Sophisticated Living Lexington May/June 2017

{Lexington’s Finest}

May/June 2017 five dollars

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5222 Paris Pike $9,750,000 Historic Horse Farm on 447 acres! Estate features 74 stalls in 5 barns, 5 auxiliary residences/offices, multiple barns, double fenced paddocks, and a lake. The circa 1830 mansion is restored with no expense spared. Finest of details!

Hill Parker 859-608-8039

3323 Haley Pike $1,639,000 Beautiful 4 bedroom, 5 bath estate on 24 acres with a gated entrance, swimming pool, 8 stall barn, 3 pastures & 4 board fencing. Located minutes from Interstates I-64/ I-75, Keeneland and the airport Hill Parker 859-608-8039 Joan Davis 859-229-2085

866 McMeekin Place $1,390,000 Meticulous 4 bedroom with over 5000sq.ft. CW Warner built with recent upgrades.

Basement, family & great room & formal dining room.

Rear gate to UK property (green space). Broker/agent.

Becky Mobley 859-321-0819

4100 Little Rock-Jackstown $1,380,000 Snow Hill Farm- 254 acres of gently rolling fields. Historic Dry Stacked Stone Walls throughout property. Top of the line barn featuring 14 custom stalls. A two story main house and a managers house.

Dennis Nobles 859-388-4237

1879 Parkers Mill Road $1,145,000 One of the most unique properties in Lexington! Situated on 2.3 acres. With 4 bedrooms & 3 baths, 1st floor owner’s suite & hardwood floors.

World-class renovations & stunning outdoor spaces!

Rick Queen 859-221-3616

1996 Newtown Pike $1,098,000 A spectacular, executive home completely rebuilt by Padgett, one of Lexington’s premier builders. Nestled on 5 acres, surrounded by horse farms.

Hardwoods throughout, gourmet kitchen, deluxe bathrooms, soaring ceilings, and gated entry. Additional land available.

Hill Parker 859-608-8039

625 E. Main Street $1,095,000 Colonial revival home (circa 1920) in beautiful historic Bell Court. Meticulously maintained & beautifully updated.

5 BR, 3.5BA, over 5800 sq. ft.

Owner’s suite remodeled by Atchison Hellar Construction.

Jennifer Bell 859-221-4857 Karen-Hollins 859-421-8125

3537 Castlegate Wynd $925,000 Exceptional Fox Hill - Greg Martilli Custom Home!

Stately 5BR & 6BA, 6333sq. ft. with gourmet kitchen, beautiful 2/3 acre lot, lighted tennis court, close to UK, downtown, shopping & more.

Karen Hollins 859-421-8125

25 Avenue of Champions Premier Keene Trace at Champions Golf Course.

Wonderful entertaining spaces, gourmet kitchen w/5-burner gas cooktop, formal dining, living room/study, 1st floor owner’s suite, 4 large bedrooms & home theater area.

Jane Miller 859-421-4674

785 Lansdowne Circle $695,000 Stunning 4BR,4BA superbly renovated home w/1st floor owner’s suite, gourmet kitchen, volume ceilings, reclaimed wood floors, numerous amenities,3 car garage, workshop/ floored 2nd level on 1/2 acre.

Rick Queen 859-221-3616

882 Blacks Cross Road $550,000 Picturesque with fabulous views on 44 acres. Custom designed 3 bed, 2 and half bath w/first floor owner’s suite. (1) seven stall barn, w/wash stall, and tack room, (1) large shop building, a 7 bent tobacco barn.

Dennis Nobles 859-388-4237

4108 Kentucky River Pkwy $495,000 Outstanding 4BR, 3.5BA brick 2-story home on 10 private wooded acres. Custom built home with numerous amenities and updates. Large rooms, 2 decks with beautiful views, fabulous location near Raven Run Nature Sanctuary.

Rick Queen 859-221-3616

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{Lexington’s Finest}

May/June 2017

May/June 2017 five dollars

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46 Game On: W Las Vegas

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on the cover: Rolling on the River The parlor in the Livingston home of Lucille Carloftis

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Rolling on the River

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Leaf of Absence

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Mompreneurs

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Seeing Red: A Dozen Wines Worth the Hunt

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Bibliotaph... All Creatures Great and Small

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Game On

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Of Note... Console-ation Prizes

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High-style Horsepower

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Easy Riders

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Lost and Found

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That’s Amore

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Society Calendar

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Roundball BASH

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Mr. & Miss Kentucky Basketball Awards Ceremony

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Bibliotaph: All Creatures Great and Small Photo by Andy Seliverstoff from the book Little Kids and Their Big Dogs from Revodana Publishing (revodanapublishing.com)

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Gala Preview Party

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KMAC Couture

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Strike Out A-T

EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Bridget Williams ______________________________________________ ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kay Matton ART DIRECTOR Jason Yann CONTRIBUTORS Writers Patti Bailey Dr. Matthew Bessen Victoria Chase Scott Harper Andre James Amelia Jeffers Jeff Jeffers Madeline Michaels Arianne Nardo Photographers Tony Bailey Chad Henle Andrew Kung Bethaney Martin Anthony Tahlier COPY EDITOR Jennifer Newton EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Claire Williams ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE 502.582.6563 ______________________________________________ CEO/PUBLISHER Eric Williams Sophisticated Living is published by Sophisticated Living, LLC, P.O. BOX 1229, Prospect, Kentucky 40059 USA. All Rights Reserved. Sophisticated Living is published six times a year. All images and editorial are the property of Sophisticated Living, LLC and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission. Annual subscription fees are $25.00; please add $5 for subscriptions outside the US. Single copies may be purchased for $5 at select fine retail outlets. Address all subscription inquiries to: Sophisticated Living, PO Box 1229, Prospect, KY 40059. To order back issues or reprints of 100 or more, call 502.582.6563.

SLMAG.NET

From the Editor-In-Chief

Growing up, my parents played an equal role in my life, but I’ve always viewed our respective relationships in two vastly different lights. Whereas I often approached my mother as an adversary to challenge and conquer (through no fault of her own), when it came to my dad, I simply never wanted him to feel disappointed in me. The only thing I can surmise is that unlike mother-daughter relationships, which can be affected by the same hormone fluctuations and pent-up emotions that plague close female friendships from time-to-time, a girl simply relates to her father in a different way. In my case, I’ve always viewed my dad as my protector, role model and No. 1 fan.

I have never confided in my dad with the same regularity as I’ve done with my mom, who is typically the first person that springs to mind in times of crisis. On those rare moments when the occasion forced a bit of soul baring, the experience for both of us was wrenching at best. Not wanting my father to view me as less-thanstellar, I believed that sharing a perceived weakness might make my star dim a little bit in his eyes. To the contrary, in those moments when I was most downtrodden, a simple hug and an understanding look relayed our mutual humanness and restored my self-confidence.

Cumulatively, my parents have instilled in me a formidable work ethic and stickto-itiveness that has benefitted me at every stage in my life. Individually, my mom has passed on traits of fortitude, tenacity, grit, organization and just enough Catholic guilt to keep me in line. My insatiable wanderlust, a perennial glass-half-full attitude, a love of the outdoors, and willingness to tackle any DIY project that comes my way (with widely varying degrees of success), initiates squarely from my father. While sometimes at odds, the disparate character traits I’ve inherited from the two of them provide the yin and yang of my life that without a doubt has made it way more interesting than if I’d only received half of the equation.

An enduring love of photography is also something I’ve picked up from my parents in general, and my father in particular. After decades of looking through a viewfinder to capture scenes from the mundane to the monumental, I’m surprised he doesn’t have a permanent indentation ringing his eye. I myself have been at the other end of that lens more times than I could ever count, most of the time willingly, and others begrudgingly, especially in adolescence. Today, my father’s photographs are counted among the greatest treasures in my life, serving as a tactile hard drive for my long-term memory. Flipping through photographs following my mother’s recent annual Easter brunch extravaganza activated reminiscences long dormant, even in my food coma-induced state. Gazing at the images assembled in dozens of albums allowed me to once again feel the frigid waters of Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park during my all-time favorite childhood camping trip; hear the incessant barking of Brandon, my first dog; and, the dulcet tones of my now teenaged daughter’s deep belly laughs when she was just a chubby, bubbly baby.

The calendar reminds me that the season for parent appreciation is once again nigh, but I want to let my parents know in this public forum that the sun rarely sets on a day that I am not somehow reminded of the importance of their presence in my life. I don’t know what I did to deserve such wonderful parents, but I’ll take it!

Bridget Williams Editor-In-Chief

bridget@slmag.net

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ROLLING ON THE RIVER Rockcastle River Trading Company carries on a labor of love legacy in Livingston Written by Bridget Williams / Photography by Andrew Kung

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The entrance to the shop at Rockcastle River Trading Company

When life give you lemons…squeeze them into your sweet tea. This was the thought that sprung to mind after spending just a few minutes enjoying the genuine Southern hospitality offered by Lucille Carloftis at her family’s homestead–know commonly known as the Rockcastle River Trading Company–on recent rainy Monday morning. Graced with the gift of gab and the ability to make anyone feel instantly at ease, I found myself quickly engrossed in Lucille’s fascinating life story, and nearly forgot about the pesky showers that threatened our scheduled photoshoot of the picturesque property in Livingston. Looking out the French doors in the parlor as raindrops rippled the surface of the Rockcastle River as it meandered by, I listened intently to a chorus of birdcalls–many unfamiliar to the ears of this city girl.

In the midst of all this serenity, I found it hard to imagine that this area was once a popular and bustling rest stop for travelers in the preinterstate highway era as they made their annual summer vacation pilgrimage south on the old Dixie Highway. slmag.net

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Jon Carloftis and his mother Lucille

A mother of six (three sons and three daughters), Lucille and her husband Carlo, both admirers of Native American culture, left a comfortable life in Pineville to start a new adventure in this rural part of the state. In 1955 they established Fort Sequoyah, an authentic 1700s frontier town that included Native American artisans-in-residence, paddleboat rides on the river, and live music and dance performances, among other attractions, that remained in operation until the late 1980s. With no running water or electricity when they arrived in Livingston, power for early building projects came courtesy of a Ford Model T engine propped up on concrete blocks. “My mother and grandmother thought I was crazy for coming here,” Lucille recounted with a chuckle.

For the Carloftis children, even after the home and business were up and running, creature comforts were things to be discovered outside of the home. “We never had a TV growing up,” said Lucille’s youngest son Jon, who is credited with reviving and rebranding the homestead as a tourist destination once more, this time drawing garden enthusiasts from far and wide. He 24 slmag.net

added that it was the great outdoors along with the people that visited Fort Sequoyah from all over the world that provided more entertainment in his youth than the promise of any television program. “My husband and I worked hard, which left the children plenty of time to roam around,” said Lucille.

Tears welled up in Jon’s eyes on multiple occasions as he recounted tales from his youth and the people and places that continue to shape his life today. Holding a special spot in his heart is Ruby, who moved in with his Granny Myrtle in 1937, and helped raise Jon’s father and then Jon and his siblings.

Lucille recalled a young Jon sitting on the countertop in her kitchen, next to a 1950s range with burners concealed in a slide-out drawer, and Ruby telling him that “God delivered you straight from heaven and right into my arms.” While Ruby has passed, the range remains in working order today, something Jon lovingly jokes is attributed to the fact that “the first thing momma learned to make is reservations,” a sentiment Lucille is quick to agree with.

The television room is furnished with pieces from Barbara Barry. The painting is by Joyce Garner. The table lamps are Murano glass.

“Essentially this is a privately funded public park,� said Jon Carloftis of the grounds at Rockcastle River Trading Company.

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A set of c. 1908 Blue Willow china that belonged to Lucille’s grandmother is on display in a corner cabinet.

Lucille’s home, built a little more than 40 years ago to resemble a New England saltbox from the 1600s, teems with memories. Each item within its walls–furniture that ranges in style from primitive to ornate all the way down to a stack of turquoise bangles adorning Lucille’s wrists–comes together to form a vibrant tapestry reflecting the family’s heritage. Displayed above the front door are baskets woven by Native American artisans at Fort Sequoyah. In the dining room, shelves of a corner cabinet are filled with a collection of c.

1908 Blue Willow china that belonged Lucille’s grandmother; the walls in the room have been decorated with a stencil Lucille played with as a child. On display in the parlor are a pair of black and white antique prints depicting the eruptions of Mt. Vesuvius and Mt. Etna; Jon discovered them covered in a thick layer of grime in the garage of a client early on in his career as a garden designer.

Considering his family’s hardworking, entrepreneurial spirit and innate hospitality, combined with an intimate working 26 slmag.net

knowledge of plant life, organically acquired by being fully immersed in the natural world for years and years, it’s hardly a surprise that Jon has found great success as a landscape designer, lecturer, author, and cheerleader for all things Kentucky. “He was born into his work, there’s no doubt about it,” remarked his mother, who added that her husband’s simple but effective mantra was “be honest and pay your bills.” Walking down a manicured garden path lined with Virginia bluebells in full bloom, the wild expanse of the Daniel Boone National Forest just beyond, Jon commented, “This is why I do what I do. It was here that I learned all about nature, plants and beautiful things.” With the exception of an antique post office relocated to the property, the buildings are painted a deep crimson to stand in contrast to the abundance of green plant life; the scene looks particularly poignant in the early morning, as the valley is often veiled by a misty, moody fog.

The home was designed to resemble a New England saltbox from the 1600s.

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French doors in the parlor provide a picturesque view of the Rockcastle River.

Freshly cut lilac branches in the parlor

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Thoughtful vignettes throughout the home are just as lovely as the view of the gardens outside every window.

The walls in the dining room are decorated with a stencil Lucille played with as a child.

Family heirlooms abound in every room.

A collection of Louisville Stoneware in the Rockcastle River Trading Company shop

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Jon’s approach to both garden and interior design at Rockcastle River Trading Company and elsewhere is emblematic of his childhood: following a loose set of rules and allowing nature to take the lead. In his mother’s parlor for instance, a tall bundle of lilac branches, freshly cut by Jon and casually arranged in a large urn in a far corner, added just the right “something” the room needed without a great deal of effort. The subtle fragrance that wafted through the house for all to enjoy was an added bonus. As the curly fronds of a fistful of freshly snipped forest ferns arranged in a simple vase

attests, Jon’s style is a reminder that good design needn’t be overwrought if it’s earnest.

Lucille admits that from time to time she would wonder if she and Carlo did the right thing by uprooting their family all those years ago, but today she has no regrets. “It’s sure been a blessed and wonderful life here. We are lucky to have been able to follow our dream.”

Rockcastle River Trading Company will host its annual Spring Open House on May 13 from 10am-5pm. For more information visit rockcastlerivertradingco.com. sl

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ON-ROAD PERFORMANCE AND OFF-ROAD CAPABILITY ARE NO LONGER MUTUALLY EXCLUSIVE. AT MASERATI LOUISVILLE

LEVANTE. THE MASERATI OF SUVs. STARTING FROM $72,600* The all-new 2017 Levante goes far beyond the limits of ordinary SUVs, combining sports-car performance and off-road capability with the luxury and exclusivity of a Maserati. The Levante and Levante S feature a powerful Ferrari-built, 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V6 engine and Maserati Q4 intelligent all-wheel drive for sure-footed traction in virtually all conditions. Standard five-way air suspension adjusts within milliseconds for seamless driving dynamics on- and off-road, while Maserati Skyhook adaptive dampers deliver the comfort of a luxury SUV with the handling agility of a sports car. Meanwhile, distinctive Italian styling, a luxurious interior and a unique exhaust note affirm its Maserati heritage. Go beyond the limits of ordinary and arrive at Levante. By Maserati.

MASERATI LOUISVILLE 4710 Bowling Blvd., Louisville, KY 40207 / 502.894.3429 / www.MaseratiLouisville.com *Maserati Levante MY2017 base MSRP $72,600; Maserati Levante S MY2017 base MSRP $83,800. Not including dealer prep and transportation. Actual selling price may vary. Taxes, title, license and registration fees not included. Š2016 Maserati North America, Inc. All rights reserved. Maserati and the Trident logo are registered trademarks of Maserati SpA. Maserati urges you to obey all posted speed limits.

Aerial view of the Stowe Mountain Lodge with Spruce Peak in the background.

LEAF of ABSENCE

Stowe is the place to go for a breath of fresh air in any season Written by John Robinson With 40% of its 75 square-miles designated as conservation land open to the public for recreation, a thriving 19th century village at the heart of town, dramatic mountain scenery, an emphasis on all things produced locally, a full and diverse yearly calendar of special events well attended by the community’s 5,000 friendly residents as well visitors (close to one million annually), the rural two-stoplight town of Stowe, Vermont embodies the definition of idyllic.

Tops among the 50-odd lodging options found at this desirable destination, the 300-room Stowe Mountain Lodge, unveiled by Destination Hotels in 2008 as part of a $400,000,000 expansion of the Stowe Mountain Resort, is the ideal match for travelers looking for an upscale, yet relaxed environment to experience the best the region has to offer in all four seasons. Accommodations range in size from a 450-square-

foot classic room to a two-floor, 2,875-square-foot “Front Four” residence.

One thing is for certain: you will never find yourself at a loss for things to do. A sampling of the world-class activities available to guests encompasses an exclusive 18-hole Bob Cuppdesigned mountain golf course that reaches elevations in excess of 1,800 feet, and was ranked as the #1 Golf Resort in the Northern United States in a Conde Nast Readers’ Choice Poll; slope side access to 100 trails that comprise what is arguably the most legendary ski terrain in the East; a state-of-the-art 21,000 squarefoot spa and wellness center; casual and upscale dining options focused on innovative farm-to-table techniques; and, an in-house recreation team leading personalized activities that vary in scope and intensity from a furniture building workshop with local artisans to kayaking and mountain biking.

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The lobby of the Stowe Mountain Lodge was designed as a reflection of the local environment.

As one would expect given the picturesque mountain setting, the lodge embodies a familiar alpine aesthetic, but with distinctive and locally inspired touches that underscore a thoughtful property-wide commitment to infusing the guest experience with an immersion in the local culture. The woven Western Red Cedar used for the façade is complemented by stone veneer created from the Champlain Quarries in the Adirondacks. A wealth of windows ensures near constant visual access to the area’s abundant natural beauty.

Inside, the color palette is reflective of the leaves on proliferate trees as they morph from season-to-season. Comforting and earthy shades of red, orange, yellow and green serve as a fitting foil

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to artwork created by some of Vermont’s most renowned artists: glassblower Simon Pearce, furniture maker Charles Shackleton, potter Miranda Thomas, artistic woodworker Parker Nichols, Hubbardton Forge blacksmiths, and several local painters, all of which enjoy a global following.

Partnering with the Vermont Fresh Network and Chefs Collaborative, Solstice, the resort’s upscale dining option, as well as the more casual Hourglass Lounge, serves up contemporary American rustic cuisine and craft cocktails that take full advantage of world-renowned local artisan cheeses, fresh produce, heirloom grains and meats. Executive Chef Ronnie Sanchez emphasizes simplicity and seasonal flavors with great aplomb.

Stowe Mountain Lodge lobby

Locally sourced products are a centerpiece of the dining program.

Fall alfresco breakfast

A private fireside breakfast presentation in the outdoor pavilion.

Living room in a studio accomodation

Flatbread pizza and local craft beer from Hourglass Lounge.

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Healing Lodge in the spa

Following in the same vein as the dining program, the spa utilizes a farm-to-treatment philosophy with products such as their Stowe Cider Scrub, one of several “Live Like a Local” experiences on the spa menu. A unique healing lodge allows for a DIY ritual that includes an herbal steam chamber, Jacuzzi soaking pool, dry sauna, cooling rain shower and soothing body scrubs. A pair of harmony rooms equipped with SO Sound Loungers allow you to “feel” the music you hear throughout your entire body, with the result being an expedient transition into a deep state of relaxation.

“The Spa and Wellness Center at Stowe Mountain Lodge has such an advantage in providing a truly authentic spa experience for our guests,” says Maggy Dunphy, Spa Director. “The natural surroundings, the mountains, the vast expanse of activities and outings that are outside our door allow for my team to create very unique and transformative experiences for our guests.”

A prime example is the property’s signature yoga class: Mountain Yoga. Held in the woods, each session incorporates Earthing techniques, where participants learn how to be more connected to the Earth through grounding poses. In the winter,

Mountain Yoga involves on-snow yoga classes as a warmup to and après skiing on the ski hill.

As the centerpiece of Stowe Mountain Resort, the Stowe Mountain Lodge is surrounded by an alpine village that has been painstakingly planned and developed over the course of 16 years. High-end boutiques and restaurants, 34 fractionally-owned condominiums, the Stowe Mountain Club and 18 luxurious village townhomes are literally steps from the resort and alpine amenities. Also nearby, the sprawling Spruce Peak Adventure Center serves as the home base for year-round activities such as indoor rock climbing, the children’s ski school, kid’s camp and zip line tours, among others.

Though it is certainly tempting to pack the itinerary with as many activities as possible, in such a pristine setting it can be as wholly satisfying to take a moment to simply relax on the balcony of your room, local cider in hand, taking in the fresh air and admiring nature’s handiwork. Rooms at Stowe Mountain Lodge from $240/night. For more information or reservations visit destinationhotels.com/stowe-mountain-lodge. sl

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MOMPRENEURS In honor of Mother’s Day, we asked acclaimed international jewelry designers Jade Jagger and Wendy Yue to reflect on their experiences as contemporary working mothers.

Written by Caylee Matthews

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WENDY YUE A native of Hong Kong who moved to Vienna at an early age to study language and culture, Wendy Yue spent a great deal of time traveling throughout Europe and developing a keen interest in wildlife and nature. In lieu of photographs or other souvenirs to commemorate her sojourns, she created color sketches of landscapes and animals she encountered. These vivid mementos would serve as a preview to the colorful creations she would later craft in precious gems and metals when she formed her own jewelry atelier in 1998, which has gone on to firmly establish itself as a benchmark in Hong Kong’s fine jewelry industry.

Wendy Yue Haute Joaillerie produces fantastical pieces lauded for their intricate workmanship and story-telling narratives. Prized by champions of chutzpah, a piece by Wendy Yue is designed for those with a keen eye for the bold and the beautiful (wendyyue.com).

SL: How has having children changed your life and business?

WY: Having children has really changed my life in previously unimaginable ways. I began to pace the absurdly hectic lifestyle I had. Up until the time I had my first child, designing was the most important aspect in my life. Since then, my children always come first–you learn to be selfless. My patience grew in general, which is something my staff pointed out to me, and which probably helps the business (laughs). Nowadays, when I meet people, they are often shocked that I have four children. They always ask: "How do you do it? How do you run your business?" And this is before they find out I actually have multiple ventures apart from jewelry. I always think to myself that they don't even know how much more I would do before I had my children. My children inspire me to keep going, but now at a healthy and peaceful pace.

SL: What do your children think of you working in the jewelry industry?

WY: (Laughs) They tend to believe that I'm famous (which I don't think so), because of what they see in magazines and social media. The older ones seem to regularly show off my Instagram page to friends. My younger twins are already so in love with jewelry, trying on whatever pieces I have lying around when I'm designing from home. The real issue arises when they ask you why you can't buy them this and that when your ring is worth that much–speechless! Kids nowadays really know how to work you up!

Above, Wendy Yue. Spread, from left: 18k white gold ring with garnet, amethyst, fancy diamond, orange and pink sapphire, amethyst and ruby ($13,535). Wendy Yue 18k white gold necklace with tsavorite, white and black diamond, ruby and pink and white sapphire ($76,451). 18k white gold bangle with white diamond, yellow and pink sapphire, tsavorite, tanzanite and opal ($40,606). 18k white gold earrings with orange sapphire, Champagne diamond, tsavorite and yellow and fancy diamond ($33,700).

SL: What would be the perfect Mother's Day gift from your collection, and why?

WY: Jewelry is such a personal and emotional gift, so I don't want to suggest a specific design. I would choose something that is wearable and comfortable (some prefer rings, some prefer earrings, etc.), and a theme that has a special connection to your mother. From my collection, I would certainly choose carved semi-precious stones, as it is really one of my signatures. Happy Mother's Day, it is truly a blessing to be a mother and have a mother!

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JADE JAGGER Born in Paris in 1971 to famous parents who famously divorced in 1978, Jade Jezebel Jagger is the only child of Bianca and Mick Jagger. She spent her formative years in jet-setting style, shuttling between homes in the south of France, New York City, Los Angeles and London, and counted Andy Warhol among her babysitters (supposedly much to her father’s dismay). When asked about the time he spent with Jade at “The Factory”, his Manhattan studio, Warhol commented, “I love Mick and Bianca, but Jade’s more my speed. I taught her how to color and she showed me how to play Monopoly.

She was four and I was forty-four.”

Since her 20s Jade has dabbled in numerous creative disciplines, including painting, fashion and interior design. Her foray into jewelry design began in 1997, and her bohemian, Eastern-influenced pieces quickly garnered the attention of both celebrities and fashion trendsetters. In 2001 she was named Creative Director for the venerable London-based fine jewelry house Garrard, who sought to infuse their brand with a touch of her Boho-chic verve.

The first freestanding store for Jade’s eponymous line opened in November 2009 on West London’s All Saints Road. Now focused solely on jewelry design, she draws inspiration for her pieces from her dual home bases of India and the UK (jadejagger.co.uk).

SL: How has having children changed your life and business?

JJ: I had my girls when I was 20, so most of my creative life was in unison with motherhood. I often reflect that this has allowed me to have a strong ability to balance working life with parenthood. Of course, I also had the influence of my family, my husband and my new baby on my creativity.

Above, Jade Jagger. Spread, from left: NeverEnding hoop earrings in Chrysoprase with enamel detail ($3,327). NeverEnding bracelet with ruby and diamond pavé in 18k gold ($7,973). Quintessence Earth ring with blue sapphire and white diamond in black rhodium sterling silver ($3,463).

Aquamarine Air necklace with black rhodium sterling silver and white diamonds ($4,350).

Quintessence Labradorite Fifth Dimension earrings ($4,750).

SL: What do your children think of you working in the jewelry industry?

JJ: They have seen first-hand how hard it is to be a small business, but also of the independence and pleasure it has brought me. We spent a lot of our lives sourcing, carving and setting stones in Jaipur, India, which always has a romantic feel, along with the days of being the creative director of Asprey and Garrard, where we were travelling all the time and experiencing so many new places.

SL: What would be the perfect Mother's Day gift from your collection, and why?

JJ: The NeverEnding Collection…with its hand-carved stones, it has a timeless quality and suits all women. I love the color and modernity of the collection, which soon becomes an heirloom to the family. sl

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Seeing Red: A Dozen Wines Worth the Hunt

Riedel Veritas Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot wineglass ($34.50/each; riedelusa.com)

Looking back at the thousands of red wines I have tried, the idea occurred to me that it would be fun to revisit a dozen of them through my tasting notes. In the following paragraphs, I have outlined a broad range of wine styles and regions, all selected at random, as some obvious favorites such as Barolo, Châteauneufdu-Pape, etc. are missing. Trying to find these wines will be a challenging but worthwhile exercise for any oenophile. With the likeliness that you won’t find the listed vintage, try the current vintage instead for a fantastic tasting.

ITALY Taurasi Terredora Di Paolo 2008 (Campania) The number-one red grape in Campania is Aglianico; it is planted throughout Southern Italy and reaches its zenith in Taurasi. Taurasi is a wine of great body, black fruits, structure and ageability, as it can be austere in its youth. Taurasi must be aged three years¬, one of which must be done on wood. To be labeled Riserva, the wine is required to be aged an additional year, with half of the additional time spent on wood. A couple of the best producers are Mastroberardino and Terredora Di Paolo; both wineries are owned by members of the Mastroberadino family.

Brunello Di Montalcino Pogggio Alle Mura 2003 (Tuscany) Castello Banfi was founded in 1978 by the Mariani Family, which produces a wide range of delicious Tuscan wines. The color is medium-dark red. The nose is intensely aromatic with violets and baking spices. It is rich and full-bodied in the palate, with the flavors of oak, spice, mocha, black fruits and integrated tannins. This is a wine that will age. Made from 100 percent

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Written by Scott Harper, Master Sommelier

Riedel Veritas New World Pinot Noir wineglass ($34.50/each; riedelusa.com)

Sangiovese, which is called Brunello in Montalcino. Delicious with the Tuscan specialty of Bistecca Fiorentina.

Chianti Classico Riserva Villa Cerna 2005 (Tuscany) Chianti Classico Riserva Villa Cerna 2001 (Tuscany) Chianti Classico Riserva Villa Cerna 1988 magnum (Tuscany) These three examples provide an interesting comparison on how quality Chianti/Sangiovese ages. The 2005 was the fullest-bodied; it possesses medium tannins and mixed berry fruits, light earth and oak. In comparison, the 2001 has more black fruits, lower tannins, a more floral nose, but still a medium-body. The 1988 was terrifically balanced and mature, with flavors of dried flowers, spice, leather and dried fruit; it is balanced and still drinking magnificently.

Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Luigi Righetti “Capitel de’ Roari” 2006 (Veneto) Fourth-generation winemaker Gian Maria Righetti carries on the tradition of his family-run estate, established in 1909. In local dialect Capitel de’ Roari means “many oaks,” which is a reflection of the Righetti’s knowledge of their land. Ripe red cherry, baked strawberry, minerals, light oak, spice, almond and mocha all come together in this velvety textured, full-bodied wine.

USA Inglenook Cabernet Sauvignon 1941 (Napa Valley, California) This is on my list as one of the best wines I have ever had. I tasted this classic Napa Valley Cabernet at the Aspen Food and Wine Classic in 1991; leading wine critic Robert Parker was the moderator, and it was a most memorable occasion. At the time

Riedel Veritas Old World Pinot Noir wineglass ($34.50/ each; riedelusa.com)

Riedel Veritas Old World Syrah wineglass ($69/pair; riedelusa.net) Riedel Veritas New World Shiraz wineglass ($69/pair; riedelusa.com)

of the tasting, the auction value for this taste of Napa Valley history was $1,800/bottle. Intense nose of currant and anise, it is amazingly long, rich and concentrated. A seductive bouquet of caramelized fruits remains in the glass even after the wine was gone, ethereal and multidimensional.

Lost Mountain RdV 2010 (Virginia) 64 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 36 percent Merlot.

Posh, dry and full-bodied, with more tannic structure than RdV’s Rendezvous. The color is opaque purple. It is a pervasively flavored wine that exudes currant, cassis, espresso, sweet tobacco, chocolate and baking spices, all in a powerful, yet velvety structure.

The more age-worthy of the two RdV wines. Drink now, but I hypothesize it will improve with five or more years in the bottle.

Pair with a well-marbled grilled steak or roasted rack of lamb.

SPAIN Rioja Marques Del Puerto Gran Reserva 1994 (Rioja) The color speaks of a mature wine; it has a medium-dark red color with a rim that is orange-amber red. Flavors of vanilla, cocoa, strawberry, raspberry liqueur, saddle leather, dried violets and copious oak are enveloped by a very soft texture. It is medium-fullbodied, dry and complex. Try with pan-seared beef filet.

FRANCE Petrus 2000 (Pomerol) On my list as one of the best young wines I have ever tasted. I tried a barrel sample of Petrus on a 2002 trip to France. Market value on release was $2,000/bottle. Made from about 95 percent Merlot

with the balance of Cabernet Franc, this mythical winery annually produces 4,000 cases of what is generally considered to be the greatest Merlot in the world.

Chambertin-Clos de Bèze Gérard Raphet 2005 (Burgundy) This Grand Cru Burgundy was one of the finest examples from the 2005 vintage, and Raphet is known among the cognoscenti as one of the best producers of Chambertin-Clos de Bèze. A lot of 14 bottles fetched $2,060 at a 2015 Christie’s auction of fine and rare wines in Hong Kong.

CHILE Vina Seña 2006 (Aconcagua Valley) Affectionately nicknamed Opus 2, this wine resulted from a partnership between the Chilean winery Vina Errázuriz and Robert Mondavi. When the mega conglomerate Constellation bought Mondavi, the Chadwick family, proprietors of Errázuriz, bought the Mondavi interest and now own 100 percent of this iconic wine. Seña is Spanish for “personal signature,” and is the individual venture of Eduardo Chadwick. Made in the Aconcagua Valley, located north of Santiago, on a beautiful hillside vineyard, Seña stands testament to Chile’s ability to make world-class wines. The wine is a Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Carmenère and Cabernet Franc. Full-bodied and polished with the flavor of blackberry, cherry, oak, mocha and allspice. Seña drinks well now and has the ability to age for a decade. sl A Certified Wine Educator, Harper is one of 147 professionals in North America and 230 worldwide who have earned the title Master Sommelier.

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Bibliotaph... All Creatures Great and Small

Compiled by Victoria Chase

Taxidermist Jeroen Lemaire, who was first discovered in 2014 by the Musee des Arts Decoratifs in Paris, authored this in-depth look at the "weird and wonderful" world of fine art taxidermy, from its history, to noted collectors and their contemporary cabinets of curiosity. Jeroen Lemaire - Wonders are Collectible: Taxidermy: Tranquil Beauty - Hardcover, 160 pages, Lannoo Publishers (lannoo.be).

In this coffee table book, Russian zoologist Vladimir Dinets uses stunning photography and concise text to explore myriad behavioral patterns of wild animals.

Vladimir Dinets - Wildlife Spectacles: Mass Migrations, Mating Rituals, and Other Fascinating Animal Behaviors - Hardcover, 320 pages, Timber Press (timberpress.com).

Using whimsical watercolor illustrations alongside funny and scientifically accurate text, artist Iris Gottlieb explores symbiotic relationships of 35 animal pairings, from oddball to adorable. Iris Gottlieb Natural Attraction: A Field Guide to Friends, Frenemies, and Other Symbiotic Animal Relationships - Hardcover, 144 pages, Sasquatch Books (sasquatchbooks.com).

Curated compilations of everything from insects to reptiles, carefully arranged in aesthetically pleasing patterns, comprise this handsome coffee table book, a must for lovers of nature, art and design. Christopher Marley - Biophilia - Hardcover, 288 pages, Abrams Books (abramsbooks.com).

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bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf ]: a person who caches or hoards books

With as many of half of the world's plant and animals facing the threat of extinction, photographer Joel Sartre made it his mission to bring attention to the plight of these creatures by visually documenting the world's biodiversity. With support from the National Geographic Society, to date he has surpassed the halfway point in his goal to photograph 12,000 species.

This book showcases a portion of his portraits, from tiny insects to massive mammals. Joel Sartre - The Photo Ark: One Man's Quest to Document the World's Animals - Hardcover, 400 pages, National Geographic (nationalgeographic.com).

While the obvious difference in size depicted in photographer Andy Seliverstoff's images of children and their XXL dogs is certainly attention grabbing, it's the playful interaction and endearing connection between the odd couplings that makes them truly memorable. Andy Seliverstoff Little Kids and Their Big Dogs - Hardcover, 132 pages Revodana Publishing (revodanapublishing.com).

This books pairs striking imagery by award-winning wildlife photographer Karl Ammann with engaging prose by Dale Peterson to examine the politics of ivory, new research, natural history and the conservation status of African elephants. Karl Ammann (photographer) and Dale Peterson (author) Elephant Reflections - Hardcover, 288 pages, University of California Press (ucpress.edu).

Nature photography elevated to a high art form, the images of internationally award-winning photographer Mark Laita capture the splendor and otherworldliness of the ocean's inhabitants. Mark Laita - Sea - Hardcover, 200 pages, Abrams Books (abramsbooks.com).

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The Living Room at the W Las Vegas is a hub of activity day and night.

GAME ON W Las Vegas

Written by Bridget Williams Should Marie Antoinette, famously infamous for spending heavily on fashion, art, gambling and other luxuries, find herself reincarnated in the current era, she would undoubtedly be drawn to the decadence of Las Vegas. And if such a scenario should ever come to fruition, when the time came for mademoiselle’s coiffed head to hit the pillow, she would feel right at home in a sweet suite at the new W Las Vegas, which offers the perks of a boutique experience (intimacy, uniqueness and elevated personalized service), with immediate access to amenities inherent in a much larger property.

Although the W Las Vegas opened in December 2016, Sophisticated Living was privy to the property’s official grand opening celebration this past March, a full weekend of events intended to showcase the highlights of the 289-room property. The unique hotel-within-a-hotel experience is the result of a $415 million transformation of the former suite tower of SLS Las Vegas, which is positioned on the emerging northern end of the Las Vegas strip.

“If ever two iconic brands were made for each other, it’s Las Vegas and W,” remarked Anthony Ingham, W Hotel’s Global Brand Leader. Born from the bold attitude and 24/7 culture of New York City when it was founded nearly two decades ago, W’s corporate ethos of Detox, Retox, Repeat, as well as an emphasis on music, fashion and design is perfectly instep with Vegas’ bacchanalia.

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Designed to be a reflection of the city in which it’s located, each W hotel does share a few commonalities that are also found at the Las Vegas property, namely the absence of a traditional hotel lobby and the presence of a “Living Room,” which serves as a comfortable central hub of activity at all hours, accompanied by a sexy, pulsating soundtrack, custom mixed for the property. At W Las Vegas, edgy and eclectic artwork in public spaces pays homage to the property’s mid-century gambling heritage (the tower was once part of The Sahara) as well its desert setting, by incorporating touches of whimsy and a little devil may care attitude.

According to Mark Eberwein, General Manager of W Las Vegas, the typical W patron is someone who works hard so that they can play hard. “It is people who are fully engaged in life and like to push the limits,” he said. Ingham underscored this sentiment by singling out FIT, the expansive 24-hour fitness center on the hotel’s second floor, which is part of the AWAY Spa facility. “For our guests, exercise is not something just to get through, it’s a social event and part of the fuel for making the most of life,” he explained. Loyal W brand fans have already taken note of the Las Vegas opening, well exceeding projections for repeat W guests.

Sayers Club at SLS

Bazaar Meat by José Andrés

A neon W in the roundabout of the “secret” courtyard entrance, shielded from street view (and still a puzzle to some Uber and taxi drivers due to its newness), whispers that you’ve “arrived”. Behind the welcome desk, stacks of poker chips are arranged in a slotted wood wall to resemble the bars of an equalizer. Each guest is given a token to have their fortune read

by Zoltar–a James Brown-esque version of the familiar sage made famous in the movie Big – who holds court in a nook adjacent to the Living Room (thankfully his prophecy of my needing assistance in making bail didn’t come to fruition). With a massive bar inspired by roulette wheels and plenty of cozy seating areas, the Living Room exhibits a distinctively mod vibe, with just enough Vegas flash and no crass. Leading the charge in the space’s transition from day to night is a neon art “desert garden” by artist Keith Lemley behind the bar.

Guest accommodations are wonderfully witty, with the most memorable design element being walls clad in a contemporary reinterpretation of tapestries. Affixed to the wall via grommets, a series of screen-printed canvases emulate the ornate wood paneling found throughout Versailles and keep the largely monochromatic space from feeling too stark. Guest room amenities are what one would expect from a hotel of its

Welcome Desk at W Las Vegas

Fabulous King guest room at W Las Vegas

caliber: plush pillow top mattresses, goose-down duvets, high tech electronics and Bliss toiletries. For the ultimate high roller experience, check into the sexy 2,382 square-foot E-WOW suite, designed by Lenny Kravitz.

Sitting atop more than 15,000 square-feet of flexible meeting and event space spread across three floors is the WET Deck and Bar, an open-air pool only available to W guests.

While the W Las Vegas offers the intimacy of a boutique hotel, guests are just steps away from the vast array of entertainment, gaming and dining options at the SLS. Highlights include Bazaar Meat by José Andrés, an avant-garde interpretation of a high-end Vegas steakhouse and a compulsory pilgrimage for carnivores; the specialty cocktails, unique rolls, and spectacular sushi and sashimi platters at Katsuya; the contemporary Mediterranean cuisine of chef Danny Elmaleh at Cleo; casual dining options at Unami Burger and 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza; the industrial chic live music venue Sayers Club; and, the 60,000 square-foot SLS Las Vegas Casino.

“After nearly two decades of anticipation, W Las Vegas will show guests a different side of the strip, offering an unexpected and irreverent twist on the typical Sin City experience,” said Ingham.

For more information on W Las Vegas, visit WLasVegas.com. sl slmag.net

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Of Note... Console-ation Prizes

Compiled by Colin Dennis

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1) Hable for Hickory Chair Agnes Console in River Rock finish with printed leather drawer fronts and arced metal legs in a gilded brass finish (price upon request; hickorychair. com). 2) Ornate reclaimed pine console table from Sweet Pea & Willow ($1600; sweetpeaandwillow.com). 3) The Edwardian bamboo console from Theodore Alexander crafted from mahogany with a cross banded top (price upon request; theodorealexander.com). 4) Important George III painted and partial gilt demilune console table in the manner of Robert Adam, having painted decoration attributed to Pergolesi and Cipriani. From Hyde Park Antiques, LTD ($220,000; 1stdibs.com). 5) Audrey console in turquoise faux shagreen from Made Goods (price upon request; madegoods.com).

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6) Camel bone and resin inlay console table in a classic chevron pattern from Fenton & Fenton ($1800; fentonandfenton.com.au). 7) Arrow 68" console table in cast iron with a black granite top from Arhaus ($1,199; arhaus.com). 8) MOGG Tokyo console table from Go modern Furniture features hanging compartments made from galvanized metal sheets with a matte yellow finish ($2898; gomodern.co.uk). 9) The Claridge Deco mirrored console table from Artisani ($900; artisani.com). 10) ARDARA console table from Brabbu Design Forces in gold leaf with a gloss varnish (price upon request; brabbu.com). 11) The Black & Blue cocktail/console table by designer Evangelos Vasileiou for Ligne Roset mixes black lacquered steel with three shelves in blue-tinted clear glass ($885; ligne-roset.com).

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HIGH-STYLE HORSEPOWER The 75th Goodwood Members’ Meeting Written by Andre James Staged at the Motor Circuit on the 12,000-acre Goodwood estate in rural West Sussex in the United Kingdom, home of the Dukes of Richmond for more than 300 years, the origins of the annual Members' Meeting go back to 1948, when the 9th Duke of Richmond opened the circuit and held the first in a series of meetings for members of the British Automobile Racing Club. After 71 meetings, the event went on hiatus in 1966; demand from members of the Goodwood Road Racing Club prompted Lord March to revive the event in 2014, with the intent of recreating the atmosphere and camaraderie from the golden era of motor racing.

Held this past March, the 75th Goodwood Members’ Meeting featured a total of 12 races spread out over two days. Cars that graced the track cumulatively represented more than a century of motorsport history. The event kicked off with a Governor’s Ball hosted by Lord March, during which a dozen noisy two-stroke 250 and 350cc Grand Prix motorcycles tore through the halls of Goodwood House, much to the delight of partygoers.

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Some of the most iconic periods in motorsport history were celebrated with high-speed demonstration runs: threeliter Sport Prototypes, Italian exotics from Ferrari and Alfa Romeo; and V12 Matras and Cosworth DFV-engined Lolas.

Legends of GT1 featured entrants from Porsche, Mercedes, Jaguar, McLaren and more. Other races included the Derek Bell Cup for one-liter Formula Three cars; the ever-popular Gerry Marshall Trophy for 1970-82 saloon cars; a two driver evening race that paired current stars with past masters; and the singledriver, reverse-grid sprint race.

Part motorsport mecca, part country fair, the 2017 Members’ Meeting sold out in record time, attributable not only to the quality of the racing, but also the family friendly atmosphere boasting plenty of off-track action, from a Bonhams’ auction to a wide variety of available food and entertainment options.

The 2018 Members’ Meeting is scheduled for March 17-18. For more information visit goodwood.com.. sl

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easy

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riders Compiled by Andre James

The lightest special urban bike in the world (less than 11 pounds), manufacture of the PG Bugatti Bike–developed by PG, designed by Bugatti and manufactured in Germany–will be limited to just 667 examples worldwide.

Constructed predominantly of carbon fiber, should you be one of the lucky few to have a Chiron in your garage, a special customization program can match the finish of your bike to your Bugatti (price upon request; pg.de).

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The G2 P51 Combat Fighter from Confederate is built entirely from aerospace billet aluminum. The proprietary monocoque is the stiffest, most fatigueresistant and lightest chassis capable of containing the greatest amount of torque as a percentage of weight in its class. The V-twim, four-stroke engine boasts a top speed of more than 160mph (From $125,000; confederate.com).

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In 2014, watchmaker Bell & Ross commissioned Shaw Harley-Davidson to create two matching concept bikes (both sold). The resulting B-Rocket boasted a powerful look that married the extreme modernity of the 1960s with the very first American jet aircraft. A pair of Bell & Ross watches, the BR 03 and the BR 01, were released in conjunction with the unveiling of the B-Rocket (bellross.com).

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The Tunnel mountain bike from Stinner is shown as a custom build for John Watson, owner of the blog The Radavist (from $2,299 for the steel frame only; stinnerframeworks.com).

Inspired by classic cafe racer-style motorcycles, engineer Indrek Narusk designed his VIKS urban bicycle with a unique shape: two identical tubes joined alongside each other and meeting at a single head tube, seat tube, and bottom bracket. Built in Estonia, each hand-crafted, made-to-measure bike comes equipped with either a fixed gear or a coaster hub brake for standard factory setup (Price upon request; viks.cc).

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A high performance road bike from Trek, the Domane SLR 8 features front and adjustable rear IsoSpeed decouplers to smooth rough roads, 600 Series OCLV carbon frame and additional tire clearance for on- and off-road versatility ($6,499; trekbikes.com).

The women's Runwell bicycle from Shinola was inspired by the French style of Porter bicycles, first used by newspaper couriers in Paris. Shimano Alfine 11-speed internal hub and disc brakes with lugged steel frame and fork ($2,950; shinola.com).

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A premium touring motorcycle from Indian Motorcycle, the Roadmaster Classic blends iconic style such as genuine leather saddlebags with modern touring amenities, such as a 7-inch touchscreen Ride Command infotainment system (From $27,999; indianmotorcycle.com).

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2017 Honda Montesa Cota 300RR is the production model most similar to the prototypes used by factory Honda Montesa riders. For 2017, the 300RR is equipped with ECU mapping that improves engine response in the low and middle rpm ranges that are especially important for trials motorcycles. The new three-ring piston (up from two), helps prevent leakage and improves durability. An updated chassis has suppler settings for the Tech fork, similar to those used by factory riders. The muffler has been made more robust with reinforced mounts, and the rear-brake pedal has been shortened to avoid impacts and allow the rider more freedom of movement ($9,999; powersports.honda.com).

Lotus Motorcycles was established to design and built the first motorcycle of the iconic car manufacturer. First revealed in 2014 following two years of R&D, the Lotus C-01 mates a V-twin engine with a distinctive body designed

by Daniel Simon that integrates carbon fiber, titanium and aerospace quality steel ($137,000; lotus-motorcycles.com).

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Amangiri at dusk as viewed from a hiking trail on property.

LOST&FOUND Seeking serenity at Amangiri Written by Bridget Williams

Alone on a hiking trail deep at the heart of the high desert on the Colorado Plateau in mid-January, I found myself fighting back tears; the irony of my uncontrollable waterworks in this arid environment not escaping me. The salty droplets stung my cheeks as I wiped them away with gloved fingers that were nearly numb from the frigid temperature. I wasn’t even sure if I was still on the trail at this point; there wasn’t another living soul as far as the eye could see; and (gasp), I’d ventured into an area without cell service. For me, being awake to greet the dawn of a new day is already a special time, and as the morning sun continued to rise, this fleeting moment of magic felt more bewitching, as I was privy to some tête–à–tête between sunlight and shadow that animated 60 slmag.net

the ancient sandstone rock formations. Even though it was the third morning I’d been exceptionally privileged to witness this spectacle, the surreal beauty of the scene continued to trigger an involuntary welling of my eyes in wonderment.

Sitting in silence until I could no longer handle the chill, I located the familiar cairns that are used to mark the trail, added one teeny pebble on top to commemorate the occasion, and made a beeline for Amangiri, the storied resort set amidst 600 acres in Canyon Point, Utah. Although it feels quite remote, the property is a 20-minute drive from the Glen Canyon Dam at the end of popular Lake Powell. The resort provides complimentary transfers to guests who arrive via Page Municipal Airport, just 25-minutes away.

Resort swimming pool at dusk

Aman Spa entrance

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Desert Lounge at dusk

Desert View Suite

Rather than try to upstage Mother Nature’s handiwork, the developers sought to have the 34-room property virtually disappear into the base of the mesa where it is artfully sited.

Turning off of a two-lane highway that seems to stretch into infinity, the resort begins to slowly reveal itself like a mirage as you travel up, down and around spectacular rock formations.

In any other setting the arrow-straight lines of the resort’s architecture would be perceived as severe, but here, with walls erected of concrete that has been mixed with local aggregate to complement the variegated hues of the metamorphic sandstone all around, architecture becomes art.

Manmade features have been carefully orchestrated to mimic and magnify the landscape. A large rock outcropping, the terminus of which reminded me of an oversized cartoon nose in profile, served as the starting point for the layout of the physical structures of the property, including the resort pool, which follows the rock’s natural contours. Moving outward from the pool is Amangiri’s “living room,” a multiuse space with seating areas oriented to four large fireplaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, an open kitchen with wood-fired oven and chef ’s counter, a library, and a gallery-style gift shop with jewelry, art and objects that highlight local artisans.

The spa, guest rooms and suites extend like open arms from

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Entrance Lounge

Aman Spa step pool

this central gathering point. Interspersed along the way, and communicated utilizing changes in elevation and direction, are strategic openings intended to frame a view, along with water features that imbue the concrete with a time-worn patina and break the desert’s silence.

Guest accommodations have been conceived in a similar vein of refined austerity. The muted and monochromatic color scheme derived from the surrounding landscape creates a Zenlike atmosphere; utilitarian furnishings were custom-designed to meld into the physical space. Simple pegs and a timber beam flush-mounted on the concrete wall near the entry to my 1,000-square-foot Desert View Suite held a thoughtful array of amenities to use for my daily sojourns: a walking stick, sunhat, natural fiber bag and a flashlight. French doors opened to a terrace with a gas fireplace integrated into bench seating that served as the only barrier between me and the expanse beyond; the breadth seemed even more profound at 4am, when I would seek repose there to admire a night sky with more brilliance than any assemblage of diamonds I’d ever been privy to.

The spa-like bathroom boasted a wet room with a soaking tub centered on a tall picture window, and large shower with showerheads on opposing walls. A spacious closet opposite the dual vanity was designed in similar fashion to its counterpart in

Via ferrata suspension bridge

There are six via ferrata climbing routes on property.

Adventure Partners offers guided tours of nearby slot canyons.

the bedroom, which cleverly concealed the television and pantry with a coffee machine, a refrigerator stocked with complimentary drinks, and a tempting selection of Dean & DeLuca snacks.

Exploring the more than 25 miles of marked trails on property was obviously something I relished in, but for those not interested in exploring on their own, Amangiri adventure staff offer twice daily complimentary guided hikes on property. As an enthusiast of archaeology and Native American culture, I signed up for a short morning hike to Broken Arrow Cave; its massive opening resembled the gaping mouth of a whale shark as it filters plankton from the ocean. Professional excavation of the cave has provided evidence of human habitation dating back to 6300 BC, although its name is derived from a more contemporary reference: the 1996 film Broken Arrow, starring John Travolta and Christian Slater. A climactic scene from the movie was filmed adjacent to the cave and remnants from the set, including a faux mineshaft, still remain.

Arguably an extreme offering for a brand so inextricably tied with tranquility, Amangiri has teamed up with Adventure Partners, the property’s on-site guide service, to offer resort guests exclusive access to six via ferrata climbing routes (there are only eight total in the United States). An Italian word meaning “iron road,” via ferrata originated in the Alps, and is a method of assisted rock climbing that essentially allows less experienced

climbers like me to scale peaks that would otherwise be outside the realm of possibility.

Staring up at the nearly 600-foot-tall peak I was about to tackle, my knees were trembling and my intense fear of heights prompted a fight or flight battle to rattle around in my mind. Even though I knew that being clipped onto the stainless-steel aircraft cable that snaked up the peak would limit any fall or slip to no more than five feet, the irrational “what ifs” tended to materialize at the most inopportune moments. With the ardent encouragement of my guide, who had the patience of a saint and encouraged me to keep going even when I practically pleaded to turn back, I ever so slowly ascended by alternating between climbing staple-like rungs permanently affixed to the rock in particularly tricky spots and more “authentic” rock climbing, where I had to feel around the surface of the stone to discern the most ideal hand and footholds.

By the time I reached the apex, a state of absolute euphoria rushed over me; I stopped to catch my breath, only to have it taken away again by the sweeping views that extended all the way to the Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument. The descent was just as exciting, and involved crossing a 200-foot suspension bridge that linked two peaks (I refused to cast my eyes anywhere but straight ahead), and then rappelling down a crevasse on the other side.

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Octopus with purple potatoes, Constelvetrano olives and piquillo pepper puree

Hamachi Tataki

Chef Jacob Anaya

The Aman brand as a whole is legendary for its “your wish is my command” philosophy in meeting guests’ requests, and an in-room adventure guide provides a good starting point for crafting both self-chaperoned and guided experiences in the immediate area. A sampling of on-property activities includes horseback riding, mountain biking, complimentary yoga and fitness classes and full use of the fitness center and the unisex Water Pavilion area in the spa with dry sauna, steam, cold plunge and soaking pool. Offsite, the options are limited only by your time and energy. A private guided tour led

by Adventure Partners through the famous (and hugely popular) slot canyons nearby is an absolute must, and provides access to places devoid of crushing crowds, so you can fully enjoy the magnificence of these natural sculptures. Boating, hot air balloon tours, working with paleontologists to unearth dinosaur bones, rafting, and miles and miles of hiking are all also easily accessible excursions.

A destination in its own right, the impressive 25,000 square-foot Aman Spa draws inspiration for its holistic menu from Navajo healing traditions, and utilizes chemical-free Aman skincare products. The spa is such a tranquil and well-designed place of respite that I found myself lingering there frequently to unwind in the surroundings with a cup of herbal Navajo tea, brewed from the indigenous greenthread plant. One of the most popular treatments and the spa’s signature service is the Desert Dream: a 135-minute journey that begins with craniosacral therapy while floating weightlessly in a salt water pool, followed by 30 minutes of unattended floating, before finishing with a 60-minute aromatherapy massage.

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Under the direction of Executive Chef Jacob Anaya, the dining experience is an absolute delight that delivers an exciting journey through the culinary traditions of the Southwest and beyond. The standard room rate at Amangiri includes breakfast, lunch and dinner for two guests per suite (inclusive of nonalcoholic beverages). A New Mexico native that grew up in a multi-cultural household, Anaya began cooking at a young age under the tutelage of his mother and grandmother, using produce grown in their own garden. The passion he feels for his craft is infectious and discernable in every bite. His plating is so beautifully executed (in particular the vegetarian options), that you’ll want to wait until the light wanes enough to obscure the view outside the floor-to-ceiling windows in the dining room so you can fully appreciate the edible artistry.

It is little wonder that the exclusive Aman brand has inspired a legion of “Aman Junkies”. And, it is also not surprising that the company chose this magical part of the country, which boasts the highest concentration of National Parks and National Monuments in the United States, for one of its two US outposts.

Setting out on a trail at sunrise each morning and watching the resort slowly disappear from view as I trekked on, I found that it only took me minutes to feel “lost”, but in an equal amount of time I was able to discover so much more.

Standard daily rate at Amangiri from $1,400, based on double occupancy. For more information and to make reservations visit online at Amangiri.com. sl

THAT’S AMORE

It’s love at first bite at Bella Notte Written by Patti Bailey / Photography by Andrew Kung

Chef de Partie Jose Ponce

A bastion of independent dining in a sea of chain restaurants, since it opened in 1996, Bella Notte has been gradually building a reputation as a purveyor of fine, seasonal Italian-style cuisine infused with fresh, local ingredients.

The brainchild of Kuni Toyoda, a fixture on the Lexington restaurant scene for nearly four decades, Bella Notte is a true family business, with Kuni’s son Kevin, who has trained at notable establishments in Italy, Japan and the Napa Valley, at the helm in the kitchen as Executive Chef. Complementing the cuisine is a palpable commitment to hospitality, the result of a corporate commitment to promoting from within.

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Bistecca alla Fiorentina

Penne La Bella

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Market Salad

Salmon Oreganato

A large faux olive tree, its branches interspersed with tiny lights, is the focal point of the main dining room, which is designed to simulate the experience of dining al fresco under the Tuscan sun. Three areas of the dining room were recently remodeled by Julia Rainey of r2 Studio in keeping with the existing rustic Italian feel. The time-worn appearance of a set of barn doors that serves as a room divider in one of the newly renovated spaces belies the fact that they arrived to the jobsite looking brand-new. Lexington-based artist Dan Barnes is responsible for the upholstery throughout the interiors.

A commitment to using the freshest local ingredients prompts menu revisions that coincide with variations in the growing season. Prominently displayed on the menu are the farms and purveyors whose products are highlighted in the various dishes. Items that can’t be sourced nearby are flown in fresh from the supplier, such as the catch of the day, overnighted from Hawaii, or the U10 diver scallops, grilled to perfection and served over a bed of linguini (only available on weekends). Each special menu is named to reflect the season as well as a specific region in Italy. Recently, the Spring in Toscana menu replaced the Late Winter in Valle D’Asota version. A gluten-free menu is also available upon request.

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Spring Bruschetta Trio

A standout among the appetizers on the current Spring in Toscana menu is a trio of bruschetta, each boasting a unique flavor profile running the gamut from sweet to spicy (the arugula pesto, strawberries, Fresno chilies and balsamico variant was my personal favorite). The crunch provided by a hearty sprinkling of crispy breadcrumbs atop a plate of the spinach ricotta tortellini entrÊe provides an interesting contrast to the delicate pillows of pasta made in-house and accompanied by combination of spicy n’duja (a spreadable pork salumi from Italy), pea shoots and sweet peas.

Mainstays of the regular menu include wood-fired pizzas that are VPN certified, a designation given to qualifying pizzerias by the Naples-based Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana; pasta dishes that epitomize the notion of comfort food; farm-fresh salads; and, a generous selection of entrĂŠes hailing from both land and sea.

Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, with brunch on Sundays, Bella Notte is located at 3715 Nicholasville Road. For more information or reservations call 859.245.1789 or visit bellalexington.com. sl

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SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY

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Lexington Cancer Foundation Wine Auction, 6pm, Donamire Farm; lexingtoncancerfoundation.org Kentucky Oaks & Derby, Churchill Downs; kentuckyderby.com Legacy Ball, 8:30pm, Woodford Reserve Club in Commonwealth Stadium; thelegacyball.com Kentucky Wine & Vine Fest, Nicholasville; kywineandvine.com Purses, Pouts & Pearls for the American Cancer Society, 6pm, Woodford Reserve Club in Commonwealth Stadium; pursespoutsandpearls.org Boy Scouts of America Bluegrass Blast Gala Auction, 6pm, Copper Roux; theresapatchforthat.com/bluegrass-blast/ Mayfest Arts Fair, Gratz Park & Transylvania University; downtownlex.com/mayfest-arts-fair/ Southland Street Fair, 3pm, Southland Drive; southlandstreetfair.com Central Kentucky Heart Walk, 8am, Keeneland; heartwalk.org Don & Mira Ball Education Builds Hope Luncheon, 12pm, The Carrick House; oneparentscholarhouse.org/events-news/education-builds-hope/ God’s Pantry Food Bank Taste of the Bluegrass, 7pm, Keeneland’s Keene Barn and Entertainment Center; godspantryfoodbank.org RJ Corman 5k for Chrysalis House, 9am, RJ Corman Railroad Group; cormanracesforchrysalis.com High Hope Steeplechase, 12pm, KY Horse Park; highhopesteeplechase.com The Bourbon Social VIP Progressive Dinner, 5:30pm; thebourbonsocial.com Harvest for Horses, 6pm, Talon Winery; kyehc.org

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Lexington Council Garden Clubs 2017 Garden Tour; lexingtongardenclubs.org Relay for Life, 4pm, Masterson Station Park; facebook.com/RelayForLifeFayetteCoKY/ Bourbon & Ballet, 5pm, Maker’s Mark Distillery; brie@kyballet.com KETs 29th Annual Summer Celebration, 7pm, Donamire Farm; ket.org/support/events/summer-celebration 20th annual Mutt Strut, 9am, Keeneland; lhsmuttstrut.com CHEW Brunch: Vegetarian, 11am; lexeffectky.com/chew.html St. Joseph Hospital Foundation 28th annual Golf Tournament, 6pm, University Club of KY; kentuckyonehealth.org/saint-joseph-hospital-foundation-golf-tournament The Bourbon Social Beer, Bourbon & Bacon Garden Party, 1pm; thebourbonsocial.com Night of the Stars for Central KY Riding for Hope, 6pm, Keene Barn & Entertainment Center; ckrh.org Walk Around KY for Epilepsy, 9am, Keeneland; 2017epilepsylexingtonwalk.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1171280

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Photos by Brianna Cottrell/NightMind Photography

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ROUNDBALL BASH

Presented by the Easter Seals Cardinal Hill Junior Board, founded in 2009 by a group of former patients and friends, proceeds from the 5th annual Roundball Bash, held at The Grand Reserve Distillery, will support the important work at Easter Seals Cardinal Hill.

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1) Danielle Johnson, Stephen Johnson, Hillary Smith 2) Mikey Edwards, Jeff Sullivan 3) Ann & Greg Smith 4) Maura Shirley, Lincoln Slone 5) Brittany Hall, John Kitchen 6) Kelsi Stull, Sam Simpson, Patrick Schwendeman, Alley Pearson 7) Lauren Monnet, Jenny Wurzback 8) Lisa & Corey Johnson

Hope

UNLIMITED BAGS

Bespoke Handbags by Jennie Garlington Jgarlington@mac.com

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MR. & MISS KENTUCKY BASKETBALL AWARDS CEREMONY Award nominees from around the Commonwealth, past award winners and fans of Kentucky high school basketball assembled in the Bluegrass Ballroom of the Lexington Center for the annual awards ceremony.

Lindsey Duvall from Bullitt East High School was named 2017 Miss Kentucky Basketball, and Taveion Hollingsworth from Paul Laurence Dunbar High School was awarded the title of 2017 Mr. Kentucky Basketball.

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1) Ceara Becker, Kathy Sweatt, Darlene Wade, Albert Wade, Jayden Sweatt, Kasaun Sweatt 2) Antoine Darby, Dwayne Gordon, Cliff Phillips 3) Tabor Shadowen, Steve Barker, Alex Hopewell, Hadleigh Hopewell 4) Austin Banks, Austin Caudill, Ryan Hogg, Robert Hammonds 5) Grayson Collier, Dayjha Carter 6) Meredith Johnson, Peggy Johnson, Keith Johnson, Amanda Keehan, Adam Schmidt, Chris Gramke 7) Russelena Turley, Lelana Penn 8) Kristie Hackworth, Haley Roe

Bringing the sport of kings to the Bluegrass.

Don’t miss the Under the Lights twilight polo series this summer!

INSTRUCTION | EVENTS HOSTING | BOARDING Contact Jorge Vasquez (859) 293-6751

www.CommonwealthPoloClub.com

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GALA PREVIEW PARTY

Drs. Bonnie and Jim Tanner served as honorary co-chairs of the gala preview party for the Blue Grass Trust for Historic Preservation’s 2017 Antiques & Garden Show.

Celebrating its 32nd year, the event featured more than 80 top-drawer exhibitors, from antiques to annuals, with all proceeds benefitting one of the Commonwealth’s preeminent advocates for historic preservation.

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1) Laura & John Brooks 2) Derrick Whitaker, Ted Schaffhauser 3) Margie & Bruce Koffler 4) Eugene Young, Sandy Fields 5) Suzanne & Jim Elliott 6) Fran Elsen, Debrah Hupman, Beverly Fortune 7) Bonnie Birkman, Kris Preston, Bonnie Tanner, Carolyn Cole, Jim Tanner 8) Tim Doyle, Stephanie Doyle, Jen Miller 9) Kelly Wesley Taylor, Jo Ellen Hayden 10) John Meyers, Janie Fergus, Jackson Osborne

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Photography by Tony Bailey

KMAC COUTURE

A record crowd dressed in shades of white packed a long tent erected in front of the KMAC Museum on Main Street in downtown Louisville to watch art walk the runway as part of the fifth annual KMAC Couture event. A pair of stunning dresses (one of which was created from more than 5,000 plastic drinking straws) by Lexington-based artist Maui Crane closed the show to thunderous applause.

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STRIKE OUT A-T

A sold-out event held at Southland Lanes, proceeds from the bowling fundraising event benefit the A-T Children’s Project, which supports research related to AtaxiaTelangiectasia, a rare genetic disease that attacks children, causing progressive loss of muscle control, immune system problems, and a high rate of cancer.

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1) Abby Foster, Alexis Ellis 2) Elaine Peterson, Nancy Gilinsky 3) Kyle, Landon, Ashley & Sean Smith 4) Greg Hurr, Casey Hurr, Bill Monzione 5) Sadie Hardin and Mason Hardin, event beneficiaries 6) Christi Russell, Tom Richardson, Cheri Tudor, Brett Richardson 7) Lori & Michael Dunn

THE GIUILIA QUADRIFOGLIO SHIFTING THE BALANCE OF POWER N O W AVA I L A B L E AT A L FA R O M E O L O U I S V I L L E

T H E A L FA G I U I L I A Q UA D R I F O G L I O The all-new Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is more than a showcase for the best power-to-weight ratio in its class — it’s a study in how to use that power.

Its near perfect 50/50 weight distribution creates optimal balance and highlights the advantage of a rear-wheel-drive system in a front-engined vehicle by pairing rear-wheel drive with the Giulia Quadrifoglio’s front-mounted, all-aluminum Twin-Turbo V6 engine.

A body in high-strength steel, fenders and doors in aluminum, a carbon fiber hood, roof and driveshaft, available front seat frames and aerodynamic appendices work in conjunction with the patented all-aluminum suspension to create a near perfect balance.

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