MARCH/APRIL 2025

California Lifestyle Collection

26 Peninsula Road BELVEDERE

465 BELVEDERE AVENUE

4 BEDS | 4.5 BATHS | ±4,070 SQ. FT.

4 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 3 HALF-BATHS | ±4,996 SQ. FT

$8,950,000

$29,900,000

Start every day as a luxurious waterfront vacation on the Belvedere Lagoon. This newly fully renovated home o ers four ensuite bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, a two-car garage and a boat dock on the Belvedere Lagoon. From the boat dock, lush gardens and patio you will enjoy the views of the sparkling water, scenic Tiburon hillside, top of Angel Island and Corinthian Islands as well as Belvedere island. At over 4,070 sq ft., it is one of the largest homes on the Belvedere Lagoon, o ering an incomparable waterfront lifestyle on the best part of the lagoon within 5 minutes’ walk to downtown Tiburon and Corinthian Yacht Club and San Francisco Yacht Club, two of the most prestigious yacht clubs in the West Coast.

A magnificent newly built luxury home with panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, Bay Bridge and Angel Island. Designed by architect David Kotzebue and designer Barbara Turpin Vickroy, this 5,000 sq. ft. masterpiece features top-tier finishes, an infinity pool, and seamless indoor-outdoor living.

The main level boasts 18 feet vaulted high ceiling living-dining room with two fireplaces opening onto a spaces stone terrace with an outdoor kitchen overlooking the pool and pool house. The gourmet kitchen with Italian marble counters, German cabinetry, and premium appliances. The primary suite o ers stunning views, a spa-like bathroom, and a custom walk-in closet. Three other spacious en-suite bedrooms with terraces and a full floor entertainment room on lower floors.

The spacious living room-dining room combo o ers tall ceilings, stone fireplace, oversized waterfront windows and floor to ceiling French doors to the outside patios. The primary bedroom sits peacefully o the lagoon, featuring a walk in closet and brand new spacious shower and bath. Two other spacious bedrooms with en-suite baths sharing a large “home study room” are ideal for children. The huge second floor living quarters with a bedroom, a sitting room and a brand new full bath, o ers a rare sneak-peak of Salesforce Tower behind Angel Island along with the beautiful lagoon view and surroundings of Belvedere and Tiburon. The kitchen and dining areas center the home, creating a natural space for watching sailboats and paddle boats around the lagoon.z

Located near downtown Tiburon’s ferry services, dozen finest restaurants and two world class yacht clubs, this exceptional residence blends tranquility, top quality, privacy and convenience to amenities.

California Lifestyle Collection

26 Peninsula Road

BELVEDERE

4 BEDS | 5.5 BATHS | ± 5,375 SQ. FT. | 1 ACRE LOT

$16,880,000

2215 Vistazo East is a magnificent newly constructed residence that combines exceptional craftsmanship with modern design and state-of-the-art finishes. Situated on an expansive one-acre lot in Tiburon’s Hill Haven, this home enjoys some of the best weather in the area and o ers panoramic views spanning from the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline to Angel Island and the East Bay.

4 BEDS | 4.5 BATHS | ±4,070 SQ. FT.

$8,950,000

Designed by renowned Sausalito architect Scott Couture, this 4-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom home features an infinity-edged pool, multiple view decks, and a grand entry courtyard with a large reflecting fountain. The residence is introduced by a stately wall-to-wall 12-foot glass doors that disappear into the pockets and open onto the enormous deck adjacent the pool with the stunning panoramic views. The main living and dining areas flow seamlessly into a sleek kitchen with a dramatic center island, counter seating, and adjacent family room, all bathed in natural light with stunning views.

Start every day as a luxurious waterfront vacation on the Belvedere Lagoon. This newly fully renovated home o ers four ensuite bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, a two-car garage and a boat dock on the Belvedere Lagoon. From the boat dock, lush gardens and patio you will enjoy the views of the sparkling water, scenic Tiburon hillside, top of Angel Island and Corinthian Islands as well as Belvedere island. At over 4,070 sq ft., it is one of the largest homes on the Belvedere Lagoon, o ering an incomparable waterfront lifestyle on the best part of the lagoon within 5 minutes’ walk to downtown Tiburon and Corinthian Yacht Club and San Francisco Yacht Club, two of the most prestigious yacht clubs in the West Coast.

The main floor also includes a spacious primary suite with a fireplace, view deck, walk-in closet, and a spa-like bathroom featuring dual sinks, a glasswalled shower, towel warmer, and a designer bathtub overlooking the bay. The enormous deck o the living and dining rooms, along with the kitchen deck next to the pool, includes a lawn, outdoor kitchen, and firepit—perfect for outdoor entertaining while taking in the ever-changing views.

The spacious living room-dining room combo o ers tall ceilings, stone fireplace, oversized waterfront windows and floor to ceiling French doors to the outside patios. The primary bedroom sits peacefully o the lagoon, featuring a walk in closet and brand new spacious shower and bath. Two other spacious bedrooms with en-suite baths sharing a large “home study room” are ideal for children. The huge second floor living quarters with a bedroom, a sitting room and a brand new full bath, o ers a rare sneak-peak of Salesforce Tower behind Angel Island along with the beautiful lagoon view and surroundings of Belvedere and Tiburon. The kitchen and dining areas center the home, creating a natural space for watching sailboats and paddle boats around the lagoon.z

Descending a grand staircase, the lower level features an expansive sitting room with view decks on two sides, three generously sized en-suite bedrooms, a hallway with tall ceilings and a large desk, and a well-appointed laundry room. Additional highlights include beautiful oak wood flooring throughout, solar heating, a 3-car garage, and expansive glass doors in every room to capture the sweeping bay views. This remarkable residence seamlessly blends its breathtaking surroundings with luxurious indoor and outdoor living spaces, making it truly one of a kind.

California Lifestyle Collection

26 Peninsula Road BELVEDERE

4 BEDS | 4.5 BATHS | ±4,070 SQ. FT.

$7,995,000

Start every day as a luxurious waterfront vacation on the Belvedere Lagoon. This newly fully renovated home o ers four ensuite bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, a two-car garage and a boat dock on the Belvedere Lagoon. From the boat dock, lush gardens and patio you will enjoy the views of the sparkling water, scenic Tiburon hillside, top of Angel Island and Corinthian Islands as well as Belvedere island. At over 4,070 sq ft., it is one of the largest homes on the Belvedere Lagoon, o ering an incomparable waterfront lifestyle on the best part of the lagoon within 5 minutes’ walk to downtown Tiburon and Corinthian Yacht Club and San Francisco Yacht Club, two of the most prestigious yacht clubs in the West Coast.

The spacious living room-dining room combo o ers tall ceilings, stone fireplace, oversized waterfront windows and floor to ceiling French doors to the outside patios. The primary bedroom sits peacefully o the lagoon, featuring a walk in closet and brand new spacious shower and bath. Two other spacious bedrooms with en-suite baths sharing a large “home study room” are ideal for children. The huge second floor living quarters with a bedroom, a sitting room and a brand new full bath, o ers a rare sneak-peak of Salesforce Tower behind Angel Island along with the beautiful lagoon view and surroundings of Belvedere and Tiburon. The kitchen and dining areas center the home, creating a natural space for watching sailboats and paddle boats around the lagoon.z

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PUBLISHER + EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Olivia Hsu Decker Olivia@HauteLivingSF.com

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COPY EDITOR

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HAUTE AMBASSADORS

Jennifer Boden, Olivia de Santis, Lydia Graham, Chase R. Johnson, Jennifer Raiser, Claudia Ross, and Adam Routledge

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kelly E. Carter, Laurie Jo Miller Farr, Adrienne Faurote, and Fran Endicott Miller

HEALTH & WELLNESS AMBASSADOR Lydia Graham

LUXURY AUTO AMBASSADOR Tim Lappen

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COVER STORY JOANNA JIA COUTURE’S WATER OF LIFE COLLECTION

Cover and cover story shot by Harrison McCullough at a Belvedere residence on San Francisco Bay listed by Olivia Decker. Details at 445BelvedereAve.com.

12 HAUTE CALENDAR

Let’s welcome spring with a celebration of tulips, cherry blossoms, and myriad arts and performances that banish winter’s dreary days.

16 COVER STORY

Joanna Jia Couture melds stunning fashion and oceanic themes from San Francisco to New York Fashion Week.

HAUTE WINE + SPIRITS

28 Revana Vineyards crafts exquite wines that exemplify the best Napa Valley has to offer.

32 Wise Caldwell Distillers offers luxury in every sip of their small-batch whiskeys.

HAUTE CUISINE

34 With 100 Napa Valley wineries represented, the first Artisans of Food & Wine raises $700,00 for Boys & Girls Clubs in Palm Beach and Napa Valley.

38 New on the Embarcadero is Bon Délire, a Parisian-style bistro by day and seductive cocktail bar and restaurant by night.

42 Spritzy, sassy, messy, and classy all describe the layered maximalism that distinguishes Morella’s celebration of Argentinian cuisine.

44 HAUTE TRAVEL

The Big Island of Hawaii appeals with its alluring combination of authenticity, seclusion, adventure, serenity, and history.

48 HAUTE HOTEL

Visit Four Seaons Napa Valley to savor every season in comfort and style.

52 HAUTE DESIGN

The Transamerica Pyramid sparkles anew and resumes its place as a cherished San Francisco icon.

54 HAUTE BEAUTY

When it comes to hair, Jerome Molles is the go-to colorist for cutting-edge style.

56 HAUTE SHOPPING

Make Mom’s eyes sparkle like diamonds with jewelry from Tiffany’s.

64 HAUTE FASHION

Louis Vuitton’s 2025 Spring-Summer collection teaches a lesson in femininity.

74 HAUTE JOAILLERIE

Celebrate April birthdays with the month’s traditional birth stone: diamonds.

76 HAUTE TIME

LVMH Watch Week showcases an impressive lineup of fine timepieces.

HAUTE MOVES

80 Haute Moves Ambassador Tim Lappen agrees: Ferrari is the most perfect hypercar name.

82 Speed, power, handling, and distinctive Italian flair make the Maserati Grecale a premium choice for a mid-size SUV.

84 The Napa Valley Car Club takes a cue from Monterey Car Week to host their first motorsports celebration in grand style.

HAUTE FASHION

HAUTE EVENT

86 More than a fundraiser, the SF Ballet’s Opening Night Gala is a profound reminder of the role the arts play in our lives.

90 Art, sophistication, and a stylish crowd gather at the St. Regis San Francisco for an Olivia Decker Power of Music performance.

92 Hollywood magic merges with Four Seasons luxury at the premier of The White Lotus Season 3.

HAUTE SCENE

94 Premier Napa Valley auction raises $3.3 million.

97 J Vineyards & Winery and grandLOVE celebrate Valentine’s Day with the release of LOVE Wine.

100 The 48th San Francisco Wine Auction honors Xochi Birch and The Guardsmen for their philanthropic endeavors.

104 HAUTE RESIDENCE

This newly renovated home offers spectacular views, privacy, and proximity to everything you want.

HAUTE AMBASSADORS

108 The clothing you wear may be killing you.

110 Spring inspires the best soirees. Aubrey recounts his guests’ favorites.

114 Are you looking for a fitness program that leads to improved health and happiness? Claudia recommends The Happy Body.

116 A lifetime hobby often results in a valuable collection. Plan for its future distribution or preservation.

118 HAUTE SEAT

Northern California’s first Chinese American vintner tells his fascinating story.

119 IN MEMORIAM

Festival Napa Valley pays tribute to visionary entrepreneur and champion of the arts, Richard Kramlich.

120 HAUTE PHILANTHROPY

The Estuary & Ocean Science Center is slated to close. Let’s save it!

HAUTE MOVES

PAGE 74, HAUTE JOAILLERIE

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O R T H O S E W H O

L I V E F O R T H E

S P O R T — A N D T Y L

A t W i n g & B a r r e l R a n c h , s p o r t i n g

t r a d i t i o n r u n s d e e p a n d s o d o e s t h e

l u x u r y . N e s t l e d i n S o n o m a ’ s w i n e

c o u n t r y , o u r w o r l d - c l a s s s p o r t i n g c l a y s

c o u r s e a n d u p l a n d b i r d h u n t i n g a r e

m a t c h e d o n l y b y o u r c u l i n a r y

e x p e r i e n c e s , e x c l u s i v e w i n e m a k e r

p a r t n e r s h i p s , a n d b e s p o k e s p o r t i n g

l i f e s t y l e

B e y o n d t h e r a n g e , u n w i n d w i t h

c u r a t e d w i n e p a i r i n g s , g o u r m e t

d i n i n g , a n d a c c e s s t o e x c l u s i v e

m e m b e r p r o g r a m s W h e t h e r i t ’ s y o u t h

& f a m i l y e v e n t s b o c c e b a l l a r c h e r y

f l y c a s t i n g , o r m o r e , e v e r y m o m e n t i s

d e s i g n e d f o r t h o s e w h o l i v e f o r t h e

s p o r t a n d s a v o r t h e f i n e r t h i n g s .

T h i s i s t h e s p o r t i n g l i f e , p e r f e c t e d

S c a n b e l o w t o l e a r n m o r e a b o u t

m e m b e r s h i p o p p o r t u n i t i e s a n d

d i s c o v e r y o u r p l a c e a t W i n g & B a r r e l

R a n c h

E

EVENTS CALENDAR

CURRENT

THROUGH MARCH 30

A.C.T. |

The madcap comedy is described by Tony Award® winner and A.C.T. Artistic Director Pam MacKinnon as “a hilarious and heartfelt musical quest for authenticity through the ridiculously inauthentic world of a reality dating show.” Toni Rembe Theater, 415 Geary St. act-sf.org

THROUGH APRIL 7

Asian Art Museum | Qi Baishi: Inspiration in Ink

An intimate look at a modern master whose work revitalized traditional Chinese ink painting. By capturing everyday scenes and familiar moments, the artist evokes the essential beauty of nature and joy of life’s simple pleasures. 200 Larkin St. exhibitions.asianart.org

THROUGH MAY 11

Legion of Honor | Dress Rehearsal: The Art of Theatrical Design

In celebration of the museum’s 100th anniversary, a selection of outstanding costume and set designs through two intertwined stories: the history of theater and dance and the founding of the Legion of Honor. Lincoln Park, 100 34th Ave. famsf.org

Legion of Honor | Dress Rehearsal: The Art of Theatrical Design : Alexandra Exter (1882–1949), Revue, pl. 10 from the set, Décors de théâtre (detail), 1930.

Spring has sprung. Colorful and collectible, 80,000 free-for-thetaking tulips cover Union Square on March 22. At Queen Wilhelmina Garden beside the windmill, admire Dutch bulbs in bloom that herald spring. Japantown is all about cherry blossoms, and “Magnificent Magnolias” are on view through March at San Francisco Botanical Garden inside Golden Gate Park. Explore more in arts, culture, galas, film fests, interior décor, wine and food happenings in our calendar of events for March and April 2025.

BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

A Chinese painting of peaches, signed by Zhao Yunhe (Chinese, 1874-1955) at Asian Art Museum, Qi Baishi: Inspiration in Ink

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) JORGE BACHMANN, ASIAN ART MUSEUM, STANFORD LIVE

Branford Marsalis

MARCH

MARCH 1-8

San Francisco Ballet |

A woman ahead of her time, Raymonda embodies resilience and compassion. The backdrop is set against the 19th-century Crimean War in an adaptation by artistic director Tamara Rojo. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave. sfballet.org

MARCH 4-9

BroadwaySF |

Broadway’s longest-running musical has been razzle-dazzling audiences for 27 years with one showstopping song after another and astonishing dancing. Winner of six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, and a Grammy®. Golden Gate Theatre, 1 Taylor St. broadwaysf.com

MARCH 6-9

SFJAZZ | Brandee Younger

Resident artistic director and forward-thinking harpist Brandee Younger presents an exciting new set of compositions accompanied by the 19-piece New Century Chamber Orchestra. 201 Franklin St. sfjazz.org

MARCH 7

Cal Performances 2025 Gala

Cocktail reception and dinner plus performance featuring the Vienna Philharmonic, conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin, and pianist Yefim Bronfman. 101 Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley. calperformances.org

MARCH 12

Stanford Live | An Evening with Branford Marsalis

San Francisco Ballet, Vitor Luiz in Scarlett’s Frankenstein

MARCH 20 - APRIL 19

San Francisco Playhouse |

Northern California premiere of 2022 Pulitzer Prize-winning play that turns William Shakespeare’s Hamlet on its head, transporting the drama to a modern-day barbecue in the American South. 450 Post St. sfplayhouse.org

San Francisco Ballet |

The award-winning artist is a saxophonist, band leader, classical soloist, and film and Broadway composer who has received three Grammys and a citation by the National Endowment for the Arts as a jazz master. Bing Concert Hall, 327 Lasuen St., Stanford. live.stanford.edu

MARCH 15

174th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Hosted by the United Irish Societies, this is one of the city’s most popular parades. Kickoff is Market and 2nd streets at 11:30 a.m. to Civic Center Plaza for live music from 2 p.m. facebook.com/ SaintPatricksDaySF

MARCH 19-23

28th Sonoma International Film Festival

Dive into the best in film, food, wine, and fun. The nonprofit event, dedicated to promoting independent film, supporting filmmakers around the world, and inspiring film lovers, is spread around venues in Sonoma. sonomafilmfest.org

MARCH 20-26 AND APRIL 26 - MAY 4

This captivating production breathes new life into Mary Shelley’s classic tale. The emotionally charged journey into life, death, love, and identity is enhanced by a hauntingly evocative score. Recommended for ages 14+.War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave. sfballet.org

MARCH 20-30

Oakland Restaurant Week

Eat. Drink. Stay. Repeat. From neighborhood gems and food trucks to Michelin-starred restaurants, explore the town’s global culinary offerings. Participating restaurants offer special lunch and dinner menus to showcase diverse culture and cuisine. VisitOakland.com

MARCH 21-23

19th Annual California Artisan Cheese Festival

Say cheese! Three full days of tasting, education, and celebration bringing together farmers, cheesemakers, chefs, brewers, winemakers, distillers, and cheese enthusiasts. Sonoma County Event Center at the fairgrounds, Santa Rosa. Artisancheesefestival.com

MARCH 22

30th Annual American Red Cross Gala In support of its humanitarian mission, a black-tie benefit evening. “A Pillar of Hope and Resilience” is the theme for this year’s signature fundraiser in a new venue, The Conservatory at One Sansome. redcross.org/redcrossgalasf

MARCH 29

San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus |

The 280-member group, under the baton of artistic director Jacob Stensberg, performs two special concerts with music from hit shows including Wicked, Ragtime, and Dear Evan Hansen. Curran Theatre, 445 Geary St. sfgmc.org

APRIL 4-5

San Francisco Symphony |

The popular film with live orchestra series presents James Cameron’s epic period piece, brimming with themes of love and ambition, elevated by James Horner’s Academy Awardwinning score. sfsymphony.org

APRIL 5

UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals | 16th Annual Notes & Words Benefit

With musical sets from talented acts and readings from best-selling authors, this is a night of smart, satisfying entertainment with proceeds going to children and families in need. Grammy Awardwinning rock, soul, and blues guitar virtuoso, Gary Clark Jr., will headline. The Masonic, 1111 California St. notesandwords.org

APRIL 5-19

San Francisco Ballet | Van Manen: Dutch Grandmaster

From steamy tango to elegant classical and contemporary themes, four dynamic works are curated to showcase the innovative legacy of Hans van Manen, a pioneer in the Dutch dance scene. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave. sfballet.org

APRIL 5 - Sept. 2, 2025

SFMOMA | Ruth Asawa: Retrospective

The first major national and international museum retrospective of this legendary Bay Area artist’s groundbreaking work. More than 300 works spanning six decades include sculpture, drawings, prints, paintings, and design objects. 151 Third St. sfmoma.org

APRIL 8-18

San Francisco Ballet | Broken Love

Powerhouse female leads relate stories of enduring love. A mini-masterpiece explores the life and art of Frida Kahlo, celebrated Mexican painter. Also, Sir Frederick Ashton’s Marguerite and Armand is a story of fervent love, heartbreak, sacrifice, and forgiveness. War Memorial Opera House, 301 Van Ness Ave. sfballet.org

APRIL 8-20

Curran Theatre | SIX The Musical

From Tudor queens to pop icons, the six wives of Henry VIII remix 500 years of historical heartbreak into a celebration of 21st century girl power. A Tony Award winner for “best original score,” the show is also presented at San Jose’s Center for the Performing Arts from April 22-27, 2025. broadwaysf.com

BroadwaySF: SIX

APRIL 10-13

Pebble Beach Food & Wine

One of the nation’s premier culinary experiences returns. The four-day epicurean experience is billed as a refined celebration of food, wine, and craftsmanship, guided by visionaries from kitchens and vineyards around the globe and featuring 150 acclaimed wine and spirits producers and 100 distinguished chefs. pebblebeachfoodandwine.com

SFMOMA: Ruth Asawa: Retrospective

APRIL 11-13

22nd Annual International Ocean Film Festival

Making waves at the world’s largest oceanthemed film festival. Groundbreaking films, mingling with filmmakers and ocean experts. Cowell Theater, Fort Mason. intloceanfilmfest.org

APRIL 12-13 and 19-20

Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival

Since 1968, Japantown has been the place to be on two weekends in April. This is one of California’s most prominent celebrations of Asian traditions and the largest cherry blossom festival on the West Coast. sfcherryblossom.org

APRIL 23

SFMOMA | Art Bash

The museum’s signature fundraiser kicks off with cocktails, dinner, and an art auction. All seven floors of the museum provide surprising encounters, musical performances, and immersive art experiences until 1 a.m. 151 Third St. sfmoma.org/event/series/artbash

APRIL 25-27

Stags Leap District Winegrowers Association | Vineyard to Vintner Weekend

For more than two decades, a vibrant gathering and celebration of the exceptional wines and the spirit of innovation and camaraderie that make this famous AVA so spectacular. Single-day and threeday passes available. stagsleapdistrict.com/v2v

APRIL 26

San Francisco Symphony | MTT 80th Birthday Concert

In this one-of-a-kind event, Music Director Laureate Michael Tilson Thomas conducts a captivating program with special guest appearances. Part lively musical journey through cherished memories, part celebration of a singular artist. Program TBA. sfsymphony.org

APRIL 26 - May 26

46th Annual San Francisco Decorator Showcase

A sophisticated Pacific Heights mansion at 2935 Pacific Avenue is transformed by top interior and landscape designers. Built in 1902, the gracious home has a rooftop with a fire pit, hot tub, and stunning views. Benefiting the San Francisco University High School Financial Aid Program. decoratorshowcase.org

APRIL 30 - May 11

BroadwaySF |

For 25 years, the ultimate feel-good musical. Set on a Greek island where the sun always shines, it’s a tale of love, friendship, and identity told through the timeless hits of ABBA. Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market St. broadwaysf.com

San Francisco Ballet: Wei Wang in van Manen’s Solo

Gary Clark Jr

Mamma Mia!

Irecently had the pleasure of meeting haute couture fashion designer Joanna Jia through her artistic director, Dina Zheng, and was introduced to her stunning new Water of Life collection which she presented at the New York Fashion Week 2025 in February. Inspired by the ocean’s beauty and fragility, the collection captivated audiences with its ethereal designs and powerful message of environmental conservation. Joanna Jia’s collection not only showcased her artistic style but also revealed her commitment to sustainable and meaningful fashion. With Water of Life, she invited the fashion world to reflect on the delicate balance between nature and human creativity.

I invited Joanna to an exclusive fashion show just for Haute Living’s 2025 Fashion Issue at the magnificent waterfront residence I am selling. In Belvedere on the edge of San Francisco Bay, this property looks over Sausalito, the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco skyline, and the Bay Bridge.

During the fashion shoot on February 20, we were greeted by stunning water views, seagulls flying in formation, pelicans, harbor seals, and sea lions. This is truly an unique location to appreciate life on the San Francisco Bay. Fittingly, Joanna Jia’s fascinating fashion creation flows in gentle tides and water-like fluidity. Sea shells and coral motifs in extremely high quality fabrics shimmer in sunset reds, vibrant ocean blues, bright corals, tranquil turquoises, and iridescent pearl whites. The intricate details of each design reflect sea life, from lacework resembling delicate coral formations to bold silhouettes reminiscent of graceful marine creatures. That date also happened to be my birthday; I’m a Pisces who loves the water and the ocean and specializes in selling luxury waterfront homes.

Joanna Jia was born in Qingdao, China and was an avid artist since childhood. With a deep love and interest in various art creations, she studied at Yun Nan Arts University and Sichuan Fine Arts Academy as an arts major.

Joanna Jia is a community leader and fashion innovator, dedicating her life to her community and the arts. In 2008, Joanna Jia founded the International Ladies Charity Federation, a nonprofit platform empowering women through philanthropy, the cultural arts, and entrepreneurship. Joanna Jia also serves as the vice president of the USA Culture and Science Academy. With her passion for fashion and philanthropy, Jia also founded her fashion brand, Joanna Jia Couture, showcasing her designs at New York Fashion Week, San Francisco Fashion Week, Silicon Valley Fashion Week, and other international stages. In collaboration with Columbia University, she helped establish the New York School of Arts and Fashion and serves as its director and CEO of admissions, fostering and encouraging a new generation of artists and designers. As an entrepreneur, Joanna also founded the San Francisco International Global Film Festival in 2017 and served as its president.

In 2018, she was named the Charity Queen of Family Bridges, a nonprofit dedicated to helping disadvantaged senior citizens and orphans, by raising over $80,000 for orphans and the elderly. In 2019, she was the charter president of a branch club of Lions Club International and received the Melvin Jones Fellowship Award from Lions Club International. In recognition of her philanthropic service, Jia received the Presidential Volunteer Service Award (2021). In addition, Since 1999, Jia has proudly served the U.S. Army and Air Force Exchange at over 10 army bases across the United States and now continues her service at the Presidio of Monterey, earning the Presidio of Monterey Special Recognition Award. Through her diverse initiatives, Jia continues to lift up her community and hopes to inspire others with her passion to better the community, one mission at a time.

The founder and designer of Joanna Jia Couture, Jia artfully blends traditional Asian cultural attire with contemporary Western influences to create a unique and harmonious fusion in her designs. Her brand was born in 1991, focused on Asian cultural wear, while she was working as a chief designer in China. After emigrating to the USA, Jia expanded her brand to the global stage in 1997, gracing the catwalks of New York Fashion Week and fashion magazines like L’Officiel and Vanity Fair.

After we wrapped up the fashion shoot, we had dinner with Jia and her models and artistic photographers and celebrated my birthday at the Corinthian Yacht Club, where I have been a member for 45 years, on the edge of the bay in downtown Tiburon. It was a fitting place to celebrate a Pisces’ birthday with the Water of Life collection’s creator and team. Jia recalled her travels to Hawaii and her life in Monterey Bay, where she was both enchanted by the ocean’s biodiversity and disheartened by the pollution marring its beauty. She recalled, “This collection is a tribute to that origin, both my own and the Earth’s, and serves as a celebration of the awe-inspiring beauty and the urgent need to protect the oceans that connect us all.” Each design’s form, color, and texture capture water’s fluidity and resilience while calling attention to the importance of ocean conservation.

Below is my conversation with Joanna Jia about her fascinating Water of Life collection design, her personal journey, and her future endeavors.

HL: Your designs seamlessly blend traditional Asian attire with contemporary Western influences. How has your heritage influenced your creative vision?

JJ: My heritage has been a constant source of inspiration throughout my design journey. Growing up in Qingdao, China, I was deeply influenced by traditional Asian aesthetics, from intricate embroidery to flowing, elegant silhouettes. My education at Yun Nan Arts University and Sichuan Fine Arts Academy further shaped my artistic approach, allowing me to merge these traditional elements with modern Western styles. I love creating pieces that honor my cultural roots while embracing contemporary fashion, resulting in designs that feel both timeless and innovative.

HL: What inspired you to create the Water of Life collection, and what message do you aim to convey through it?

JJ: The Water of Life collection is deeply personal to me. I’ve always had a strong connection to the ocean, especially since I grew up near the coast of Qingdao. During my travels in Hawaii, I was captivated by the ocean’s beauty, but heartbroken by the pollution affecting marine life. This collection is my tribute to the sea—a celebration of its breathtaking beauty and a reminder of the urgent need for conservation. Through my designs, I hope to inspire people to appreciate and protect our oceans.

HL: How did the ocean’s colors, textures, and movements shape the aesthetic of this collection?

JJ: The ocean was the foundation of this collection’s aesthetic. I wanted to capture its ever-changing nature through my choice of fabrics, colors, and silhouettes. The flowing movement of silk and chiffon mimics the gentle tides, while the iridescent fabrics reflect the way light dances on the water’s surface. I chose a palette of oceanic blues, tranquil turquoises, and pearlescent whites to represent the mystery and depth of the sea. Every piece is designed to embody the fluidity and resilience of water, creating an immersive experience for both the wearer and the audience.

HL: You’ve incorporated materials like silk organza, chiffon, and satin. What was the significance of these choices in capturing the essence of water?

JJ: Fabric selection was crucial in bringing this collection to life. I specifically chose silk organza, chiffon, and satin because of their delicate, flowing nature. Chiffon and silk organza create an ethereal effect, allowing the garments to move like waves. Satin, with its smooth and reflective surface, captures the way sunlight shimmers on water. These fabrics helped me translate the essence of the ocean into fashion, making each piece feel alive and fluid.

HL: Can you elaborate on the use of organic and recycled fabrics in this collection and your commitment to eco-conscious design?

JJ: Sustainability is at the heart of my brand. For this collection, I worked with organic and recycled fabrics, incorporating upcycled materials and high-tech sustainable textiles. One of my proudest designs, the Butterfly Koi gown, features repurposed plastic tubes and strips to create sculptural elements, proving that high fashion can be both luxurious and environmentally responsible. I believe that, as designers, we have a responsibility to rethink how we create and consume fashion. My goal is to inspire others to embrace sustainable choices that reduce waste and support ethical fashion practices.

HL: What were some of the most challenging aspects in designing pieces that emulate the fluidity and movement of water?

JJ: One of the biggest challenges was translating the movement of water into a static garment. I spent time studying marine wildlife and how light interacts with the ocean to ensure every piece captured that essence. Designing the sculptural elements—like the salmon-colored fins in the Butterfly Koi gown—required experimenting with unconventional materials, such as metal wiring and translucent fabrics, to create a sense of motion. Achieving the shimmering effect of water also meant handstitching pearls, beads, and layers of fabric to mimic the ocean’s everchanging surface. It was a meticulous but incredibly rewarding process that allowed me to push the boundaries of design.

HL: Showcasing the Water of Life collection at the Aquarium of the Bay provided a unique backdrop. How did this setting enhance the presentation, and what was the experience like?

JJ: My 2024 fashion exhibition at the Aquarium of the Bay, located at the iconic San Francisco Pier 39, was an unforgettable experience and one of the most magical settings I’ve ever showcased a collection in. It was also one of the first underwater fashion shows in the world, making it a truly groundbreaking moment for Joanna Jia Couture.

With the creative vision of my show producer and creative director, Dina Zheng, we reimagined the aquarium as an ethereal underwater stage. The mesmerizing tunnels, filled with anchovies, skates, bay rays, sharks, and sturgeons, became a living, breathing backdrop—bringing my ocean-inspired collection to life in a way that no traditional runway could. As models moved through the space, the fluidity of the fabrics mirrored the graceful movement of marine life, creating a breathtaking synergy between fashion and nature.

This setting elevated the entire experience, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the theme of water, conservation, and sustainability. More than just a fashion show, it was a sensory journey— one that reinforced the beauty and fragility of our oceans, aligning perfectly with the message behind “Water of Life.” It was an honor to present my work in a space that celebrates marine life while raising awareness about the importance of conservation. This show was not only a milestone for my brand but also a reminder of how fashion can be a powerful medium for storytelling, advocacy, and artistic expression.

HL: Collaborating with organizations like the International Ladies Charity Federation and the Aquarium of the Bay highlights your philanthropic efforts. How do these partnerships align with your brand’s mission?

JJ: Philanthropy has always been at the heart of everything I do—in fashion and beyond. As the founder and president of the International Ladies Charity Federation, I’ve dedicated my career to creating platforms that empower women leaders to connect through art, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship. Since founding the organization in 2008, I’ve been committed to bringing cultural arts performances to senior centers, orphanages, and charitable events, while also ensuring that my fashion shows serve a greater purpose.

When I launched Joanna Jia Couture, I knew I wanted my brand to reflect more than just artistry—it had to embody a mission of cultural storytelling and meaningful impact. That’s why partnering with organizations like the Aquarium of the Bay and the International Ladies Charity Federation has been so fulfilling. These collaborations allow me to merge my passions for fashion, philanthropy, and sustainability, using couture as a vehicle to inspire, raise awareness, and give back to communities in a lasting and beautiful way. Through these partnerships, I’ve found a deeper purpose in my designs—creating not just garments, but stories that elevate causes close to my heart. Whether it’s promoting ocean conservation, supporting women in the arts, or preserving cultural heritage, every collection I create is infused with a spirit of giving, storytelling, and purpose.

HL: Presenting at New York Fashion Week is a significant milestone. How was the reception of your collection, and what does this achievement mean for you and your brand?

JJ: Presenting at New York Fashion Week 2025 was an unforgettable milestone for me and my brand. Seeing my collection come to life on such a prestigious stage, where the world’s top designers, critics, and fashion enthusiasts gather, was truly surreal. The reception to Water of Life was incredibly heartwarming. People resonated with the message of ocean conservation, and I received so much positive feedback about the way the fabrics, colors, and silhouettes captured the essence of water. Many attendees told me they felt emotionally connected to the collection, which meant everything to me because I wanted these designs to tell a story—not just about fashion but about our responsibility to protect our planet. This achievement represents a new chapter for my brand. It’s a moment of validation that sustainability and high fashion can coexist beautifully. More than anything, it has strengthened my commitment to creating couture with purpose—designs that inspire, spark conversation, and advocate for meaningful change in the industry.

HL: From establishing your brand in China in 1991 to expanding globally, how has your design philosophy evolved over the years?

JJ: When I first started working on my brand in 1991, I was the chief designer at the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute in China and focused on traditional Asian cultural attire. I officially brought my brand to the global stage in 1997, when I was influenced by many cultures and art in the melting pot of America. I opened a bridal atelier focusing on bridal wear and design and have evolved to design my couture collection. Each couture collection every year represents my own personal evolution of style and self and every piece carries a part of me, embodying not just

Joanna Jia at her 2025 New York Fashion Week runway show

Joanna Jia Couture’s Water of Life Collection at New York Fashion Week 2025

my creativity but my continuous transformation.

HL: Being based in San Francisco, how has the city’s culture and creative energy influenced your work and vision for Joanna Jia Couture?

JJ: Being based in San Francisco has profoundly shaped my creative vision for Joanna Jia Couture. The city is a melting pot of cultures, innovation, and artistic expression, which constantly fuels my inspiration. San Francisco’s commitment to sustainability and forwardthinking design aligns perfectly with my brand’s mission to create couture that is both luxurious and environmentally conscious.

The tech-meets-art atmosphere of the city has encouraged me to experiment with innovative materials and techniques, such as incorporating recycled fabrics and exploring new ways to merge fashion with sustainability. At the same time, the city’s rich history of activism and inclusivity has reinforced my belief that fashion should not only be beautiful but also carry a message—whether it’s about cultural heritage, environmental responsibility, or individuality.

Living by the Pacific Ocean has also deepened my connection to nature, which is why themes of water, fluidity, and organic movement are so present in my work. San Francisco’s creative energy constantly pushes me to challenge conventions, embrace artistry, and design pieces that tell

meaningful stories on the global fashion stage.

HL: As the director and CEO of admission for the New York School of Arts and Fashion, how do you envision nurturing the next generation of designers?

JJ: When I was first starting out as a designer, I went through adversity to be able to pursue my passion. Through the New York School of Arts and Fashion and my brand, I hope I can help discover young talent and give them the platform to learn and work on their own designs. I want to give young talent the opportunity and space to be freely inspired and to invest in themselves, personally and professionally.

HL: Can you share any insights into future collections or collaborations that your audience may look forward to?

JJ: I’m incredibly excited about what’s next for Joanna Jia Couture! Following the success of Water of Life, I’m continuing to explore themes of nature, sustainability, and cultural heritage, but in fresh and unexpected ways. I plan to launch my own ready-to-wear line and shoe collection, which incorporate elegance with sophisticated simplicity. I believe that high fashion should be an experience accessible to all—where witnessing and embracing art may become a part of everyday life.

Models with Olivia Hsu Decker and Joanna Jia

Revana: A Journey Through Napa Valley’s Finest

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

ON A BEAUTIFUL SUNDAY MORNING IN NAPA VALLEY, I found myself at Revana Estate, a winery that epitomizes the elegance and sophistication of California’s most renowned wine region. As I stepped onto the estate, sunshine bathed the meticulously maintained vineyards in a warm glow, and the air was fragrant with the promise of the day’s tastings. This was not just a visit to a winery; it was an immersion into the world of Dr. Madaiah Revana, a man whose journey from rural India to the heights of American viticulture is as inspiring as the wines he produces.

Dr. Revana, the founder and CEO of Revana Vineyards, embodies three core values: family, self-discipline, and a relentless determination to excel in every endeavor. His story begins with a valedictorian graduation from Mysore Medical College, followed by a successful career in cardiology spanning New York, Philadelphia, and Texas. During this time he discovered a passion for wine—a passion that would ultimately lead him to create Revana Estate.

The estate, established in 1997, attests to Dr. Revana’s commitment to crafting top-tier Cabernet Sauvignon. With the guidance of acclaimed viticulturist Jim Barbour, who has been instrumental in managing the vineyard, Revana has become

synonymous with elegance and precision. As I settled into the tasting room, I felt the weight of the estate’s legacy and the dedication that goes into each bottle.

The tasting began with the 2021 Revana Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, a wine that truly showcases the terroir of Napa Valley. This estate-grown Cabernet is crafted from the estate’s meticulously managed, eight-acre vineyard located in the narrowest section of St. Helena. Each sip revealed a story of purity, elegance, and immense structure, a reflection of the careful handpicking and whole berry fermentation practices employed by the team. The wine’s integration of French oak added layers of complexity, enhancing its already vibrant character.

The tasting experience at Revana is not just about the wine; it is deeply rooted in the concept of “unreasonable hospitality.”

The Revana team excels in creating personalized experiences for guests, ensuring each visitor feels welcomed and understood. This commitment to connection reflects Dr. Revana’s own journey as an outsider who found belonging in the wine world. Throughout my visit, I was engaged in thoughtful conversations that revealed my interests and desires, further enhancing the tasting experience.

As we moved through the tasting, I was fortunate to sample a selection of wines that exemplified the estate’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship. The 2021 Revana “Saint Helena” Estate Cabernet Sauvignon stood out, showcasing a beautifully textured and authentically powerful Napa Cabernet. The careful micro-fermentation process used in crafting this wine resulted in a complexity that danced on the palate, leaving a lasting impression. After the tasting, I took a moment to reflect on the estate’s serene beauty. The rolling hills, the lush vineyards, and the care with which each vine is tended create an ambiance as intoxicating as the wines themselves. Revana Estate is not just a vineyard; it is a sanctuary for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

As I departed, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the experience. Dr. Revana’s vision has not only cultivated a remarkable estate but has also built a community of wine lovers who share a passion for excellence. Revana is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the best of Napa Valley, and I left with a newfound appreciation for the artistry and dedication that go into each bottle.

In a world where wine often becomes just another commodity, Revana Estate stands as a beacon of authenticity and craftsmanship. It is a place where family values and a commitment to quality converge, resulting in wines that are not only exquisite but also deeply meaningful. I look forward to returning to Revana, where every visit is an opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Napa Valley.

A TRUE TAHOE LEGACY PROPERTY

A TRUE TAHOE LEGACY PROPERTY

We’re thrilled to share the success of Shangri-La, a breathtaking estate on Tahoe City’s West Shore. A gated sanctuary with 130 feet of private lake frontage, a deep-water pier, and a luxurious 5-bedroom main house, 2-bedroom guest house, this property perfectly blends Old Tahoe charm with modern mountain luxury. From the heated driveway of hand-laid Indian granite to the UV-purified indoor pool and lakefront spa, every detail was crafted for an unparalleled living experience. $27,500,000

We’re thrilled to share the success of Shangri-La, a breathtaking estate on Tahoe City’s West Shore. A gated sanctuary with 130 feet of private lake frontage, a deep-water pier, and a luxurious 5-bedroom main house, 2-bedroom guest house, this property perfectly blends

Old Tahoe charm with modern mountain luxury. From the heated driveway of hand-laid Indian granite to the UV-purified indoor pool and lakefront spa, every detail was crafted for an unparalleled living experience. $27,500,000

SOLD

TAHOE SPLIT LAKEFRONT

TAHOE SPLIT LAKEFRONT

West Shore property featuring a deep-water pier with a boathouse and two buoys, set on a spacious lot of over a third of an acre. This new owner will enjoy stunning lake views, a charming vintage 1960s cabin, and an additional sleeper cabin. $3,600,000

West Shore property featuring a deep-water pier with a boathouse and two buoys, set on a spacious lot of over a third of an acre. This new owner will enjoy stunning lake views, a charming vintage 1960s cabin, and an additional sleeper cabin. $3,600,000

TRINKIE WATSON

TRINKIE WATSON

NV & CA BROKER | CIPS | CLHMS | CRS | LTG | GRI NV BS.1022 | CA 00326518

NV & CA BROKER | CIPS | CLHMS | CRS | LTG | GRI

NV BS.1022 | CA 00326518

800 783 0722

800 783 0722

twatson@chaseinternational.com

twatson@chaseinternational.com

laketahoeluxuryestates.com

laketahoeluxuryestates.com

Tahoe City office: 531 North Lake Boulevard

Tahoe City office: 531 North Lake Boulevard

FLICK POINT LAKEFRONT

FLICK POINT LAKEFRONT

North Lake Tahoe waterfront estate on 1.3 acres with 5 en-suite bedrooms, deck, lawns, 100’ shoreline, pier, boat lift, and permitted buoy. Guest house above a detached 2-car garage. $19,500,00

North Lake Tahoe waterfront estate on 1.3 acres with 5 en-suite bedrooms, deck, lawns, 100’ shoreline, pier, boat lift, and permitted buoy. Guest house above a detached 2-car garage. $19,500,00

PHOTOS: WISE CALDWELL DISTILLERS, SUZANNE BECKER BRONK (BOTTOM RIGHT)

A Luxurious Encounter with the Master Finishers at Wise Caldwell Distillers

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

NESTLED IN THE HEART OF WINE COUNTRY, WISE CALDWELL

Distillers stands as a testament to craftsmanship and innovation. On my recent visit, I embarked on a journey into the world of fine spirits, where tradition coalesces with modern artistry and every sip reveals a story waiting to be told.

As I entered the dimly lit tasting room, the rich aroma of maturing oak barrels filled the air, setting a warm and inviting atmosphere hinting at the treasures within. Ryan Harold, the brand’s alchemist, guided my exploration. He welcomed us with a passion that illuminated the artistry behind their fine spirits. With each detail meticulously curated, Ryan showcased how the mastery of the “finish” elevates the tasting experience.

At the helm of Wise Caldwell Distillers are co-founders Brion Wise and John Caldwell, two California vintners and lifelong friends dedicated to crafting the world’s finest barrelaged spirits. Both have deep roots in the wine industry, but it was John’s nightly ritual of enjoying a two-finger bourbon that ignited their passion for America’s original spirit. Their collaboration is a harmonious blend of John’s maverick winemaking history and Brion’s Southern bootlegger heritage.

Brion Wise, who grew up on an apple farm in the Pacific Northwest, learned the importance of life’s simple pleasures: nothing beats time with friends and a good drink. His journey took him from a successful career as a chemical engineer to the sun-drenched vineyards of California, where he and his wife, Ronda, established B. Wise Vineyard. With a keen understanding of winemaking and a bold vision for spirits, Brion has partnered with the renowned master cooper Ramiro Herrera to develop an exceptional barrel-aged spirits program.

Herrera, one of only a handful of master coopers in the world, crafts bespoke oak barrels that play a crucial role in the flavor profiles of Wise Caldwell’s spirits. His meticulous process involves handcrafting each barrel, ensuring the wood’s pedigree, age, and grain contribute to the final product’s

character. When it comes to spirits, the barrel influences between 85% and 95% of the flavor, making Herrera’s role integral to the distillery’s success.

During my visit, I marveled at Herrera’s artistry as described by Ryan Harold, regarding the delicate dance of toasting and charring barrels. Each method imparts distinct flavors: while toasting brings notes of chocolate and caramel, charring adds depth and complexity. Herrera’s commitment to traditional techniques, utilizing wood fires rather than gas, ensures that each barrel is crafted with precision and care.

The culmination of this craftsmanship is evident in the tasting experience. I savored a selection of their small-batch offerings, each showcasing the depth and complexity for which Wise Caldwell is renowned. From their innovative liqueurs to small-batch bourbons, every expression reflects a commitment to excellence and a respect for tradition.

A standout moment was the tasting of their inaugural Constable Irish Whiskey, an exceptionally rare, 21-year-old single malt crafted by esteemed master distiller Noel Sweeney. Its bright pineapple and candied citrus notes, combined with tea-like tannins, created an endlessly complex palate that lingered long after the last sip.

As my visit concluded, I felt a profound connection to the land and the passionate individuals behind Wise Caldwell Distillers. This experience served as a reminder that luxury transcends the product itself; it resides within the stories, the people, and the experiences that come together to create something truly exceptional.

In a world where fine spirits are often mass-produced, Wise Caldwell Distillers shines as a beacon of what can be achieved when passion and dedication meet craftsmanship. I left with not just exquisite spirits, but a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind each pour—an experience I will cherish and share with those seeking the finest in luxury spirits.

Feast for the Senses: Napa’s Top Vintners Gather for Artisans of Wine & Food at The Boca Raton

100 Napa Valley Wineries and 20+ renowned chefs gathered at the iconic Florida resort to present a series of indulgent culinary adventures.

BY FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER

THE BOCA RATON AND NAPA VALLEY VINTNERS MERGED in January as 100 of Napa’s top wineries gathered for the inaugural Artisans of Wine & Food event. The weekend, filled with decadent wine and culinary experiences, was hosted by The Boca Raton, the iconic Florida resort and private club soon to celebrate its 100th anniversary. Napa Valley’s finest teamed with more than 20 renowned chefs, many Michelin-starred, to craft a series of indulgent activations throughout the multi-faceted resort property.

The weekend, presented by Capital One®, was orchestrated by some of the world’s most renowned culinary minds, such as legendary chef David Breeden and famed chef and restaurateur Mario Carbone. Attendees had a choice of Friday night events hosted by luminary brands such as Brioni, Lugano Diamonds, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Gatherings included the Premier Napa Valley dinner featuring micro-lot wines from Hyde Vineyards, Crocker & Starr, and Spoto Family Wines, among others. The Icons of Napa Valley dinner featured a meal prepared by chef David Breeden (formerly of The French Laundry), paired with wines from Far Niente, Shafer, and Schramsberg. An Argentine Asado barbeque dinner featured singlesite wines from Viader, Clif Family Winery, and Annulus Cellars, paired with authentic Argentinian dishes.

Saturday’s events, hosted by Riedel® USA, included wine exploration seminars, such as comparisons of mountain versus valley floor Cabernets with wines from Tom Eddy, Schweiger Vineyards, and Chappellet.

The weekend highlight was the gala, attended by more than 500 and directed by Fabio Trabocchi, Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur of Washington D.C.’s Fiola and The Boca Raton’s Fiolina Ristorante. An auction, hosted by international auctioneer Jacqueline Towers-Perkins, raised more than $700,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of both Palm Beach County and Napa Valley. The auction included lots such as a Parisian Relais & Châteaux stay, a luxury tour of Napa for six, a visit to the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island for the exclusive Concours d’Elegance, and a seven-night ocean adventure aboard an Explora Journeys cruise.

“The Artisans of Wine & Food Gala was a great event, wellorganized and appealing to a broad spectrum of wine and food enthusiasts,” said Raj Patel, proprietor of Patel Napa Valley, maker of premium Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. “I am confident they will build on this success in the years to come to help raise funds for the local community. We will definitely return next year to The Boca Raton. It’s such a beautiful resort.”

The Boca Raton is an adventure in and of itself. Originally opened in 1926 as The Ritz-Carlton Cloister Inn, the resort provides yearround escape with five different hotel concepts of varying ambiance and personality, including Cloister, Yacht Club, Tower, Bungalows, and the newly renovated and vibrant Beach Club. Resort amenities include a private beach, the Forbes Five-Star Spa Palmera, an 18-hole golf course, a full-service marina, racquet club with 14 tennis courts and 12 pickleball courts, retail shops, seven swimming pools, stateof-the-art fitness clubs and wellness collaborations, and 15 different dining venues.

“Pulling off an event of this scale, which featured the largestever collection of vintners outside Napa Valley, would not have been possible without the expertise and passion of our talented team,” said Daniel Hostettler, president and CEO of The Boca Raton. “We are deeply grateful to Napa Valley Vintners for collaborating to bring it all to life, along with the vintners, chefs, and sponsors—especially title sponsor Capital One. Our goal was not just to transport a beloved piece of Napa Valley to the East Coast. The event also succeeded in spotlighting the exceptional food and wine culture at The Boca Raton and in our community. This new annual tradition will serve to strengthen our commitment to culinary excellence for years to come.”

“The Boca Raton Resort was a perfect setting for the threeday wine and food spectacular,” said Antinori Napa Valley Ambassador Glenn Salva who co-hosted the Bella Notte Friday night dinner at the resort’s beautiful Principessa Ristorante where Chef Carbone created an Italian feast complemented by the fine wines from multi-generational, family-owned wineries with a connection to Italy. “I am already looking forward to next year’s Artisan Wine & Food.”

“The Napa Valley Vintners were proud to have partnered with The Boca Raton to make the first Artisans of Wine & Food a great success,” added Stacey Dolan Capitani, vice president of marketing for Napa Valley Vintners. “The event was actually inspired by Napa Valley. Mr. Hostettler is the former general manager of Meadowood Napa Valley, and played a key role in Auction Napa Valley two decades ago. He understands the magic that can happen when you have world class wines and top chefs together in an iconic setting. And the big winner of the weekend is the youth of Palm Beach and Napa Valley, with proceeds being divided between our two communities.”

Mark your calendars for January 15, 16, 17, and 18, 2026, when Artisans of Wine & Food returns to The Boca Raton for its second year.

Lyford Cay, Nassau

Waterfront | 7 BR | 6/1 BA | 8,983 sf | $25,000,000 Columbia Road. Main House + 2 Cottages, 0.98 Acre. Gated Community. Property ID 60472

samira.coleby@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.376.6248 george.damianos@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.424.9699

Old Fort Bay, Nassau

75-Ft. Canalfront | 6 BR | 6 BA | 5,500 sf | $6,800,000

Open-Plan Living, Guest Bed + Bath, Boat Dock, Back-Up Generator, Gated. Property ID 59034

mark.hussey@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.424.9193

katina.schopper@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.422.8462

Ocean Club Estates, Paradise Island

6 BR | 6/3 BA | 11,321 sf | $8,295,000

Gated Golf community. Corner Residence. Marina. Access to Beach and Luxury Resorts. Property ID 57904 christopher.ansell@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.427.0082

Harbour Island, Eleuthera

4 BR | 4 BA | 5,151 sf | $6,650,000

Seneme. Located in The Narrows. Luxury Living. Three Floors, Wrap-around Verandahs and Panoramic Views. Half-Acre of Elevated Land. Property ID 58257

colleen.carey@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.818.6038

Bon Délire Gives Parisian Vibes Along the Waterfront

Bistro by day and seductive cocktail bar and restaurant by night, this Embarcadero hot spot enchants.

BY FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER

SAN FRANCISCO’S EMBARCADERO WATERFRONT HAS LONG been a hotspot for tourists, but in recent years, a new wave of restaurants and bars has reshaped the area into a lively and dynamic destination to which the locals are flocking. With its scenic views and festive energy, the region has become one of the city’s most exciting places to dine, drink, and socialize. The shift is especially evident with the arrival of vibrant spots like Bon Délire, a Parisian-inspired bistro by day and seductive cocktail bar and restaurant by night.

The name loosely translates to “good delirium” in French, and it more than captures the essence of the venue. Designed by Studio Terpeluk in collaboration with owner Kais Bouzidi, the high-ceilinged, intimate interior is anchored by a stunning horseshoe-shaped bar of cast zinc which is surrounded by hightop tables and banquettes. A DJ spins vinyl records (French and American classics) while music videos and old-school French films are projected on one wall. Outside, French bistro tables line the street, offering views of the cityscape, and on the water side, a small outdoor space offers bay vistas. Inside and out, it’s cozy; it’s captivating; it’s oh-so French.

Bouzidi’s inspiration comes from his Parisian upbringing within a family of restaurateurs. At 21, he moved to San Francisco to forge his own culinary path. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant flavors and cultures of the Mediterranean, he opened Sens restaurant in 2007, infusing its menu and ambiance with the diverse influences derived from his French mother and Tunisian father. Sens quickly became a sought-after destination, known for its lively happy hour, seasonal Mediterranean dishes, and breathtaking views. Bouzidi then expanded with Barcha, a contemporary Mediterranean/Middle Eastern concept located at 425 Market Street. And now, he is the proud proprietor of Bon Délire. “With this concept, we’re creating a place where people can immerse themselves in the energy, flavors, and spirit of Paris,” says Bouzidi. “From the dishes to the cocktails to the music, every detail is designed to transport.”

And transport it does. The menu reimagines classic French dishes, utilizing imported French ingredients paired with Northern California’s fresh, seasonal bounty. Think shareable plates like steak tartare with traditional garniture and potato chips, oysters with cocktail sauce and lemon cream, oeufs

mayonnaise with Dungeness crab, or escargot with shallot port marmalade and parsley butter. Instagram-worthy croque monsieur and croque madame (with Parisian ham, Gruyère, and the option of shaved black truffle) are swoon-worthy, and a delicate sole meunière is nearly ethereal. Sunday brunch— reportedly a totally in-the-know vibe—features its own menu of quiches, omelettes, salads, and more.

Bon Délire’s sommelier and general manager, Patrick Thillard, is originally from Toulouse, and he was previously the co-founder of Bask in downtown San Francisco. He’s curated a beautiful selection of Champagnes and French wines, emphasizing organic varietals from Alsace, Burgundy, and Bordeaux as well as local selections from Napa Valley and the Central Coast. Jason Lam oversees the beverage program, focusing on bold, imaginative, spirit-forward cocktails such as the 50/50 Sidecar with Calvados Coquerel VS, Hennessy VS Cognac, Giffard curaçao and lemon and the Butter Paloma with butter-washed Volcan tequila, Agave de Cortes mezcal, lime, agave, and grapefruit soda.

And no French meal, whether brunch, lunch, or dinner, is complete without a bit of sweet. Don’t miss the freshly baked madeleines with anglaise and chocolate dipping sauce or the Valrhona chocolate mousse with Maldon salt. The vanilla soft serve with red wine poached pears, hazelnut, and caramel sauce also looked très merveilleuse. Bon Délire, Pier 3, Suite 102, San Francisco

PHOTOS: HARDY WILSON

California Lifestyle Collection

Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

California Lifestyle Collection

3265 Soda Canyon Road Napa, California

Belvedere Waterfront Storybook Residence with Magnificent Views Belvedere, California

5 Beds | 4 Baths | ±41.76 Acres | ±5,487 sq. ft. Residence Inviting Offers Over $10,000,000

3 Beds | 3 Baths | ±30,000 sq. ft. Lot | ±3,919 sq. ft. ResidenceOffered at $7,880,000

3 Beds | 3 Baths | ±30,000 sq. ft. Lot | ±3,919 sq. ft. ResidenceOffered at $7,880,000

Designed by renowned architect Carr Jones, this unique storybook style 3-bedroom, 3-bath, ±3,919 sq. ft. home on a spacious ±30,000 sq. ft. lot on the San Francisco Bay, located at the prestigious last block of Belvedere Ave, offers magnificent views including the Bay Bridge, San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito and Mt. Tam. This iconic residence offers intricate craftsmanship and design including slate roof, incredible brick and stone work, a long winding driveway, wood beam ceilings, arched doorways, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, serene lush gardens and complete privacy. The home is within walking distance to downtown Tiburon’s boutiques, fine restaurants such as Malibu Farm, Le Petite Left Bank Bistro, Luna Blue and Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, Corinthian and San Francisco Yacht Clubs, and Ferry Services to San Francisco and Angel Island.

Entering the stately iron gate and tall Italian cypress tree-lined driveway, you will find this enchanting private vineyard estate prominently sited on ±41.76 acres in the Atlas Peak wine region with 30± acres of high-quality vineyard with the best soil. Complexed wines grow on Soda Canyon peak, known for the best rocky soil with undulating elevations. The vineyard includes ±18.45 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, ±4.23 acres of Merlot, 2.88± acres of Malbec, 1.33± acres of Zinfandel, ±1.98 acres of Sauvignon Blanc, 0.87 acre of Tempranillo and ±1.42 acres ready for replant. This spacious ±5,487 square-foot residence with timeless wine country architecture features five bedrooms, four baths over three floors with large windows in each room facing the panoramic views of vineyard, hills, natural and beyond, and the bright sunlight shines through every room and brings the warmth and charm of wine country living. The open kitchen features the finest materials with a large granite countertop island with a dining bar. The formal dining area faces the magnificent view of the vineyards, a perfect place for hosting dinner events and gatherings. Enjoy a glass of wine

Entering the stately iron gate and tall Italian cypress tree-lined driveway, you will find this enchanting private vineyard estate prominently sited on ±41.76 acres in the Atlas Peak wine region with 30± acres of high-quality vineyard with the best soil. Complexed wines grow on Soda Canyon peak, known for the best rocky soil with undulating elevations. The vineyard includes ±18.45 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, ±4.23 acres of Merlot, 2.88± acres of Malbec, 1.33± acres of Zinfandel, ±1.98 acres of Sauvignon Blanc, 0.87 acre of Tempranillo and ±1.42 acres ready for replant. This spacious ±5,487 square-foot residence with timeless wine country architecture features five bedrooms, four baths over three floors with large windows in each room facing the panoramic views of vineyard, hills, natural and beyond, and the bright sunlight shines through every room and brings the warmth and charm of wine country living. The open kitchen features the finest materials with a large granite countertop island with a dining bar. The formal dining area faces the magnificent view of the vineyards, a perfect place for hosting dinner events and gatherings. Enjoy a glass of wine

Designed by renowned architect Carr Jones, this unique storybook style 3-bedroom, 3-bath, ±3,919 sq. ft. home on a spacious ±30,000 sq. ft. lot on the San Francisco Bay, located at the prestigious last block of Belvedere Ave, offers magnificent views including the Bay Bridge, San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito and Mt. Tam. This iconic residence offers intricate craftsmanship and design including slate roof, incredible brick and stone work, a long winding driveway, wood beam ceilings, arched doorways, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, serene lush gardens and complete privacy. The home is within walking distance to downtown Tiburon’s boutiques, fine restaurants such as Malibu Farm, Le Petite Left Bank Bistro, Luna Blue and Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, Corinthian and San Francisco Yacht Clubs, and Ferry Services to San Francisco and Angel Island.

in the living room, with fireplace and attached large deck showcasing the panoramic vineyard view and the dramatic vistas of the sunrise and sunset over vineyards. The Master bedroom located at the end of the hall on the second floor features a marble bathroom, walk-in closets, fireplace, and large windows facing the dramatic view of vineyards and beyond, bringing privacy, peace, and tranquility. The two guest bedrooms located at the other end of the hall on the second floor each feature a bathroom. Two more bedrooms on the third-floor feature vaulted ceilings and panoramic views of the hills and vineyard. There is a wine cellar, 2-car garage and a laundry room. There is also a separate red barn which serves as an office building for vineyard manager and staff. The home is equipped with AT&T Fiber high speed internet and security cameras in front and back of the house, as well as the basement. The grapes produced at this vineyard are sold to prime wineries in Napa Valley.

in the living room, with fireplace and attached large deck showcasing the panoramic vineyard view and the dramatic vistas of the sunrise and sunset over vineyards. The Master bedroom located at the end of the hall on the second floor features a marble bathroom, walk-in closets, fireplace, and large windows facing the dramatic view of vineyards and beyond, bringing privacy, peace, and tranquility. The two guest bedrooms located at the other end of the hall on the second floor each feature a bathroom. Two more bedrooms on the third-floor feature vaulted ceilings and panoramic views of the hills and vineyard. There is a wine cellar, 2-car garage and a laundry room. There is also a separate red barn which serves as an office building for vineyard manager and staff. The home is equipped with AT&T Fiber high speed internet and security cameras in front and back of the house, as well as the basement. The grapes produced at this vineyard are sold to prime wineries in Napa Valley.

Details and photos on BelvedereWaterfront.com

Details and photos on BelvedereWaterfront.com

3265 Soda Canyon Road, Napa | 3265SodaCanyon.com Olivia Hsu Decker | SanFranciscoFineHomes.com Cell: 415.720.5915 | Olivia@SanFranciscoFineHomes.com | Lic.# 00712080

Morella Is the Marina’s Newest Hot Spot

Maximalist design creates a playful ambiance at the Argentinian/Italian restaurant and bar

BY FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER

MORELLA’S COCKTAIL MENU CLASSIFIES ITS SPECIALTY drinks at “spritzy,” “sassy,” “messy,” and “classy,” which also describe the marina hot spot’s interior design. (Well, except for the “messy.”) Located at the corner of Chestnut and Fillmore, Morella’s dining room and bar combine sassy Lilly Pulitzer pink and green and Henri Bendel stripes, classy Murano chandeliers and Victorian wallpaper, and spritzy fern bar greenery. And it works.

The maximalist design scheme layers these elements within its furniture, wallpaper, U-shaped banquette seating, and the comfy tufted dining room chairs and bar area stools. Ornate crystal chandeliers adorn the dining room, and gold gilded sconces add sultry mood lighting. Palm and olive tree accents and ceiling foliage create a playful Mediterranean vibe, and a striking atrium mural above the bar area draws the eye (as do the two television sets that allow Warrior, Giants, and 49er fans never to miss a game). It’s a little bit funky and a whole lot of fun.

So is the menu, the items of which celebrate the gastronomic influences that European immigrants, particularly those from Spain and Italy, had on Argentinian cuisine in the decades following mass migrations at the turn of the 20th century. Morella features traditional empanadas, wood-smoked meats, pastas, and internationally inspired drinks. Executive chef (and now co-owner) Jesus Dominguez, who spent 10 years as sous chef at two Michelinstarred Taj Campton Place, helms the stoves and wood-fired grill, serving up Argentinian-style sausages (duck-apple-brandy, duckorange, pheasant-mushroom, pheasant-cognac, wild boar garlic marsala, rabbit white wine) as well as Argentinian picanha steak, braised short ribs, and a succulent lamb burger. Additional mains include pan seared scallops served with cherry tomatoes, morel mushrooms, caper white wine sauce, and the Lionel Messi-inspired chicken Milanesa (Mary’s chicken breast breaded and fried, smoked ham, mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce, fried shallot). Chef Dominguez is an ardent fan of the Argentinian-born Messi, the most decorated professional soccer player in the world, and he pays homage by making his version of Messi’s favorite dish.

Pasta might be most closely associated with Italy, but it also is prominent in Argentinian cuisine. Thus, Morella’s menu features a yummy selection including Midnight Pasta (spaghetti, braised beef, parmesan cheese, with a kick of chili flake) and Dungeness

crab sorrentinos (Argentinian ravioli stuffed with Dungeness crab, ricotta, fontina, and parmesan cheese served with crab bisque). An antipasti standout is the Dirty Martini Dip (blue cheese, mascarpone cheese, gin, and olive brine served with red peppers, stuffed olives, and pita chips). The beets and hemp seed salad with roasted red and golden beets, roasted corn, onions, shaved carrots, toasted hemp seeds, cucumbers, toasted pistachios, and Greek yogurt dressing is delish. You’ll also find traditional Argentinian empanadas (beef, pork, chicken) and prosciutto bruschetta (garlic sourdough toast topped with traditional bruschetta, prosciutto, parmesan cheese, and arugula.) The arancini (risotto croquettes with porcini mushrooms, parmesan cheese, and fines herbs served with pesto marsala sauce) has quickly become a Morella signature dish. A focal point of the dining room is the eye-catching whole jamón ibérico de bellota leg, hand-sliced by ounce in the dining room. Diners may add the jamón or black truffles (MP) to all pastas and asados.

Back to that cocktail menu. The “spritzy” section features new and familiar flavors, such as The Morella (Italicus bergamot liqueur, blanco tequila, vanilla Greek yogurt, lemon, and prosecco), and the Funky Flamingo (peach and orange blossom infused vodka, Lillet rosé, citrus, and sparkling rosé). The “sassy” sour drinks section includes Life’s a Beach (blanco tequila, hibiscus, citrus, egg white) and Loveless (pisco, apricot, citrus, egg white). “Classy” options include spirit-driven, classic cocktails like the Wake Me Up in Manhattan (rye, Magdala orange liqueur, maraschino, amaro, and Luxardo) and the Summer Martini (gin, fino sherry, Cocchi Americano, and Cointreau.) The “messy” drinks pay additional homage to Messi and include the Frozen Messi Mojito (Morella’s rum blend, mint water, lime and topped with fresh seasonal fruit and puree).

Morella is the sixth concept from Proof Positive, which is known for building imaginative restaurants, bars, and entertainment concepts in San Francisco (Wilder, Westwood Saloon, and Thriller Social Club) and more recently, Southern California. Sean Doolan (Morella’s co-owner) and Shane Caudill serve as bar manager and general manager, respectively. Collectively, the two have worked in the marina and the greater San Francisco Bay Area for more than 30 years, bringing a wealth of passion and experience to the neighborhood. Morella, 2001 Chestnut St., San Francisco

Big Island Bliss

In a world where authenticity and seclusion are increasingly elusive, the Orchid Isle stands out as an ideal destination.

BY FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER

NESTLED IN THE VAST EXPANSE OF THE PACIFIC, THE BIG Island of Hawaii rises with its striking diversity of landscapes that range from lush rainforests to stark to black volcanic deserts to pristine beaches to snow-capped peaks. The island is a microcosm of all the Hawaiian Islands have to offer, yet with an intimacy and raw beauty that make it distinct from its more widely visited and developed counterparts, Maui, Oahu, and Kauai.

A tapestry of contrasts, the Big Island is where past meets present. It was here on the windswept fields of Kailua-Kona that King Kamehameha I, the great unifier of the Hawaiian Islands, was born in the mid-18th century. The island’s royal legacy is still palpable today in sacred sites such as the ‘Pu‘ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, an ancient temple built by Kamehameha himself in his quest to consolidate his reign. Visitors can step into the echoes of history at the restored Hulihe’e Palace, once a royal vacation home, where the island’s monarchy hosted dignitaries and basked in the splendor of island life.

The Orchid Isle, as it’s sometimes known, is the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian Islands, yet it offers an experience that feels as timeless as the rugged volcanic landscapes that created it.

The Kīlauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes are both active, making the Big Island one of the most geologically significant locations in

the world. At Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, visitors can hike the island’s winding lava trails—an extraordinary way to witness the earth’s fiery birth and the dynamic geological processes that continue to shape the island. This otherworldly terrain contrasts with the rich, tropical landscape of the Hamakua Coast, where cascading waterfalls plunge from green cliffs and crystal-clear waters invite snorkeling and scuba diving.

This is an island that celebrates its culinary culture, and there is no better example than iconic Kona coffee. Visitors can tour and taste at coffee farms along the famous Kona Coffee Belt. Farm-to-table restaurants offer fresh, locally grown produce. (Don’t miss the banana bread, an island specialty. Every resort, restaurant, and store has its own delicious version.) And a growing wine scene along the slopes of Mauna Kea will interest oenophiles.

Blending high-end luxury with raw natural beauty, the island and its resorts invite visitors to explore with expert naturalists; endangered Hawaiian green sea turtle release activities are an island favorite. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at some of the world’s most stunning courses with breathtaking ocean views or dramatic mountain backdrops. And of course, luxury resort R&R here can’t be beat. Here are some of our favorites:

FOUR SEASONS® RESORT HUALALAI

The resort spans 865 acres along the Kona-Kohala coastline where tranquil bays and tide pools are nestled amid ancient lava fields that stretch into the Pacific. The lunar-like landscape, visible on the short drive from nearby Kona International Airport, transitions to a serene oasis once inside the Hualalai development where lush fairways and gently swaying palms dominate.

While Four Seasons Resort Hualalai offers classic island indulgences such as golf, tennis, snorkeling, and swimming, it’s the resort’s collection of culinary options that stand out. With views of Hualalai Golf Course’s 18th green, Miller & Lux, from famed chef Tyler Florence, is the island’s only true steakhouse. Featuring high quality cuts from the country’s best ranches, a robust raw bar, and fresh seafood, Miller & Lux is a dream come true for Florence, a lifelong fan of the steakhouse genre. Here, he seeks to recreate for guests the sense of “special occasion” wonder he felt as a youth when visiting the local steakhouse in South Carolina.

The resort’s flagship dining spot is ‘Ulu Restaurant, where chef Richard Polhemus’ menu of Hawaiian/pan-Asian flavors emphasizes local ingredients, 75% of which are sourced from 160plus local farms. Mere steps from the Pacific, ‘Ulu (which recently unveiled a refreshed aesthetic and revamped menu) offers perhaps the island’s “closest to the waves” dining experience.

The resort’s newest gourmand hot spot is Noio, a dedicated omakase sushi bar with a 12-seat counter and a small dining room serving a full à la carte menu. Offering two counter seatings nightly, and overseen by experienced sushi chef Nuri Piccio, Noio is the result of ‘Ulu guests’ overwhelming request for sushi. It’s the only omakase sushi bar along the Kona Coast and one of only three on the whole island. Noio’s interior is a little bit sultry, and its second story location, with unobstructed panoramic ocean views, adds to allure. (Guests may work off their culinary indulgences at the resort’s stellar fitness center, considered one of the finest resort fitness facilities in the world.)

MAUNA LANI, AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION

This iconic Kohala Coast beachfront resort first opened in 1983, and the 2018 purchase by Auberge Resorts restored it to lavish glory. Stunning architectural design of traditional Hawaiian elements and motifs (lava, wood, and bamboo) blend with modern luxury. An impressive open-air lobby blurs the interior/exterior boundary, allowing tropical breezes to flow through. The aesthetic is the very definition of relaxed sophistication, an Auberge hallmark.

A standout for its combo of outdoor adventure and tranquility, the resort offers access to world class golf, unique cultural experiences such as traditional Hawaiian ceremonies and tours of the nearby petroglyph fields, and its signature Sunrise Canoe Paddle during which local guides “talk story” and whales frolic at close range.

The resort’s commitment to luxury and wellness is evidenced in its on-site goop® boutique that offers access to the wellness brand’s curated lifestyle products, many of which are used in the resort spa. (Try the goop Glow Facial for an indulgent treat.) Mauna Lani is one of the few resorts in the world to host a goop store, making it a particularly unique feature.

But what truly sets Mauna Lani apart is its commitment to preservation of the land’s natural beauty. The resort is dedicated to environmental conservation and is particularly noted for its annual Turtle Independence Day event in partnership with Oahu’s Sea Life Park, by which guests and community members are invited to help release Hawaiian green sea turtles, or honu, into the Pacific Ocean. Such fusion of luxury, culture, and environmental stewardship makes Mauna Lani an exceptional destination.

FAIRMONT ORCHID

The elegant Fairmont Orchid has claimed its corner of the greater Mauna Lani development since 2000, and a recent refurbishment has it sparkling like new. Two towers surround a central lobby that overlooks the Pacific and an expansive central swimming pool. Nearly all rooms offer a peek at the waves, and even when at full capacity, the property’s expanse provides room to breathe and plentiful lounge chairs on which to linger. For added luxe, opt for a concierge floor room and enjoy access to the Gold Lounge.

An oasis within an oasis, Gold amenities include highly personalized service, private check-in (you’ll skip the lobby reception and be whisked right to the exclusive sixth floor), two bountiful daily food presentations, all-day snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, and an honor bar. The exclusive and elegant Fairmont Gold Lounge is a lovely gathering spot for friends and family, and its terrace allows for commanding views of golden sunsets.

The resort’s signature restaurant, Brown’s Beach House, is also a prime spot for sunset viewing. The AAA Four Diamond award winner features creative Hawaiian cuisine and live music nightly with tables oriented toward Pauoa Bay and its crescent of lava walls. This beautiful bay is part of the ʻĀkoʻakoʻa Reef Restoration Program, for which Fairmont Orchid is host and supporter. A vital coral reef ecosystem hugs the coastline of the resort and is in urgent need of restoration. The resort works with ʻĀkoʻakoʻa to help with coral propagation, community stewardship, and guest education.

In a world where authenticity and seclusion are increasingly elusive, the Big Island stands out as an ideal destination. Its combination of adventure, serenity, and history make it an exceptional place to immerse oneself in the true spirit of Hawaii. Whether walking in the footsteps of kings, marveling at active volcanic landscapes, or enjoying the island’s culinary delights, a Big Island excursion is as vast and varied as the island itself.

Experience Every Season at Four Seasons Napa Valley

BY KRISHA CHHAGANLAL

Situated in the charming town of Calistoga, the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley is surrounded by scenic vineyards and natural hot springs. Just a short stroll from the main street lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, the resort perfectly captures the essence of wine country living. Despite the draw of the local attractions, the allure of the Four Seasons itself may tempt you to spend your entire visit within the serene confines of the resort.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful solo retreat, a romantic getaway, or a memorable vacation with family and friends, the resort offers elegantly appointed rooms to expansive villas and residence rentals to accommodate. The thoughtful layout of each room ensures all guests, regardless of the type of stay they choose, have access to beautiful views of the vineyards or landscaped gardens, creating a unique backdrop.

The villa and residence rentals are designed with exclusivity and comfort in mind. They feature spacious interiors, modern amenities, fireplaces, and expansive terraces. For those desiring more privacy and exclusivity, the residential villa rentals offer enhanced features such as private pools, larger living spaces, and gourmet kitchens.

The resort’s accommodations are more than just a place to sleep—they are designed to be a place where you can live, relax, and create memories.

CULINARY EXPERIENCE

Dining is a highlight at the Four Seasons Napa Valley, which features two outstanding restaurants. Led by executive chef Rogelio Garcia, Auro offers a refined experience with a Michelin-starred, sevencourse tasting menu that emphasizes local Napa Valley ingredients with global fusion influences. Notable dishes include Kagoshima A5 Wagyu and a house-made gianduja hazelnut chocolate tart.

TRUSS Restaurant + Bar, helmed by chef Juan Agustin, provides a vibrant setting for all-day dining, from sophisticated bar bites to hearty meals. Its menu focuses on seasonal and regional products. Both venues exemplify the area’s culinary richness, paired with an exceptional selection of wines, earning them Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence for 2023-2024.

WINE EXPERIENCES

The integration of Elusa Winery within the resort grounds offers guests an exclusive vine-to-glass experience. This boutique winery focuses on producing exceptional estate-grown wines, allowing visitors to explore the art and science of winemaking through guided tours and tastings. Guests can savor rare vintages and learn about the unique terroir of the Calistoga AVA, all within the serene setting of the resort. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious, Elusa provides a deeply immersive and intimate introduction to Napa’s worldrenowned wine culture.

A SANCTUARY OF WELLNESS

Spa Talisa honors the healing traditions of the region with treatments that utilize local natural resources, such as volcanic ash and mineral-rich waters. This tranquil spa environment, enhanced by its use of calming waters and soothing earth tones, offers a range of services from rejuvenating facials to therapeutic massages, each designed to soothe the spirit and awaken the senses.

YEAR-ROUND EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

The Four Seasons Napa Valley offers a calendar of events and activities that celebrate the spirit of each season.

In spring, the resort comes alive with fresh energy, hosting events like the Easter brunch at TRUSS, featuring a lavish buffet and family-friendly activities such as an Easter egg hunt. The Spring Garden pop-up adds to the charm with live music and a vibrant setting that captures the season’s renewal.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy sunset dinners at The Grove, where guests can dine amid the vineyards under the warm, golden light of Napa Valley evenings. These dinners offer a magical way to savor the season with loved ones.

As the vineyards turn golden, fall brings the harvest season and a celebration of Napa’s winemaking heritage. Guests can indulge in

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF FOUR SEASONS NAPA VALLEY

vineyard picnics featuring artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and estate wines or attend exclusive wine dinners that pair expertly crafted dishes with local vintages.

During winter, the TRUSS Winter Chalets experience transforms the resort into a festive retreat. This seasonal offering turns the TRUSS terrace into a cozy winter wonderland complete with private chalets, firepits, and twinkling lights. The Christmas Day feast adds to the holiday cheer with a decadent three-course menu, while the New Year’s Eve midnight soirée brings the year to a close with live music, gourmet bites, and celebratory toasts.

Year-round, guests can also enjoy vineyard yoga, fireside chats, wine dinners, and culinary classes, allowing for new and engaging experiences at every visit.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Every element, from the thoughtfully designed accommodations to the seasonable events and world class dining, reflects the unwavering commitment to excellence that guests have come to expect from Four Seasons. At the heart of it all is a sense of care—an innate ability to anticipate your needs and make every moment feel personal.

Whether you’re savoring a Michelin-starred meal, unwinding by the fire at the TRUSS Chalet, or simply soaking in the vineyard views from your private terrace, Four Seasons Napa Valley is a place you will want to visit again.

Sanctuary in the City: The Transamerica Pyramid Center is an Urban Oasis

The San Francisco architectural icon sparkles anew.

BY FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER

SAN FRANCISCO’S TRANSAMERICA PYRAMID IS AS EMBLEMATIC of the City by the Bay as are its cable cars and the undulating hills they climb. Unveiled in 1972, the Pyramid was ahead of its time and initially ridiculed for its unique design. Over time, its novelty status waned, and it became just another office building, albeit one of unusual design. However, a recent and stunning restoration project once again shines a spotlight on the financial district icon, allowing it to reclaim its status as one of San Francisco’s must-see destinations for both locals and visitors.

Thanks to SHVO, a luxury real estate development and investment firm that has invested $1 billion toward restoration efforts, the Pyramid and its surrounding district (the Transamerica Pyramid Center, or TAPC) sparkle anew. In collaboration with Lord Norman Foster and his renowned firm Foster + Partners, SHVO has created a vibrant new destination in the heart of San Francisco. Foster + Partners’ new design features an indoor-outdoor approach, and SHVO’s investment has reimagined the landmark and its surrounding Redwood Park into a cultural and lifestyle hub, blending world class art, architecture, and culinary innovation, all available to the public year-round.

The Pyramid was first conceived in the late 1960s when the CEO of the Transamerica Corporation, John Beckett, visited architect William Pereira’s office to explore an office tower design for its San Francisco headquarters. He saw in the studio a model of a pyramidal structure initially intended for the American Broadcasting Company at 66th Street and Columbus Avenue in New York. ABC had rejected it as “too bold.” Claimed by Beckett for San Francisco, the pyramid form was debated extensively following its 1972 unveiling. Hated by some (the San Francisco Chronicle dubbed it “the world’s largest architectural folly”), it was embraced and defended by others. Then Mayor Joseph Alioto said it captured “a spirit and daring that welcome individuality and diversity.”

That spirit is alive and well within the transformed building and adjacent community park filled with redwood trees. This is a

destination—a place in which to linger with friends and family— and all are welcome. The building itself features a beautiful lobby with inviting seating areas of custom furnishings and a small café serving coffee drinks and pastries. The books that line one wall are available for purchase, as are the orchids that decorate the space. Just outside, a foliage-lined patio features additional seating areas that welcome passersby. The central Redwood Park is a true gem— an oasis within the heart of the city featuring 50-year-old redwoods, water features, seating areas, statuary, and a stage that will eventually host the Pyramid Grove Concert Series of free weekday and weekend outdoor performances by local talent.

Employees of the pyramid’s commercial tenants (primarily legal and financial institutions) also benefit from SHVO’s remodel. They have private access to a top floor Sky Bar and a wellness center featuring state-of-the-art fitness equipment, steam, sauna, and varied classes.

SHVO has also partnered with chef Brad Kilgore to make the Transamerica Pyramid Center a distinctive culinary destination. Three new restaurant projects at the building include Café Sebastian (serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner), a spinoff of MadLab Gelato & Kakigori, and the soon-to-open Japanese/Italian-influenced ama, all by Chef Kilgore.

Headquartered in New York City with offices in Miami, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Chicago, SHVO owns and operates a national portfolio valued at more than $8 billion and 4.5 million square feet across commercial office and retail space, hospitality, and luxury residential assets. The firm’s selective portfolio of architecturally significant properties, from innovative, ground-up new developments to revitalized landmarks that define skylines in the world’s leading cities, includes (in addition to the Transamerica Pyramid) The Raleigh Hotel in Miami Beach, 333 South Wabash Avenue in Chicago, Mandarin Oriental Residences at 9200 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills, Mandarin Oriental Residences Fifth Avenue in New York City, and the AMAN New York Hotel and Residences at the Crown Building.

The Mane Event: The Artistry of JEROME Molles

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

NESTLED IN THE PICTURESQUE MARIN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA,

Jerome Molles stands as a beacon for those seeking not only to enhance their beauty but also to experience the transformative power of hair artistry, especially for clients in need of color correction. Renowned as the best colorist in Northern California, Molles’ approach transcends traditional hair coloring techniques, blending artistry with advanced methods to create breathtaking masterpieces. His impressive clientele includes stars from various realms of entertainment, tech titans, and fashion industry executives, carving a niche that is as sophisticated as it is unique.

Molles brings the Beverly Hills aesthetics of the beauty industry to Northern California, having been trained and mentored by the esteemed Tracey Cunningham, a renowned celebrity colorist. This exceptional foundation equips him with the skills and insights necessary to elevate the hair experience for his clients, ensuring that they receive the highest level of service and expertise.

Molles’ philosophy is simple yet profound: hair is not just an accessory; it is an essential element of personal expression. Each appointment with him is a journey, inviting clients to explore the latest trends in hair coloring while receiving tailored services that enhance their natural beauty. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to quality, Molles has mastered the latest techniques that have emerged in the hair coloring landscape over the past five years.

Balayage, the freehand painting technique, is one of Molles’ signature styles. This method allows for a natural, sun-kissed effect that adds warmth and dimension to any hair type. The soft transitions between colors create a look that feels effortlessly chic, embodying the essence of California glam. For those seeking a bolder statement, Molles expertly employs ombre, a gradient effect that transitions from darker roots to lighter ends, allowing for a striking contrast that frames the face beautifully.

In a world where precision meets creativity, Molles’ use of foilyage showcases his ability to combine the best of both worlds. This technique merges traditional foiling with the artistry of balayage, resulting in a more controlled application that offers vivid brightness and depth. Clients leave his chair with hair that reflects light in ways that accentuate their features, ensuring satisfaction for even the most discerning clientele.

For those who desire an ethereal, soft look, Molles is a master of color melting. This technique employs the seamless blending of multiple shades, crafting a soft, multidimensional effect that feels both chic and approachable. It’s perfect for clients who want to maintain a natural appearance while still embracing a touch of modern flair.

One of the most innovative techniques employed by Molles is shadow roots. By intentionally darkening the roots, he creates a

stunning contrast that enhances the overall color while allowing for a low-maintenance grow-out. This ensures clients can enjoy their vibrant hues without the stress of frequent touch-ups. Additionally, Molles has embraced the dreamy aesthetic of watercolor hair, blending shades to mimic the fluidity of watercolors and often resulting in stunning pastel looks that are both romantic and whimsical.

In the realm of modern sophistication, metallic hair has taken center stage, and Molles is at the forefront of this trend. Utilizing silver, rose gold, and copper tones, he crafts reflective looks that not only stand out but also exude an aura of elegance and luxury. His innovative approach to hair contouring further enhances his clients’ beauty, using darker and lighter shades to sculpt and define facial features, reminiscent of makeup artistry.

What truly sets Molles apart is not just his technical prowess but his bespoke approach to hair color. Each client receives a personalized consultation during which Molles considers individual skin tones, lifestyles, and preferences, resulting in tailormade color formulations that accentuate each individual’s unique beauty. This commitment to customization ensures every client leaves with a look that feels authentically their own and celebrates their individuality.

Beyond his expertise in color, Molles has introduced an innovative concept known as Hair Lingerie—a luxurious line of hair extensions designed to add volume, length, and versatility. Loved by celebrities, these extensions are ethically sourced, crafted from the finest materials, and customizable, allowing clients to enhance their looks while maintaining the integrity of their natural hair. This service has become a hallmark of Molles’ artistry, attracting a clientele that includes high-profile individuals who seek the best.

Jerome Molles is more than just a colorist; he is an artist, a visionary, and a trusted confidant to those seeking transformation through hair. His work in Marin County is a testament to evolving trends in the hair industry. With a perfect blend of artistry, innovation, and personalization, Molles continues to set the standard for hair colorists in Northern California and beyond. In his hands, hair becomes an extension of one’s identity, a canvas for creativity, and a celebration of beauty in all its forms.

For those wishing to experience Molles’ artistry firsthand, you can find him at Plum Salon, located at 221 Corte Madera Ave., Corte Madera, CA 94925. To schedule an appointment, simply call 415-777-0999. www.jeromemolles.com

ICONS OF Love

MOTHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE

THIS MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATE THE ICON IN YOUR LIFE WITH A TIMELESS PIECE FROM THE ICONS COLLECTION.

Tiffany T T1 Ring in Yellow Gold with Diamonds

Tiffany HardWear graduated link necklace in yellow gold with pavé diamonds

Tiffany Lock bangle in yellow, white, and rose gold with half pavé diamonds

Tiffany T pavé diamond wire bangle in yellow, white, and rose gold MOTHER’S

Tiffany HardWear medium link earrings in yellow gold

Jean Schlumberger by Tiffany sixteen stone ring in platinum with diamonds

Tiffany Facets extra large jewelry box in Tiffany Blue® leather

The school of LOUIS VUITTON

For the Louis Vuitton Spring-Summer 2025 collection, Nicolas Ghesquière teaches us a lesson in femininity where structure meets fluidity, texture dances with print, and tailoring is reimagined through a lens of retro-futuristic influences.

BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

PHOTOGRAPHY

OPPOSITE PAGE: Dress and shoes by Louis Vuitton

THIS PAGE:

Top, pants, and shoes by Louis Vuitton

Top, skirt, bag, and shoes by Louis Vuitton

Top, pants, bags, and shoes by Louis Vuitton

Dress and shoes by Louis Vuitton

Top, pants, bag, and shoes by Louis Vuitton

Top, pants, and shoes by Louis Vuitton

Tiffany & Co. Shooting Star diamond bracelet in platinum with diamonds from Blue Book 2024:Tiffany Céleste Collection, price upon request;available at select Tiffany & Co. locations, 800-843-3269, and tiffany.com

BVLGARI High Jewelry

Serpenti necklace in rose gold set with mother of pearl inserts, two fancy buff top rubies, 25 round brilliant cut diamonds, and pavé-set diamonds, price upon request;available at the Bvlgari New York 5th Avenue boutique and 1-800-285-4274

Cartier High Jewelry necklace in platinum and diamonds, price upon request;available by appointment only at select Cartier boutiques nationwide, 1-800-227-8437, and cartier.com

Diamonds

Piaget Essence of Extraleganza High Jewelry ring, price upon request;piaget.com

Are Forever

De Beers Essence of Nature Foundation Masterpiece necklace, price upon

Harry Winston Cat’s Eye Chrysoberyl ring from the Marvelous Creations Collection featuring diamonds set in platinum, price upon request;for more information contact Harry Winston at 1-800-988-4110 and harrywinston.com

Diamond Double Row ring set on platinum, price upon request;available at Graff salons or graff.com

Pomellato Together choker necklace in 18-karat rose gold and white diamonds, $15,550;for more information, contact Pomellato at 929-667-1967 and pomellato.com

BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

Our alumni are lighting the way—transforming communities and inspiring us all to dream bigger and work harder for a better world. Join us to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our students and alumni. Together, we can amplify their light and empower them to shine even brighter.

Suzanne Badenhoop & Guy Lampard

Eric Bindelglass & Gabrielle Tierney

Chris Boyd

Graham & Talia Brandt

Susan & Mitch Cohen

Herb & Jane Dwight

David & Elaine Freed

OUR LEAD SPONSORS

Deborah Freed Goldman & Jonathan Goldman

Dennis & Susan Gilardi

Vanessa Holton & Lloyd Aubry, Jr.

Vikki & Derek Ku

Sheila & Thomas Larsen

Luis Silva Behrens & Keily Hernandez

Tracy Solomon

Denise & Mark Steele

Janet & Michael Verlander

Confirmed Sponsors as of 3/4/25

Pepe Gonzalez & Dr. Denise M. Lucy, Gala Co-Chairs

LVMH WATCH WEEK REWIND

LVMH Watch Week landed in New York this year, showcasing an esteemed repertoire of brands and their latest timepieces to kick off 2025. Discover the most impressive novelties from LVMH Watch Week ahead.

BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

LOUIS VUITTON TAMBOUR TAIKO SPIN TIME

WHILE LOUIS VUITTON HAD QUITE AN IMPRESSIVE SHOWING, like the new Louis Vuitton Tambour Convergence, the Louis Vuitton Tambour Taiko Spin Time really stole the show. The Spin Time, a complication uniquely associated with Louis Vuitton, has been a hallmark of the Maison’s haute horlogerie since 2009, when it was first developed by La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton. This innovative jumping hours display, inspired by the flap displays in airports and train stations, has now evolved into the Tambour Taiko Spin Time collection. This new line, entirely powered by in-house movements, introduces six limited-edition models that redefine the Spin Time with a fresh design ethos. The collection’s introduction marks a significant moment for Louis Vuitton’s watchmaking, showcasing a blend of tradition

and innovation with its 39.5 mm and 42.5 mm cases, the latter featuring an open case back to reveal the intricate in-house caliber.

The Tambour Taiko Spin Time not only revisits the origins of Spin Time but also pushes the boundaries with new technical and esthetic developments. The watches feature a patented three-dimensional jumping cubes display, now with subtly curved faces for enhanced light play, housed within a meticulously crafted Tambour Taiko case inspired by Japanese ceremonial drums. This case is a testament to the advanced skills of La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton, with complex finishes and integrated lugs that marry elegance with ergonomics. Moreover, the collection introduces groundbreaking complications like the worldfirst travel time display in the Antipode model and combines traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering in the Tourbillon variant.

DANIEL ROTH EXTRA PLAT SOUSCRIPTION

DANIEL ROTH CONTINUES ITS REVIVAL WITH THE EXTRA PLAT Souscription, a limited edition of 20 pieces that pays homage to the brand’s 1990s origins with a new DR002 movement, crafted in 18k yellow gold with a hand-made guilloche dial, maintaining the iconic double ellipse form and traditional watchmaking techniques. This ultra-thin dress watch, echoing the simplicity and elegance of the original Extra Plat from 1990, combines historical design elements with modern mechanical innovation, developed by La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton.

GERALD GENTA OURSIN FIRE OPAL

THE GÉRALD GENTA GENTISSIMA OURSIN FIRE OPAL IS THE FOURTH watch in the series, blending Genta’s design legacy with vibrant esthetics. It features 137 individually screwed fire opals set around a 36.5 mm yellow gold case, complemented by an orange cornelian dial. This limited-edition timepiece, inspired by a sea urchin spotted during a 1994 vacation in Corsica, pays tribute to Genta’s passion for exquisite stones and his intuitive design approach.

TAG HEUER FORMULA 1 CHRONOGRAPH

THE FOCUS THIS YEAR FOR TAG HEUER IS CLEAR: IT IS ALL ABOUT Formula 1. On the heels of the exciting announcement in January that TAG Heuer would return to F1 as the Official Timekeeper, the brand is going all-in on its legacy at F1 as they introduced five new additions (four chronographs, to be exact) to its renowned Formula 1 collection. The highlight is the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph x Oracle Red Bull Racing, crafted with a grade-2 titanium case and a forged carbon bezel. Its blue opaline dial with a checkered flag pattern captures the spirit of F1, complete with Oracle Red Bull Racing’s iconic colors. This special edition celebrates the thrill of racing and the successful partnership between TAG Heuer and Oracle Red Bull Racing, which has produced eight exclusive timepieces since 2016.

HUBLOT BIG BANG TOURBILLON AUTOMATIC GREEN SAXEM

NEW CEO JULIEN TORNARE IS LASER-FOCUSED ON HUBLOT’S DNA of being unconventional and working outside the conformed boundaries of watchmaking. Case in point: the new Big Bang Tourbillon Automatic Green Saxem. A limited edition of 18 pieces, the watch showcases a pioneering use of SAXEM, a material akin to sapphire but with vibrant color capabilities. The emerald-green transparent case houses the MHUB6035 self-winding tourbillon movement, developed in-house, with a 72-hour power reserve.

TIFFANY & CO. BIRD ON A ROCK TSAVORITE WATCH

LEVERAGING ITS 187-YEAR LEGACY, TIFFANY & CO. CONTINUES TO INNOVATE WITH the Jean Schlumberger watch collection, where the emblematic Bird on a Rock, first introduced as a brooch in 1965, is reimagined with a diamond-encrusted bird that spins freely on the dial, crafted through a meticulous process involving hand-sculpted gold, diamond setting, and a pink sapphire eye, embodying Schlumberger’s vision of whimsy and movement. The Jean Schlumberger by Tiffany Bird on a Rock Tsavorite Watch features a 39 mm case with 413 round brilliant diamonds and a rotating outer ring set with 36 baguette tsavorites of 5.4 total carats, including a self-winding Swiss movement and a dark green alligator strap with a diamond-set T buckle.

BVLGARI LADY SOLOTEMPO BVS100 AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT

AT BVLGARI, THINGS GOT TECHNICAL THIS YEAR AS THEY UNVEILED A BRAND NEW movement, the Lady Solotempo BVS100 automatic movement. After years of meticulous development, this new iteration showcases the brand’s watchmaking expertise, perfectly fitting within the iconic Serpenti head design. This compact movement, measuring 19 mm in diameter and 3.90 mm thick, offers a 50-hour power reserve, enhancing the versatility of the Serpenti collection while solidifying Bvlgari’s reputation in high-end horology and within the LVMH family.

ZENITH CHRONOMASTER SPORT RAINBOW

THIS YEAR MARKS ZENITH’S 160TH ANNIVERSARY, AND CEO BENOIT DE CLERCK HAS MANY surprises up his sleeve. To kick off this monumental year, Zenith has introduced the Chronomaster Sport Rainbow, which is crafted from 18k solid white gold and features 50 baguette-cut gemstones. The 41 mm case is adorned with a subtle rainbow bezel and hour markers composed of 40 vibrant sapphires, totaling approximately 3.9 carats. Additionally, the watch showcases 10 baguette-cut diamonds, amounting to around one carat, on the 1/10th of a second frequency chronograph. This piece is testament to Zenith’s mastery of gem-setting and high-frequency watchmaking.

Ferrari Purosangue

BY TIM LAPPEN

I’VE OFTEN SAID THAT “FERRARI” MAY BE THE MOST-PERFECT HYPERCAR name — it even sounds fast and is fun to say, in whatever ersatz-Italian accent you can muster up. The same goes for the new Ferrari Purosangue, in which they built on the sonorous accolades from the brand’s illustrious heritage to name a vehicle that is so far from the normal vision of an “SUV” (much less a “minivan”) — with good reason. And to dispel any rumor that, as a four-door higher-profile vehicle, it’s not a “real” Ferrari, they used the Italian word for “thoroughbred” that literally translates to “pure blood.” Heck, they even came up with a new three-letter moniker: it’s not an SUV, it’s an FUV (don’t jump to any conclusions here as it stands for “Ferrari Utility Vehicle”).

Purists may say that to be a Ferrari, the vehicle has to be a sports car as anything else is pure heresy. Then again, purists used to say that a Betamax was the way to go before VHS obliterated the competition. Purists also used to say that a McIntosh stereo amplifier, at a hair under $2,000, was the only way to listen to music at home, even though only the family dog could appreciate the sound.

But enough about background and allusions. What’s it like, and is it true to its heritage? In two words: “bravissimo” and “abso-ferrari-lutely.”

Let’s start with the looks, as that’s what hits you first. Svelte with sinuous, wind-sculpted lines, clearly a performance look, accentuated by the lack of rear-door hardware (the rear-hinged doors, which open toward the back, are operated by a small switch at the top of the front beltline), which gives the Purosangue the look of a tall GT car. Ferrari has long offered two-plus-two vehicles, so the idea of a Ferrari for four is not new. The most recent iterations of the FF and then the GTC4Lusso showed that the Maranello Masters were very adept at melding form, performance, and comfort for a vehicle suitable for a small group of people. The Purosangue just took that heredity further, providing a vehicle that does not compromise on sufficient headroom nor on the front and rear seat space, but still looks terrific.

Of course, being a Ferrari, the car is a performer. A mid-front-engine layout for the impressive V12 motor (naturally aspirated, which means no turbo- or super-charger) portends great handling and superb acceleration, both of which

A wolf in wolf’s clothing.

this car has in gobs. Who but Ferrari would create an all-wheel-drive utility vehicle with 49:51 percent weight distribution? And lest we forget, the massively powerful motor can rocket the car to 60 miles per hour in just over three seconds (be careful not to test that when the boot is chockablock with groceries).

Handling? Yes, please. Again, the Purosangue delivers. This is a vehicle into which Ferrari clearly poured every trick in their book. High-end aero development focused on bodywork, underbody, and even the rear diffuser to handle airflow economically. Four-wheel steering for more alacrity around town and in the twisties, active suspension to better handle the vagaries of the road and allow for more dynamic cornering (the body remains almost flat in the turns and the tire contact patch is kept at the maximum) and a newly developed chassis and a carbon fiber roof make for a lower center of gravity. It will come as no surprise that technology designed for the 812 Competizione pays an active role (no pun intended) in the Purosangue.

Sound? Again, a decidedly strong “yes.” The notes from the professional “Burmester 3D High-End Surround Sound System” are purely recreated by ribbon tweeters (the first time they have been fitted to any production car) and the subwoofer in its own cabinet will get your body thumping. But, as this is V-12 Ferrari, I expect that the drivers will not use the entertainment sound system anywhere near as much as the right-pedal on/off switch for the real symphony coming from the orchestra under the hood. Look, I love electric cars as much as the next guy (well, probably more than some, less than others) but as Jay Leno likes to say, “There’s no replacement for displacement,” and never were truer words said than when referring to a motor that has 12 raging cylinders, with some 6,500 ccs of displacement and 725 cv (about 715 hp) of power. The exhaust note on this car is nothing short of symphonic.

I loved every minute I had with this car. The looks, the sound, the comfort, the performance — and did I mention sound and performance? — make for a terrific package. “Mine” was very well equipped, with a base price of $393,350 and a price as tested of $576,544. Ferrari clearly didn’t hold back when it came to the parts bin on this one. Such options as carbon fiber here, there, and everywhere, matt black/diamond-cut forged wheels, front suspension lifter (de rigueur if you don’t want a carbon fiber rhinoplasty courtesy of your driveway), special paint (Rosso Portofino on my test car and Grigio Titanio Metall on the model featured here), and more gave reason for the $183,000+ options total.

Driving the Purosangue is quite like driving a taller high-performance Ferrari sports car with terrific visibility and superior ergonomics. I found much to love about this vehicle and expect that it will do well in all markets. It’s the perfect blend of performance, looks, comfort, handling, and all around fun.

Maserati Grecale

Conquering the English countryside with Italian flair

BY ADAM ROUTLEDGE

WHEN YOU THINK OF ITALIAN FLAIR, YOU IMAGINE THE WORKS OF THE Renaissance masters, admiring the architecture from within the walls of Lucca, or sipping on an Aperol spritz while staring out across the Tyrrhenian Sea from the Amalfi coast.

It is very unlikely that you picture the wet, cold, and extremely muddy reality of Christmas in Great Britain, specifically, a local pub in Devon, England with a handful of local ciders and ales on tap and a pack of muddy dogs warming up in front of the fire. Well, that’s where I was, and it was safe to say I had the only Maserati in the village, let alone the parking lot of the pub.

Conspicuously positioned between Range Rovers and Land Rover Defenders was a Maserati Grecale Modena with inherent Italian flair and exceptional style inside and out. Maserati’s newest SUV is only the second to brand the legendary trident next to the Levante, which was first produced in 2016 to compete with the growing market of performance-oriented SUVs. Once again, the new model bears the name of a wind. The gregale (grecale in Italian) is a northeasterly Mediterranean wind and now a new compact SUV

that is taking the reins from the Levante. This tradition began in 1963 with the legendary Maserati Mistral followed by the Ghibli, Bora, and Khamsin in turn.

The Maserati Grecale is available in a GT version equipped with a fourcylinder mild hybrid engine capable of 300 horsepower, in the Modena with a four-cylinder 330-horsepower mild hybrid engine, and in the highperformance Trofeo with a 530-horsepower V6, capable of 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds. 2025 also brings the first-ever fully electric Maserati SUV with the Grecale Folgore. The Modena spec I was driving had a base price of £67,740 (approximately $83,300 USD), configured to £87,905 (approximately $108,050 USD), making it one of the pricier SUVs in the class.

It is difficult to really stand out in the saturated luxury SUV segment, but the Maserati does a brilliant job with distinctive Italian design and extremely luxurious interior furnishings that make it a very comfortable and luxurious place to be. The Modena version, according to Maserati, is for those with an innate, timeless elegance, for fans of sport in the great outdoors. It is intended as a means to make the very best of your time and the surroundings—well said, it does.

The overall functionality is exceptional as it finds the right balance between sportiness and practicality with a generous 2,901 mm wheelbase, giving it remarkable roominess in the rear, plus proper space in the boot with a flat loading platform and a cargo box to hide your valuables under the platform. The Grecale comfortably seats four 6-foot-tall adults over long journeys and can easily accommodate five adults utilizing the rear middle seat.

During my extended time with the Grecale, I trekked all over Devon as well as across England up to Harrogate with a stop in Bath, which is one of my favorite cities and a must-visit if you have not been. The amount of driving meant I was able to test the Maserati on muddy, single lane country roads covered in potholes, A and B roads, the United Kingdom’s motorway network, and the cobbled streets of Bath as you’d see in the television series Bridgerton

It did take me a little while to perfect the usage of the five drive modes: COMFORT, GT, SPORT and OFF-ROAD (the Trofeo specification has an additional “CORSA” mode). You can really feel Maserati’s performance and racing pedigree in the Grecale; consequently, it rides relatively hard in GT and SPORT.

GT mode enables structured acceleration without compromising efficiency, with regular gear change and normal engine boost.

SPORT mode sets the pedal sensitivity and gear change to peak performance, provides maximum engine boost, and opens the active exhaust valves. Noticeably, it also lowers the driving position by 15 mm in “Aero Mode,” causing the steering wheel to be more rigid and responsive. The grip around corners, even on a wet and muddy surface, is very impressive and really feels like a performance sports car in SPORT mode.

COMFORT mode is definitely the drive mode for everyday use, especially on less manicured roads, as the suspension is reduced in rigidity and the electric power steering is set to ensure maximum, effortless driving pleasure.

I did not take the Grecale across the waterlogged fields of Exmoor as it is equipped to do. The OFF-ROAD mode utilizes the air suspension to increase the ride height by 20 mm and active all-terrain driving controls with gradual gear change and a rev limiter.

Maserati has really excelled with the Grecale in a segment competing with heavy hitters like Porsche, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Volvo, to name a few. Not only did it turn heads wherever I took it, with the exceptional styling details of the exterior and interior that every passenger mentioned without a miss, but the all-around sound experience from the cold-start growl, active exhaust valves, and the Sonus faber sound system were equally memorable. The Italian artisans of sound at Sonus faber have really engineered something special with the 21 speakers and genuine 3D sound with an output of 1,285 watts. I have been lucky enough to drive a number of luxury cars with some of the most cutting-edge sound systems available, and this one is industry-leading.

My take is that the Maserati Grecale is the obvious choice in the mid-size performance SUV category for those looking for something a little bit special and rarer. While on the more expensive side of other comparable options, there really isn’t another car that does all that this one can and with the same conversation-starting, Italian flair. I loved my time with this car, and so did the cockapoos.

Iconic vintage race cars and a DJ with live instruments at the Historic Display

The Napa Valley Car Club Debuts The Napa Event

A celebration of motorsports, Michelin-starred food, and award-winning wines in the heart of the valley

BY OLIVIA DE SANTIS

THE NAPA EVENT DEBUTED AT THE END OF OCTOBER, BRINGING together world class cars, Michelin-starred food, and award-winning wines for an unforgettable weekend. Inspired by The Palm Event, the Napa Valley Car Club hosted its inaugural celebration, transporting the history and glamour of the Mar-a-Lago gathering to the West Coast. A true car enthusiast may draw similarities to The Quail, an annual motorsport gathering in Pebble Beach where the world’s most prominent automakers unveil their new models and showcase rare supercars and iconic vintage models. In just a few years, it is safe to say we will see The Napa Event grow in grandeur, attracting car collectors and automakers from around the world.

This year,The Napa Event commenced on Friday evening with a welcome party at Caymus Vineyards. The lush floral gardens and grand barrel room were ideal for showcasing the curated mix of rare race cars, vintage Ferraris, and Ford Broncos meticulously updated by Kindred Motorworks. As they mingled among fellow car enthusiasts, guests

enjoyed Caymus’s 50th Anniversary Cabernet and hors d’oeuvres from Napa’s Michelin-starred Press Restaurant, including pillowy gnudi garnished with freshly shaved truffle. The festivities continued inside with a generous array of Caymus wines to choose from at the bar or a sample of the producer’s unreleased 2022 vintage straight from the barrel.

On Saturday, attendees met at ONEHOPE Winery to partake in the Vintage Rallye. Drivers followed a scenic route lined with vineyards and rolling hills, racing safely through Napa Valley. Upon returning to ONEHOPE Winery, the drivers refueled with delicious wines and bites through the early evening.

The weekend culminated with the main event on Sunday: the Historic Display hosted at Inglenook Winery in Rutherford. With a winemaking history dating back to the 1880s, Inglenook represents Napa’s storied past while highlighting modern-day advancements and leadership in Napa—a fitting blend of old and new mirrored in the collection of cars presented on the grand lawn. In 1975, the Coppola family began restoring

PHOTO COURTESY OF NAPA VALLEY CAR CLUB

and reuniting the original Inglenook property, bringing it back to glory with a new, state-of-the-art winemaking facility and hiring winemaker Philippe Bascaules of the esteemed Château Marguax in Bordeaux. For the event, the Napa Valley Car Club transformed the grand lawn into a car collector’s dream: the impressive display of vintage racecars and modern supercars brought in by collectors from around the world.

To rev up some excitement for next year’s event, it is important to mention just a few cars that will be making a reappearance. The iconic 1967 Shelby King Cobra was one of three racecars ever built for the CanadianAmerican Challenge Cup (CanAm). From 1966 to 1987, CanAm was notorious for its “everything is possible” rulebook, which gave automakers endless power in design and creativity. This legendary Shelby is one of two survivors and the single racecar with the original engine. Just a few feet away, the Ferrari 166 MM Barchetta was designed to compete in the long distance Mille Miglia race. It brought Ferrari international fame with its successful victory. A highlight among the modern models was the Pagani Zonda. Making its debut in 1999, Pagani quickly rose to acclaim, becoming one of the most famous and rare supercars with unique variants custommade for special clients. Designed by Horacio Pagani, fewer than 200 Pagani supercars roam the globe, making it quite a remarkable occasion to see two at The Napa Event.

Although we must wait several more months before The Napa Event returns, The Napa Valley Car Club offers members exclusive automobile rentals, events, and opportunities year-round. The Napa Valley Car Club is not limited to car enthusiasts; it attracts adventure-seekers, luxury and design connoisseurs, and passionate entrepreneurs. One may think of it as a lifestyle community, a membership loosely inspired by the historic St. Francis Yacht Club in San Francisco. Members are not required to be car aficionados, although that may be a shared passion.

The Napa Valley Car Club invites members to communal drives, poker nights, happy hours, and exclusive events around the valley. Their new clubhouse, The Barn, is tucked away in an unassuming warehouse bordering the Napa River. Inside, Ferraris and Porsches sparkle against the industrial framework, and a fully stocked bar invites members to shake up a drink to enjoy in the lounge or on the outdoor veranda. Three tiers of membership include standard social membership, driver membership, and corporate membership, the last focused on winemakers who may utilize the space to host wine tastings and release parties. There is no doubt that The Barn will be throwing some of the most exclusive gatherings this year, so buckle up for more news and enquire about a membership ahead of the “waitlist” traffic!

A Lamborghini at the entrance to Inglenook Vineyard

Vineyard

The Barn, Napa Valley Car Club’s private clubhouse tucked away in downtown Napa

The San Francisco Ballet

A Night of Elegance: San Francisco Ballet’s Opening Night Gala

BY CLAUDIA ROSS

On a splendid evening in January, the San Francisco Ballet kicked off its 2025 season with their magnificent Opening Night Gala held at the iconic City Hall. Accompanied by my dear friend, Gwendolyn Paine, we entered this historic Beaux-Arts building, where the air was infused with anticipation and the promise of an unforgettable night. The gala, featuring Honorary Chair Ayesha Curry, celebrated artistic excellence, community, and the passionate spirit that defines this esteemed institution.

The evening commenced with a glamorous red carpet reception where guests arrived in their finest black-tie attire, each outfit more exquisite than the last. Lush floral arrangements and twinkling lights adorned the space, creating a romantic ambiance that set the tone for the festivities. As we mingled among the guests, the excitement was palpable, bolstered by the knowledge that the evening would feature selections from the upcoming season, including Artistic Director Tamara Rojo’s interpretation of Raymonda and Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s Manon.

At the helm of the evening was Ayesha Curry, a figure whose elegance and charm were matched only by the striking, black beaded gown she wore, designed by Prabal Gurung. Reflecting on her background and appreciation for ballet, Curry shared her enthusiasm for the arts, a sentiment that resonated deeply with everyone present. Her mother, Carol Alexander, added a splash of vibrancy to the evening, having donned an electric blue Carolina Herrera dress that captivated many.

The gala dinner, hosted in partnership with the SF Ballet Auxiliary, was a culinary delight featuring a thoughtfully curated menu. A roasted golden beet salad with pear and pomegranate initiated the meal, followed by a perfectly grilled beef fillet paired with wild mushrooms. The pièce de résistance was a decadent, chocolate-glazed dome opera cake accompanied by mochi ice cream and fresh gooseberries. Each dish was a testament to the artistry of McCalls Catering & Events, complemented by exquisite wines from Bouchaine Estate.

As the evening progressed, we were ushered across the street to the War Memorial Opera House, where nearly 2,000 attendees gathered under the magnificent barrel-vaulted ceilings. The atmosphere was electric as the performance commenced, showcasing a breathtaking array of talent and artistry. The program highlighted classic works and contemporary pieces, including a powerful pas de deux from Akram Khan’s Dust, all under the masterful direction of Tamara Rojo.

Alison Mauzé, the SF Ballet Board Chair, welcomed guests with heartfelt remarks, setting the stage for an evening that celebrated not just the ballet but the entire creative community of San Francisco. Rojo herself took to the stage, expressing her gratitude for the support of the audience and emphasizing the importance of collaboration among the city’s artistic organizations. Curry echoed this sentiment, highlighting the transformative power of the arts to awaken the soul and inspire creativity.

Frances Chung and Harrison James in Stevenson’s Three Preludes

Paul Pelosi and Jennifer Walske

Chris Meza and Patrick Brown

Gwendolyn Paine and Claudia Ross

Lillian Phan, Debra Leylegian, Moanalani Jeffrey, and Wendy Armstrong

A key figure behind the evening’s remarkable aesthetic was event designer Riccardo Benavides, whose vision truly encapsulated the elegance and sophistication of what San Francisco has long represented and what it continues to aspire to be. His keen eye for detail and years of experience shone through in every aspect of the evening, from the lush floral arrangements to the exquisite décor, elevating the gala to new heights. It was evident that his artistry played a pivotal role in creating a spectacular atmosphere that resonated with the spirit of the city.

As the curtain fell, we returned to City Hall for the after-party where the celebration continued with live music, dancing, and an array of delicious bites. Caviar carts glided through the crowd, and guests reveled in the joyous atmosphere that filled the room. More than a fundraiser, the evening was a heartfelt gathering of like-minded individuals who share a passion for the arts and a commitment to supporting the SF Ballet’s mission.

The gala raised nearly $3 million, a testament to the generosity of attendees and the importance of the ballet’s artistic initiatives and educational programs. As Gwendolyn and I reflected on the evening, it was clear that this event was more than a celebration of dance—it was a profound reminder of the role the arts play in our lives and the community.

In closing, the San Francisco Ballet’s 24/25 Opening Night Gala was a resounding success, a night when elegance met purpose and artistry flourished. As we left the beautiful City Hall, I felt a renewed sense of appreciation for the power of the arts to bring people together, inspire creativity, and foster a sense of belonging within our vibrant city. Here’s to a season filled with passion, grace, and the extraordinary talent that defines the San Francisco Ballet. Bravo!

Alison and Michael Mauzé

Nikisha Fogo and Cavan Conley in a pas de deux from McGregor’s Chroma

Tamara Rojo and Ayesha Curry

Elizabeth Mitchell, Carol Louie, Pam Preston, Riccardo Benavides, and Terra Sollman

Festival Napa Valley Olivia Decker Power of Music Presents Beijing Guitar Duo at the St. Regis San Francisco

BY OLIVIA DECKER

FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY KNOWS HOW TO SET A STAGE.

On February 6, the stage was the St. Regis San Francisco where art, sophistication, and a stylish crowd came together for an evening of music, wine, and cultural exchange. The occasion was the Lunar New Year, and Festival Napa Valley celebrated the Year of the Snake by marking the first stateside program of its newly launched Festival Napa Valley/China Cultural Exchange. The intimate performance by the Beijing Guitar Duo featured acclaimed guitarists Su Meng and Wang Yameng. The duo’s virtuosic performance was part of the FNV’s Olivia Decker Power of Music series and seamlessly fused Eastern and Western musical traditions.

With its art-filled halls and prime location in the heart of San Francisco’s cultural district, the hotel was the perfect setting for the event. Guests were treated to Domaine Carneros’ exceptional sparkling and still wines, an array of elegant hors d’oeuvres, and good fortune icons painted by hand on-site by calligraphy artist Tao Tao, providing personalized keepsakes of wishes for prosperity and good health to take home.

Adding to the evening’s international flair, Deputy Consul Zhou Maoyi along with Song Jiameng, Weiwei Liu, and Tongyao Wang from the Chinese consulate were acknowledged from the stage by the festival’s executive producer, Sienna Peck. Attendees included FNV board members Olivia Decker and Romana Bracco, philanthropist Fred Levin, art maven Heide Betz, luxury realtor Joel Goodrich, the St. Regis San Francisco’s Lilian Wagner, festival patrons Fariba and Iraj Zolnasr, West Edge Opera and Diablo Ballet board member Elizabeth Green-Sah, and Festival Napa Valley co-founders Rick Walker and Charles Letourneau. Italian tenor Pasquale Esposito and his wife, Samira Ghazvini, along with influencer Stephanie Chung with Matias Castello added to the evening’s allure.

Featuring year-round events, the Festival Napa Valley’s Olivia Decker Power of Music Series presents globally recognized performing artists and emerging talent on spectacular stages in the Bay Area and beyond. For upcoming FNV events, visit festivalnapavalley.org.

Beijing Guitar Duo

Elizabeth Green Sah, Whitney Marr, Pamela Philbert, and Doreen Marr

Meng Su, Olivia Decker, and Yameng Wang

(l-r) Julie Nguyen, Denise Tran, Jacquelyn Pio Roda, Joel Goodrich, Olivia Decker, Clara Shayevich, and Helina Au

Guests were treated to Domaine Carneros’ exceptional sparkling and still wines

(l-r): Anya Myalyuk, Joel Goodrich, Clara Shayevich, and Asha Raval

Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley Pools and Vineyards

Four Seasons Napa Valley Screening Season 3

A luxurious high drama collaboration

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

MY RECENT EXPERIENCE AT THE PREMIERE OF

The White Lotus Season 3 at the exquisite Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley was nothing short of spectacular. This elegant gathering not only celebrated the new season of the acclaimed HBO Max series but also showcased the ongoing partnership between this Emmy Awardwinning show and the renowned luxury hotel brand.

Nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of the Palisades Mountains, the Vineyard Barn at Four Seasons Napa was transformed into an intimate venue for an exclusive gathering of select media and guests. The evening, expertly orchestrated by General Manager Robby Delaney—who charmingly made a cameo in Season 1 while filming at the Four Seasons Maui—was filled with laughter and camaraderie. Delaney’s presence served as a reminder of the show’s intriguing connection to the Four Seasons identity, where luxury and service are paramount. He noted that while the drama, comedy, and intrigue portrayed in The White Lotus may not always reflect the Four Seasons’ impeccable standards, it is precisely this contrast that makes the show so captivating.

The collaboration between The White Lotus and Four Seasons is a natural and harmonious fit. The show’s exploration of privilege, human relationships, and emotional complexity resonates profoundly within the luxurious environments of Four Seasons properties. The first season graced the stunning Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, followed by the enchanting San Domenico Palace in Taormina for the second installment. Each location has provided a rich narrative tapestry, enhancing the storytelling with unique character and atmosphere.

The premiere event featured an array of signature cocktails inspired by the show’s journey: The Lotus, a Sicilian jasmine-infused wine; Pineapple Suite, a tropical blend featuring ube; and Coconut Paradise, a fragrant mix celebrating the lush shores of Koh Samui. These creative concoctions, paired with curated bites, set the tone for a memorable evening that fused culinary excellence with cinematic allure.

Following the premiere, Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley unveiled its latest attraction: the Poolside Escape, launching April 6 through May 16, 2025. This exclusive cabaña experience is designed to transport guests to the heart of wine country while capturing the cinematic essence of The White Lotus. Set amid estate Cabernet vines and the stunning Palisades mountains, the adults-only heated lap pool provides a serene escape framed by natural beauty. The Poolside Escape invites guests to indulge in an array of premium amenities, including a dedicated host, a welcome bottle of Schramsberg sparkling wine, and a curated menu of HBO-inspired cocktails and fresh seasonal dishes. Priced at $750 for a full-day rental, this immersive experience reflects the Four Seasons’ commitment to blending exquisite hospitality with the enchanting themes of the show. Guests can unwind under the California sun, sipping on signature cocktails such as the pineapple jalapeño margarita while enjoying culinary delights like campo ceviche and watermelon and feta salad.

The partnership between Four Seasons and The White Lotus goes beyond mere scenic backdrops; it has evolved into a strategic collaboration that enhances the essence of luxury travel. As Pia Barlow, Executive Vice President of Originals Marketing at HBO and Max, aptly states, “The White Lotus combines authentic culture and beauty with compelling storytelling.”

This synergy enriches both the show and the Four Seasons brand, positioning it as a premier destination for discerning travelers seeking unique experiences. With Season 3 set in the idyllic Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, Thailand, anticipation runs high for the themes of Eastern spirituality and the complexities of life that will unfold in this lush, culturally rich environment. Mike White’s storytelling prowess promises to deliver a compelling narrative that continues to challenge perceptions of wealth and privilege, drawing viewers into a world where luxury meets profound themes.

As we look forward to the new season, it is evident that this partnership will continue to captivate both audiences and travelers alike. The blend of storytelling and unparalleled hospitality offered by Four Seasons creates an experience that is truly hard to find elsewhere. This collaboration sets a high standard in today’s travel landscape, where immersive experiences are paramount, inviting guests to engage with the narrative on a personal level.

In conclusion, the premiere of The White Lotus Season 3 at Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley was a celebration of luxury, creativity, and the magic of storytelling. As this partnership flourishes, it will undoubtedly redefine the intersection of hospitality and narrative art, inviting us all to explore the allure of travel through the lens of The White Lotus. One sip, one bite, and one perfect moment at a time, the journey continues to unfold beautifully.

White Lotus inspired cocktails served at the reception

Premiere screening event at Four Seasons Napa Valley in Calistoga

Olivia Decker, Keith Ross, Rick Bobby, Jennifer Crouse, and Claudia Ross at the reception

Reception at Vineyard Barn at Four Seasons Napa Valley

Premiere Napa Valley Auction Raises $3.3 million

BY JENNIFER BODEN

THE SUCCESS OF THIS YEAR’S PREMIERE NAPA VALLEY AUCTION underscores the wine trade’s optimism for the future and reaffirmed that demand for Napa Valley wines still exists. The auction total of $3.3 million is a 10% increase over last year, driven by a greater number of lots, more participants, and enthusiastic bidding. It also serves as a powerful reminder that, while the wine industry continues to evolve, the bonds uniting those within it remain as strong as ever. Proceeds from the auction directly support the Napa Valley Vintners’ programs to promote, protect, and enhance Napa Valley.

“The opportunity to come together at Premiere has been truly inspiring, and we’re thrilled with this year’s auction results. The support shown speaks volumes about the dedication of our trade partners and the exceptional quality of the 2023 vintage. It’s been a privilege to be surrounded by so many passionate people who share a love for Napa Valley. We’re deeply grateful for the continued collaboration with our trade partners and the strong sense of community felt here this week,” said Linda Reiff, president and CEO of Napa Valley Vintners.

Auction bidder Peter Molinari of UOVO WINE echoed similar sentiments. “It felt like the industry came together in a meaningful way this year. The ability to converse with winemakers and experience the authenticity and craftsmanship they bring to

the cultivation of their wines was an incredible reminder of the underlying passion that the wine industry is built upon.”

With a focus on quality, the event underscored the region’s continued leadership in producing some of the world’s finest wines. The top 10 red wine lots included Simon Family Estate; The Mascot; Hourglass; Quintessa; a joint lot by JennaMarise Wines and Robert Foley Vineyards; Robert Mondavi Winery; Duckhorn Vineyards; a joint lot by Grgich Hills Estate and Spottswoode Estate Vineyard & Winery; 001 Vintners; and HQ Winery. The top five white wine lots included Hudson; Schramsberg Vineyards; Vineyard 7 & 8; Chandon; and a joint lot by Paula Kornell Sparkling Wine and Charles Krug.

Throughout the week, Napa Valley’s producers showcased their current release wines alongside their Premiere Napa Valley wine lots, many of which were the highly anticipated 2023 vintage which was met with great enthusiasm by attendees.

White wines from this auction will begin to arrive in market this fall, while red wine releases are expected to age in the barrel for up to three years before release.

Trade members are invited to save the date for next year. Premiere Napa Valley week will take place February 18-21, 2026, and be chaired by father and son winemaking duo Chris Phelps and Josh Phelps.

Auctioneer draws out bids

Jeff Smith (L) of Hourglass Winery speaks with DLynn Proctor (C) and Tony Arcudi (R) of Fantesca Estate & Winery

Sally Khaledi, second generation proprietor, and Darioush Khaledi, proprietor of Darioush Winery, share a conversation with Jean-Noel Fourmeaux, proprietor of VGS Chateau Potelle winery

Michele and John Truchard of Jam Cellars and Chris Hyde of Hyde Vineyards Estate

Barrel samples are poured for potential bidders at the grand barrel tasting

Mike Reynolds and Kathryn Walt Hall of HALL Wines speak with a wine trade guest

the highest

PHOTOS: MARIO PIOMBO

Guests arrive at the CIA Greystone in St. Helena for the live auction.

David Brown, winemaker for Brown Estate, congratulates the winning bidder for his lot.

(Center) Jenna and Mara York, owners of JennaMarise Wines with winning bidders.

(Center) Jean Charles Boisset takes a celebratory photo with the winning bidders of his Buena Vista Winery lot.

Wines poured at live auction.

Gregor Greber of Napa Wine Ltd in 1S. wGritzerland celebrates his winning bid, placing

bid of the day for the Simon Family Estate wine lot.

A Sparkling Night in Sonoma County: LOVE Wine Release Party at J Vineyards and Winery

Special guests included artist and philanthropist her partner and artist

BY JENNIFER BODEN

ON FEBRUARY 13, J VINEYARDS & WINERY UNVEILED LOVE WINE, A collaboration between the sparkling wine house and the art and design initiative grantLOVE, created by Alexandra Grant. This limited-edition wine honors creativity and empowers women in both wine and art.

Each new bottling of LOVE Wine will feature a LOVE label made in collaboration with a leading female-identified artist, amplifying unique voices and stories while transforming every bottle into a canvas of artistic expression. The label for the inaugural bottling was designed by Genevieve Gaignard, a New Yorkbased interdisciplinary artist. “We are thrilled to partner with Alexandra Grant and the grantLOVE initiative on this meaningful project,” said Nicole Hitchcock, J Vineyards’ estate director and head winemaker. “Wine, like art, has the power to bring people together, spark conversation, and inspire change.”

LOVE Wine’s first release is a brut cuvée, crafted from cool-climate vineyards throughout California. It opens with lively aromas of red fruit and florals. The expressive palate delivers hints of ripe raspberry, strawberry, and cherry. Layered notes of poached pear, crème brûlée, cinnamon, and lightly toasted brioche add richness and depth, balanced by bright touches of lime and citrus.

“The LOVE Wine project has been a dream of mine for many years—to find a woman-led vineyard to collaborate with artists who are interested in supporting the curiosity and creativity of others. Let’s raise a glass to that,” said Grant.

As part of this project, J Vineyards will further support women in the arts and arts education by donating to the grantLOVE fund. LOVE Wine is being poured at J Vineyards and Winery tasting room all day at the bar, the legacy lounge and the bubble room.

LOVE Wine poured at release party

Genevieve Gaignard, artist and LOVE Wine label designer

(Center) Nicole Hitchcock, head winemaker at J Vineyards; Alexandra Grant, artist and founder of grantLOVE; and guests of release party

Keanu Reeves and Alexandra Grant, artist and founder of grantLOVE

J Vineyards & Winery release party

MAGNIFICENT RESORT-LIKE DESIGNER HOME ON SAN FRANCISCO BAY AT PRESTIGIOUS BELVEDERE WEST SHORE

MAGNIFICENT RESORT-LIKE DESIGNER HOME ON SAN FRANCISCO BAY AT PRESTIGIOUS BELVEDERE WEST SHORE

A fully furnished, resort-like rental for your home away from home: 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2,846 sq ft. $22,000 per month.

A fully furnished, resort-like rental for your home away from home: 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2,846 sq ft. $22,000 per month.

This beautiful waterfront home, once owned by award-winning designer Martin Kobus, was fully renovated in 2011-2012. Known for creating calm, welcoming spaces that showcase his modern aesthetic, Martin reimagined this sunny, bright home into a waterfront, resort-like design with high ceilings and huge windows to enjoy the breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay.

This beautiful waterfront home, once owned by award-winning designer Martin Kobus, was fully renovated in 2011-2012. Known for creating calm, welcoming spaces that showcase his modern aesthetic, Martin reimagined this sunny, bright home into a waterfront, resort-like design with high ceilings and huge windows to enjoy the breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay.

Located on the coveted West Shore in Belvedere, this approx. 2,846 sq ft, 3-bedroom, 3-bath waterfront home features a state-of-the-art kitchen with a large Caesarstone island. All bathrooms boast limestone floors and Caesarstone counters. The living room features a high ceiling, wall-to-wall windows, and a large double-sided fireplace; the family room includes a TV and built-in desk. The dining room and kitchen combo share a large fireplace and expansive view windows; two bedrooms, each with a full bath on the main floor, have direct access to the Bay and garden. All main floor rooms open onto a spacious 1,000+ square foot waterfront deck for gracious outdoor entertaining. The luxurious second-floor master suite includes a fireplace, walk-in closets, a cozy office area, and a terrace overlooking the Bay.

Located on the coveted West Shore in Belvedere, this approx. 2,846 sq ft, 3-bedroom, 3-bath waterfront home features a state-of-the-art kitchen with a large Caesarstone island. All bathrooms boast limestone floors and Caesarstone counters. The living room features a high ceiling, wall-to-wall windows, and a large double-sided fireplace; the family room includes a TV and built-in desk. The dining room and kitchen combo share a large fireplace and expansive view windows; two bedrooms, each with a full bath on the main floor, have direct access to the Bay and garden. All main floor rooms open onto a spacious 1,000+ square foot waterfront deck for gracious outdoor entertaining. The luxurious second-floor master suite includes a fireplace, walk-in closets, a cozy office area, and a terrace overlooking the Bay.

Wide plank French light oak floors are throughout the entire home. Almost every room enjoys spectacular views of the Bay, San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, Mount Tam, and beyond. There is a gated garden and a 2-car garage plus ample street parking.

Wide plank French light oak floors are throughout the entire home. Almost every room enjoys spectacular views of the Bay, San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, Mount Tam, and beyond. There is a gated garden and a 2-car garage plus ample street parking.

Belvedere is recognized as the safest community in the Bay Area, and West Shore Road is the widest street in Belvedere, offering ample space for biking, walking, and parking. It is also the best yachting location on San Francisco Bay, with easy access to the Corinthian Yacht Club and San Francisco Yacht Club. Belvedere Park and

Belvedere is recognized as the safest community in the Bay Area, and West Shore Road is the widest street in Belvedere, offering ample space for biking, walking, and parking. It is also the best yachting location on San Francisco Bay, with easy access to the Corinthian Yacht Club and San Francisco Yacht Club. Belvedere Park and

downtown Tiburon are just a short distance away, where you can catch concerts, buses, and ferry services to San Francisco and Angel Island, and enjoy a dozen great restaurants including Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, Malibu Farm, Le Petite Left Bank bistro, the iconic Sam’s Cafe, Luna Blue, and Salt & Pepper.

downtown Tiburon are just a short distance away, where you can catch concerts, buses, and ferry services to San Francisco and Angel Island, and enjoy a dozen great restaurants including Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, Malibu Farm, Le Petite Left Bank bistro, the iconic Sam’s Cafe, Luna Blue, and Salt & Pepper.

downtown Tiburon are just a short distance away, where you can catch concerts, buses, and ferry services to San Francisco and Angel Island, and enjoy a dozen great restaurants including Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, Malibu Farm, Le Petite Left Bank bistro, the iconic Sam’s Cafe, Luna Blue, and Salt & Pepper.

This fully furnished home is available for rent at $22,000 per month and may also consider a sale for serious buyers only. For more pictures please visit www.55WestShore.com, or contact Olivia Decker via email at Olivia.HsuDecker@SothebysRealty.com.

This fully furnished home is available for rent at $22,000 per month and may also consider a sale for serious buyers only. For more pictures please visit www.55WestShore.com, or contact Olivia Decker via email at Olivia.HsuDecker@SothebysRealty.com.

This fully furnished home is available for rent at $22,000 per month and may also consider a sale for serious buyers only. For more pictures please visit www.55WestShore.com, or contact Olivia Decker via email at Olivia.HsuDecker@SothebysRealty.com.

San Francisco Wine Auction presented by The Guardsmen Honors Xochi Birch

BY OLIVIA DECKER

THE 48TH ANNUAL SAN FRANCISCO WINE AUCTION HOSTED the premier philanthropic evening uniting wine enthusiasts and community leaders in support of The Guardsmen’s mission of creating opportunities for youth from under-resourced communities. This night of elegance and purpose was held on February 22 at Palace Hotel in San Francisco.

Proceeds from the event support The Guardsmen’s mission to provide educational campership and scholarship opportunities for over 2,200 Bay Area youth. Each year, The Guardsmen send youth from disadvantaged backgrounds to outdoor camping programs. For many recipients, it is their first time in the wilderness. Post-camp, these youth show dramatic improvement in leadership, communication skills, and self-confidence. They form lasting bonds with friends and mentors and come to experience their impact on the world.

More than 100,000 children between the ages of five and 17 live in poverty in the Bay Area, and many are underserved by local public schools. Despite dedicated family support, they are unable to break the cycles of poverty, drug abuse, and violence. The Guardsmen provide scholarships for over 250 students to attend private schools that give them the intense support and quality education they need.

The black-tie event with a splash of wine country chic was sponsored by Northern Trust and a dozen wineries, including JCB Boisset Collection, Far Niente, Antinori NapaValley, Saison Winery,

Wine auction at Palace Hotel’s Garden Court Room

Joey Elefante, John Baker, and Dwayne Allen

Sabina Yuen, Lee Duvall, and Alexandra Moore

Olivia Decker with Antinori Winery Napa Valley

Battery Foundation Director Timothy Wu, Olivia Decker, Xochi and Michael Birch, William Neil, and Sarah Schoellkopf Guardsmen event chair

Christopher Wells

Olivia Decker, Charles and Maddy Johnson, and Michael and Xochi Birch

RJ, Peter Riemers, Kate McManus, and Mark Hill

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF HARRISON MCCULLOUGH

Olivia Decker with Xochi Birch’s Moon Hollow Winery stand

Maddy and Charles Johnson with Olivia Decker.

Wine sponsor Saison Winery stand

Xochi Birch at award speech

Olivia with bespoke crystal wine bottles at wine sponsor JCB stand

and Moon Hollow Estate. The event featured the Changemakers Reception, a wine tasting and silent auction with over 30 leading wineries, a seated dinner with live auction offering rare vintages and luxury experiences, and an after-party.

This year’s event honored Xochi Birch, Officer of the Order of the British Empire, for her philanthropic contributions. The owner of Moon Hollow Estate in Sonoma’s Moon Mountain District, Birch is also known as a technology pioneer and wine innovator. The vineyard (certified by the California Certified Organic Farmers) produces remarkable, high-elevation wines while embodying her commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. Through Battery Powered, the philanthropic initiative of The Battery social club she co-founded with her husband, Michael Birch, Xochi Birch has directed nearly $30 million to early childhood education, childhood nutrition, and vulnerable youth—all aligned with The Guardsmen’s mission of transforming young lives.

Birch joins an illustrious roster of past honorees, including JeanCharles Boisset of the Boisset Collection, Carlton McCoy of Lawrence Wine Estates, and Joe and Patricia Harbison of Harbison Estate Wines—all visionaries who have shaped the California wine industry while demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to philanthropy.

This year’s event honorees also included Cathy Corison, who was named Winemaker of the Year for her pioneering work in Napa Valley, and Matt Stampe, who was recognized as Sommelier of the Year for his dedication to wine education. Guests enjoyed an evening of fine wine and meaningful impact and celebrated Xochi Birch’s dynamic and impactful leadership spanning the worlds of wine and transformational philanthropy.

The auction during dinner

Olivia Decker with sponsor The Caviar Company with stores on Union Street and in downtown Tiburon

Magnificent Belvedere Residence on San Francisco Bay

BY OLIVIA HSU DECKER PHOTOGRAPHY HARRISON MCCULLOUGH

FEATURED IN ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST , THIS WORLD CLASS residence showcases panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, the entire city skyline of San Francisco, the Bay Bridge, and Sausalito. It’s a magnificent masterpiece in a dramatic setting in the most prestigious location and comprises a ±8,131-square-foot home on a ±0.67-acre waterfront lot on the San Francisco Bay. It features four bedrooms with five full baths and two half-baths.

This work of architectural art was designed by architect Charles Gwathmey. It has spectacular outlooks from every corner of the expansive four-level floor plan. The primarily vertical organization of this house takes advantage of its sloped site on the southern coast of Belvedere Island. The uppermost level contains a three-car garage with glass doors, an elevator which descends to a courtyard, a detached one-bedroom and one-bath guesthouse, and a wine cellar. The remaining levels of the main house

are situated between two large retaining walls which follow the natural contours of the site and splay outward toward the bay.

The house’s compact organization within the precinct formed by the retaining walls ensures privacy. An interior circular staircase winds around an elevator and forms the cylindrical focal point of the house’s mass. A barrel-vaulted ceiling articulates the living and dining room at the entry level of the main house, and a large deck projects toward the bay to extend the space into the landscape. Three bedrooms, three baths, a study, and a two-story entertainment room occupy the intermediate floors, while a media room, a beautiful wet bar, and a full bath with steam shower and sauna on the lowest level open onto a spacious outdoor terrace with a pool. The pool’s “infinity edge” establishes a poetic connection to the bay. The interior floors are limestone and wide wood planks of bubinga wood. The cabinets are lightly stained maple.

The exterior is clad in gray-stained cedar, with a curved standing seam zinc roof. All exterior windows, doors and decks are teak, all terraces are beige-and-gray flamed limestone pavers, and the retaining walls are painted warm white stucco.

The unique location near the tip of Belvedere Island provides privacy and security while enjoying the stunning, world class views. Within a short walking distance are the Corinthian Yacht Club, San Francisco Yacht Club, and Tiburon’s downtown with its charming boutiques and a dozen culinary restaurants, such as Michael Mina’s Bungalow Kitchen, the Malibu Farm, Servino’s, Luna Bleu, Le Pattie Left Bank Bistro, Salt & Pepper, and the iconic Sam’s Café. There are ferry services to San Francisco and Angel Island, bayside parks and biking path, plus hundreds of acres of vast open space for hiking and family picnics. Also, Tiburon-Belvedere is known for the best school district in California and the fog-less weather.

Built in 2000 and extensively renovated by current owner, this state-of-art residence has extreme high quality and craftsmanship at a cost above the current offering price of $22,888,000. Details on 445BelvedereAve.com.

Lydia Graham is a passionate advocate of healthy living. She has launched and positioned health and wellness-related companies, products, technologies, and organizations receiving more than 100 awards nationally and internationally. Her focus in the health sector is specifically on healthy living, aging, and longevity. She is a partner and investor in several nationally recognized brands. Graham envisions the possibility people can enjoy life at 95 as much as at 25 and that the steps we take each day matter on our heallh journey.

Fashion Labels: What Do They Tell Us?

How to be a discerning and healthy shopper?

BY LYDIA GRAHAM

While the planetary and human rights impacts of the fashion industry have received lots of attention, there is comparatively little focus on the daily impact of fashion’s fibers and chemicals on our health

WHAT, EXACTLY, IS IN OUR CLOTHES?

Truth is, we really do not know. It is difficult for a consumer, even an informed one, as there is no ingredients list. Look at your clothing labels. Compared to food and cosmetic labels, you will not find much there. Clothing labels usually list the type of fabric (cotton, wool, silk, polyester, etc.), where it was made (often China, the leading exporter of textiles, India, and Vietnam, among others), and the performance functions, such as wrinkle-free, stain-proof, or waterproof, etc. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), “The Federal Trade Commission asks U.S. clothing retailers to share only fiber content, country of origin, and the identity of the manufacturer on labels.”

Let us start with clothing fibers. Today, almost 70% of our clothes is made of polyester and other synthetics derived from petroleum. They do not biodegrade (even recycled polyester) and constantly leach harmful chemicals and microfibers into our air and water. Eventually, these clothes wind up in landfills. One of the biggest culprits is microplastics (particles below 5mm), also known as microfibers (a plastic-based thread thinner than a human hair). Microfibers are found in polyester, nylon, polyamide, and acrylic.

When these textiles are manufactured, washed, worn, or dried, they continually release or shed these tiny plastic fibers. A quote on a U.K. site, Friends of the Earth, posted, “One washing load of clothes could be shedding up to 17 million tiny plastic fibers.”

You’ve probably heard about the impact of microplastics in our oceans (the textile industry is the largest contributor), but think about this: they are also lurking in your home’s air and the clothes touching your skin. According to PlasticSoupFoundation.org, “Of all the floating dust in a household, 33% of it is microplastics from textiles.” The bad news: we are breathing and ingesting these particles daily; not to mention, they are polluting outdoor air around the globe

What makes our clothes stretchier today is spandex, aka elastane. It, too, is a petroleum-based fiber sourced from polyurethane. You will find it on most clothing labels today, ranging from undergarments to performance athletic wear to daytime and evening wear. If a garment is smooth, tight, and clingy, it probably has spandex. Today, we are hard-pressed to find clothes that do not have even a small percentage of spandex. And, we have grown accustomed to the sleek fit spandex provides.

What else is missing in those labels? Likely a lot. It is the hidden toxic chemicals and dyes applied to fabrics (even natural fabrics) we should worry about. More than 8,000 synthetic chemicals are used in textile manufacturing. Some of the most harmful are polyfluorinated substances or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), frequently used for stain- and water-resistance. You have probably heard them also referred to as “forever chemicals.” EWG cites that PFAS are “a large family of thousands of fluorinated chemicals, linked to a higher risk of cancer, reproductive harm, immune system damage and other serious health problems.” These chemicals are so insidious in our environment, they are found in everything from skincare products to bedding to furniture and clothing textiles. In fact, according to the CDC, “their presence in human blood is a near-universal phenomenon in the United States.”

Ninety percent of our clothes are dyed synthetically (even those made from natural fibers). Azobenzene (AZO) dyes are used in 60% to 70% of fabric colors, particularly vivid colors, as well as black and brown. (Some of these dyes can break down into aromatic amines that can come off fabrics and are carcinogenic in high levels.)

According to the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC), “Aromatic amines can migrate from clothing and leather articles and be absorbed through the skin where there is direct and prolonged contact. The amount of aromatic amines released can increase with body heat, sweat and saliva.” Too, heavy metals, such as lead and chromium, are also often used in the dyeing process, especially to achieve vivid colors.

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) such as formaldehyde are used to make clothes wrinkle-resistant. And phylates, recognized as endocrine disrupters, are often used in the decorative printing process. Chlorine bleach is used to prep natural fibers and polyester for dyeing. Then, there are flame retardants, since synthetic fabrics are not naturally fire-resistant like wool.

So, why not just wash your clothes? Washing before your first wear may address some chemicals used in shipping and storage, such as biocides and fungicides to control pests and mold in transit. But washing will not address chemicals like AZO dyes. The ACCC found, “Washing the item may not decrease the concentration of

hazardous aromatic amines. Pre- and post-wash test results commissioned by the ACCC didn’t indicate a consistent decrease in the concentrations of hazardous aromatic amines after a single wash. In some cases, the results after a single wash were slightly higher than the pre-wash test results.” And synthetic microfibers never stop shedding.

CAN CLOTHES REALLY IMPACT OUR HEALTH?

In late 2010, something strange began happening in major U.S. airlines, beginning at Alaska Airlines. After the issue of new uniforms manufactured by Twin Hill, some flight attendants began experiencing strange and debilitating symptoms. Then in 2016, flight attendants from American (again Twin Hill) and Delta (designed by Zac Posen, manufactured by Land’s End) and then Southwest in 2017 began having similar experiences. As Alden Wicker noted in her must-read 2023 book, To Dye For, “All these uniforms had a few things in common. They boasted water-and-stain repellency. They were anti-wrinkle, anti-fungal, and antiodor and came in bright, saturated colors of the airlines. It is as close as we are going to get to a control group.”

Airline management and the uniform makers kept looking for the smoking gun—what they failed to consider was the toxic soup all these coatings and finishes had created. Eventually, lawsuits ensued. Although the lawsuits were never settled, the airlines eventually revamped their uniforms.

“It’s unlikely that there’s one specific smoking gun type of a chemical that’s causing these issues, but it’s likely to be a unique combination,” Irina Mordukhovich, research associate at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, told Vox (for an article in July 2016).

Taking a lesson from the flight attendants, it’s best to minimize or avoid what are called “performance” fabrics. You can recognize them as water and stain repellency, anti-wrinkle, anti-fungal, anti-odor, and antimircrobial, just to name a few. Be wary of the “anti” claims. And the more claims there are, the worse it gets. These effects are usually achieved by applying toxic coatings or finishes to the fabric.

BE AN INFORMED SHOPPER

Without labels, it is not easy. It requires a conscious effort and tenacious research. There are certifying organizations; but remember, participation in these programs by brands is voluntary. Also, just because certain products are certified does not mean all products by that brand meet the same criteria. Additionally, if you think by avoiding fast, cheap fashion you are off the hook, then think again—you’re not. Some of the higher-end brands have been found to be just as guilty. And surprisingly, some of the lowerend brands have made some effort, too. Do your research.

With these disclaimers, here are some organizations or certifications Wicker cited to look for on product labels or brand websites:

• Oeko-Tex, a German non-profit that certifies brands, suppliers, and their products;

• bluesign®, a Swiss company providing chemical management training to brands and manufacturers (I noticed this recently on a bag I purchased at REI.);

• Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS);

• Cradle to Cradle, focused on recycling and biodegradabiity;

• Scivera provides a full toxicology report to brands on ingredients in a chemical or fashion product;

• California Prop 65 Warning Label on any product containing formaldehyde, lead, cadmium, some phthalates, and BPA.

However, these certifications are not foolproof. For example, “the EPA has identified more than twelve thousand PFAS, and Oeko-Tex only tests for four dozen,” Wicker noted. Joe Rinkevich, the founder of Scivera, told Wicker, “Formulators are smart. They know the list just as well as Oeko-Tex does. And they will find a molecule that performs the exact same way as a restricted substance. It has the same carcinogenic properties or whatever the problem is.”

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO

At Home:

• Vacuum and dust frequently.

DO NOW

• Consider HEPA air-purifiers (home, office, nursery).

• Buy a washing machine filter.

Shopping:

• Research ahead to select healthier brands as your go-to choices.

• Buy natural materials (cotton, wool, silk, and leather) versus synthetics; avoid toxic finishes/dyes.

• Avoid performance fabrics (waterproof or water-resistant, wrinkle- or stain-resistant, odor-resistant, anti-microbial, etc.).

• Avoid buying neon or vividly colored clothing.

• Don’t take “organic” at face-value.

• Don’t buy counterfeits (which may contain highly toxic materials).

• Avoid spandex (this will be difficult).

• Avoid polyester fleece, one of the biggest emitters of microfibers.

• Avoid metal-embellished clothing (may contain heavy metals).

• Avoid vegan leather: it’s polyurethane, a plastic.

Dressing:

• Don’t wear performance clothing after exercise, and avoid wearing it at all, if possible.

• Don’t wear skintight synthetic clothes.

• Rotate wearing clothing items.

• Wash before the first wear.

• Find a green dry cleaner.

Advocate:

• If you care, advocate for labeling transparency and policy change in the fashion industry or support organizations that do.

CONCLUSION

Rethink your relationship to fashion. Here’s to happy and healthy shopping!

Aubrey Brewster, a bon vivant and man-about-town, is a. product of his environment. His affinity for cooking, fashion, and entertaining was inherited from summer vacations shared in Charleston, West Virginia with his southern belle model-turned-hostess grandmother. It should come with no surprise that Brewster followed in his grandmother’s footsteps, with an inherent talent for hosting legendary parties. He is often listed among San Francisco’s best dressed. Aubrey is a San Francisco native, traveler, and food and lifestyle blogger (aubreyabouttown.com). He resides in San Francisco with his husband, Edward. Aubrey can be found enjoying afternoons lunching with friends at Neiman Marcus and some of San Francisco’s favorite haunts when not hosting or attending events.

Aubrey About Town

The Art of the Party

BY AUBREY BREWSTER

THE RAIN HAS PASSED AND THE WEATHER IN THE SAN FRANCISCO Bay Area has been gorgeous, ideal for entertaining. With spring upon us and summer just around the corner, hosting that perfect spring soiree is a much-appreciated gesture in bringing out those winter shutins, me included!

On February 4, I was married (OMG!), so I’m planning a spring wedding reception, transforming Neiman Marcus San Francisco’s chic Penthouse on Five into Rick’s Café Américain for a glamorous Casablanca-themed afternoon—but more to share about that next time!

As I ponder the year ahead and the parties in store, I’m often caught in the nostalgia of past events and some of those guests’ most beloved, iconic, and memorable soirees—parties they still remember and often talk about (even those who only seen photos) with much joy. I feed on their enthusiasm, which motivates my hunger to top them with the next great shindig by looking to the future but also to the past for inspiration.

With that spirit of inspiration, I want to share a sampling of my past top beloved spring and summer parties along with photos of other memorable events that I don’t have room to cover here, plus a list of my dos and don’ts of party hosting, mistakes to avoid, and tips on hosting your own marvelous spring and summer events that will be sure to dazzle your family and friends. For more party inspiration, I invite you to follow me on Instagram @aubreybrewster!

Aubrey and his tiki bar, “Purely Paradise,” 2017

Poke bar, “Purely Paradise,” 2017

“Purely Paradise” luncheon, 2017

PHOTOS DREW

WON’T YOU JOIN ME FOR TEA?

I can’t think of a better way to celebrate springtime than an elegant afternoon tea for the ladies (and some gents). Afternoon tea is a celebration of the divine feminine, an homage to the genteel past, and a way in which to display and pass on proper etiquette to the next generation of ladies. Spring just lends itself to it: the beautiful flowers and sweet pastels and lace. And the weather is just cool enough to welcome a piping hot pot of your favorite brew. Mine is Darjeeling and the Ritz Paris Hotel’s tea, Jardin Vendôme. I am always sure to bring home a few boxes to have around, or I will have it shipped from the Ritz Paris’ e-Boutique (ritzparis.com/e-boutique).

One of the United Kingdom’s most iconic pastimes is the ritual of afternoon tea. Lady Anna Russell, the Duchess of Bedford, debuted the ritual in 1840 to stay hunger during the long hours between 11 a.m. lunch and fashionably late dinners served traditionally at 8 p.m. The duchess would order her chef to prepare her a tray of tea accompanied by lightly filled sandwiches and cakes. Eventually, the duchess invited friends to join her in the late afternoons for conversation, and a tradition was born.

To ring in spring back in 2023, I transformed the private dining room of The Rotunda restaurant at Neiman Marcus San Francisco into an enchanting English garden for an ideal afternoon tea to host some of SF’s most notable women. It was essential to me that guests felt they were a part of something exquisitely special and that their every need and want was catered to. The ladies sipped on Henriot Champagne, Nuit à Versailles green tea, and English Breakfast black tea set on an ornate white lace table overlay atop willow green linen tablecloths. They took tea under grand, lush, seven-foot-tall, cascading lavender wisteria trees. Chic and crisp white porcelain service ware, teapots, teacups, and bone china kept the afternoon’s vibe clean and airy.

PURELY PARADISE

One may say that, collectively, when we think of summer vibes, many of us conjure up visions and scents of tropical locales, the warm breezes, the aromas of tuberose, orchids, and coconuts, and the island surf; just chilling out by the beach, day tripping with grilled lobsters, fresh fruit, and hurricane glasses full of frozen piña coladas to cool oneself in the island heat; and, cool nights by the bonfire, feasting on lomi lomi salmon and kalua pork at a luau. This was the aesthetic I wanted for the guests at my Purely Paradise luncheon back in 2017, an afternoon that attendees still talk about eight years later and often ask when I’ll host a redo of this event. I often tease with promises of a “Return to Paradise.” We shall see!

Guests arrived to a poke bar to create their own favorite combinations from a selection of sushi-grade fish, toppings, and sauces and cozied up to the custom-built tiki bar where they sipped on Champagne and specially curated cocktails such as the Lychee Leilani (a blend of lychee vodka, fragrant Canton ginger liqueur, and lemon, served with a lychee fruit) and the A’Alona (a delightful concoction of crème of coconut, vodka, and Kahlúa liqueur served with Hawaiian oar-shaped tiki stirrer sticks). For lunch, guests feasted on “Surf & Sand” (butter-poached lobster tails), Aloha shoyu, and garlic marinated crispy pork belly (the afternoon’s take on surf and turf). Attendees sat at an island-chic set table with tropical floral print tablecloths from Tommy Bahama® under a canopy of towering exotic florals in handcrafted bamboo vases and adorned themselves with orchid leis I had flown in from Maui.

Garden Gate, “Mystique Savannah,” 2018

“Spring Afternoon Tea,” 2023

Tea tray, “Spring Afternoon Tea,” 2023

SOUTHERN CHARM

Though it’s only been a few months since the Yellow Social: A Southern Brunch—and even though it was a standout for everyone—I promised San Francisco’s former Mayor Willie L. Brown Jr. I’d make it an annual event. I’m sure in the years to come it’ll be listed at the top of my most memorable parties. The iconic Southern soiree that is still talked about to this day is Mystique Savannah. It’s worthy of a chapter from John Berendt’s Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by the transformation of The Rotunda into an enchanting chic Southern garden.

In true Southern style, guests made their fashionable entrance through a dramatic, 10-foot iron arbor gate, whimsically adorned in English ivy and cascading Spanish moss flown in from Savannah, Georgia. They were greeted with a scrumptious seafood bar with oyster shooters, cocktail crab claws, poached shrimp, and osetra caviar served under a beautiful water fountain before sitting down to a lavishly adorned, 50-foot table under an abundant canopy of beautiful birds perched upon magnolia, lilac, dogwood branches, roses, and other stunning flowers to a six-course, elegantly prepared, Southern-inspired menu of fried green tomatoes (topped with chilled Dungeness crab and rocket greens), hominy grits and lobster, braised short rib Brunswick stew, fried chicken and waffle “napoleons,” country ham, and blue nose crab hush puppies.

Within a beautifully festive and elegant garden bar and lounge, dubbed the “Mercer Garden Lounge” named for the famed historic Mercer House in Savannah (now the Mercer-Williams House Museum), party revelers continued late through the afternoon, sipping on PerrierJouët Champagne and specially tailored Southern libations, rum punch, and gin fizzes served in custom hurricane glasses for guests to take home to commemorate the magical event.

KAISEKI BLOOM

Inspired by Kyoto in the spring and the opulence of a kaiseki, a traditional, multi-course Japanese dinner, I wanted to bring the elegance of Japan (a culture that has inspired me throughout my life in both grace and form) to San Francisco.

Following true Japanese hospitality, guests made their way down a 40-foot, light pink carpet through a dramatic Japanese garden gate, whimsically adorned with cherry blossoms. They were greeted to scrumptious, handcrafted nigiri rolls and a generous caviar bar served from a Japanese fishing boat before making their way across an arched wooden Japanese garden bridge over a brook of black river rocks hedged by 7-foot ivory sakura trees and tranquil Zen water fountains. Partygoers sat to a lavishly adorned, 50-foot table under an abundant canopy of towering cherry blossoms. As guests finished sipping on rich lotus miso soup, servers dressed in beautifully embroidered red kimono jackets presented each guest with their very own personalized, three-tiered, black lacquer bento boxes embellished in gold and red chrysanthemums. For guests’ amusement, the exquisite custom boxes featured a different delectable course in each compartment of each layer, including filet mignonette teriyaki, black sesame rice, watercress oshitashi, lobster and Japanese vegetable tempura, and an assortment of toro, maguro, and salmon sashimi, sea urchin and salmon roe nigiri, and maki rolls.

Within the beautifully festive and elegant “Sakura Bar & Lounge,” party revelers continued late through the afternoon, sipping on Moët & Chandon Champagne and specially tailored, Japanese-inspired libations, such as the White Eye (named for the Japanese white-eye bird that populates the cherry blossom branches of Kyoto during

“Kaiseki Bloom” luncheon, 2019

Flower wall, “Kaiseki Bloom,” 2019

Guests with 3-tiered bento boxes, “Kaiseki Bloom,” 2019

springtime), a mix of unfiltered sake, peach vodka, and sakura syrup (flown in from Tokyo) served in an adorable, handblown, bird-shaped glasses. To warm up on that crisp spring afternoon, guests sipped on hot sake served in custom keepsake porcelain sake bottles (with matching sake cups) to take home to commemorate the magical event.

DOS & DON’TS OF SPRING AND SPRING ENTERTAINING

Here are some helpful tips I’ve come to live by when hosting a successful event.

Do plan ahead. Make lists of the menu, essentials for the bar, and décor. I also find it essential to create story boards with a page of photos of the elements to be used, such as place settings, props, etc. Hosting a party should be an exciting and enjoyable time; being illprepared leads to stress, and if the host is unprepared, this stress will pass on to everyone involved.

Don’t charge guests to offset the costs. You are the host, not your guests. Consider co-hosting if budget is an issue. If you want a Parisian birthday party, then make Paris your theme. Unless you’re planning on flying your guests to Paris, don’t expect them to pay the costs. Doing so is a major faux pas.

Do have a theme. Immerse your guests in an escape that they’ll talk about for years to come. A theme also gives your event direction, helps in menu and décor decisions, and makes planning easier.

Don’t serve alcoholic beverages without food to snack on. If you are hosting a cocktail party during dinner hours (6-9 p.m.) and not serving dinner, offer hearty bites. If your event is late in the evening, light bites and sweets are the exceptions. Allowing your guests to drink on empty stomachs is irresponsible.

Do personalize. Small, personalized details make guests feel special, and having guests’ names in front of them ensures that everyone gets to know each other. Whether using simple place cards or menus, party favors or glassware, a personalized touch takes your soirée to the next level.

Don’t ignore your guests. They’ve come to see you! Be visible and available.

Do send invitations via mail. Not to say that electronic invites aren’t effective—and they are indeed far more affordable—a tangible invitation that one can hold engages guests. If done right, your invitation will create buzz, and guests will feel like they are a part of something special.

Don’t send out invitations late! Your guests need time to schedule. This is especially the case when hosting an event in the summer months. Two months out is perfect. At the least, send your invitations no later than one month before your party.

Do make a seating chart. When hosting a sit-down luncheon or dinner, conversation flow and guest compatibility are essential for a memorable time. Having place cards with their names ensures everyone feels welcomed and thought of.

Don’t try to do everything. If necessary, delegate small tasks to others or hire help.

Japanese garden bridge, “Kaiseki Bloom,” 2019

Eiffel Tower, “Meet Me in Paris” luncheon, 2022

Rooted in California and having earned her degree at UCSB, Claudia Ross is living her best life in Knights Valley after leaving behind a career in public relations as the founder of Cross Marketing and former director of Harper’s BAZAAR and Marie Claire. She has worked with the world’s most iconic luxury brands. The owner and vintner of Ross Ranch, a working farm and vineyard producing a farm-totable experience, Ross now enjoys sharing thoughtful insights into the world of wine country life, both socially and agriculturally.

Rooted in California and having earned her degree at UCSB, Claudia Ross is living her best life in Knights Valley after leaving behind a career in public relations as the founder of Cross Marketing and former director of Harper’s BAZAAR and Marie Claire. She has worked with the world’s most iconic luxury brands. The owner and vintner of Ross Ranch, a working farm and vineyard producing a farm-totable experience, Ross now enjoys sharing thoughtful insights into the world of wine country life, both socially and agriculturally.

Rooted in California and having earned her degree at UCSB, Claudia Ross is living her best life in Knights Valley after leaving behind a career in public relations as the founder of Cross Marketing and former director of Harper’s BAZAAR and Marie Claire. She has worked with the world’s most iconic luxury brands. The owner and vintner of Ross Ranch, a working farm and vineyard producing a farm-totable experience, Ross now enjoys sharing thoughtful insights into the world of wine country life, both socially and agriculturally.

The Happy Body

my opinion, I have had the experience I can bring an extraordinary product Kelly. At Protégé where the wine Kelly is always there to impress his don’t love expensive wines, we love

Embracing The Happy Body: A journey to wellness and strength.

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

Couture & Caviar: A Tale of Opulence and Sustainability

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

A TALE OF TWO VALLEYs

BY CLAUDIA CASTILLO ROSS

FOR THE PAST 15 YEARS, I HAVE BEEN ON A TRANSFORMATIVE journey with The Happy Body program, a holistic approach to fitness that not only reshaped my body but also revitalized my spirit. My path to discovering this life-changing exercise regimen was not straightforward. After suffering a debilitating back injury from a car accident 25 years ago and battling with my (ideal) weight for years, I was desperate for a solution that would not only alleviate my pain but also help me regain control over my health.

It was a friend who first introduced me to The Happy Body, passionately sharing her experience and the profound impact it had on her life. Skeptical yet intrigued, I decided to take the plunge. I drove 60 miles three times a week for eight weeks to Palo Alto, where I had the opportunity to learn from the master himself, Jerzy Gregorek, creator of The Happy Body program. That decision marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life—one filled with strength, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose.

At its core, The Happy Body is more than just a workout; it is a lifestyle that emphasizes the importance of balance, strength, and overall well-being. The program combines elements of strength training, flexibility, and mindfulness, creating a

HAUTE COUTURE AND CAVIAR MAY SEEM LIKE UNLIKELY companions, but they share striking similarities going beyond their association with luxury. Just as haute couture represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and artistry in the fashion world, caviar embodies the epitome of culinary refinement. Both are synonymous with elegance, exclusivity, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Few delicacies evoke the same level of opulence and fascination as caviar. From the shimmering pearls to the delicate burst of flavor, caviar has long been hailed as the epitome of culinary refinement and luxury. Among the esteemed purveyors of this exquisite delight, Haute Caviar Company stands out as a champion of ethical sourcing, sustainability, and uncompromising quality. Just as haute couture represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and artistry in the fashion world, Haute Caviar Company embodies a similar dedication to excellence and a commitment to preserving the essence of this treasured delicacy.

comprehensive approach that addresses both physical and mental health. The philosophy promotes the idea that true fitness is achieved when one aligns one’s body and mind, fostering a sense of harmony that extends beyond the gym.

At Montage in Healdsburg, Director his wines by telling a story of quality be found first locally. Seeking to appease and local clientele, Coker works with James Beard Award winner, winemakers, robust and different wine lists. “By opinions and flavor profiles, we ensure ‘house palate’ and maintain respect approaches.” For their extensive most treasured wines off the list, the power of relationships. Just putting has potential to be transactional and more value in using these treasures our guests that can last for many

Jerzy Gregorek emphasizes the importance of functional movement: exercises that mimic everyday activities, allowing the body to perform optimally in daily life. This approach resonated with me, especially as someone who had endured chronic back pain. The exercises were designed not just to build muscle but also to enhance mobility and stability, ultimately leading to a stronger, more resilient body.

AS A WINEGROWER AND WINEMAKER MYSELF IN KNIGHTS Valley, Sonoma County, I am always looking to support local wineries when dining out. Whether in Silicon Valley or Napa Valley, I do my best to select unique, exceptional wines to support my wine community. When I travel abroad, it’s all about the local fare. When in Italy, I look for the best Barolo; in Spain, a Rioja Gran Reserva; and when in France—where do I start?—a Blanc de Blanc Champagne or a hidden gem of a Bordeaux. So, when dining locally, I drink locally.

finer things in life, are we now seeing caviar on so many menus and not just for special occasions? “When enjoying caviar, you know it’s meant to be a special occasion,” says Suppes. Like couture, you are wearing the absolute best, and with caviar, it sets the tone for luxury. Most recently on a lunch date with her son, Michael Suppes, at the The Village Pub, they dined on caviar and champagne. It’s not just a collectors’ thing, it’s a mindset of wanting to indulge in the very best, no matter one’s age.

As I embarked on my journey with The Happy Body, I was initially overwhelmed by the variety of movements and techniques. However, under Gregorek’s expert guidance, I learned to embrace the process. Each session was tailored to my individual needs, allowing me to progress at my own pace while ensuring that I was safe and supported.

When talking to local chefs and wines have become more abundant overall consensus was that many overdeliver, and when asked about not want a Napa Cabernet with do not have enough acidity with which doesn’t pair as well with and spirits buyer for Diablo Foods. down to personal preference.

The program’s emphasis on mindfulness transformed my relationship with exercise. I learned to listen to my body, recognizing its signals and respecting its limits. This newfound

To deliver the very best, Lisa Simon, a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for the finer things in life, founded the Haute Caviar Company which has become synonymous with excellence in the industry. Simon’s journey began as a young restaurateur in New York, managing two of the largest champagne and caviar bars in the United States while completing her college degree. It was during this time that her fascination with caviar was ignited, laying the foundation for her future endeavors.

At Solage in Calistoga, sommelier that guests travel from all over the Cabernet Sauvignon, and the extensive reflects that expectation. However,

Author and true collector of couture, haute couture, and demi

With decades of experience in luxury brands and caviar, Simon

awareness was liberating; I no longer viewed workouts as a punishment, but rather as a celebration of what my body could achieve. The Happy Body taught me to appreciate the journey, fostering a sense of gratitude for the progress I made each day.

Over the years, I have experienced numerous benefits from The Happy Body program. First, my chronic back pain significantly diminished. The focus on core strength and functional movement helped me develop a solid foundation, alleviating the discomfort that had plagued me for so long. I gained not only physical strength but also confidence in my body’s ability to move and perform.

Additionally, I witnessed a remarkable transformation in my body’s composition. Through consistent practice, I shed excess weight and built lean muscle mass. The Happy Body’s balanced approach to fitness encouraged me to adopt healthier eating habits, promoting a lifestyle that nourished my body from the inside out.

Perhaps one of the most significant changes was the shift in my mindset. The Happy Body instilled in me a sense of empowerment. I learned that fitness is not solely about appearance, but about feeling strong, capable, and happy in my own skin. This newfound perspective has had a ripple effect

on other areas of my life, inspiring me to pursue goals with determination and resilience.

Now at 54, I never miss my 30-minute workout five days a week, no matter where I am—in the gym, at home, or traveling. I adapt my routine to include weights or bodyweight exercises, demonstrating the program’s flexibility to fit my lifestyle. I often follow my workouts with a session of meditation, enhancing my overall sense of well-being. I am a true believer that this program works, and I have never felt stronger or better.

As I reflect on my 15-year journey with The Happy Body, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons I have learned and the community which I have become a part of. The friendships I forged during those early morning workouts have enriched my life immeasurably, providing a support system that encourages growth and accountability.

The Happy Body is more than a fitness program; it is a way of life that promotes holistic wellness and self-discovery. If you are seeking a path to improved health and happiness, I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore The Happy Body. Embrace the journey, trust the process, and discover the strength that lies within you. Your body and mind deserve it, and the rewards will be life-changing. thehappybody.com

Charles R. Johnson, Wealth Director, is responsible for developing investment and trust relationships with families and organizations. He works closely with the trust and tax planning group to help clients determine optimal asset allocation and transfer strategies. Before joining Fiduciary Trust, he worked for Rockefeller Capital Management, an independent financial services firm offering global family office, asset management, and strategic advisory services to ultra-high net worth families, institutions, and corporations. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the University of Southern California. He works closely with the Addiction Education Society nonprofit.

Estate Planning Do’s and Don’ts for Collectibles

BY CHARLES R. JOHNSON, WEALTH DIRECTOR, FIDUCIARY TRUST INTERNATIONAL, AND BRIAN CONBOY, DIRECTOR OF ESTATE ADMINISTRATION, FIDUCIARY TRUST INTERNATIONAL

MODERN ART, SPECIALTY CARS, RARE WATCHES: PASSION IS usually behind the creation of a collection. Eventually, collectibles may also become investments and ultimately a part of your legacy passed on to future generations.

Turning your hobby into a meaningful legacy requires planning ahead to ensure your collection is preserved and passed down in the way you intend. This means making sure there is enough liquidity available to your heirs to cover costs such as taxes, maintenance, storage, and other expenses. Without a strategy in place, your heirs might need to sell part or all your collection, sometimes in a rush and at diminished value, to cover these costs. Without plans set ahead of time, family tensions, conflict, and improper management of the collection may erode the positive impact you were hoping to have on your heirs.

To avoid these issues, start by talking to your estate planning attorney and financial advisors about how to plan for your collectibles. Certain techniques may include giving ownership of items to your heirs now, often with tax advantages. For example, setting up a limited liability company to hold your collection may allow you to gradually pass portions of the ownership to your heirs.

Another option that may reduce estate taxes is taking advantage of the annual gift tax exclusion. This exclusion allows you to make tax-free gifts each year to as many recipients as you would like up to a certain dollar

amount per recipient. For 2025, the limit is $19,000 ($38,000 for couples) per recipient. If your collection’s value is above this amount, making gifts of partial interest may be possible.

You may also be able to use your gift and estate tax exemption to gift your collection free of estate tax. This is the total amount (above any annual exclusion gifts that you make) that you can transfer during your life or at death without it being subject to estate tax. In 2025, the estate tax exemption is $13.99 million per individual ($27.98 million for a couple). An advantage of making gifts now is any future appreciation in value would be part of the estate of the recipient, not your estate, and therefore not subject to your estate tax.

CHOOSE AN EXECUTOR WISELY

To preserve your collection beyond your lifetime, it is important to choose an executor who has experience managing collections like yours. Regardless of whether your collectibles will be sold or distributed, your executor will need to take possession of the items, store them, and insure them against damage and loss. Depending on the collection, routine cleaning and maintenance may be needed to keep the items in pristine condition.

In addition, your executor will need to hire qualified appraisers to value the property for estate tax purposes. If your collection is to be sold, he or she might need to hire special advisors as well. So, it is important to choose

an executor with the knowledge and ability to handle your collection properly. Also, make sure your estate has sufficient liquidity, so your executor can pay the expenses associated with preserving, storing, and maintaining your collection.

THINK CHARITABLY

When family members do not share your enthusiasm for a collection or dividing it equitably becomes impossible, a better choice may be to donate it to charity. The donation may offer significant estate tax benefits, depending on how the charity will use it. If you plan to leave your collection to a university or museum, a written “gift acceptance agreement” may be helpful to ensure you and the recipient agree on how it will be used. For tax deductions, the IRS requires a written appraisal for collectibles valued at $5,000 or more.

Collectibles can also be donated through a charitable remainder trust, private foundation, and certain donor advised funds. Each offers potential tax benefits, depending on your adjustable gross income and other factors. An experienced estate planner can help you decide which is right for you.

START TODAY

These are just a few suggestions to help you incorporate your collection(s) into your estate plan. Additional considerations may be necessary, depending on the particular items you collect, your family dynamics, and the value of your taxable estate.

Collectibles may be the most valuable assets in an estate. What starts out as a hobby turns into a passion and eventually becomes a lucrative investment, built gradually over a lifetime. The best way to preserve the value of your investment, both for yourself now and for your heirs in the future, is to start planning today.

This material should not be construed in any way as investment, tax, estate, accounting, legal or regulatory advice. Any description of tax consequences set forth herein is not intended as a substitute for careful tax planning.

Charles “Chase” R. Johnson, Wealth Director, Fiduciary Trust International is responsible for developing investment and trust relationships with families and organizations. He works closely with the Trust and Tax planning group to help clients determine optimal asset allocation and transfer strategies.

Brian Conboy is Director of Estate Administration and Trust Counsel for Fiduciary Trust International.

Charles R. Johnson

Wealth Director | 628 286 8403

charles.r.johnson@ftci.com

One Franklin Parkway, Bldg 920, 1st Floor San Mateo, CA 94403

fiduciarytrust.com

From Toisan Rice Field to Napa Grape Field

BY LAYNE RANDOLPH

DR. PAUL GEE, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA’S FIRST CHINESE American vintner, has played an integral role in shaping the Napa Valley wine country we know today. Born in Toisan, China, Dr. Gee immigrated to the United States as a child, eventually establishing himself as a respected vintner and a significant figure in the history of Chinese immigrants in the Napa Valley and Bay Area communities, instrumental in highlighting the pivotal role of Chinese immigrants.

In 1984, Dr. Gee made his mark on Napa Valley by planting 17 acres of head-trained Pinot Noir vines by hand in the Carneros region. This area is known for producing exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay due to its unique microclimate influenced by its proximity to San Pablo Bay. It was a labor of love he and his children undertook together.

His vineyard on Buchli Station Road has always been dry-farmed—a rare and admirable practice using minimal irrigation to promote healthier vines and produce more concentrated flavors in the wine. Dr. Gee’s vineyard sits directly across from the Bouchaine estate, and Dr. Gee has sold his fruit exclusively to the small-lot, premium winery for 40 years. He’s an integral part of the Bouchaine family today.

At 88 years old, Dr. Gee’s legacy continues to inspire, and his contributions to the Napa community have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, he was honored with the Key to Napa, recognizing his decades of hard work and dedication. His remarkable journey was also captured in the documentary From Toisan Rice Field to Napa Grape Field, which shows a man who overcame adversity to become a pivotal figure in Napa Valley’s rich history.

Below, Dr. Gee reflects on his journey and the role of Chinese immigrants in the development of Napa Valley.

HL: You’ve had a successful partnership with Bouchaine for years, and they are delighted with it. Explain how that came to be and why it has been so long-lasting.

PG: Before my relationship with Bouchaine, there was someone who offered to buy my grapes. Once harvest came around, he said he couldn’t buy my grapes anymore or would buy them at a lower price than we had initially agreed to. I walked away and happened to meet the owners of Bouchaine. I went to them and offered to sell my grapes to them instead. Our relationship has lasted all this time because I liked working with them—they’re the only winery I’ve ever sold my grapes to—and they like my grapes. I also enjoy working with the Bouchaine team, especially Chris [Kajani], the winemaker.

HL: Your Pinot Noir vines are head-trained and dry-farmed. Explain how these viticultural decisions were made and impacted your fruit.

PG: A good friend of mine, Harry (James) St. Clair, whom I used to work with on Mare Island, taught us how to farm. He already planted a vineyard

using the dry-farming technique. Actually, Harry and his wife, Hilda, were the ones who told us about a property near their place that was for sale, which my wife and I eventually bought and turned into a vineyard. Dry farming involved a lot of watering in the beginning when [the vines] were rootstocks, but once the roots were grown deep down in the soil, we didn’t have to water anymore and relied on nature to water each year. This type of farming makes the Pinot Noir more tasty.

HL: I’ve seen the photos of you on your mother’s back as she carried you through the fields in China. You’ve lived quite a lifetime, and your progression from that image to today and all you’ve accomplished is very inspiring. What memories of China stand out to you?

PG: When we left China for Kowloon because of World War II, I remember carrying one of my brothers on my back while my mom carried the second oldest. I went to school there and then transferred to an English school.

HL: What does your story tell us about the history of Napa Valley (or, more broadly, California) and its future?

PG: I was the only Chinese vintner during that time. It was only a century before I started my vineyard that Chinese laborers experienced racism and were forced out of nearby Sonoma.

HL: I was moved by your daughter, Stephanie’s, story about your parents, especially when they moved to the Napa countryside, where they felt most at home. Tell me about what that meant to them and to you to have that experience.

PG: Instead of being stuck in a small apartment in the city, my parents could go outside, grow vegetables, enjoy fresh air, and move around. To me, this vineyard was a labor of love with all the family and close friends coming together to help plant it.

HL: What would you like your legacy to be? What would you like your children to take forward?

PG: I would like to be known as the first Chinese grape farmer in Napa, and I hope my children and grandkids will be interested in continuing the vineyard.

PHOTO: DR. PAUL GEE

Roger Walther, Dick Kramlich, Pam Kramlich, and Jean-Charles Boisset

Dick Kramlich, PamKramlich, and Maria Manetti Shrem

Kramlich, Michael Jackson, and RickWalker

Visionary Entrepreneur and Champion of the Arts Richard Kramlich Remembered (1935-2025)

BY FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY

RICHARD “DICK” KRAMLICH PASSED AWAY AT HIS NAPA VALLEY home on February 1. A groundbreaking leader in international venture capital and contemporary art collecting, Kramlich was also a dedicated member of the Festival Napa Valley board of directors. His warmth and passion for the arts left an indelible mark on countless individuals and institutions.

Kramlich co-founded the venture capital firm New Enterprise Associates and was among the earliest backers of Apple Computer. His keen sense of people and visionary understanding of new ideas and ways of working helped shape the tech industry, guiding numerous Silicon Valley start-ups to become billion-dollar valuations and household names. He received many honors, including lifetime achievement awards from the National Venture Capital Association and UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business. He is remembered for his business savvy, kindness, patience, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Kramlich and his wife Pam were introduced to Festival Napa Valley soon after its founding in 2006 and became ardent supporters, playing a vital role in the organization’s growth and success. He joined the Festival board in 2020. At every Festival event he attended, his broad smile welcomed new and returning guests, his positive and inquisitive nature shining through every conversation.

“They broke the mold with Dick Kramlich,” said longtime friend and fellow Festival board member Roger Walther. “He was invested in the success of every endeavor, business or nonprofit. He was generous in every way, sharing his insights and wisdom and bringing out the best in everyone and everything. I’m going to miss him.”

Dick and Pam’s passion for the arts culminated in the creation of the groundbreaking Kramlich Collection, one of the world’s most significant collections of time-based media art. Their love for art, innovation, and community converged in Napa Valley’s Oakville, where the Kramlich Collection is now housed in private, stateof-the-art galleries designed by the acclaimed architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron.

Festival Napa Valley will honor Dick Kramlich’s legacy on opening night of the 2025 Summer Season at Charles Krug, highlighting his love for music and art with a presentation of Wildfire (meditation on fire) by David Claerbout, a digital artwork that the Kramlichs both deeply admired. The mesmerizing piece, exploring both destruction and renewal, will be showcased during a live performance of Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite—a poignant nod to Dick Kramlich’s enduring impact. His memory will burn bright as music fills the air and Wildfire flickers onstage.

Pam Kramlich and Dick Kramlich

Dick

& Ocean Science Center, the only marine laboratory on the San Francisco Bay.

Urgent Support NEEDED to Save The Estuary & Ocean Science Center From Closure

Could there be a bright future for the Estuary & Ocean Science Center?

BY OLIVIA DECKER

FOR 47 YEARS, THE ESTUARY & OCEAN SCIENCE (EOS) Center, formerly known as the Romberg Tiburon Center, has been a Tiburon peninsula fixture. Locals know it as Romberg or even the Net Depot, referring to its former days as a U.S. Navy base where anti-submarine/torpedo nets were made for use under the Golden Gate. You may have attended the EOS Center’s annual Discovery Day Open House or other events like art/science workshops, film nights, or public lectures, but you may not be aware of the extent of what the EOS Center is and does and what would be lost if it closes, as is now proposed by its owner/sponsor, San Francisco State University (SFSU).

We spoke with Dr. Katharyn Boyer, a biology professor whose research has been based at the EOS Center for 21 years and who has served as the director of the center since 2022. Last year, Bay Nature magazine named her a local hero for her environmental education work, including mentoring and minting more than 30 graduate students, award-winning classroom teaching in applied marine ecology topics, and her leadership of the EOS Center. We asked her: What is the EOS Center, and why is it important that it remains open? Here is what we learned.

As the only marine lab on San Francisco Bay (there are six on Chesapeake Bay!) and with direct access to the water, the EOS Center is uniquely situated to lead the region in coastal science and education. The Center’s faculty are known as cutting-edge problem solvers for San Francisco Bay and nearshore coastal California on topics ranging from how to reduce ship strikes on whales, detecting and preventing harmful algal blooms, and whether sea otters reintroduced to the bay would find enough food. On-site partnerships with the National Estuarine Research Reserve and Smithsonian Environmental Research Center enrich opportunities for collaborative research and student training.

A substantial portion of the EOS Center’s research and education portfolio supports science-informed adaptation and conservation planning, including innovative, nature-based solutions to climate change impacts. The EOS Center is recognized for its strong leadership in these so-called “living shorelines” projects which provide habitat while reducing shoreline erosion—an increasing concern with sea level rise. A new Regional Climate Science

Consortium, funded by the California State Coastal Conservancy, just launched at the Center, convenes experts in the science of shoreline restoration to examine novel approaches not yet used in the region. They are determining what is known and what is needed for these approaches to be used along the San Francisco Bay’s shores at scale. This consortium is using the Center’s bayside location and mile of shoreline to evaluate some of these coastal climate adaptation solutions.

In parallel, a nature-based solutions educational pathways program has been underway for about a year, and faculty have been working with 10 community colleges to bring skills in nature-based solutions to climate change to these students at the EOS Center. This program will create a pathway to San Francisco State or other universities for these students to continue with their studies. Or they may go straight into jobs, and it is expected that there will be many with the recent passage of Proposition 4, the climate bond.

In addition, a new pilot restaurant oyster shell recycling program to be based at the EOS Center is scheduled to launch in June, working with the two largest Hog Island restaurants (Ferry Building and Larkspur) and the Conservation Corps North Bay. Oyster shells will be gathered for use in shoreline restoration projects to attract native oysters and the whole food web up to marine mammals, while reducing the impacts of rising sea levels. “This is an incredible opportunity for public education on climate change adaptation approaches,” says Boyer. “More than 250,000 restaurant patrons per year will learn how they can help while enjoying their Hog Island oysters on the half shell.”

The EOS Center is the only location that supports large-scale eelgrass restoration projects in the San Francisco Bay. A submerged plant, eelgrass slows water flow (reducing erosion along shores), stores carbon from the atmosphere, and reduces the effects of ocean acidification. It is a climate change powerhouse and a major target for restoration in the bay. Birds, fish, invertebrates (e.g., crabs and shrimp-like amphipods), and mammals use eelgrass beds for habitat and food. The EOS Center’s scientists and students collect eelgrass from natural beds around the bay and rig the plants into transplant units (biodegradable anchors that hold the plants in place until they root) in a vast system of bay water tanks and tables before taking them out on boats to restoration sites the next day for

Panoramic view of the 53-acre Romberg Tiburon Campus, home of the Estuary

Restored eelgrass supports many species, including Dungeness crabs

The EOS Center’s baywater system is used to simulate and understand current and future conditions of San Francisco Bay, with the ability to manipulate ocean acidification, nutrient pollution, salinity, and other factors.

Students preparing eelgrass transplant units at the

planting. Seventy-five acres of eelgrass restoration have already been completed in Richardson Bay and 75 more are planned in the coming years. As illegally moored boats in Richardson Bay are removed from the eelgrass bed, the “crop circle” scars will be repaired through this effort, restoring the health and vitality of this important habitat.

EOS Director Boyer also revived releases of hatchery-raised Chinook salmon, which readers may know occurred for years on the site. It’s done differently these days: in the dark to avoid attracting predators of the baby fish (smolts). However, the reason to use this site is the same as before: the deep, cool water supports survival of the smolts as they head out to sea. With high success of the salmon at this life stage, they are more likely to come back to San Francisco Bay as adults and support the Chinook recreational fishery.

Closing the Center would weaken California’s leadership in marine and estuarine science, environmental policy, and sustainability. The EOS Center is not only a hub of scientific innovation but also a crucial training ground for future environmental leaders. Its research, education, and outreach programs provide students with unparalleled opportunities to engage in hands-on learning and apply science to real-world environmental challenges. However, SFSU is facing a severe budget shortfall and can no longer support the cost of operating the 53-acre campus. Boyer seeks to fundraise $5 million over four years to cover the EOS Center’s current annual budget gap for a period that permits the development of partnerships and facilities that would generate revenue and help support its vital operations over a longer term. If you can help, please contact her at katboyer@sfsu.edu. See eoscenter.sfsu.edu/closure for more information and what you can do.

EOS Center’s water tables for restoration in Richardson Bay

Restored eelgrass thriving in Richardson Bay, as seen on a low tide.

SFSU researchers at work on the bay.