel at the Spain Luxury Hotel Awards, was once a Swedish forestry centre with enviable views over La Concha Mountain.

Today, it retains various green areas in which to disconnect from life’s stressors and discover the essence of calm. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BOHO CLUB

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THE BEAUTY OF BOHO It’s all about exclusivity and personalisation at this retreat, which is home to 30 eclectically designed rooms surrounded by carefully manicured gardens and breezy palm trees. Boho Club is anything but static. The design invites you to walk through the gardens and take in the majestic views or stop for a dip at the pools. In the summer, make it a point to enjoy the beautiful Boho Picnic experience, which

would have to be the ultimate Instagram-worthy outdoor feast. A low wooden table is set over a natural fibre rug graced with comfy cushions and macrame lamp shades hanging overhead. The table is a veritable flower festival, with vintage-style roses in colours like pale pink and peach adding wild appeal. In many ways, spots like this are symbolic of what makes Boho Club different to any hotel you might have experienced before. It’s all about bringing vibrancy, movement, and nature to the spaces guests inhabit, so they feel chilled out while simultaneously enjoying an unparalleled pampering experience.

RESTING AND RELAXING Despite the fact that the resort is intimate and exclusive, there is a good selection of accommodation types to choose from. There are 20 rooms (Boho Garden and Boho

Superior), a Boho Suite, and nine bungalow suites. Guests can spend their time taking a dip in two swimming pools or try the fare and beverages at Boho Restaurant, Bernie’s (a small restaurant by the pool) and the Boho Bar (featuring artisan made cocktails), with an open terrace that looks out to the verdant garden.

BOHO RESTAURANT: A FEAST FOR THE SENSES The interior design of Boho Restaurant is one to be experienced in person.

Entrusted to Swedish hospitality design experts, Stylt, it is packed with personality and well-suited contrasts.

Bamboo meets velvet, rustic tiles are married to golden mosaics and metallics and soft natural fabrics meld to create a sophisticated yet inviting space that is fast becoming the top choice for clients with an eye for eclectic interior design. › WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM / 67

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DIEGO DEL RÍO: A MARBELLA CULINARY STALWART WHOSE HEART BEATS FOR FINE FOOD The creative visionary behind Boho Restaurant is Diego del Río, a well-known name on the national and regional gastronomic scene. Born in Málaga and trained at Le Cordon Bleu, he crafts visually stunning dishes made with techniques honed at great Parisian restaurants.

A frequent traveller, Diego enjoys combining international recipes with local ingredients for a very original take on traditional favourites. Many first came across this passionate Chef when he was heading El Lago, another Marbella restaurant for which he obtained a Michelin star.

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honest dishes that reveal a clear commitment to quality produce.

Having enjoyed Diego’s dishes many times, I can only say that the word his cuisine conjures up is “Wow!” His is a world of artistically presented, well-balanced delights such as his anglerfish arrabbiata with basil and citrus cream, or a melt-in-the-mouth roast pork with nectarine, yogurt, and mole poblano. For dessert, the lemon pie, comprising lemon-lime cream, toasted meringue, peanuts, and a mint sorbet, is a refreshing end to a meal fit for a Queen or King.

The restaurant is home to over 1,000 national and foreign wines and has its own Boho Club cuveé, courtesy of the Jorge Ordoñez winery. ›

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ART IS LIFE The Boho Restaurant also has an impressive collection of artworks, the result of an agreement with Fabien Fryns Fine Art Ltd. Highly coveted works of art by creators the calibre of Henry Hudson, Claire Tabouret, David LaChapelle, Lawrence Schiller, and Lin Zhipeng capture one’s eye instantly with their vivid hues and appealing subjects.

The works are fittingly surrounded by designer chandeliers, decorative pieces, and Italian furniture. It’s almost as though you have walked into a luxury home and are viewing a collector’s most valuable pieces. e g CN340, km 176, Urb. Lomas de Río Verde 144, Marbella. Tel: 952 157 221.

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PRIVATE YACHT CHARTERS WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PRINCESS CHARTER, MARBELLA YACHT CHARTERS, AND MARBELLA BOAT CHARTER

THE ULTIMATE BESPOKE VACATION AT SEA 76 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

As is the case for various sectors in the tourism industry, the luxury yacht charter industry was heavily impacted by the pandemic, with many families and groups of friends forced to postpone ‘the voyage of a lifetime’ in 2020 and part of 2021.

The good news for those who enjoy nothing more than an exclusive experience aboard a beautiful yacht where gourmet cuisine, award-winning wines, and an array of fun aquatic and sightseeing opportunities abound, is that it’s full speed ahead for international and local Marbella charters alike. The industry is actually predicted to grow exponentially over the next few years, with Mordor Intelligence’s Yacht Charter Market (2022-2027) Report finding that the market is projected to reach a value of USD $26.5 billion by 2027. This can be attributed to factors such as the surge in private wealth and the pandemic itself, which fueled an explosive growth in yacht sales.

TOP TRENDS IN THE SECTOR According to Luxury Travel, some of the top trends in yachting include the popularity of larger yachts, chartered by multigenerational families. Many people have been apart from loved ones for two years or longer, so ‘togetherness’ and making up for lost time are high up on vacationers’ lists of priorities. Larger yachts also means a larger crew-to-guest ratio, so guests can enjoy a pampering experience from start to finish. › Princess Yacht Charter’s Free Soul

A relaxing spot on Princess Yacht Charter’s Free Soul

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WELLNESS EXPERIENCES AT SEA It’s been a stressful couple of years, so travellers are seeking to soothe their body, mind, and soul by chilling out in yachts with wellness features such as Jacuzzis, gyms, spas, and outdoor areas for yoga and other mindfulness activities.

SEA TOYS ABOUND Your itinerary may include stops at desirable cities, luxury shopping trips, and cultural and gastronomic experiences, but ask any serious yachtie and they will tell you that the activity

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that guests arguably enjoy the most is playing in the water with a range of toys such as water slides, jet skis, stand up paddleboards, jet packs, and more. Visits to dreamlike spots for snorkeling and deep sea diving are also in demand from those who value life beneath the water even more than the dramatic landscapes that emerge from it.

STAYING CONNECTED Guests who book a luxury yacht for longer than a week often need to check emails or answer an occasional work communication. Thankfully, WiFi has become a standard feature on all superyachts, so you can also stream an occasional movie or series if you still have energy left after a hectic day on the water or sightseeing! ›

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back to CONTENTS Princess Yacht Charter beckons you to see Campania, Amalfi Coast

Princess Yacht Charter’s Lemon Not Lime

PRINCESS YACHT CHARTER: CRUISING THE WORLD WITH AN IMPECCABLE PEDIGREE Princess Yacht Charter is a division of Argo Nautical Limited, which has a worldclass heritage that dates back over 50 years. The company, which is based in Mayfair, London, has additional offices in Spain and the Balearics, the Channel Islands, Portugal, Turkey, North Germany and Switzerland. It offers charters to some of the world’s most beautiful spots, including: Z The East Mediterranean (Turkey, Montenegro, Greece, and Croatia)

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Z The West Mediterranean (French Riviera, Italian Riviera, Southern Italy including the Amalfi Coast, Sardinia and Corsica, the Balearic Islands) Z Northern Europe (The UK, and Norway) Z The Caribbean and Bahamas (Leeward Islands, the Bahamas, Windward Islands, British Virgin Islands, and the US Virgin Islands) Z The Indian Ocean and Asia (Indonesia, Seychelles, Thailand, Malaysia, Maldives) Z The South Pacific (Australia and The Great Barrier Reef, French Polynesia, Fiji)

Enjoying Camp de Mar, Mallorca, with Princess Yacht Charter

Comfort abounds at Princess Yacht Charter’s Free Soul

The company offers a vast collection of charter yachts comprising Princess branded luxury motor yachts and other branded superyachts which are booked for any duration over seven days. I recently spoke to Rita Luskovic, Head of Charter at Princess Yacht Charter, who told me that although yachts can range in size from between 20 to 80 metres (some are considerably larger), “the highest demand is for those ranging from 30 to 40 metres in size.”

As is expected of a senior executive, Rita is constantly busy with calls from clients wishing to find a charter that suits their unique needs. She tells me that charters dropped to a 50 per cent level in 2020 and although

some primary guests were braver in 2021, it is in 2022 that the industry is truly making a comeback. “Currently, there is such a big demand that there’s an actual problem with supply,” she says, noting that there is a particularly strong interest in charters in Croatia and Greece.

“Last year, these countries had consistent, favourable rules regarding COVID, while other countries (for instance, Spain, France, and Italy) frequently changed their regulations.”

When I ask Rita what other destinations are trending, she answers, “The French Riviera is the epitome of yachting; it is always popular. The Amalfi Coast, Corsica, and Sardinia are also in strong demand.” She tells me that the company’s biggest client base comprises families, which is very much in line with world trends. “I booked two 65-metre yachts for families this summer. Friends vacations are also popular, as are girls’

holidays.”

Clients discuss their chosen itineraries with experienced staff and they are subsequently sent a preference form, where they can indicate everything from food intolerances to chosen wines, water toys, and activities. “Larger vessels come with a Chef, who is used to preparing a wide array of international dishes.”

The team can also book meals at selected restaurants on land, organise days on the beach, and keep guests busy with a host of water toys. “After a day out on the water, guests come back hungry and they really enjoy savouring fresh, delicious food. Nothing like being out at sea makes you feel more alive. Your sense of taste, touch, smell, hearing, and sight are all stimulated in the water!”

Indeed, avid sailors say that the sensation of moving away from land into the blue provides one with a sense of elation, freedom, and deep connection with nature that is hard to surpass. › WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM / 81

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Cala Agulla and Cala Ratjada in Mallorca with Princess Yacht Charter

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Aboard Princess Yacht Charter’s Free Soul

Princess Yacht Charter has a host of impressive itineraries, many of which made me feel like making an immediate booking for the holiday of my dreams. Some last a week while others are for 14 days (or longer, as required). Take the seven-day Amalfi Coast itinerary, which goes through the stunning hillside village of Positano, the intriguing volcanic island of Ischia, the turquoise waters of Ponza (Sofia Loren’s favourite destination), the uninhabited island of Zannone (with a majestic landscape

The interior galley of Princess Yacht Charter’s Lemon Not Lime

and pristine waters, as well as the ruins of a 13th-century convent), the breathtaking island of Capri, and the archaeological site of Pompeii, overlooked by the active volcano, Mount Vesuvius.

During your charter, you can enjoy nature and catch local attractions, visit shops and restaurants, and immerse yourself in vastly different cultural experiences. In famed jetsetters’ islands like Ibiza, you can also enjoy a night out on the town or visit popular restaurants.

Rita says that “one of the things guests enjoy the most is visiting completely isolated beaches that can only be accessed by boat.” Indeed, when you charter a luxury yacht and complete an itinerary of this calibre, it is very much as though the wonders of nature are your own; that you are part of the eternal beauty and vastness of some of the most beautiful seas and landscapes you will encounter in a lifetime. i www.princessyachtcharter.com

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Togetherness is everything for the team at Marbella Yacht Charters

An amazing view aboard a Marbella Yacht Charters catamaran

MARBELLA YACHT CHARTERS: ADVENTURES AT SEA Marbella itself has many charter opportunities for groups and families and friends. One of the best-known is Marbella Yacht Charters, founded by three friends (hailing from the UK, France, and Belgium, respectively). The company is part of the larger Grupo La Familia, which also offers Rangers Safari Tours (featuring buggy safaris, 4x4 excursions, eco-tours, and more).

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(a stunning restaurant, bar, and event space with its own waterfall). One of the company’s founding members, Peter Ashworth, tells me, “When the pandemic hit, our yacht charter services were put on hold and we decided to take a 4x4 trip out one day to make ourselves feel better. We had heard about a waterfall in Marbella and we discovered that it was part of Cascada.

We found out the restaurant was for sale and decided to purchase it. Cascada now plays a role in our charters as well, since guests sometimes book the restaurant for a meal

as well. If clients wish, we can also prepare their meal at the restaurant and take it back to the boat.”

Peter himself is an avid sailor: “I have been sailing since I was six years old.

I’ve spent all my life on the water.” He knows well that few sensations can compete with being in a yacht as the sails catch the wind, it begins to gain speed, and the breeze makes its presence felt. His company has over 30 years’ experience on the water and is testimony to its owners’ passion for life at sea. ›

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Marbella Yacht Charters offers both sailing and motorboat experiences, though Peter says, “We are predominantly sailing focused since this type of boating is eco-friendly.” One of the stars of the company’s fleet is the sailing yacht Beneteau Oceanis, measuring approximately 12.8 metres. It has three cabins, a spacious salon, and two bathrooms. It can be chartered for three, four, or six hours, with prices starting at a very reasonable €430. Some charters are booked by groups or families. Others are mixed charters comprising couples who are keen to make new friends while enjoying a day out at sea. All charters include a skipper and stewards, tapas and drinks, and toys like stand-up paddle boards and snorkels. i www.marbella-yacht-charters.com

A beautiful sunset with Marbella Yacht Charters

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MARBELLA BOAT CHARTER: DEMYSTIFYING THE YACHTING EXPERIENCE For Alberto Estebánez, founder of Marbella Boat Charter, it’s time to break with the myth that luxury yacht charters are an unaffordable experience for all but a chosen few.

After all, even though a week out at sea can cost you anywhere from around €10.000 per week to over €100.000 for a large 40m luxury craft, these vessels can host between eight to 12 guests, making the experience more affordable than one may think. Indeed, some luxury sailing boats (take the Beneteau Oceanis or the Grand Soleil) cost just €3.400 and €2.600 per week to charter, respectively, with prices varying slightly according to the season.

Alberto is keen on bringing the magic of sailing to people who may not know how unique it can be. “I used to be a Captain of a boat in Puerto Banús but I was stuck at the port most of the time.

I wanted to sail so I decided to launch my own charter company. My idea was to share my chartering experience (which spanned five continents) with my clients. My business started out with small boats but now we offer charters of all sizes. My obsession is for our guests to have a great time at sea.”

As is the case with other charter companies, Marbella Boat Charter is currently enjoying a high demand for its services. “The period from June to September is our most popular, with July and August being our peak

months.” Alberto tells me that the charters frequently make their way to popular spots such as luxury beach clubs, with some guests choosing to go port hopping from Málaga to Sotogrande. “Guests enjoy seeing iconic sites on the Coast, including Puerto Banús and the Golden Mile with La Concha mountain in the background.

We also head to spots where they can enjoy a swim or take part in activities such as snorkeling and paddle surfing, or look for dolphins, which we find 65 or 70 per cent of the time. Sometimes they are pretty

close – just 200 meters or so from the shore although they normally remain at a distance from the Coast and can be found around three or four nautical miles from the shore.

Dolphins can be very playful, following the wake and bobbing in and out of the water.”

Marbella Boat Charter offers fun days out (ranging from one to eight hours), as well as longer charters. If you are celebrating a special party, for instance, you can charter a yacht like the 15-metre Fairline Targa 48 for four hours. The charter includes snacks, drinks,

and crew service at a price of €1.600-€1.800 (or €900-€1100, depending on the season). The company also offers bespoke experiences such as a visit to Morocco, a tour of Gibraltar, stag and hen parties, day motor sailing, and more. Additional destinations include Portugal and Sevilla. One particularly interesting activity is the Four Countries Tour, which spans Marbella, Gibraltar, Morocco, and Portugal. i www.marbellaboatcharter.com

Sailing in the midst of dolphins with Marbella Boat Charter

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LIVING LA VIDA

LAGO

Last September marked a decade since I departed the madding and frequently maddening crowds of Marbella and headed to the hills.

At the time a new, ahem, ‘lifestyle change’ had left me pondering the wisdom of living in Nueva Andalucía – a place where it is perfectly acceptable to go on a three-day quest in search of the perfect breakfast Burgundy. Trust me on this one. When a friend told me that they knew of a cottage on the banks of the reservoir on the Istán road, I leapt at the chance. Reached by a track down the side of the steep valley, the Casita del Lago sits in splendid isolation, with my nearest neighbour a kilometre away, and only accessed by kayak. Not only that, but the Casita was off grid, powered by a generator and taking its water from a large water deposit tank. I didn’t hesitate.

WORDS GILES BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

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H

ere, I thought to myself, was the place that I could finally write that novel. As the saying goes, ‘Everyone has a book inside them’, and even if mine was more of a cynical graphic novel, I had visions of myself hammering away at the laptop while sitting on the terrace.

Ten years later and I have yet to get past the first page.

Rather than being the tranquil idyll that I envisioned, living at the Casita has kept me busier than my previous apartment in La Campana.

The fun began on my first night.

Being away from the coast meant very little light or noise pollution.

Which meant that the sound of a

frog croaking a mile away sounds as if it is in the kitchen. As dusk fell, I was suddenly aware of all manner of sounds and had no idea what was making them. A heron flying overhead in the darkness let out a loud “Arrrk” that had me scurrying indoors. If you didn’t know, a fox’s bark can sound remarkably like a baby crying, while wild boar merrily crashed through the nearby undergrowth. Most terrifying of all, though, were the mountain goats, who make their way gingerly down the impossible cliff face on the opposite bank to drink. On the way they sometimes dislodge rocks that splash in the water below. ›

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D SPOTLIGHT nature

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I, of course, did not know that and my vivid imagination screamed at me that ‘Lake Thing’ was coming to get me.

Extremely unnerved, I decided that the best thing that I could do was make dinner, shooting furtive glances through the French Windows.

As I was halfway through chopping onions, the dog from the finca at the top of the track, obviously deciding to trot down and check out who the new neighbour was, suddenly appeared out of the gloom.

I screamed, he howled, and I almost cut my finger off.

Then there was the effect that the Casita had on my romantic life. I had visions of long legged

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lovelies lazing on the boats (they came with the house, but more about them later). Kev, my best mate and stalwart photographer for this fine publication soon dispelled me of this notion. “You really think that any woman is going to want to come to a house on its own by a lake, miles from anyone?” he asked. “It looks like the sort of place that a serial killer lives in!”

This theory was put to the test shortly afterwards when I found myself in the fortunate position of driving a rather beautiful woman to mine after she had batted her eyelashes at me and asked if she could stay the night. As we drove up the winding Istán road, however, I noticed that she

became a little less chatty, and as I turned off onto the track, she fell completely silent.

Then we came to a bend where the track opens up and she looked down, so see the Casita several hundred feet below, totally isolated with a wood on one side and a lake on the other.

She turned back to me and remarked, “You know, I don’t really know you that well, do I?” Trying to make a joke of the situation, I replied, “That’s what all the others said,” and grinned.

Bad move. That night she may have set the ‘100m sprint while dialling a taxi’ record for Andalucía as she leapt out. ›

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Living in a remote location does not mean that I am alone, however.

Although the track is notoriously tough on vehicles, (I have gone through four in ten years and it even causes problems for my current ride, an ‘indestructible’ Toyota Landcruiser), it is officially a public access road. This means that I often find people milling around on the water’s edge. Some come for the views, some for the fishing – mainly Russians who drink heroic quantities of vodka before passing out – and others looking for the chapel, after I mischievously marked my house as a place of worship on Google Maps…

Sunday afternoons are normally the worst as the domingueros decide to take in a little bit of nature after lunch. Although the shrieks of over excited children leaping in the lake or the thumping beat of reggaeton from

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the car stereos are bad enough, one family beat them all. They decided that nothing would complement the peace and tranquillity of nature more than a mobile karaoke machine, which their five-year-old then sang along to Despacito. Badly and only knowing one verse. All afternoon.

For the above reason Sunday is normally the day that I will take a kayak or one of the boats out. I say one of the boats as, since the original wooden jetty is no more, they have a tendency to drift away as the water level rises.

During lockdown both boats, plus the Town Hall’s plastic jetty sailed serenely across the lake. The little flotilla made its way across the reservoir towards the dam, providing a source of amusement for my bored friends gazing out of their windows further downstream. One even flew a drone overhead and put together a short video with Rod Stewart’s Sailing as a backing track. Unfortunately

one of them never made it back, so I can only assume that it was ‘lost at lake’, so to speak.

But it isn’t entirely all peaceful when I am out on the water. The fire planes also use the reservoir when they are tackling blazes in the campo. I have to take my baseball cap off to their incredible skills, and they are thoughtful enough to fly over once to allow me to get out of the way before they scoop up water. The way 2022 has been going thus far, it would be the cherry on the icing on the cake for me to be collected by one in a hurry and then dropped from 500 feet over a raging inferno! e

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THE UNIQUE ALLURE OF

CLASSIC BIKES For decades it seemed the bike world was the domain of fast Japanese machines with the occasional exception of BMWs and Aprilias, but then came a revival of classicallyinspired bike manufacturers – and with it a new blend of retro charm that has revived some of the most legendary names in the industry. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DUCATI, TRIUMPH, BRIXTON MOTORCYCLES, HARLEY DAVIDSON, INDIAN MOTORCYCLE AND SHUTTERSTOCK

A classic Bonneville harking back to 1970s and 1980s Triumphs

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F

rom the earliest, rather clumsy models to the sleek two-wheeled beasts of today, there has been a progression that has lasted for a little over a century.

The classic period when some of the most iconic and visually pleasing motorbikes were styled and engineered arguably started a little before the Second World War and lasted into the 1970s, eventually losing out to the more practical looks and mass manufacturing processes of Japanese brands such as Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki. But recently, over the past twenty years or so, there has been a renaissance of classically-inspired brands and models that has brought romanticism back to the world of motorcycles.

The beauty of a classicallyinspired modern Ducati

DUCATI

We regard Ducati as one of the most iconic motorbike brands in the world, and though it will soon celebrate its centenary anniversary, Ducati’s famed reputation for racing machinery was established as late as the 1960s.

Today owned by Lamborghini/Audi/ VW Group, it continues to produce jaw-droppingly beautiful racing bikes such as the 899 Panigale, named for the brand’s Borgo Panigale factory near Bologna, but now Ducati is also returning to some of its iconic moments with retro-inspired models such as the Sport 1000 and a host of others created by ‘Ducatistas’ such as John Ball and Upcycle. Together, they are reviving the classic days of Italian bike design, when the likes of Laverda, Ducati and MV Agusta ruled the imagination. ›

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TRIUMPH

Here is a name intricately related to the British motoring industry that is as iconic for its cars as it is for motorbikes.

Sadly, no more Triumph sports cars have been made since the latter eighties, but the bike brand has weathered various storms to have maintained operation since the original founding in 1902. A private

investor saved it from a Leyland-style collapse in 1982, and by the 1990s Triumph had recaptured its mojo and was producing beautiful models and classically-inspired bikes again, starting with the Daytona and Trophy series, and more recently the Trident.

The Bonneville T100 and Street Scrambler, however, form a highpoint in retro bike

A special edition Triumph Rocket 3R 221

Triumphs are robust and stylish at the same time

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design, while the Thruxton 1200 is a journey back to the not-so-distant past and the Bonneville Speedmaster is a thing of beauty with strong American overtones. The Rocket III blends Triumph’s classic traditions with a more contemporary look and feel, but it’s clear that this is one of the greatest classic bike brands of all. ›

The classically inspired Triumph Street Twin

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The kind of design that made Royal Enfield’s name

Classic detailing

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ROYAL ENFIELD

Originally founded in 1901, legendary British bike maker Royal Enfield closed its doors 70 years later, having produced some truly memorable motorcycles – as well as guns.

They even made some cars, but are best remembered for a generation of beautiful motorbikes, such as the Type 11F. However, the Indian spin-off continues to prosper, producing not too far off one million units per year – and yes, they sport classic looks. One of the finest models is the 2014 Continental GT 535, a gorgeous bike worthy of the iconic name tag.

Norton represents the early days of bike racing

A classic 1960s Norton racer

NORTON MOTORCYCLE

Another classic British bike brand, Norton Motorcycle – like much of the UK’s motor industry – has its roots in Birmingham, though now resides in Donington Hall.

In its first iteration, Norton

produced elegant creations such as the Norton Big Four of 1952, as well as racing models like the 1954 Norton Msanx and 1958 500cc Racer. The 9178 Commando Interstate Mk3 was also an attractive affair, but after that the brand went into

decline and disappeared until being revived in 2008 – to the contentment of bike lovers around the world.

This has produced some new beauts, including the 2009 Norton Commando 961 Sport – long live revival brands! ›

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INDIAN MOTORCYCLE

It’s modern, but still unmistakably an Indian

Founded in 1901, Indian is a little older than Harley Davidson, and perhaps enjoys even more legendary status, yet unlike its famous American cousin, this manufacturer closed down in 1953 – only to be revived in 1999.

Newly returned to life, its models were unabashedly nostalgic in design, harking back to the heyday of the brand, but since earlier models such as the Chief Vintage and the Springfield, Indian has also gone on to produce modern classics, such as the highly impressive Indian Scout – a bike in the finest American tradition, and a perfect example of just why people love retro styled motorbikes so much, whether in authentic guise or packed with the latest technology and capable of meeting modern-looking bikes head on, so to speak.

Today’s Indian is contemporary but full of original brand DNA

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HARLEY DAVIDSON

Along with Indian, Harley Davidson is the classic of classics, certainly in the USA, where it is nothing less than a true icon. Like Triumph, this legendary brand has survived many a crisis to now celebrate well over 100 years of continuous production. The company’s revival began with the Harley Davidson Fat Boy in the early nineties, a clean take on the chopper concept that proved so popular in the seventies. Since then, classic and ultra-modern models have alternated, but the famous Milwaukee, Wisconsin brand continues to garner global admiration for its beautifully styled gleaming engines and iconic bike designs, such as that of the Evolution Sportster or the retro-futuristic VRSCA V-Rod – the basis of a loyal global following. e

Beautiful workmanship In these colours, this Harley Davidson has the look of wartime models

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A Harley Davidson Trike, make for long comfortable journeys

Cruising in classic Harley Davidson style

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PORSCHE PANAMERA

When Porsche decided the time was ripe to launch its four-door Panamera sports car back in 2009 it was inevitably greeted with controversy, despite the fact that the company had been working on a concept 4-door product as long ago as 1988.

WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PORSCHE

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P

orsche enthusiasts are a notoriously conservative bunch and anything that departs from the basic 911 philosophy amounts to nothing less than automotive heresy.

Time though, as the saying goes, is a great healer and today the Panamera is a well-

entrenched and established member of Porsche’s diverse family of vehicles.

The current 2022 model is the second generation of the vehicle, with the name inspired by the legendary Carrera Panamericana road races of the 1950s, although Porsche never won any of the original

events. The Panamera range is surprisingly large for what is basically a specialty vehicle.

There are two four-door body styles – standard and Sport Turismo, plus several powertrain choices ranging from a basic six cylinder, through a selection of hybrids and all the way to ultra high-performance turbo variants. At the top of the range, prices are in the 200.000 europlus bracket, almost twice that of entry level cars. ›

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The philosophy behind the design of the Panamera was to bring Porsche enthusiasts a sports car in which they could take along family or friends and it succeeds brilliantly. More than likely, many Panamera

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owners also have a 911 or Boxster in the garage and the bigger car is used for group outings. The key point with the Panamera is that the rear seats aren’t just token affairs only suited for small children.

They really will take a couple of full-sized adults and headroom isn’t bad either.

We’ve driven most Panamera variants and it’s never been easy to decide which was fastest. Until recently, the Turbo S E-Hybrid held the crown, but the latest version of the Turbo S is faster still thanks to its lighter weight and will blast you to 100 km/h in a scant 3.1-seconds. This is quicker than a McLaren 570S and a fair number of other supercars and remarkable for what is fundamentally a 4-door sports saloon. Even so, the entry-level 330-horsepower six is still a more than adequate power unit for this Porsche.

The Panamera Turbo S, which in basic form uses a front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout, is powered by a twinturbo V-8 developing around 630-horsepower and it’ll keep pace with just about anything in or near its class. When it comes to handling, it’s no 911, but it comes surprisingly close and most drivers won’t notice much of a difference unless they take it to a track.

The big plus over a 911 apart from the four proper seats is the generous amount of cargo space, making the Panamera a lot closer to being the perfect grand touring car.

The standard Panamera is roomy but the appealing Sport Turismo with its ‘sports estate’ bodywork has even more cargo space.

Behind the chunky steering

wheel you sit low in the car and the ambiance is most decidedly Porsche. You’re not piloting a 911, but the feeling isn’t that different. Expectedly, there’s a wide range of infotainment and connectivity benefits as expected on any up-to-date luxury car. The rear seating is pretty good on basic cars, but you can enhance it by opting for an Executive model, which has a slightly longer wheelbase with space gained benefiting rear seat occupants.

An exceptionally wide variety of safety aids are either standard or optional.

The market may be awash with highly desirable sporty choices, but given the Panamera’s astonishingly wide range of variants, it doesn’t really have a serious competitor. e

Z ENGINE: Wide range of powertrains. Base Panamera, six-cylinder, 2.9-litre, 330-horsepower. (Top model, 690-horsepower twin-turbo V-8).

Z TRANSMISSION: 8-speed automatic.

Z ACCELERATION: Zero to 100 km/h in 3.1-secs (Turbo S).

Z TOP SPEED: 315 km/h (Turbo S).

Z I LIKED: Amazing range of variants to choose from, a rarity in the luxury sports car field. Very roomy interior, even in the back. Thrilling performance at the top of the range. Economy of E-Hybrid models.

Z I DIDN’T LIKE: High prices for top-end models.

Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES: Mercedes-AMG GT43/53, Audi RS7, BMW M5, BMW M8 Grand Coupe.

Z WHO DRIVES ONE? Drivers who want most of the benefits of a high-performance twoseat sports car but need more seating for family or friends.

Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: Available now starting at €109.724.

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D SPOTLIGHT people

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Jared Leto is very kindly offering to go to his hotel room to fetch that now famous green Gucci military coat he wore to the Suicide Squad premiere. “A piece of art like that should be universally shared.”

I politely refuse his generosity… when I really should have accepted.

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T

he Oscar-winning rock star is decidedly casual today, in a grey t-shirt, and frayed, ripped black jeans. His hair is slicked back and tidy, a stark contrast to the flowing biblical locks he sported when winning his first Oscar for Dallas Buyers Club.

His hypnotic eyes are dazzlingly intense in person and those youthful features contradict his half century of years. Apparently, a result of a vegan diet and sleep.

Boasting a reserved humour,

the Thirty Seconds to Mars frontman is polite but seems a little uncomfortable. He shouldn’t be; following a quiet 2020 – like the whole of the rest of the world, right? – Leto has been straight back into full throttle mode over the past two years.

The Little Things has already rejected the notion that box office movies can’t break even during a pandemic, while House of Gucci proved to be a sumptuous biographical crime thriller that encapsulated an era decorated in discrete excess.

And even while the original Justice League fell on deaf ears, bringing the Joker across from the Suicide Squad project proved a masterstroke. Indeed, pundits labelled his portrayal the best thing about the movie – one of the major revisions with Zach back at the controls, having had to bail on the much-troubled first movie back in 2017. The reprisal, coming at a cost of $70million, was an expensive adventure, but one that in creative and cinematic terms appears capable of completing the circle. ›

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Now, Leto returns as Dr Michael Morbius, a scientist suffering from a rare blood disease whose attempts to cure himself afflict him with a form of transgenic vampirism. He subsequent gains superhuman abilities.

The Louisiana-born actor is also appearing in Apple TV+ series WeCrashed alongside Anne Hathaway, which charts the rise of WeWork, one of the world’s most valuable start-ups.

Talking me though life and love, Leto – who previously dated Cameron Diaz for three years – reflects on his method approach, and why he was glad to put premature Hollywood retirement on hold. ›

That must have helped the portrayal though, in that it was easier…

Easier from an acting level, but considerably more difficult from the perspective of having to be honest with myself.

As an actor, unless you are playing yourself, you don’t expect to find so much of yourself in a role, so in that sense it was a shock and something I needed to give myself time to come to terms with.

What did you bring to the role of Dr Morbius?

Mostly… myself. This was an incredible role for me because I could actually reach deep inside myself, rather than having to totally step into the shoes of someone I didn’t know.

I have been through my own issues with health, mental wellbeing and more, and the challenge that confronted me was very different to what I am used to. It’s usually a case of immersing yourself in someone else, but this time I found the need to be honest with myself and truly bring myself to the role.

What does ‘going method’ get you?

For me, it’s nothing more than a way to concentrate. When you shoot a movie, there’s so many distractions, so much happening, a lot of moving parts and staying in character is the only way I can maintain that tunnel vision.

So keeping my focus on the end destination, and being committed, is essential. I really like to envelop myself as much as possible in this new life, and go as deep as I can because the further you go, the bigger the reward. Also, I want to be able to get to a certain emotional state, and for me, it’s easier to stay there than continuously work my way back.

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Were you able to go into your own method acting bubble for this one?

Not so much. There was too much of myself in Michael – I didn’t need to go method.

Does it even go so far as you think you’re that character?

I never lose touch with my own reality. If I did that, I think I may be potentially in the wrong career.

Could be dangerous [laughs].

What is it that keeps you coming back, when in the past you’ve spoken about retirement and getting away from the industry?

For me, it’s that idea that you can go back to being free, carefree… to even feeling like a kid, where there are no rules.

You know what it’s like – if you want to do something, you do it; if you want to say something, you say it. It’s only as you grow up, you learn what is acceptable and what is expected of you so to revert to that simple, boundaryless part of your life and doing it in this environment is remarkable.

You spoke in the past about retiring after playing the Joker… as if it was going to be the pinnacle of your career and you felt you couldn’t go any further.

I think when you see who has gone before you… and if you think you have climbed to a level where you put yourself in the bracket of Cesar Romero, Jack Nicholson, Heath Ledger, Joaquin Phoenix, those legends… then sometimes you do ask yourself if you can go any further, and that’s what that comment was about. What

impressed me most was that we took the Joker on a new path, and imitation was not an option.

And with that, came a liberty and freedom to move and say what we wanted. Yes, there was 75 years of material – which I only discovered in doing my own research – 75 years created by visual, creative artists for television, film and animation, to constantly fall back on if we ever needed it but I relied more on my imagination.

I still think I could have retired altogether after playing him. He remains one of my greatest achievements. There was a point where I thought, if I didn’t go back, I never would. I had a two-year spell where my agents kept sending scripts.

And then, they just started to believe that I was serious. And they stopped coming.

And you fall out of favour, maybe.

But then I fell in love with Rayon [from Dallas Buyers], and I knew that if I didn’t play her, there was a chance I might never go back to acting and never make another film. My life was very fulfilled and wasn’t lacking.

At that time, when away, I learned a lot about myself, about life, about humanity.

It revolutionised my mind and the way I interacted with myself, and with others.

So was playing the Joker bigger than your Oscar win?

I said ‘one of my greatest achievements’ [laughs]. I’m lucky in that I’ve had a couple. ›

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Most would consider an Oscar win their crowning glory.

I’m very proud of that moment. Very proud.

But I think getting accolades and praise, it only means something if the people you love are involved and that meant the world to me.

Are you still stopped on the street for My So Called Life? [laughs]. Yes, it does happen.

Over 25 years ago and only one season – it’s crazy that people are still talking about it.

Yes, it’s pretty remarkable. It impacted a lot of people; it was ahead of its time. And I’ll always be grateful for the launch pad because without it I probably wouldn’t be sitting with you today. e

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CONSIDER A SELECTION OF HOT NEW FILMS AND SOME RECENT MUSTN’T MISS DOCUMENTARIES. SEE HOW TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES ARE PLAYING A PRIME ROLE IN CREATING SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS AND OFFICES, AND CHECK OUT WHAT’S COOL IN SPAIN AND FURTHER AFIELD.

GO TO PAGE 124 FOR HOT NEW FILMS

GO TO PAGE 132 FOR NEW BOOKS

GO TO PAGE 128 FOR NEW DOCUMENTARIES

GO TO PAGE 138 FOR WHAT'S COOL

CINEMA SERIES MUSIC NEWS 124 Hot New Films 128 Cool Documentaries 132 New Book Releases 136 Sustainable Buildings and Offices 138 What’s Cool

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HOT NEW

MOVIES WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

MORBIUS

» Director: Daniel Espinosa (Life) » Genre: Fantasy » Actors: Jared Leto, Michael Keaton, Adria Arjona Suffering from a rare blood disease, biochemist, Dr. Michael Morbius, invents a substance that he hopes will cure his condition. However, the solution inadvertently infects him with a form of vampirism that he struggles against. He tries to correct his error but soon realises that his affliction will probably be with him for the rest of his life.

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THE NORTHMAN

» Director: Robert Eggers (The Lighthouse) » Genre: Historical Film » Actors: Alexander Skarsgård, Nicole Kidman, Anya Taylor-Joy, Ethan Hawke Visionary Director, Robert Eggers, is turning to real legends for his latest film.

Based on The History of the Danes (contained in the patriotic Danish work, Gesta Danorum), The Northman is the story of Viking prince, Amleth (Alexander Skarsgård), who is determined to avenge the assassination of his kingly father by his uncle. This story is said to have inspired William Shakespeare’s Hamlet.) Of course, Eggers’ film won’t stick to the original tale. Instead, it will forge a new kind of story for one of Denmark’s greatest heroes.

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FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE SECRETS OF DUMBLEDORE

» Director: David Yates (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows) » Genre: Fantasy » Actors: Eddie Redmayne, Jude Law, Ezra Miller, Mads Mikkelsen Set in the 1930s, the exciting plot of this film leads up to the Wizarding World’s involvement in World War II and explores the magical communities in numerous countries – including Bhutan, Germany, and China. Albus Dumbledore, concerned about Gellert Grindelwald’s growing ambitions, entrusts Newt Scamander and his friends to battle against his enemy’s army. Finally, the time has come for Dumbledore to decide if he, too, will be taking part in the approaching war.

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SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 2

THE LOST CITY

» Director: Aaron and Adam Nee (You Can Never Really Know Someone) » Genre: Adventure » Actors: Brad Pitt, Sandra Bullock, Channing Tatum Sandra Bullock plays Loretta Sage – a best-selling author who writes about adventures in exotic lands. Her book covers always feature a handsome cover model called Alan (Channing Tatum). While on tour promoting her latest work, she gets kidnapped by a billionaire who forces her to lead him to a lost city and its treasure. Alan resolves to rescue her and prove that he is more than a pretty face.

» Director: Jeff Fowler (Sonic the Hedgehog) » Genre: Animation » Voices: Idris Elba, Ben Schwartz, Colleen O’Shaughnessey After settling in Green Hills, Sonic is ready for more freedom, and Tom and Maddie agree to let him enjoy a staycation while they take off on a holiday . No sooner do they leave, however, than Dr. Robotnik makes a return with his new partner, Knuckles.

The duo are in search of an emerald that has the power to both build and destroy civilisations. Sonic teams up with his own sidekick, Tails, so they can find the precious gem and keep it safe from the villains. e

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TOP DOCUMENTARIES

TO STREAM THIS MONTH ‘Fact is stranger than fiction,’ or so the saying goes. Discover the extent to which it can be true in the following documentaries on fascinating people who dedicated their lives to acting, art, technology, music, and swindling!

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

THE ANDY WARHOL DIARIES Netflix

» Director: Andrew Rossi (Page One: Inside the New York Times) Ryan Murphy, the brain behind hit series like Glee and American Horror Story brings us The Andy Warhol Diaries – a revelation of the avant-garde artist’s hidden inner life. The documentary is based on diary entries that reveal Warhol’s love for three men: Jed Johnson (an interior designer who was with him for 12 years), Jean-Michel Basquiat (a renowned painter with whom he seems to have had a platonic relationship), and Jon Gould (Paramount Pictures’ VicePresident). The documentary reveals that Warhol tried to portray himself as asexual and aloof to shield himself from a litany of fears and insecurities.

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THE TINDER SWINDLER

Netflix

» Director: Felicity Morris (Don’t F*** with Cats) While there is no doubt that online dating is predominant in current times, documentaries like The Tinder Swindler remind you that it pays to be cautious in the game of love as a whole. This is the true story of Shimon Hayut – a convicted fraudster who used dating apps to meet multiple women, take out loans in their names, spend their credit, then disappear from their lives.

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JEEN-YUHS: A KANYE TRILOGY © Peter Hutchins

Netflix

» Directors: Coodie Simmons, Chike Ozah (Benji) Kanye West is, at the very least, an enigma. A man who has designed sell-out fashion, penned hits like Runaway, and who began producing music for renowned rap artists when he was still in his teens. This documentary takes us back in time to when Kanye was a young, upcoming creator who never for a second doubted his own genius.

It also presents us with rare footage of Kanye interacting with the woman who was one of his greatest influences: his school teacher mom, Donda.

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LUCY AND DESI Amazon Prime Video

MORE THAN ROBOTS Disney+

» Director: Gillian Jacobs (Community) More Than Robots follows four teams of teenagers from around the world as they prepare to compete in the 2020 FIRST® Robotics Competition.

Hailing from Los Angeles, Mexico City and Chiba, Japan (respectively), the teens face big challenges along the way – including limited resources and the onset of the pandemic. They persevere and hope to score the winning trophy while picking up valuable personal lessons such as the value of teamwork and sacrifice.

» Director: Amy Poehler (Moxie) If you enjoyed the recent film, Being the Ricardos (which garnered Javier Bardem yet another Oscar nomination), then you may want to delve more into the behindthe-scenes life of Hollywood couple, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. While the film focuses on the witchhunt that called out the couple for supposedly being ‘communists’, this documentary is more about a beautiful love story between two talented but different individuals. The couple established Desilu Studios, which produced some of the greatest TV shows of all time (including Star Trek and Mission: Impossible). However, material success came at a huge personal cost. e

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SPRING IS IN THE AIR AND EXCITING NEW TITLES ARE ON THE SHELVES WORDS ALICIA DUGGAN OF THE BOOKSHOP IN SAN PEDRO DE ALCÁNTARA , CC LA COLONIA LOCAL 21, SAN PEDRO DE ALCÁNTARA. TEL: 951 779 785. WWW.THEBOOKSHOP.ES

THE NO-SHOW BY BETH O’LEARY Tiktok sensation Beth O’Leary brings us one of the most eagerly anticipated new releases of 2022. Three women, with nothing in common, get stood up on Valentine’s Day by the same man. Ambitious life coach Siobhan is supposed to meet Joseph Carter for a Valentine’s breakfast, but he doesn’t show up. Tree surgeon Miranda, who is used to being treated like “one of the guys” by her male co-workers, is looking forward to a romantic Valentine’s lunch with her boyfriend, Joseph Carter, but he doesn’t materialise. Shy, introverted charity shop volunteer Jane is relieved when her new friend Joseph Carter agrees to be her fake date for a Valentine’s party but is let down when he doesn’t appear. What follows is a romantic comedy with a twist that is heart-breaking and heart-warming in equal measure.

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INSOMNIA BY SARAH PINBOROUGH

THE GAME BY LINDA CARVEY

In the run up to her 40th birthday, Emma Averell’s mother went insane with devastating results. Emma and her sister, Phoebe, grew up in foster care and their mother was institutionalised. Having worked hard to bury the memory and trauma this caused, Emma has built a successful career as an attorney; she is a devoted mother of two and is happily married to her stay-at-home husband. However, as Emma’s 40th birthday approaches she begins to suffer from insomnia, paranoia and realises that she is losing time during the day – the same symptoms her mother exhibited before losing her mind. Emma has always worried that her mother’s madness was hereditary, but is she really losing her mind or are there more sinister forces at play? A tense and compelling psychological thriller.

Set in the criminal underworld of London and the Spanish Riviera, The Game is a gritty and violent crime novel for fans of Martina Cole and Kimberley Chambers. Ruby Murphy has built a successful and fearsome crime syndicate. Family is everything to Ruby so when her husband is brutally murdered, Ruby is naturally distraught, but has little time to grieve as she has a business to run and a daughter to comfort. When her daughter Cathy is threatened, Ruby will stop at nothing to keep her safe. However, it’s impossible to know who to trust in a world where all your associates are enemies or rivals, or both.

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YOUNG MUNGO

BY DOUGLAS STUART Young Mungo is the second novel from the Booker Prize winning author of Shuggie Bain. It has been hailed as the gay Romeo and Juliet, but the author’s description is more apt – “It’s about the pressure we put on working-class boys to ‘man-up’ and all the terrible things and violence that can flow from that.” Protestant fifteen-year-old Mungo Hamilton has grown up on a housing scheme in Glasgow with his absent, alcoholic mother, his sister Jodie and his brother Hamish who is the head of a Protestant gang called the Billy Boys who are often at war with the Catholic gang, the Royston Bhoys. Catholic Jamie spends a lot of his time alone since his mother’s death as his father works on offshore rigs. After Jamie’s father discovers that his son is gay, he plans for Jamie to marry a girl as soon as he is of age.

Jamie is determined to run away as soon as he turns sixteen. When Mungo and Jamie meet there is instant chemistry. However, their love is impossible in a community which would never accept them for homophobic and sectarian reasons.

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DREAM TOWN BY DAVID BALDACCI WWII Veteran turned PI, Aloysius Archer, is back in the third installment of this award-winning series.

It’s the eve of 1953 and Archer is ringing in the New Year at a glamorous party with his actress friend, Liberty Callahan. During the party he is approached by screenwriter Eleanor Lamb who believes her life is in danger and wants Archer to investigate. Things take a sinister turn when Archer arrives at Eleanor’s house only to find a dead body and his client missing. Helped by his partner Willie Dash, Archer’s search for Eleanor exposes him to the seedy side of Hollywood where drugs, violence and corruption are rife. It will take all his wits to save Eleanor’s life without losing his own. e

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INNOVATIVE TECH AND STRATEGIES FOR

SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS AND OFFICES

Buildings generate almost 40 per cent of annual global CO2 emission, reports Architecture 2030. Because most of them will probably still be standing in 2040, they will continue to emit excessive amounts of carbon, leading the Planet to fall short of the Paris Agreement’s 1.5ºC target. Humanity is currently undergoing a period of exponential growth and built areas are expected to double in size over the next four decades. Achieving lower emissions will involve relying on renewable energy, recycled materials, and innovative components.

Below are just a few ways in which innovative technology and committed strategies can help buildings reduce their emissions to zero (or close to it).

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

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THE USE OF CARBONSMART MATERIALS Concrete, steel, and aluminium are considered ‘highimpact’ and indeed, they are responsible for 23 per cent of total global emissions.

Their footprint is considered ‘embodied’ because they are part and parcel of the building structure. Sustainable developers are replacing these and other materials with carbon-smart ones that have a low carbon impact or which sequester carbon from the environment. These include bamboo, hempcrete (a wall system made of hemp and a few additives), straw bale, wood from climate-smart forests, and sheep’s wool.

INTELLIGENT, INTEGRATED BUILDING AUTOMATION SYSTEMS (BASS) BAS involves the use of smart building management platforms to transform data into meaningful insights about building conditions, energy consumption, and equipment functioning.

Sensors and actuators are placed throughout the building to detect trends and make necessary adjustments to optimise human beings’ use of a building. BAS automates the use of energy and contributes greater comfort to users by providing them with their preferred temperature and lighting.

ENERGY-EFFICIENT EQUIPMENT AND THE IOT On a smaller scale, the use of smart thermostats and lightbulbs, which monitor the conditions of a room and turn off automatically, can also be used to save energy. Meanwhile, IoTconnected lighting, heating, and water, can be programmed from anywhere in the world to shut off or turn on devices when required. Another simple transition companies can make involves the use of LEDs, which illuminate interiors with far less wattage than standard options.

3D PRINTED OFFICE ACCESSORIES Office equipment such as USB racks, keyboard holders, coffee tables, pencil holders, and headphone supports can all be printed in-house, producing less waste than objects made with metals, fabrics, and other typical materials. 3D printing can also reduce the costs and emissions associated with transport. A Michigan Technological University study found, for instance, that it takes up to 64 per cent less energy to print an object compared to manufacturing it abroad and shipping it to a country like the U.S.

CHOOSING ECO-FRIENDLY TRANSPORT South Korean company, LG, is striving for a host of targets in 2030, including achieving carbon neutrality, hitting a 95 per cent waste recycling target at production sites, and switching to 100 per cent electric or hydrogen business cars.

Hydrogen is not found in natural deposits

so it needs to be electrolysed from water. Doing so, however, results in a big decrease in greenhouse gas emissions, especially when renewable electricity is used in the process. Sustainable buildings are also providing employees with free EV charging stations, which are key if EV vehicles are to be adopted on a wide scale.

SAVING ENERGY AND WATER Buildings of the future will be running on 100 per cent renewable energy and conserving water via their own rainwater harvesting systems. The latter work by collecting rain from roof gutters, filtering it and storing it in a tank.

Following minimal treatment (such as UV filtration), the water can be used for non-potable purposes such as flushing toilets, irrigating green areas, washing vehicles, and more. Green companies are relying on automatic taps, reduced water flushing systems, and flow-restricting equipment.

ELECTROCHROMATIC SMART GLASS Awnings can help keep the sunlight out, but electrochromatic glass is a smarter solution, since it helps keep HVAC costs down in the summer. This ‘smart glass’ uses tiny amounts of electricity to charge ions on the window and change the direction of the sunlight’s reflection. This technology can result in an estimated 25 per cent reduction in HVAC costs.

SMART APPLIANCES Smart appliances can keep an office’s energy expenditure down by determining energy rates and automatically running when electricity rates are low. Small appliances can also make a big difference to energy use in the long run. There are several small machines like microwaves and coffee machines that have top energy efficiency ratings. Cuisinart, for instance, has a 12-cup thermal coffee maker with reusable filters and GE has manufactured an over-therange microwave that uses an LED cooktop light.

When it comes to keeping buildings and offices green, both embodied and external considerations should be kept in mind. Buildings of the future need to be made with materials that sequester CO2 instead of producing it. Existing buildings, meanwhile, can take many steps to reduce their carbon footprint, including the installation of smart building systems that analyse and adapt energy systems to users’ needs. e

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? l o o c s ’ t wha ACKWELL COMPILED BY IAIN BL

LA CASADEMUNT SUSTAINABILITY BY LO r has reported ne The Spanish fashion desig of plastic kilos saving more than 8,800 os of CO2 with the kil 0 and more than 35,70 ree collections. production of her last th being treated All the brand’s jeans are reduces the with an Ozone wash which e company d th environmental impact an llections to be co has set a goal for all of its .

100% sustainable by 2025 t.com i www.lolacasademun

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BARCELÓ INVESTS IN MOROCCO has The Barceló hotel chain t to confirmed its commitmen an th expansion in Morocco wi 0M €7 investment of more than ish euros, making it the Span company with the largest e economic presence in th ntly country. The group curre fa oversees the Barceló An stic Casablanca and the maje kesh, ra ar Barceló Palmeraie in M Tangier, as well as other hotels in Fez, and Agadir. i www.barcelo.com MINOTTI MADRID Madrid The flagship store Minotti de

by Concept DR on Principe new Vergara has revealed its elled by od space, completely rem room of Minotti Studio. The show pany’s 300m2 presents the com yle classic-contemporary st rniture fu through a selection of , from the 2021 Collection with ed harmoniously combin selling some of the brands best and iconic products. i www.minotti.com

JAGUAR LAND ROVER llaborated with co Jaguar Land Rover has zero emission a te Off Grid Energy to crea e second life of th charging unit thanks to ith the system w s, Jaguar I-PACE batterie r’s solar panels. By tte being charged by the la s, Jaguar Land Rover reusing vehicle batterie onomy business ec will create new circular and other sectors. s ce models in energy sour r.com i www.jaguarlandrove

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SOLES REPSOL The presentation of the prestigious Repsol Suns took place recently in San Sebastian with the largest meeting of chefs in Spain. A total of 97 Suns were awarded with two establishments receiving Tres Soles, distinguishing the commitment of Iván Cerdeño for his restaurant Cigarral del Ángel in Toledo and the Padrón brothers of El Rincón de Juan Carlos in Tenerife. i www.guiarepsol.com

W ALGARVE W Hotels Worldwide, a brand that is part of the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, is launching the much anticipated W Algarve, where its iconic cliffs merge with the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic. With a groundbreaking design spearheaded by AB Concept, the hotel will intertwine the Algarve’s natural landscape and rich Portuguese history with the brand’s signature style. i www.marriott.com 140 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

MAISON VALMONT MADRID Located on Calle de Jorge Juan in the Salamanca district, the first Maison Valmont has opened its doors in Madrid. The 220m2 boutique offers the most emblematic treatments of the Swiss brand and showcases Valmont cosmetics, L’Elixir des Glaciers, Storie Veneziane by Valmont fragrancies and works of art from the Foundation’s collection Valmont. i www.lamaisonvalmont.com NEW VINCCI PONTE DE FERRO Iconic city Porto has been further enriched by the arrival of the Vincci Ponte de Ferro.

With its impressive wine bar and à la carte restaurant, the new hotel offers a varied gastronomic proposal that is combined with the incomparable views of the symbol of Porto: the Don Luis I bridge and the panorama of the picturesque buildings on the Duoro River. i www.vinccihoteles.com

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lifestyle

EPITOMISING THE DEMAND FOR QUALITY CONSTRUCTION IN A PRIME LOCATION, THE 2ND PHASE OF BENALÚS IS SURE TO BE A BEST SELLER. CHECK OUT MORE MODERN DÉCOR TRENDS AND THE NEW CHANEL SPRING SUMMER COLLECTION.

GO TO PAGE 144 FOR BEAUTIFUL BENALÚZ

GO TO PAGE 154 FOR DÉCOR TRENDS

GO TO PAGE 160 FOR CHANEL SS22

GO TO PAGE 168 FOR CRUFTS 2022

INTERIORS ARCHITECTURE ART FASHION

144 Benalús 2nd Phase 154 Décor Trends 160 Chanel 22 Spring Summer Collection 168 Crufts 2022 Highlights

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BENALÚS

MODERN LUXURY NEXT TO THE BEACH ON THE GOLDEN MILE There are locations that are so desired that demand outstrips supply.

In such settings new properties do not come onto the market often, but when they do they become a rare opportunity that is quickly snapped up. This new luxury development of modern apartments and penthouses on the Golden Mile, Benalús certainly fits the description. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BENALÚS/ENGEL & VÖLKERS

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emand for Marbella’s top location is keen, as can be seen in the fact that it commands the highest values per square metre in the region – some of the highest in all of Spain. Such is the appeal for stylish modern homes in this prized setting between Puerto Banús and Marbella town that many a new villa or boutique development on the Golden Mile is sold out well in advance of completion.

This has also been true of Benalús, which offers one of the last opportunities to own a newly built apartment or penthouse so close to one of Marbella’s best beaches, the famous Puente Romano Beach Resort and Spa, and a short walk to Puerto Banús.

The first phase of 28 apartments and penthouses set within greenery and facing a newly created park area within walking distance of the Golden Mile’s beaches and coastal pathway has been sold out in advance of completion, which is scheduled for the end of this year, when the first properties will be handed over to their new owners. › WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM / 145

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Work on the second phase begins this summer,

done in the north. Expert though the company

but already reservations have reached the 50 per cent point and are rising fast. “There is a great deal of demand for this kind of property, and this location,” says Smadar Kahana, CEO of Engel & Völkers Marbella.

The creator of Benalús is a specialist developer from San Sebastian in Northern Spain, which with this project aspires to make a name for itself in Marbella as it has long since

is, its principals have taken the feedback of Smadar and her team on board and made some changes to the interior distribution of the apartments and penthouses in the second phase. “We have the benefit of direct buyer interaction and feedback, so it is highly valuable to share this with the developer and act upon it to ensure the homes fit the full expectations of today’s buyers.” ›

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r e t s a E y p Hap SHOWROOM MARBELLA Opening hours

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A V D A . B LV. P R Í N C I P E A L F O N S O D E H O H E N L O H E . U R B . C A R O L I N A P A R K

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HOMES WORTHY OF THE SETTING With coastal and mountain views in a prime Golden Mile setting such as this, Benalús has a lot to live up to, and with its attractive architectural styling, decorative detailing, amenities, landscaping and interior layout and finishing it certainly does not disappoint.

The gated entrance offers not just 24-hour manned security but also a very pleasant and elegant sense of arrival, and privacy within a tastefully landscaped environment with large swimming pool, sun deck, chill-out zone, gymnasium and a spa with heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, hot and cold scented showers and full facilities.

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“It is a superior standard of home that does this wonderful location full justice,” says Smadar.

The complex offers a combination of large ground floor duplex apartments with very spacious lower levels that can be personalised into entertainment spaces, offices, a gym or additional bedrooms. With their spacious gardens, terraces and private 3x6-metre swimming pools, these homes feel like true villas, and the same can also be said of the duplex penthouses, with their panoramic wrap-around terraces and large open-plan living areas. ›

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They too feature expansive terrace space with cosy areas and a spectacularly appointed swimming pool that looks out over the Golden Mile’s shoreline. The second-floor apartments offer the same high standards of finishing and the larger corner ones feature private pools. All the luxurious

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apartments and penthouses at Benalús are set within low density blocks with private entrances and spacious double parking spaces per property and large storage spaces for the upper floor homes. Here, as everywhere within Benalús, the detailing and choice of materials reflects the quality

of the setting and the homes, with tasteful use of stone, plaster as well as glass and quality wood elements.

A variety of interior layouts is available, along with personalised detailing and upgrades possible throughout, building upon a high standard of flooring, beautifully styled bathrooms and kitchens with Miele appliances or similar, and Hansgrohe and Villeroy & Boch taps and ceramics. “The finishing is really superb, as you would expect in a brandnew Golden Mile development of this standing,” says Smadar, who says that few more opportunities of this kind remain in this area. ›

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“Benalús really is a top-grade development that offers ground floor and sky villa living in a setting that is becoming increasingly scarce.

Buyers know this and this is why projects here have been selling so well. Our clients buy these homes for personal use and therefore out of lifestyle considerations, but given their characteristics and location the properties at Benalús also represent a great investment driven by quality and scarcity of opportunity.”

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Ranging from three to four bedrooms and offering large indoor and also terrace space akin to that of a villa, Benalús is a project that could have rested on the laurels of its top location.

The fact that it hasn’t done so, and the developer has endeavoured to create a landmark development here adds further to the appeal of a rather unique real estate opportunity.

This project, as well as many other top developments on the Golden Mile, is exclusive to Engel & Völkers. g Exclusive to Engel & Völkers Tel: (+34) 621 27 32 92.

Email: marbella.developments@ engelvoelkers.com www.marbella-ev.com

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www.marbella-ev.com

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COLOUR YOUR WORLD Monochrome is high in the trends today but it is always inspiring to be able to accessorise with refreshing colours, and French interior firm Roche Bobois is a master of adding a sophisticated, lively touch to your home. We loved these artisan Murano glass flutes and hand-made and hand-painted ceramic jars they presented for this year’s Mother’s Day, shortly after

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announcing the 2022 Spring/ Summer Collection and the relocation of their Madrid flagship store. Originally opened in 1975, the new store is set to portray the brand’s trend setting vision which is part of a strategic change on a global level. This new space over 600 m2 will showcase their best seller items alongside new collections, and will host collaborations with great designers who identify with Roche Bobois’ newly refined code. i www.roche-bobois.com

ROSE IN THE GARDEN The trend of rosy shades in a metallic finish is now also influencing outdoor lighting.

With the new Rose Ballerina finish, developed by the R&D office, Platek breaks the boundaries as it continues to experiment with the fusion of rules. For a space that is currently dominated by the graphic purism of white, black and grey, Platek offers an alternative through the use of this new colour, and some simply elegant architectural forms that resonate with their Medterranean story.

It is said to be designed to

DISCOVERED BY MADDIE QUINN

exterior and indoor decorative

DESIGN TRENDS

prolong the magical sunset shadows. Displayed as a brand new concept recently in Milan, the Rose Ballerina finish will surely impact many progressive spaces in the months to come. i www.platek.eu

THE RIGHT SHAPE OF SQUID April is the perfect month to start to focus on outdoor living. We looked at the latest trends in al fresco seating and dining and the Squid maxi table designed by RadiceOrlandini DesignStudio, which has won an

Archiproducts Design Award recently, took our fancy. In search of excellence, the best creations were chosen by an international jury of architects, photographers, creative directors and journalists from more than 750 global entries. Winner in the Outdoor

category, the Squid stood out for its robust body and large size, yet very light visually, afforded by its elegant slim top and legs. A number of sophisticated finishes also make the Squid suitable for indoor, or office settings. i www.radiceorlandini.com WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM / 155

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GOLD IS THE NEW CHROME In recent years chrome has been the most popular look when it came to bathrooms.

It is highly-reflective, easy to clean and maintain, and broadly matches with silver finishes in the home. Today, many other finishes are enjoying a significant upswing in attention as homeowners, designers and architects look for different ways to decorate treasured spaces. Brass is a great base, an alloy that is made of copper and zinc and has been utilised 156 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

since 500 BC. Prized for its golden colour, resistance to corrosion and malleability makes it perfect for using in bathrooms, but apart from chrome, many interesting coatings are becoming available and fashionable lately. Matki, an avid innovator in bathroom product design offers Polished Gold, Brushed Gold, Black

Chrome, Brushed Black Chrome, Living Brass, Brushed Brass, Aged Brass and Living Copper finishes among others, to achieve a higher quality appearance with finer detailing, and weightier feel than lower cost metals. So when you remake your bathroom next, take your inspiration from Matki. i www.matki.co.uk

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We believe this synergy is the key of our success.

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ambiencehomedesign.com

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back to CONTENTS ARE YOU HANDLING IT? Are you seeing the same style of handles everywhere? Let us introduce you to Belgian firm Quincalux which has been handling luxurious designs for doors and drawers since 1942! Blending tradition and innovation and driven by quality, they craft their door

CHAIR LOVE Schmidt, a leading French manufacturer specialising in innovative, elegant and functional bespoke furniture for all areas of the home, has drawn our attention to chairs this month. Defining a seat as a lover of good company and a perfect ally for shared moments, has intrigued us to check out their beautiful and varied selection. From perfectly shaped comfy armchairs, you can also find retro, Art Deco, industrial, vintage and modern contemporary style creations, all produced with the upmost care for our planet. Schmidt is committed to sustainable development, which is manifested in processes and materials that respect the environment and health, including most of their wood that also comes from sustainably managed forests, with PEFC certification. i www.home-design.schmidt 158 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

handles into timeless designs with noble materials such as brass and aluminium, which are sustainable and age perfectly.

Produced with a knowledge that passes from generation to generation and is refined by designers and architects, their product range covers classical and contemporary styles alike, making sure you can find that important detail — the unique handle for your needs. i www.quincalux.com

WHO WANTS TO LIVE FOREVER? When it comes to technology, there isn’t a better brand that fits into your environment than Bang & Olufsen.

The prestigious Danish manufacturer of audiovisual products is not only known for longevity but to combat technological obsolescence they constantly improve resource efficiency and durability as well.

They truly understand technological luxury and try to create real musical heritage. Beosound Level is the only speaker in the world to achieve Cradle to Cradle Certified® certification, which demonstrates their design commitment to increase product life cycle length and reduce environmental impact. i www.bang-olufsen.com

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CHANEL 22 SPRING SUMMER DISCOVERED BY MADDIE QUINN PHOTOGRAPHY IMAXTREE.COM

Presented last autumn, Chanel's Spring Summer Ready-to-Wear collection for 2022 is finally hitting the boutiques this spring. Lead by Creative Director, Virginie Viard, the French fashion house revisits the 90s, combining refined elegance with a retro feel in colourful mini tweed sets, sporty black-and-white bathing suits, knit crop tops and boy shorts tailored specifically for the younger generation's taste. The collection is described as an ode to youth whose nonchalant grace resonates with the endless days of summer.

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i CHANEL Find your boutique at www.chanel.com

CLICK TO VISIT

www.chanel.com

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CRUFTS 2022 HIGHLIGHTS

The World’s Biggest Dog Show, Crufts, showed that the human-dog connection is unstoppable. After being postponed in 2021 owing to the pandemic, the event brought thousands of dogs, owners, and spectators to the NEC Birmingham for a four-day event that culminated with the gorgeous Baxer the Retriever being crowned Best in Show winner. We bring you a few pictorial highlights of the biggest day for pedigreed pooches from across the globe.

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1 - Baxer, the Flat-Coated Retriever who took the ultimate prize. In addition to his obvious beauty, the little pooch was incredibly calm and affectionate and his owner, Patrick Oware was overwhelmed with emotion.

2 - The Heelwork to Music Final winners were Nicci Hindson and dog Elsa.

3 - Mary Ray and her dog Lyric, winners of the Obedience Championship Bitch.

4 - Obedience Championship Winner Carolyn Heath and Luca with Judge Pat Watson.

5 - Time for loving: Kids and adults alike enjoyed discovering dogs and getting to know them.

6 - Waffle the poodle won the Reserve prize, which is awarded every year just in case the winner is disqualified.

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7 - The International Agility Competition winners were: Euan Paterson and Crazee (first prize), Naarah Cuddy and Lemon (second prize) and Robert Bratt Hveding-Gabrielsen with Søs (third prize).

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The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award saw five finalists shine with their emotion-packed stories.

They were: Z A guide dog who gave an ex-dairy farmer his life back and set him on a path to support others with visual impairments.

Z A rescue dog who

was abandoned and who went on to help his owner, who has multiple sclerosis, with his confidence.

Z A group of Newfoundlands whose work centres on suicide prevention. The dogs provide support for staff from front-line emergency services and

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Fluffy Finalists: The other Best in Show finalists were: 1 - Donnie, an Irish Terrier from the Terrier category. 2 - Conan, a Yorkshire Terrier from the Toy category. 3 Aya, a Greyhound from the Hound Category. 4 - Akela, a Siberian Husky from the Working category.

5 - Lenor, a Border collie from the Pastoral category.

military veterans, and those struggling with their mental health.

Z A Springer Spaniel fire investigation dog who can very quickly detect a variety of ignitable substances and help determine whether a fire has been started deliberately, ensuring justice for

victims of horrific arson crimes.

Z A Golden Retriever who provides love and support to a young girl with cerebral palsy, helping her every day with her pain, anxiety, and stress.

Z The Newfoundlands dogs took home the winning prize!

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CHARLOTTE

TILBURY

THE ICONIC BRAND SHINES AT NEW YORK FASHION WEEK The media often portrays the Big Four Fashion Weeks (New York, Paris, London, Milan) as exclusively focused on clothing and on new designers breaking ground in the industry. However, these events are also precursors to the season’s makeup looks and professional artists from the world of beauty, film, and TV have their eyes firmly placed on trending looks. It was on the catwalk that the tendencies everyone is raving about (think Euphoria-style coloured eyeliner or eye crystals) began and it is there that they will be replaced. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS 172 / APRIL MARCH 2022 2022 ESSENTIAL ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

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very season, one of the biggest movers and shakers behind the scenes is Charlotte Tilbury: the British brand founded by a makeup artist who has an MBE to her name. Charlotte acts as show makeup director for a variety of brands – including Prada, Cavalli, and Lanvin, and she has worked as Creative Director for brands the calibre of Tom Ford.

CHARLOTTE’S BEGINNINGS Brand founder, Charlotte Tilbury was born in England and raised in Ibiza. The island’s boho chic vibes and laid-back glamour provided the perfect environment for her father (who was a painter) to stimulate his creative juices. Far from having a hippy upbringing, Charlotte was immersed in luxury, since her mother, Patsy, worked in luxury production and took good care of her skin with top-of-the-range products. Patsy taught her daughter that lipstick is “happiness in a tube” and she applied it liberally, in bold red. “Lipstick is instant glamour and it will take you anywhere,” said Patsy, and Charlotte was hooked on the capacity of makeup to empower women and make them more confident. As she told Harper’s Bazaar, “There is a psychology to make-up. If you look good, you feel good, and the world reacts to you in a powerful way.”

SCHOOLING HERSELF IN THE ART OF MAKEUP Charlotte trained at the renowned Glauca Rossi School of Makeup in London. Her mentor was famous makeup artist Mary Greenwell, who taught her the ins and outs of this creative yet competitive industry. Charlotte’s early days were characterised by ambition and heavy networking and she quickly built up an impressive list of contacts from the fashion and beauty worlds. Charlotte has added her sparkle to some of the most famous faces in the world – including Kim Kardashian, Amal Clooney, and Gisele Bündchen.

THE MAKING OF A TOP-SELLING MAKEUP BRAND In 2013, Charlotte launched her own brand, which featured both skincare and makeup. In 2015, she opened a flagship store in London and since then she has launched many more in an array of countries ranging from Dubai to Hong Kong. In June 2020, Charlotte sold a majority share of her company to Spanish fragrance and fashion giants, Puig.

She still has a sizable minority stake and continues to work as Chief Creative Officer.

NEW LAUNCHES In February this year, the brand showed off its brand-new baby on the New York Fashion Week runway: the Collagen Superfusion Facial Oil, designed to reduce

water loss and plump and smoothen the complexion while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The product is infused with gentle, naturally fragrant essential oils like neroli, rose absolute, damask rose, and eucalyptus. In case you didn’t know, facial oils are selling big in the beauty world, including among oily-skinned consumers. These oils actually balance out skin and stop sebaceous glands from going into overdrive.

Earlier this year, Charlotte Tilbury released another big hit: Beautiful Skin Foundation, a buildable, medium-coverage, hydrating foundation that gives skin a natural glow. It has received rave reviews, above all because of its gentle luminising effect and long-lasting, crease-proof formulation. One of the coolest things about this product is its numbering. Forget about complex names or codes. It has a simple system that goes from one to 17 and each shade is labelled as neutral, warm, or cool.

BEAUTIFUL BEFORE, BEAUTIFUL AFTER Charlotte insists that makeup exists to highlight natural beauty, not to mask it. Her brand is arguably bestknown for its natural and peachy/ rosy hues and its medium-coverage looks that allow skins’ characteristic features – including freckles – to shine through. Check out a few of her must-have products. › WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM / 173

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2 1 4

CHARLOTTE TILBURY IS SUCH A PROLIFIC BRAND THAT THERE ARE ALWAYS NEW PRODUCTS VYING FOR YOUR ATTENTION. WE TRIED AND TESTED A WIDE SELECTION OF PRODUCTS AND RECOMMEND THE FOLLOWING. 1 – CHARLOTTE’S MAGIC CREAM A moisturiser that hydrates and firms up skin. Ideal for everyday use.

2 – AIRBRUSH FLAWLESS SETTING SPRAY Spray this product on to set your makeup looks and make them last all day and night.

3 – HOLLYWOOD BEAUTY LIGHT WAND A gentle highlighter that comes with a handy sponge applicator.

174 / APRIL MARCH 2022 2022 ESSENTIAL ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

4 – CHARLOTTE’S BEAUTIFUL SKIN FOUNDATION The brand’s newest mediumcoverage foundation that hydrates, plumps, and smoothes skin.

5 – HOT LIPS A long-lasting lipstick that protects and hydrates lips.

It comes with a unique applicator that gives your look an ultra-precise finish.

6 – AIRBRUSH FLAWLESS FOUNDATION A light foundation that will give your skin a beautiful glow.

3 5

6

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DESIGNING A BEDROOM

THAT MAKES YOU GO ZZZ… In Spain, the percentage of people who sleep poorly (58 per cent) beats that of those who enjoy good quality sleep (43 per cent) and the average person sleeps less than the recommended seven-to-nine hours per night. Poor sleep increases the risk of serious medical conditions – including obesity, coronary heart disease, and diabetes and it shortens one’s lifespan. If you want to improve your sleep hygiene, follow a strict nighttime routine, avoid the use of screens in the evening, and stop consuming caffeine soon after lunch. Investing in good bedroom design is also important. WORDS BY MARISA CUTILLAS 176 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

SLEEP QUALITY MATTERS TOO The guiding principle behind optimal bedroom design is good sleep quality. Even if you sleep seven to nine hours a day, if the quality of your sleep is poor, then you won’t wake up feeling reenergised and renewed. The Sleep Foundation defines good sleep as:

Z Falling asleep quickly (about half an hour after getting into bed).

Z Waking up no more than once at night.

Z Falling back asleep within 20 minutes if you do wake up.

Z Feeling reinvigorated when you wake up.

EMBRACING THE DARKNESS If you really want to enhance your feeling of sleepiness at nighttime, invest in blackout curtains. These actually come in a wide range of colours and patterns, so don’t think you’ll have to sacrifice beauty to functionality. The human body is programmed to feel alert when the sun is up and sleepy in the darkness.The body’s ‘internal clock’ regulates sleep-wake cycles. Melatonin (a hormone produced in the brain’s pineal gland which sends signals to the body that it is rest time) helps this process along. Its levels rise during the early evening and continue to climb as darkness takes over. You can do your share to intensify this hormonal effect by dimming your lights a full hour before you sleep and by turning off all TVs, computers, tablets, and phones in the early afternoon. Digital devices contain high concentrations of blue light, which is detrimental to sleep. ›

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bedroom is, achieving an oasis of calm may require professional help. If this is the case, however, consider it a sound investment in your health, wellbeing, and longevity.

TOUCHING THE SOUND OF SILENCE Noise can cause frequent awakenings so if you live in a noisy zone, consider professional soundproofing. If you aren’t up for this project yet, there are other actions that can make a difference. These include installing double-glazed windows and opting for thicker carpeting.

Doors should also be sealed (since sound can enter through gaps). If the noise comes from outside, consider replacing your windows with acoustic ones, which have an added bonus – they can help reduce your cooling and heating bills. Finally, place heavy furniture (a shelf, desk, or sizable chair) close to the source of noise. In the worst case scenario, use white noise or soothing nature sounds or music to neutralise unpleasant sounds.

MAXIMISING MINIMALISM Your bedroom should ideally contain a simple, clutter-free design, since rooms that are too ‘busy’ (filled with furniture, 178 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

décor, and technology) can trigger anxiety and give you the sensation that you have tasks to complete. Even the space under the bed should be free of visible items, since they can cause stress. Use night stands and other storage furniture to ensure that loose items are stored away in an organised fashion.

SLEEP ON A GOOD MATTRESS Ensure your mattress is large enough for you to move easily and well-suited to your favourite sleeping position. If you sleep next to someone who moves frequently, then selecting pocketed coils will help keep the noise down. If you sleep on your back, opt for a firm mattress.

Side-sleepers, meanwhile, should go for a memory foam mattress, which will help keep all main points of their body supported to avoid hip and shoulder pain.

Optimal bedroom design involves creating an ambience that is quiet, calm, and sound-free.

Depending on how noisy your

Colours that Calm

Studies on the effect of colour on mood have found that subdued, light and pastel tones like grey, light blue, moss green, grey, and lavender hues can be particularly stress-relieving. A survey of 2,000 people found that people who had blue bedrooms averaged almost eight hours of sleep per night. Additional research has shown that people in red rooms had higher stress rates than those in green or white ones. If these hues have always appealed to you, give your bedroom a new lick of paint or change your current wallpaper design. Having a monochromatic scheme can also work. That is, some walls can be darker or more intense than others, but the general effect should be one of general uniformity. Of course, you are the ultimate decisionmaker when it comes to creating an alluring ambience. You may find warmer hues like dark wood or even black relaxing, so let your instinct be your guide. e

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enterprise

RUBÉN OTERO ENLIGHTENS US ON HOW HIS COMPANY HAS BECOME ONE OF THE MAIN PLAYERS ON THE COSTA DEL SOL AND MATIAS VILLARROEL DISCUSSES THE LAUNCH OF THE LATEST PHASES AT PALO ALTO. CHECK OUT RECENT LOCAL EVENTS AND BUSINESS NEWS.

GO TO PAGE 188 FOR PALO ALTO

GO TO PAGE 182 FOR THE SECRET PRODUCTS BEAUTY SPA HEALTH

GO TO PAGE 194 FOR BUSINESS NEWS

182 The Secret of Grupo Otero 188 Palo Alto – a Lifestyle Destination 194 Enterprise 202 Andalucia’s Succession Planning Benefits 204 The Vibe

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THE SECRET OF

OTERO GROUP One of the leaders in its field on the Costa del Sol, the Otero Group has grown into a multifaceted development company that brings architectural design, construction, project management and the creation and promotion of residential concepts together under one coordinated banner. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF OTERO GROUP

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ot surprisingly, Otero Group has undergone a steady evolution over the past years to become a very modern development company known for its innovative concepts and approach to creating beautiful homes. “We specialise in villa projects above all,” says CEO, Rubén Otero, “but in all

projects we undertake we look for something special in the setting and concept, so that we can in turn give our clients homes that stand out and offer a special sense of style and living environment.”

It’s the ability to do this very effectively that has given Otero Group a string of successful

projects dating back over a decade, and according to Rubén, the company’s newest project, The Secret Real de la Quinta, is the best yet. “We can look back upon a very successful 2021, above even our most positive expectations. This was partly due to external factors, such as a strong revival in demand, but also because we appear to create the kind of product that today’s buyers are looking for.”

Strong in sourcing land and developing attractive residential designs and concepts, Otero Group came into 2021 with a very appealing offering of new projects, and this continues into 2022 as well. “We’re very excited about The Secret Real de la Quinta,” says Rubén, who is proud of this new luxury development of 34 modern villas set within a private biosphere. “You see, we don’t just design homes anymore, we focus on creating a very special living environment.” ›

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INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT Representing the third generation of a family from the construction sector, Rubén Otero has created a group that encompasses 135 professionals dedicated to offering an integrated, 360-degree service related to all facets of property development. “Covering all aspects, from land acquisition and planning to design, construction and promotion,

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ensures that everything is properly coordinated – from original concept to final detailing and delivery. It also ensures that no opportunities to make every project as phenomenal as it can be are lost ‘in translation’, as our staff works seamlessly.”

Rubén and his team have made a special commitment to quality and the environmental and well-being aspects of the properties they offer.

Concepts such as ‘Focus to Excellence’ and ‘Excellence to Luxury’ drive this spirit within the company, and ensure that all parties remain centered upon the ultimate goal: to create outstanding new real estate projects both on the Costa del Sol and elsewhere in Spain. In this, Otero Group designs and produces its own developments as well as working with investment funds and third party promoters.

the company. The latter is designed to add a new generation of project management tools, quality control measures, and “We provide a full range of efficiency-enhancing specialised, professional systems that make Otero services that make Otero Group one of the most Group an ideal strategic advanced companies of its partner in property kind in the region. development,” says Rubén.

“All of this is aimed at An objective of incorporating optimal efficiency, quality new technologies and and transparency, while management processes, the need to advance with as well as new design technology and work concepts and a sustainable in a sustainable way way of working is at the are nothing more than heart of this philosophy, the responsibilities of including also an on-going a modern development digital transformation of company. We take all

these responsibilities seriously.” Building on these foundations, Otero Group will soon be launching five different projects of contemporary villas from between €600.000 and €2.000.000, within a premium lifestyle environment, reaching a total value of more than €120 million. “As I mentioned, all the projects we design and develop now are focused on optimal quality of the home and on well-being.” In addition, the Otero Group is now also working on luxury apartment concepts in Málaga. › WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM / 185

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THE SECRET, REAL DE LA QUINTA Featuring advanced architectural styling and opulent refinement and luxury, the villas of The Secret Real de la Quinta feature almost 750m2 of built space on generously proportioned plots with sea and golf views adjacent to the flowing course and amenities of Real de La Quinta (Benahavís). This will also include a leisure zone, hotel, spa, boutiques, restaurants, sports facilities, hiking paths and a lakeside pool club with lagoon beach. Designed, built and finished to the highest standards by Otero Group’s team of architects, engineers and interior stylists, The Secret Real de la Quinta focuses on offering a premium quality of living environment within a gated community surrounded by curated nature.

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Large panoramic terraces flow into elegant open-plan interiors endowed with the finest quality materials and appliances. “Living like that in a valley surrounded by a UNESCO biosphere, on the edge of Marbella and the coast, well that has to be

something to treasure,” says Rubén Otero, who is confident that the quality of life this region offers, along with new developments in remote working and greater lifestyle flexibility, ensure a great future for the Costa del Sol and its real estate sector.

g Blv. Principe Alfonso de Hohenlohe, Urb.Carolina Park, Local 36B, Marbella.

Tel: (+34) 951 569 722.

Whatsapp: 622 087 223. hola@oterogroup.es, hello@oteromarbella.es www.oterogroup.es, www.oteromarbella.com

CLICK TO VISIT www.otero.com

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PALO ALTO A LIFESTYLE DESTINATION Conceived as much more than just a luxurious contemporary property development, Palo Alto is a community and lifestyle destination in the making. In this, it can count on such attributes as panoramic sea views, natural mountain scenery surroundings and the tranquillity of the Andalusian countryside in a setting just minutes from downtown Marbella and the beach. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PALO ALTO

188 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

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lready a living, functioning community with a growing range of amenities in the hills between Marbella and the charming village of Ojén, Palo Alto is now launching the seventh of a series of phases that features a range of stylish modern homes set within the landscaped greenery that its chief designer,

Matias Villarroel, has become well-known for.

“I learned about the importance of gardens and open spaces in complementing architectural design and creating a quality living environment from my father, Melvin Villarroel,” says the Development Director for Palo Alto and partner in Villarroel-

Torrico. His vision has from the outset been about more than just creating an urbanisation.

“Palo Alto has the attributes of a lifestyle destination in which quality of life and what we call ‘Naturally Modern Living’ are central concepts that guide the architectural design. This also includes the relationship between the interior and exterior spaces, and the integration and orientation of the buildings in the steep topography and landscape, as well as the selection of key amenities that define the lifestyle destination.”

Each of the phases therefore looks and feels like the evolution of a central philosophy of development, every one fitting into place in a coordinated, complementary way. “The advantage of working with a master plan in a development of this size is that you can create not just a single project but an entire residential concept. At Palo Alto this means a living, breathing community of kindred spirits drawn here by the beautiful natural setting, views, proximity to both Ojén and Marbella, and a clear focus within the development itself of offering exceptional quality of life and wellbeing through the interaction between modern style and comforts on the one hand, and peace, privacy and nature on the other.” › WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM / 189

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Inside, the apartments and penthouses offer the latest in design and modern comforts, along with space and privacy, but within Palo Alto the focus is on providing opportunities for interaction, be it on a social, family or even business level. “It’s our aspiration to create a community here that makes us pay so much attention to detail,” says Matias, “and this in turn has made us experts in creating a living environment that embodies the concept of a lifestyle destination on the Costa del Sol.” ›

NATURALLY MODERN LIVING Palo Alto has been designed around four key pillars: Focus on the family, (the extended family, the community where you live), creation of a lifestyle destination, bespoke homes, and sustainability, and it shows in everything from the common amenities and properties themselves to the overall presentation of the project. “At Palo Alto you are on the very edge of Marbella and the coastal area while also feeling part of Andalucía. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy modern style and refinement combined with a natural, connected lifestyle.”

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Indeed, the concept of ‘Naturally Modern Living’ is itself no exaggeration in a place where you can see goats being herded along ancient hillside tracks, eagles hovering overhead in clear blue skies, and deer occasionally emerging from the wooded hillside groves that descend towards fruit orchards and pastures in the valley. “It’s a fantastic location with all this but also five minutes from downtown Marbella, and yet you have a professional gym, hammam and sauna at the Palo Alto Club, along with tennis courts, swimming pools, concierge services, a co-working space and an organic farmer’s market. All this is overseen by our Resort Manager, who plays a key role in enabling owners to enjoy the Palo Alto Lifestyle.”

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Matias Villarroel announces that the last phase of the North Area and the entire South Area will be commenced soon. “We will launch Olivos, the last phase of the North Area, comprising 22 apartments and an exclusive co-working area with full professional services, in parallel with the South Area, which will feature 200 detached and semi-detached villas.”

g Arrabal Au. 6, 2V, Carretera Marbella-Ojén A-335 km 4, Ojén.

Tel: (+34) 900 102 322. www.paloaltomarbella.com

CLICK TO VISIT

www.paloaltomarbella.com

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business news

ANTIMA EXPANDS BEYOND PRIVATE RESIDENCES Antima has joined forces with Swedish Inova Property, a subsidiary of the Subnova Group – a high-end property development company. This alliance will permit Antima to pursue new, exciting possibilities that promise to transform not just the company, but Marbella as a whole. Upcoming projects will range from one-of-a-kind private residences – with new and exclusive services – to the development of extraordinary commercial buildings. Antima has established the partnership via a new company it will be in charge of administering. It is looking to invest more than €100 million in 2022. i www.antima.no

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WORDS BY MARISA CUTILLAS

BE LAGOM BY ALTUR HOMES: SCANDINAVIAN-INSPIRED DESIGN MEETS NATURAL LIVING Be Lagom is a new project by Altur homes, featuring 13 designer villas with stunning Scandinavian design features. The company is offering discerning homebuyers modern homes within a serene hillside setting overlooking La Alquería, natural mountain scenery, and a wide stretch of coastline. Just a stone’s throw away from Marbella, Benahavís, and Estepona, the four-bedroom villas (measuring between 600m2 and 800m2) boast a modern style, as well as fixtures in noble materials such as stone and wood in the interior and exterior. The project is very highly regarded due to its sustainable credentials. i www.belagom.es

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ROSAURO VARO AND PACHÁ ACQUIRE LAGUNA VILLAGE Successful entrepreneur, Rosauro Varo and Grupo Pachá have united to open a luxury club on the site of Laguna Village – the shopping village that burned down in 2020. They will be transforming the location into one of the best tourism complexes in Spain. It will contain different zones – including a beach club, shopping quarter, restaurant area, kids’ domain, sports and nautical sector, and more. An investment of €25 million has been made to make the project come to life. i www.grupopacha.com

196 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

THE BEACH LA RESERVA CLUB REOPENS The Beach La Reserva Club de Sotogrande is reopening for the 2022 season on April 1. Visitors can relax in an elegant ambience at this unique beach club ensconced within the rolling hills of Sotogrande. The new season will feature exciting additions, such as Chambao, where groups of 12 can chill out on their own private island. There will also be a massage space by SO/ Sotogrande and new VIP packages. i www.lareservaclubsotogrande.com

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NO MORE ESSENTIALS LAUNCHES LUXURY COLLECTION OF SKATEBOARDS Upcoming Spanish brand, No More Essentials, has designed an exclusive collection of skateboards featuring stunning camouflage designs made with marble, 18-carat gold finishing, and over 22,000 Swarovski crystals.

The team has designed a total of six skateboards, which belong to two collections. All boards are inspired by street style and are handcrafted by expert artisans in Europe. i www. nomoreessentials.com

DEVELOPER BRIGHT SHINES AT THE INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY AWARDS IN LONDON BRIGHT’s Vista Lago Residences Project was recognised as the ‘World’s Best Residential Development’ at the prestigious International Property Awards in London. "Competing against more than 500 projects worldwide and winning the first prize is a victory for both Marbella and 198 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

Vista Lago," says Michael Rodziewicz, CEO of BRIGHT, the developer responsible for the Vista Lago boutique resort. This sustainable luxury project also won the ‘Best in Europe’ award for its architecture, the result of a successful collaboration between BRIGHT and architecture and interior design firm, UDesign. i www.bright.com

TENMOD HIGHLIGHTS THE TALENT OF SPANISH DESIGNERS The TENMOD weekend fashion event took place recently at the Gran Hotel Miramar in Málaga. Over 30 designers (including Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada) showcased their latest collections.

The event also featured a competition of upcoming talent and top models such as Elisabeth Reyes, Asraf Beno, Patricia Checa, and Adrián Pedraja. i www.nuevamoda.com

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LOCAL DESIGNER CREATES ART PRINTS TO RAISE FUNDS FOR UKRAINE Young, local Marbella designer, Annie Rose (design partner of Boho Club, Scotson Property Maintenance and other Marbella-based businesses and UK fitness influencers) has launched a line of art prints to raise money for Ukrainian families and children. The beautiful prints cost less than a Starbucks Frappuccino and all profits are being donated to UNICEF, currently in Ukraine providing humanitarian aid. i The prints can be purchased on Etsy: https://www. etsy.com/shop/SupportUkraineShop

HOSTELTECH RAISES THE BAR FOR THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY ON THE COAST The first-ever Hosteltech event took place recently in Marbella, bringing together over 1,500 people from the sector to highlight the innovative technology that optimises work in the industry.

Hosteltech featured presentations, masterclasses, live shows, tastings, competitions, and the awarding of prizes to professionals from the hospitality, restaurant, and catering divisions. i www.hosteltech.es

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BEDEUR BRINGS BETTER SLEEP QUALITY TO ANDALUCÍA Luxury bedmaker, Bedeur, recently expanded its European presence with a new showroom gallery in central Marbella. Located just off Marbella’s main Avda. Ricardo Soriano on C/ Maria Auxiliadora, the showroom displays the company’s most popular bed models. Handcrafted and intricately designed to provide its customers with an unmatched sleep experience, Bedeur beds leverage the finest organic materials. i www.bedeur.com

HIGUERÓN RESORT JOINS THE FIGHT AGAINST BREAST CANCER Higuerón Resort recently joined forces with the Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer de Mijas y Fuengirola to battle breast cancer – a disease which affects one in eight women in their lifetime. The resort auctioned two works of art by renowned contemporary artists, Rousi and Darko, raising approximately €2.513 . i www.higueronresort.com

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ANDALUCÍA’S SUCCESSION

PLANNING BENEFITS There are so many benefits to living in Southern Spain, but, as with anywhere, there are both pros and cons. Many people find Spain’s succession regime to be complex and costly, and expatriates need to understand how Spanish succession tax and law works and affects their family. The good news is that over recent years the local Andalucía government has reduced succession tax liabilities for residents, making it one of the most tax attractive regions to live in. WORDS CHRIS MCCANN, SENIOR PARTNER, BLEVINS FRANKS SPANISH SUCCESSION AND GIFT TAX (SSGT) KEY FACTS: Z SSGT applies to both inheritances and lifetime gifts.

Z It is charged on each recipient, including spouses.

Z It is due when: » the beneficiary is resident in Spain, or » the asset being gifted or inherited is a Spanish asset (Spanish property, bank account, etc.).

Beneficiaries are divided into 202 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

groups: » Group I – children and other descendants under 21 » Group II – descendants over 21, parents and other ascendants, spouses » Group III – siblings, cousins, aunts/uncles, nieces/nephews, in-laws, stepchildren » Group IV – everyone else, including unmarried partners even if registered as a pareja de hecho unless the region grants them the same rights as

spouses (Andalucía does) Z The tax rates and allowances are determined by the state each year, but the regions can make them more beneficial for local residents.

Z UK nationals can be liable to both Spanish and UK inheritance tax since UK inheritance tax is based on domicile not residence, but a credit is given in Spain for tax paid in the UK to avoid double taxation.

ANDALUCÍA SUCCESSION TAX RATES AND ALLOWANCES

Andalucía taxpayers can benefit from high personal reductions.

The local SSGT rates For inheritances (not for 2022 start at 7% gifts), descendants, for inheritances/gifts ascendants and under €8.000 and rise spouses receive up progressively to 26% for to €1 million tax free amounts over €800.000 (under state rules (remember, this is per this allowance is only beneficiary, not the €15.957), as well as a whole estate). This is 99% tax relief. Group III a significant reduction receive a reduction of from last year’s 36.5% €10.000. and compares very Additionally, favourably with the in Andalucía, the state rates which main home is now currently range from reduced by 99% for 7.65% to 34%. inheritances received The Spanish tax by close family, with regime also applies no maximum cap, multipliers, which provided: in some cases can Z The beneficiary is a significantly increase spouse, civil partner, the tax rates. This is ascendant, descendant, usually based on both or other relative over the pre-existing wealth 65 who lived with the of the beneficiary and deceased the previous their degree of kinship, two years. but in Andalucía is now Z The property is only based on kinship. retained for three years.

There is no increase When it comes to for Group I and II gifts, a 99% reduction beneficiaries, Group on lifetime gifts on the III multiply by 1.5 and main home is available Group IV by 1.9. in Andalucía if the

recipient is below 35 years or qualifies as disabled or a victim of domestic violence or terrorism, their preexisting wealth does not exceed €402.678, and they use the property as their main home and retain it for three years (stated in the public deed of gift).

ESTATE PLANNING You also need to be aware of how Spain’s succession law imposes ‘forced heirship’. In general terms, children are entitled to receive two thirds of an estate’s assets, so under Spanish law you cannot, for example, leave everything to your spouse. This applies to foreign nationals living in Spain by default.

You can however use the European Succession Regulation ‘Brussels IV’ to opt for the succession law of your country of nationality to apply on

your death. You need to specifically state this in your will. This applies to all foreign nationals living in the EU, it is not restricted to EU citizens.

Every family is different. Take personalised advice, based on your situation and objectives, to help ensure your estate is divided as you wish and with as little tax and bureaucracy as possible. You can take steps now to make life easier for your family when you’re gone.

g Tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; individuals should seek personalised advice. www.blevinsfranks.com

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NEW ATLAS AMERICAN SCHOOL ESTEPONA Members of the board of Atlas American School, the Mayor of Estepona, and the Principal of the school invited parents, prospective students, and members of the press to the official presentation of the new school which will open its doors this September. i www.atlas-asm.es

“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today” – Malcolm X

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STRAND PROPERTY EVENTS Strand Properties recently invited real estate agents from the local market to an Open Forum on the spacious terrace in front of their Puerto Banús office and to an Open House showcasing the remarkable 360 degree rotating villa in Estepona. i www.strand.es

“Real Estate is the purest form of entrepreneurship” – Brian Buffini

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF STRAND PROPERTIES WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM / 205

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GUCCI WARS Author, journalist and radio broadcaster, Mary Harboe, welcomed visitors to the recent book signing event at The Bookshop in San Pedro de Alcántara, where she signed copies of her new book, Gucci Wars, featuring the intriguing story of Jenny Gucci. i www.thebookshop.es

“Quality is something that is remembered long after price is forgotten” – Aldo Gucci

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MAHRA EXPERIENCE LAUNCH Mahra Spa, created by women for women, will offer natural beauty treatments, skin therapy, organic products, and an authentic Moroccan Hammam experience from its lavish new premises at Centro Plaza in Nueva Andalucía. i www.mahraexperience.com

“Beauty is being comfortable in your own skin” – Anonymous

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM / 207

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VILLA OTTO OPEN HOUSE Solvilla invited members of the local real estate fraternity to an Open House viewing of Villa Otto on the frontline of Los Flamingos Golf. The magnificent state-of-theart property, designed by Tobal Architects, features outstanding panoramic views over the golf course from its elevated position. i www.solvilla.es

“A luxury home has to be immaculate, absolutely spotless” – Richard Dorn

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN 208 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

LA VERANDA RESTAURANT

For the ultimate dining experience, indulge in the elegance and old-warm charm of La Veranda, which is going ‘back to its roots’ by serving its most iconic dishes and guests’ all-time favourites 20 years ago.

Information and reservations: E: laveranda.villapadierna@anantara-hotels.com T: +34 952 889 150

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com

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Sabine Koerl, her son Lucas, plus guests, taking off for a flight to Córdoba

ZAGALETA PRIVATE HELI SERVICE Launches new destinations to Jerez, Seville, Portugal and Málaga province for its members and residents.

This exclusive service, launched in July of last year covers both exclusive destinations and experiences, as well as special routes.

Operated with an AGUSTA WESTLAND 109 Power helicopter,

the twin turbine Rolls Royce powered helicopter offers a fast and secure transfer to any destination within 800km distance. With an average cruising speed of almost 300km/h, this helicopter counts among the fastest in the market traveling at a 30% higher speed than most civilian helicopters.

Francisco Fernández, Ascari Circuit Chairman (right) and Ignacio Pérez, Zagaleta Group Chairman (left) inaugurating the Zagaleta-Ascari destination last year

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ZAGALETA OLD COURSE TO HOST THE PING JUNIOR SOLHEIM CUP IN SEPTEMBER 2023 La Zagaleta, one of the most exclusive clubs in Europe, located in the Málaga town of Benahavís, will host the 2023 PING Junior Solheim Cup – an invitation-only event for golfs 24 best female juniors that precedes the 2023 Solheim Cup. La Zagaleta hosted the presentation ceremony of the 2023 PING Junior Solheim Cup which was attended by a multitude of personalities including Manuel Muñoz, General Secretary for Tourism of the Junta de Andalucía, Antonio Díaz, Managing Director of Turismo Costa del Sol, José Antonio Mena, Mayor of Benahavís, Gonzaga Escauriaza, President of the RFEG,

Jacobo Cestino, CEO La Zagaleta, Bertil Hult, Member of the Board of Directors, Javier Carretero, Member of the Direct Board of External Partners, Eva-Lotta Strömlid, Project Director of the PING Junior Solheim Cup, Pablo Bernárdez, Director of the PING Junior Solheim Cup 2023 and Pablo Mansilla, President of the RFGA. “We’re very excited to bring the 2023 PING Junior Solheim Cup to the Old Course at La Zagaleta. It’s a tremendous club that will surely challenge the girls as they play for the honour and pride of their countries.

The event continues to grow in popularity and bringing it to Spain for

the first time adds to its stature and history.

I’m personally looking forward to attending the event as it is always one of the highlights of the week for me. It brings me a lot of joy to see these talented young ladies compete

and pull off great shots with so much pressure.

Playing for team and country for the Junior Solheim Cup is inspiring.

There is nothing like it.

It’s an experience they’ll remember forever.” John Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO

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gourmet

PLAN A VISIT TO GRACE IN RIVIERA, A VERITABLE HAVEN OF DESIGN AND DIVERSITY. READ ABOUT MARCOS GRANDA’S PHENOMENAL ACHIEVEMENTS AND DISCOVER THE INFLUENCE WELL KNOWN CRITICS HAVE ON THE WINE TRADE.

GO TO PAGE 228 FOR WINE CRITICS

GO TO PAGE 224 FOR MARCOS GRANADA

GO TO PAGE 220 FOR GOURMET BYTES

GO TO PAGE 214 FOR GRACE

NEWS GASTRONOMY CHEFS WINE

214 Grace in Riviera 220 Gourmet Bytes 224 Marcos Granda – Five Michelin Stars 228 Wine Critics

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GRACE IN RIVIERA Residents on the eastern fringe of Marbella have been lamenting the lack of a gourmet restaurant following the closure of Döss and El Rancho during the pandemic. That niche has been more than amply filled by the arrival of Grace in Riviera which opened its doors last summer on the top level of the Riviera Sports Club.

WORDS JAMES SINCLAIR PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

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race is part of the Stratomille Group, which already has successful establishments operating in Málaga – La Pala de Oro, Benalmádena – La Pala de Oro, Yucas Mare and Mar de Copas, and will shortly launch La Pala Now on Miguel Cano in Marbella and La Pala Now alongside Grace, which will offer takeaway Italian specialities and drinks.

EXTENSIVE ELEGANCE ABOUNDS The arrival at Grace is impressive enough, with the plunge pool and pretty decked terrace

supporting a glass igloo which can accommodate a party of up to six diners. The entry into the restaurant is even more so as the dimensions unfold before you.

Masterminded by Pedro Cerdán Interiors, the architecture and décor really are a tour de force, with three distinct zones that transition from one to the other.

To the right is the sophisticated bar and restaurant, with elegant tablecloth dining, plush chairs and sofa seating, highlighted with marble, wood, three dimensional effect wallpaper, beamed ceiling and geometric art.

The central partition is akin to being in a fancy continental hotel lounge, with low set circular armchairs, stools, metallic tables, and soft mosaic carpeting, highlighted in shades of navy blue and mustard yellow. The covered terrace facing the tennis courts, meanwhile, has a Japanese feel with latticed pillars, rattan lamp shades, wooden screen shelves, floor boards and tables. Diners consequently have an enviable selection of different ambiences to choose from which is one of the joys of returning here. ›

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DIVERSITY PERSONIFIED Another is the diversity of the food offering. The à la carte menu features international haute cuisine involving meat, fish, pasta and rice options but there is also an extensive oriental menu, with a large variety of sushi and sashimi, prepared by Chef Willie Herrera David. The restaurant serves popular Sunday lunches from 1 - 5pm with live music and also has musicians performing live on Saturday evenings. ›

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This being our first visit, we tried a range of options from the main menu, starting with Prawns in Panko with Kimchi Sauce which were so good we will have to order them on our next visit. There followed Iberian Pork Bao with Hoisin Sauce and Spiced Sour Cream, like an oriental version of a burger,

a very satisfying Risotto with Carabineros, Glazed Salmon Thai Style with 7 Salsas – another stand out plate, and Rack of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary Butter, which is a speciality of the house. The young chef responsible for these delicacies, Gianluca Borrelli certainly has a bright future in front of him.

great accompaniments to the different dishes we savoured.

Wine lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice with the comprehensive list of wines and Champagnes.

We finished an exquisite meal with a creamy Tiramisu and delicious Cheesecake, all of us in agreement that we will be back to sample the Sushi specialities soon.

ASTORIA WINES Another part of the Group is the Astoria Winery and many of the wines and proseccos are personalised with the Astoria label. The Prosecco Millesimato Extra Dry, Astoria Suade Sauvignon Blanc and Astoria Il Puro Merlot proved to be

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g Grace in Riviera, C/ Libra, 11, Riviera del Sol. Open from 12:00 to 01:00 with the kitchen operating continuously until 23:30.

Closed on Monday.

Tel: 673 916 361. www.graceinriviera.com

Tel: 952 818 392 www.thaigallerymarbella.com

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ALL OUR RESTAURANTS ARE OPEN ACCORDING TO REGULATIONS, WITH FULL SAFETY MEASURES!

Puente Romano Hotel, Plaza Village, Marbella.

IN ES E R ES TA U R A N T PO LY

NEW TAI PAN

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Marbella

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Tel: 952 777 893 / 952 775 500 www.taipanmarbella.com Puente Romano, Fase 2, Marbella.

Open Daily for Dinner from 8:00

SUKHOTHAI Exquisite Royal Thai Cuisine Tel: 952 770 550 www.sukhothaimarbella.com Marbellamar, L-3A, Marbella.

Open Daily for Dinner from 8:00

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FLORIDA MIJAS BEACH’S PALMIRA RESTAURANT IS BACK WITH A SOUTHERN-INSPIRED MENU

Florida Mijas Beach recently reopened its restaurant, Palmira, enticing diners with comfort food inspired by the flavours of the South of Spain. The Chef, Iván Cerdeño (whose Restaurante Iván CerdeñoCigarral del Ángel has two Michelin stars) has a few surprises in store.

He is tempting discerning palates with a tasting menu that highlights the variety and quality of local produce. i www.floridabeach.es

HOFMANN’S COOKING COURSES ENTICE The Escuela de Hostelería Hofmann in Barcelona is keen to share the knowledge of its talented Chefs with those with an interest in gastronomy. Recently, the school announced that it would be teaching courses that focus on three types of cuisine – Japanese, vegan, and seasonal, respectively. The courses run for a couple of months (comprising eight four-hour sessions) and they are catered to those wishing to learn useful techniques. Absolute beginners are welcome. i www.hofmann-bcn.com

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DIEGO AND FRIENDS AT SOLLO

A SCENIC MEAL AT LA

ORGANIC’S GREENHOUSE LA Organic is best known for its premium oils but at the bar in its beautiful Greenhouse, you can also try various products made at the finca, as well as tapas, products from Ronda, conserves, and excellent wines.

Dine on the terrace while

contemplating the beauty of the Serranía de Ronda and the Sierra de Grazalema. All dishes hail from the finca’s ecological garden or local producers. The produce is seasonal and contains no additives or processed ingredients. i www.laorganic.es

Diego Gallegos, Chef of Michelinstarred restaurant Sollo, regularly hosts an event called Diego and Friends, featuring unique tasting menus served to reduced groups of diners. Diego has invited renowned Chefs (all of whom head two-Michelin-starred restaurants) to show off their talents and the list of names is impressive. It includes Kiko Moya (L’Escaleta), Paco Roncero (Paco Roncero Restaurante), Mario Cachinero (Skina), Andoni Luis Aduriz (Mugaritz), Francis Paniego (El Portal de Echaurren), Martina Puigvert (Les Cols), Paco Morales (Noor), Pablo González-Conejero (Cabaña Buenavista), and Iván Cerdeño (Restaurante Iván Cerdeño Cigarral del Ángel). i www.sollo.es

JOSÉ CARLOS GARCÍA RESTAURANT CELEBRATES ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A SPECIAL MENU

José Carlos García opened his restaurant at Malaga’s Muelle Uno 10 years ago and to celebrate this feat, he has created a special menu featuring some of the most emblematic dishes from his trajectory as a Chef. The restaurant also has various surprise events lined up for clients and friends. i www.restaurantejcg.com 222 / APRIL 2022 ESSENTIAL MAGAZINE

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MARCOS GRANDA

FIVE MICHELIN STARS AND COUNTING We first featured Marcos Granda in magazine in 2004.

Skina, the restaurant that earned him his first Michelin star, had just opened its doors in Marbella’s Old Town. The venue offered something unique: fine dining served in a small cornerside venue that soon came to be the talk of the town. Marcos, a sommelier by trade, launched this project alongside his wife, María Isabel Salamanca. At the time, he said, “Nobody trusted my ideas. No-one would have bet on my vision. But in my mind, the secret was clear… however, I wanted to put it to the test first.” WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GRUPO MARCOS GRANDA

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His uncles owned a sidrería (cider bar) in which his father worked every evening for eight hours – this after a gruelling eight-hour shift at an Asturian mine.

THE START OF EVERYTHING

EARLY BEGINNINGS

team’s success is testimony Back then, Marcos struck me to his ability to select and as being a young man with manage talent. Marcos is a incredible vision and drive. I restaurateur who “looks for was intrigued by how small colleagues that multiply his Skina was; it served only 12 own virtues.” Since launching diners per evening. Yet this Skina, he hasn’t stopped his exclusivity and intimacy was entrepreneurial activities yet he part of the plan to offer a unique always takes the time he needs experience in which excellent to find the right team for each food was married to flawless establishment. service. Almost 20 years later, I was not surprised to discover A FAMILY AFFAIR that Marcos had achieved five Marcos may be a bit of an Michelin stars, divided among anomaly in the world of haute four restaurants – Skina (two cuisine but in many ways, stars), Clos (in Madrid, with one he was destined to become star), Ayalga (in Ribadesella, a culinary visionary. Born in Asturias, with one star), and Sotrondio, Oviedo in 1976, he Nintai (launched in Marbella in learned the art of hospitality 2021 and already the holder of from his father. The latter a star). taught his son the importance of good produce and of THE POWER OF TEAMWORK ensuring that diners have a This level of achievement is positive experience. His family impressive, considering the fact provided him with many fine that Marcos is not a Chef. His examples of strong work ethics.

During Marcos’ youth, his father opened his own business, Casa Jamín. Marcos did his share at the family restaurant before honing his craft at La Gran Taberna de Oviedo and studying at the prestigious Escuela de Hostelería de Gijón (where he received a Diploma in Restaurant and Bar Services).

He then moved to Madrid to obtain his title of sommelier in the Chamber of Commerce.

After that he honed his craft at Las Rejas, the Michelin-starred restaurant of iconic Chef, Manolo de la Osa. Marcos tried his luck at Zaldia (in Sotogrande) for three years, before completing a stage at El Bulli. This experience opened the doors to a gig at Lord of the Manor – an Oxford Hotel with its own Michelinstarred restaurant. During his three-year stay in London, he achieved the dream of any sommelier (forming part of The Greenhouse in Mayfair, which has two Michelin stars and over 3,000 wines on its list). › WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM / 225

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SKINA LIGHTS UP THE OLD TOWN Keen to return to Spain and continue his culinary journey, he landed in Marbella to complete a sommelier course at the Bellamar school. Ironically, the school told him he was overqualified for the course. Luckily, this move would change his life for the better, and he decided to launch his Old Town restaurant. Years after its opening he discovered that ‘Skina’ meant ‘to shine or illuminate’ in Swedish. Skina received its first star in 2008 and its second in 2019. In December, 2021, its Head Chef, Mario Cachinero, was recognised by the Michelin (Spain and Portugal) Guide 2022 as the winner of the Young Chef Award.

EXPANSION CALLS In December 2017, a regular client

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of Skina from Madrid suggested that Marcos should expand his portfolio and Clos Madrid was born. In less than a year, Clos had obtained its first Michelin star. In early 2019, Ayalga was born in Marcos’ birthplace, Asturias. Ensconced in an historic palace by the sea, it achieved its star in 2021.

Just before the pandemic hit in 2020, Marcos travelled to Japan and became enthralled by the silence, liturgy, and delicacy that surrounds this country’s culinary tradition. The period of lockdown was a perfect pause during which to find the team that would give life to Nintai, whose ‘soul’ is a wooden bar where a sushi master cuts fish with great delicacy in front of 12 diners. Less than a year after its

launch, Nintai had also obtained a Michelin star.

FOUR PILLARS Marcos shares that his work ethic is based on four key pillars: hospitality, training, authenticity, and perseverance. Everything revolves around his clients and the goal is to serve them in an unobtrusive manner, prioritising the dining experience. For the restaurateur, it is vital to know each client and their needs.

“That is the intangible factor of restaurants – the emotional nuances that mark the difference between one restaurant and another.” i www.restauranteskina.com www.restauranteclosmadrid.com www.ayalgavillarosario.com www.restaurantenintai.com

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(+34) 952 036 494 reservations@breathe.life

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WINE CRITICS The life of a wine critic can be fun, but it may not be the bed of roses that outsiders believe it to be. While there is a handful of internationally acclaimed critics whose names are familiar wherever wine is drunk, the majority only enjoy a reputation within communities and regions. But how reliable are they at guiding consumers to the best buys, and helping them enjoy wine more than they might otherwise?

WORDS ANDREW J LINN

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pain’s José Peñin has held the top spot for 45 years.

He publishes the annual Peñin Guide, and out of respect there is very little serious competition at a national level, although Victor de la Serna, Isabel Muñoz and Fernando Point have kept him on his toes with their regular wine column in daily newspaper El Mundo. Now Peñin has taken the trade’s euro, as it were, and has thrown in his lot with Casa Gourmet, a member’s online wine and food club, in order to recommend their offerings.

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Will this affect his judgement?

Only time will tell, but very soon he will surely find himself in a situation whereby he has to choose between two wines, one peddled by the club and the other having no relationship with it – and tell his readers which is the better buy.

British wine critic Jancis Robinson sold her website, or her business, in 2017. Of all UK critics, perhaps Robinson has demonstrated best that a solitary wine writer can, with business savvy, convert wine criticism into a profitable

enterprise. Maybe this is why she was awarded an Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth in 2003. She advises on the royal wine cellar and has published over 20 books while maintaining a column in the Financial Times. Another excellent UK-based wine writer is Neal Martin, who began writing an independent website, wine-journal.com, that quickly acquired over 100,000 readers.

In 2006, he joined The Wine Advocate as a reviewer, until 2017 when he left for Vinous, a new publication.

When Robert Parker cashed in for an alleged $10 million, his independent publication, The Wine Advocate, was acquired by a group of Singapore-based investors active in the wine business. So, adios to critical independence at a stroke, confirmed by TWA’s subsequent ‘move’ into the Michelin stable.

US-born Lisa Perotti-Brown, who had been running TWA very effectively, resigned, and joins the roll call of praiseworthy wine writers who have put principles before self-interest. But in case these words give the impression that wine criticism, as opposed to wine writing, did not exist before the likes of Robert Parker, it should be borne in mind that the early pioneers such as André Simon, Harry Waugh, Hugh Johnson and Michael Broadbent all worked in the trade. Since it was a small ‘club’, they all knew each other and probably coincided weekly at tastings, lunches and other gatherings, so to criticise was not seen as gentlemanly.

Many wine writers reject the title wine critic as being too harsh. They believe, with

some justification, that no-one deliberately makes a bad wine.

The crème de la crème write for well-known international publications, or even have their own. Their names are recognised by every winemaker in any language, and they are as feared as they are respected. The second tier consists of those who write as freelancers or have their own websites and blogs; then there are the also-rans.

The ‘names’ do not have to ask bodegas to send them samples; they just receive them. Some of the bloggers attain stature by accomplishing notoriety for fairness and an independent approach, probably because they have nothing to fear from any vengeful producer who blacklists them – as often happens. The lowest of the low go out and buy the wines they intend writing about, thereby achieving the

ultimate in complete impartiality.

But let’s not assume that a succulent offer of some sort cannot sway them one way or another. It is obviously very agreeable to be on the receiving end of a few cases of excellent wine, maybe worth hundreds of euros in retail terms, so many reviewers deliberately praise some and slam others, and the word ‘but’ appears frequently in their reports. So, what about the anonymous reviewers?

CellarTracker www.cellartracker. com is the leader, and founder Eric Levine reckons the average website user has rated 49 wines on the site. With 2,300+ users that’s a lot of wine, and the divergence of opinions from professional critics is a chasm, but joining it is free (The Wine Advocate costs $99 annually and Jancis Robinson around GBP140). e

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