Sophisticated Living Cincinnati, Jan/Feb 2011

{Cincinnati’s Finest}

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{Cincinnati’s Finest}

Jan/Feb 2011

five dollars

Crafting exceptional cabinets for nearly 20 years.

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Enjoy your bourbon responsibly.

Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 45.2% Alc. by Vol., The Woodford Reserve Distillery, Versailles, KY ©2008.

look what’s new Hyde Park Lumber’s

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BROWN JORDAN find inspiration at brownjordan.com Day Lily II design: John Caldwell

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Chris’s Custom Cabinets Louisville Showroom 12200 Shelbyville Rd Louisville, KY 40243 (502) 244-1796

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Nashville Showroom 618 Grassmere Park Nashville, TN 37211 (615) 385-4044

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{Cincinnati’s Finest}

slmag.net

{Cincinnati’s Finest}

Jan/Feb 2011

five dollars

Making the Ascent

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Dinner to Drive For

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Gothic Influence

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Russian River Valley Chardonnay

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Supercar Serenade

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The Heart of Hunt Country

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Of note… Fit to be Tried

on the cover:

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Eye Candy

Eye Candy

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Bibliotaph

Tiffany polar bear brooch in white chalcedony, diamonds and 18 karat white gold ($40,000)

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The Art of the Matter

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Society Calendar

Jan/Feb 2011

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Artability

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An Evening Under the Tsars

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Signature Chefs

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Beaujolais Nouveau

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Boogie Nights

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Caliente

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Celebrity Waiters

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Millet Open House

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Style & Substance

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Innovations for an Epilepsy Cure

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Key to the Cure

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World Snow Polo Championship

more Eye Candy

Tahitian pearl (.40ct. TW) and diamond ring by Gellner. Available through Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers (sheliabayes.com).

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Handcrafted Concrete Tiles 502.938.4306 www.hartstonetile.com

From the Editor-In-Chief In October I had the great pleasure and pain of completing the Chicago Marathon. Not having participated in an event of such scale was the pleasure, with the pain coming afterwards in the form of aches and pains in places I didn’t even know could hurt – a not so subtle reminder of the result of pushing the limits of my undertrained joints. For the longest time, whenever my resolve to complete a workout or race was waning (which happened around mile 18 of the 26.2), I would try to distract myself and derive strength with thoughts of family and friends who’ve moved on to greener pastures. During workouts and races in college for instance, I’d think of my teammate Brian, who was killed while on a training run; later it was for another teammate, Tim, who made the unfortunate decision to drink and drive.

During the Chicago race, after the novelty of high-fiving spectators who lined the streets as many as six deep in some places wore off, my late uncle Tim came to mind. Paralyzed in his early 20s from the neck down when his only son was an infant, Tim managed to live a full life, exceeding all expectations, due in large part to the stalwart care provided by his wife Barb. While he wasn’t without moments of self-pity that shook the foundations of his faith, he pressed on by continuing to work, inventing a board game and becoming a political junkie whose debating skills would no doubt challenge even the most poised orator. As a child, my obligatory “Now I lay me down to sleep...” prayer always ended with a request that Tim be able to walk again. When he passed away in 2009, he specified that his body be donated to the medical school at the University of Cincinnati for research. While my reminiscences didn’t give me the strength to reach a new personal record, I still cracked a smile imagining Tim taking a break from bending St. Peter’s ear for a moment to cheer me on.

Even though Tim never regained the use of his limbs, as an adult I’ve found a way to answer my own prayers by helping others like him. For nearly a decade I’ve been involved with the Cardinal Hill Healthcare System (cardinalhill.org) - which provides physical rehabilitation services at outpatient facilities in Louisville and Northern Kentucky and at their flagship hospital in Lexington - by writing grants to help underwrite the costs of programs and equipment. No matter how stressed my daily life may seem, my trials seem nearly laughable once I step through the doors of their facilities and witness the resolve and bravery of the children and adults they serve. Seeing someone with paralysis “walking” on the Lokomat, a high-tech robotic gait trainer, gives me hope that spinal cord injury can become a curable affliction, and that I can play a small role in changing someone’s life.

Outside of my work with Cardinal Hill, charity is often top of mind as I spend a good percentage of my time planning the coverage of various charitable and business events. Month after month I continue to be amazed by the breadth and depth of generosity in our communities, as well as the needs highlighted by their respective efforts. In the span of a few days last month I had the great pleasure of becoming acquainted with the Backside Learning Center (derbymuseum.org/backsidelc/index.html) at their Ladies Day at the Races benefit at Churchill Downs and enjoying the company of two passionate Gilda’s Club volunteers at another outstanding benefit (gildasclub.org).

While a healthy hint of narcissism (and sometimes a little envy) may be what motivates us to carefully critique photos from the various parties and galas (I’m guilty of pouring over the images in the parties section of Town & Country even though I rarely personally know any of those featured), at the heart of it all is charity.

There’s no denying that these are trying times for myriad reasons and fundraising events provide levity to what can be very weighty issues. Since our inception, our definition of sophisticated has included both living and giving graciously. As we stand poised on the cusp of 2011, we are full of burgeoning optimism based in part on a growing amount of data that finds that despite financial challenges, optimism, confidence and happiness are on the rise. We wish similar sentiments among you and yours in the New Year.

Bridget Williams, Editor-in-Chief

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Properties for Rent Greenbriar Sporting Club

• Architectural design features an open floor plan with classic oak hardwoods and beautiful tile flooring throughout.

• An absolutely stunning kitchen features a convenient center island, Kohler fixtures, Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, “Under Cabinet Lighting” and of course, granite countertops.

• Take in year-round views of the Alleghny Mountains and Howard’s Creek from the rocking-chair front porch or the peaceful, screened-inback porch.

B

• Sturdy construction is highlighted by Western Red Cedar siding complimented by a classic shake roof.

reath taking mountain and water views only steps away from fishing and the Greenbrier resort. An adorable 3 Bedroom, 3.5 Bathroom Howard’s Creek hideaway with plenty of room and convenient access to all the services and amenities offered by the Greenbrier Resort, The Greenbrier Sporting Club is a private, residential sporting community and club on the 6,500-acre grounds of the legendary Greenbrier.

• Enjoy fishing mere steps away from your new home in Howard’s Creek or take a short walk to the Greenbrier resort for a full range of activities and amenities at America’s oldest private club.

• Spacious home featuring 3,165 square feet built on a large lot, 0.578 acres.

A

nything but ordinary, it’s spectacular! Enjoy entertaining family and friends in this custom 5BR/5.5BA, with granite countertops, custom cabinetry, vaulted ceilings, open floor plan, spacious rooms, tiled baths, 2 covered decks, exterior stone fireplace, 2 full kitchens, 2 living areas, 2 master suites, single car garage, view of Trillium’s 7th fairway, and much more. Membership is an appurtenance to the property.

Design Elements Stacked Stone Fireplaces Hardwood Flooring Stainless Steel Appliances Granite Countertops & Custom Cabinetry Large Covered Decks Exterior Fireplace Large Master Suite Trillium Links & Lake Club Amenities Direct Lake Access/Boats/Boat Docks Landings Restaurant and Pavilion & The Clubhouse 18-Hole Championship Golf Course Tennis, Fitness Center, & Spa at Apple Orchard Park Outdoor Pool/Hot Tub Hiking/Mountain Biking/Horseback Riding Camp Trillium & Adventure Club

Trillium, Cashiers, North Carolina For more Information Contact Jgarlington@mac.com

EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Bridget Williams ______________________________________________ ASSOCIATE EDITORS Kay Matton Jen Dotson ART DIRECTOR Jason Yann

even more of the luxury lifestyle slmag.net

CONTRIBUTORS Writers Patti Bailey Dr. Matthew Bessen Ellana Bessen Bob Beggs Kirby Camm Matthew Boone Gardiner Scott Harper Rex Lyons Alice Gray Stites Steve Wilson Photographers Tony Bailey Chad Henle Andrew Kung COPY EDITOR Jennifer Newton Allison O’Daniel Director of Photography Eric Williams Advertising Sales Office 502.582.6563 ______________________________________________ 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.

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Moloney Smith Interior Design Susan Moloney www.moloneysmith.com

One of the few things to be left intact during the renovation was the built-in cabinetry in the kitchen and living room. While the kitchen cabinetry is more towards the traditional than other design elements in the home, the hand-rubbed cocoa accents in the corners and profile recesses play into the metallic stripe wallcovering by Romo.

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Making the Ascent

With the help of interior designer David Millett, Patty Brisben’s condo in a landmark building has become her personal retreat and family haven

Written by Bridget Williams Photography by Eric Williams

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Clusters of pearly beads are arranged in a contemporary damask-style pattern on an ivory background of the Romo Scala wallcovering used in the master suite. The highly urethaned and curved headboard is lit from behind. The windows here, as in the living room, are dressed with sheer drapery.

Growing up in a home largely decorated in a style self-described as “all things early American,” businesswoman and philanthropist Patty Brisben vowed that the home of her dreams would be the polar opposite. The hugely successful founder of Pure Romance made good on her promise in spades with her latest residence – a cosmopolitan condo in the Ascent.

Facing an empty nest and seeking a new life outside the suburbs, Brisben began looking at condos close to the city. Her affinity for The Ascent certainly was not love at first sight. “I flat out told my agent no when he suggested it,” she recalled.

After some convincing, she agreed to take a look at several units, including the penthouse. With several of her children and their families, as well as Brisben’s interior designer David Millett in tow, the group moved from unit to unit, allowing them to see how such a large group could function in each distinct unit. While some were quickly ruled out, the one that remained still presented challenges to Brisben’s ideal. “I’m a 18 slmag.net

pretty good visionary, but the original configuration was too choppy. I love my family and I love entertaining and want to have room for everyone to spread out and feel comfortable.”

It was not until a downstairs neighbor offered her the chance to take a look at their floor plan that everything fell into place. “It helped me to conceptualize what could be and that we could make it work,” said Brisben. “We looked at the unit at nine in the morning and before lunch the deal was done,” added Millett, whose opinions Brisben relied on heavily in her decision.

Brisben and Millett share a unique symmetry of style, which allowed them to move quickly in transforming the spaces. “I’ve worked with Millett on so many projects that it’s crazy,” laughed Brisben. The movers brought in the last pieces of furniture on Labor Day weekend – just in time for Brisben to throw a fireworks viewing party for 125 – a event family and friends have said must become an annual tradition.

The light fixture over the dining table corresponds with once found over the bar separating the kitchen from the living room. The table and chairs are one of the few pieces that made the transition from Brisben’s previous residence.

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A 15-foot long, snaking sectional custom-designed by Rick Lee provides plenty of room to sit and admire the multi-million dollar views. The cocoa-colored shag rug follows the contours of the sectional and was bound on site. In front of the floor-to-ceiling window is a pair of oversized Milo Baughman swivel chairs that Brisben refers to as her “cuddle ups� for their ability to score some quiet time with her grandchildren.

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Opposite page: Interior designer David Millett created a unique sensory experience that begins the moment one crosses the threshold. In the foyer, the walls and ceiling are covered with squares of metallic cork. Overhead is a Chihuly-style blown glass chandelier. Glass doors cordon off a wine cellar outfitted with a metallic tile floor and iridescent mosaic tiles on the wall.

Spend five minutes with Brisben and you will quickly be enthralled by her effervescence. Throughout the interior of her home it seems as through Millett was able to bottle a bit of her luminosity and judiciously sprinkle it about for dramatic effect. It is a unique sensory experience that begins the moment one crosses the threshold. Squares of metallic cork applied to the walls and ceiling resemble the sands needed to create the exquisite Chihuly-style blown glass chandelier overhead. Underfoot, the abstract pattern in a circular rug is apropos in conjuring up the garments of the lovers embracing in Gustav Klimt’s famous painting.

Directly ahead, glass doors cordon off a wine cellar that was fashioned by right-sizing the powder room and stealing space from a large closet in one of the guestrooms. The metallic tile floor complements the warm tones of the mosaic tile along the back wall of the space. Wine is one of Brisben’s passions (in her next life she would like to be a vintner), and she has recently started jotting down the date and names of those enjoying the fruits of the vine with her on the cork, which is then deposited into a large apothecary-style jar in the cellar. A painting commissioned by her son has extra-special sentimentality as it depicts a bottle from the Frank Family winery (a place she visited with her children) and incorporates the Pure Romance logo on a wineglass charm.

One of the few things to be left intact during the renovation was the built-in cabinetry in the kitchen and living room. While the former leans more towards the traditional, the hand-rubbed cocoa accents in the corners and profile recesses play into the metallic stripe wallcovering by Romo.

A unique feature of the kitchen is a spacious walk-in pantry hidden behind a door that seamlessly blends in with the cabinetry. A light fixture suspended over the bar that separates the kitchen from the living room calls to mind individual droplets of water suspended in midair. A matching fixture can be found over the dining table, one of the few pieces that made the transition from Brisben’s previous residence.

A 15-foot long, snaking sectional custom-designed by Rick Lee provides plenty of room to sit and admire the multi-million dollar views. The cocoa-colored shag rug follows the contours of the sectional and was bound on site. In front of the floorto-ceiling window is a pair of oversized Milo Baughman swivel chairs that Brisben refers to as her “cuddle ups” for their ability

to score some quiet time with her grandchildren while watching people coming and going across the Brent Spence Bridge and the barges and pleasure craft cruise up and down the Ohio River.

Millett came up with a clever design solution to deal with what Brisben deemed the white elephant in the living room – hefty support columns placed between the windows: he covered them with the same metallic wallcovering as the rest of the room but ran it horizontally. “It really helps to deplete their mass,” he pointed out. “Some people notice them right away as a sort of ‘wow’ factor, while others don’t really notice them at all. The lines of the wallpaper move the eye to the symmetry of the circular elements found elsewhere.”

The circle as a recurring theme appeals in both large (the columns) and subtle (small metallic inlays within the absolute black granite in the backsplash behind the range) ways. “As Millett and I continue to work together, I’ve discovered that I love things with a curvy or round shape.”

Every design element was chosen to accent and draw the eye to the view. A flat screen television is hidden on a lift within a dark wood console and can be summoned with the push of a button. Varied shades of blue on the accent pillows bring to mind the hues of the historic bridge below.

Separating the living room from the master suite is a sitting area with a double-sided fireplace. A pair of oversized lounge chairs can be converted into twin beds. Glass shelves within a mirrored niche next to the fireplace in the master holds treasured mementoes and family photographs. Clusters of pearly beads are arranged in a contemporary damaskstyle pattern on an ivory background of the Romo Scala wallcovering. The highly urethaned and curved headboard is lit from behind with a pair of silver drum shade pendant lamps hanging overhead. The windows here, as in the living room, are dressed with sheer drapery.

Linking the master bedroom to what could only be described as every woman’s dream closet is a master bath with loads of storage and spa-like amenities such as a towelwarming drawer.

Having had several months to settle into her new home, Brisben does not see the honeymoon being over anytime soon.

“It’s truly like a vacation to live here,” she said. “I used to think the Ohio River was ugly, but I’ve come to appreciate and enjoy its hard-working qualities.” sl

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dinner Heirloom Restaurant in Midway Written by Bridget Williams Photography by Eric Williams

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t

to drive for

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Sweet. Sour. Salty. Bitter. These basic components of taste have recently been joined by “umami,” the current darling of foodies that describes the subtle savory flavor that occurs naturally in meat, fish, vegetables and dairy products. While it is not as easily discernable as the immediate reaction elicited by the taste of lemon, for example, it nonetheless plays an important role in making our food pleasantly palatable. In this vein, I would like to propose a sixth taste in the tongue’s repertoire: passion. All chefs prepare food, but passion for the craft imparts a depth to the dining experience that leaves all the senses satiated by the meal’s end. Mark Wombles of Heirloom Restaurant in Midway, Kentucky is a chef that clearly cooks with passion. Having reached his five-year anniversary, Chef Wombles says with pride that he can now officially call himself an “established” restaurateur.

While a student at the University of Kentucky, in short order Wombles became more interested in extracurricular activities than class work. He made the fortuitous decision to quit school and take a job as a cook at the Merrick Inn in Lexington, an experience that provided him with the “aha” moment to visualize his future. At the urging of his family, he looked into formal culinary school, ultimately deciding on the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco over the CIA in Hyde Park, New York, largely to take advantage of California’s more temperate climes. He successfully balanced his studies and an apprenticeship with James Beard winner Chef Michael Mina at Aqua, a bastion of fine dining in the Financial District.

Upon graduation, Wombles says that while he would have happily remained in San Francisco, the exorbitant cost of living helped him to make the decision to return closer to home, where his ultimate goal was to open his own restaurant.

Chef Wombles rounded out his culinary repertoire under the tutelage of heralded Chef Jean Robert de Cavel at The Maisonette; at Jonathans at Gratz Park in Lexington; and at Bistro La Belle in Midway. Grateful for the insight gained at each but desiring to express his own culinary style, he began laying plans for his own place. Henry, his father (and biggest cheerleader), purchased a former lobbyist’s office on Main Street in the charming and historic town center of Midway (which was coincidentally enjoying a renaissance of sorts), and Chef Wombles enlisted the services of the late Richard Kimbrel to execute his “California contemporary” interior, which injects just enough wow factor into otherwise Mayberry-esque environs.

Henry said that one out of town client told her she felt like Dorothy when she landed in the Technicolor dream world of Oz.

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An Heirloom logo rendered in cherry red above the entrance beacons to passersby. Inside, delicate shapes of flora and fauna on the Tord Boontje panels that hang on the walls above the tall-backed banquettes cast interesting shadows as they interact with the soft lighting at night and sunlight during the day. Speckled granite tabletops take the place of traditional white tablecloths and coordinate beautifully with the overall color palette of taupe and cream.

Wedged into one corner is a backlit onyx-topped bar that casts the most flattering glow upon those gathered around. On most evenings you will find Henry in one of the seats or working the crowd with ample doses of genteel charm and an endearing ability to spin a yarn.

Having browsed the menu prior to our visit, we pretty much had our selections premade, digressing only slightly after hearing the specials. Chef Wombles selected the name Heirloom to reflect his “clean� cooking style, one that he defines as using the best of what is local whenever possible and cooking everything from scratch (from the crackers on the cheese plate to the ice cream), in small quantities, so each bite is fresh and flavorful. His efforts certainly have not gone unnoticed as Heirloom was recently voted tops in the Commonwealth in three categories among OpenTable.com users: Fit for Foodies, Neighborhood Gem and Notable Wine List.

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Our meal began with the appetizer special: a picture-perfect trio of seared scallops presented on a rectangular-shaped dish and nestled in a cloud of cauliflower puree. Flavorful pesto and a sprinkling of chorizo added additional depth of flavor. Spinach salad is one of my favorite comfort foods, and I was not disappointed with Heirloom’s rendition, which was accentuated with roasted peppers, goat cheese and crispy fried onions. The simple Caesar salad was another tried-and-true favorite that was well done with just enough of the flavorful dressing mixed with crispy and well-chilled romaine.

Dinner selections among our table ran the high-low gamut. I was delighted with my choice of the chile-roasted tiger prawns. Lovely to look at, the prawns were perches upon a circular, golden brown almond-jasmine rice cake and topped with a tangle of red onion frisee. This basil aioli was delectably spicy and definitely not for those who cannot take the heat coming from the kitchen. I found myself stealing more than one bite of the beef tenderloin. The porcini dry rub produced a crusty outside that provided a nice contrast to the melt-in-your-mouth medium-rare interior.

To some, a burger and fries may seem out of place amongst the more rarified options, but the “Infamous Mary Burger” has quite a history and has proven to be one of the more popular staples on the menu. While you will have to ask Henry to give you the full story, the edited version is that Johnny Unitas, a friend of the family, would pay an extended visit to the Wombles twice a year at their home in Hazard and would always phone ahead to Mary, Henry’s mother, to make sure she would be serving 30 slmag.net

her “Mary Burgers.” After the restaurant opened, Henry searched and searched in vain for his late mother’s recipe; as he was just about to give up, his brother called and said he had found the recipe, written in their mother’s own hand. Henry told Chef Wombles not to change one iota of the ingredients or preparation method, and if it sold fine, if not they would take it off of the menu. Five years later they have sold more than 10,000 of the hand-formed patties, which are served with a generous portion of shoestring fries presented in a parchment-lined cone. Do not ask for the recipe, it is kept under lock and key.

The dessert course forced me to make some tough decisions from an array of excellent choices. In the end our table split the sinfully delicious molten chocolate cake that was topped with a generous dollop of house-made ice cream and a good-as-grandma’s warm apple tart, also served with ice cream.

Like he does with everyone, Henry made sure to stop by before we left to make sure everything was to our liking. “We want to make sure everyone enjoys good food and has a good time in a relaxed environment,” he said.

With dad taking care of the front of the house, Chef Wombles is freed up to work his magic in the kitchen. “This is a finicky business. You only get one chance to make a lasting good impression,” said the chef. Chances are good we will be making the trip again.

Heirloom Restaurant, 125 Main St., Midway, KY, 859-846-5565, heirloommidway.com. Open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday, 11:30am to 2pm; dinner, 5:30pm to close. Reservations are strongly recommended. sl

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Old Camphor Trunk FROM

MERRIDIAN

You know those old cliché images of travelers’ trunks that have stickers from exotic countries around the world? Well, this is that trunk—but without the stickers and stamps. It’s traveled the Gobi Desert and sailed the North Pacific only to end up right at home... in your living room.

The Vestige Collection: A Piece of History for Your Home

12130 Royal Point Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45249 Just off Fields Ertel Road west of Kohl’s.

513-583-1234 www.merridian.com

GOTHIC INFLUENCE English Regency Furniture Written by Kirby Camm, Bittners No matter which period of antique Gothic furniture you choose, each refers back to the Gothic architecture of the Middle Ages in Europe - specifically Gothic cathedrals and churches. One of the defining characteristics of these Gothic houses of worship is their pointed arches and windows.

There are three distinct periods for Gothic antique furniture.

The first appeared in the Middle Ages, and there are very few examples, most of which are in museums. Gothic-influenced furniture made a re-emergence in England starting with Thomas Chippendale in the 1740s and continuing through the Regency period, which ended around the 1830s. In the last part of the 19th century, in both Europe and America, Gothic Revival became the last period of Gothic furniture. It is important to note that Gothic Revival furniture has a more comprehensive Gothic look, whereas the earlier English period shows a very restrained Gothic influence.

The illustrated secretary is a fine example of Gothic influence in the English Regency period of antiques. This Regency secretary looks totally English, but upon closer examination it has Gothic elements incorporated into its design. Note the glazed bookcase doors of the secretary. The door’s mullions, the moldings which secure the glass in the secretary’s bookcase doors, are designed with the distinguishing Gothic pointed arch, which is reminiscent of the stained glass windows of Gothic cathedrals and churches.

Also, the secretary’s cornice has a Gothic feel about it because of the applied decorative molding of Gothic arches supported by small column shapes. These Gothic influences are very subtle and do not overpower this English Regency secretary, making this particular piece very interesting. Oftentimes a furniture piece with these understated Gothic influences will frequently be called “in the Gothic taste.”

I would be remiss if I did not bring up one other interesting aspect about this English Regency secretary: it has a fall front desk section as opposed to the traditional slant lid desk design. Prior to this Regency innovation, primarily all English secretaries and desks were fashioned with a slant lid. A slant lid desk is a desk with a drop front writing section, set at an angle, which rests on a base of drawers or doors. When a slant lid desk is closed shut, the desk’s lid or writing area is at a 45-degree angle, hence the name, “slant lid.” Whereas in all English Regency fall front secretaries, the desk component is always hidden in a large drawer. Note the large drawer of the illustrated Regency secretary.

The fall front desk design is a completely new desk style that originated in the English Regency period of antiques. The fall front desk section is accessed by pulling the large drawer out several inches after which the drawer’s front release buttons are pushed, causing the large drawer front to fall forward for the desk’s writing area, hence the name, “fall front.” With the drawer front down, the desk is completely open to its fitted interior of small drawers and pigeonholes and adds to the workability of the desk.

A fall front secretary, when the desk section is closed, looks similar to a china cabinet or bookcase. But opened or closed, this English Regency secretary in the Gothic taste is an optical treat. sl

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Russian River Valley Chardonnay

Sonoma County is comprised of luxury resorts, fine restaurants, major highways, small towns, pastures, country inns and back roads, as well as the ubiquitous vineyards; all of this is about 30 miles from San Francisco via the Golden Gate Bridge. The county itself is over a million acres with over 60,000 acres planted to vineyards, with 450 wineries and 1,800 grape growers. The number one grape planted in Sonoma County is Chardonnay.

Within the Sonoma County is the Russian River Valley.

What in the world can Russians have to do with California wine country you ask? Well the Russians were the first nonnatives to settle in Sonoma County at Fort Ross from 1812 to 1841. Where they planted vineyards and what type of grapes they planted is not known, but what we do know is that they are credited for the first vineyard plantings in Sonoma County.

The Russian River Valley is planted to approximately 15,800 acres of vines within its 125,000 acres of land. With over 200 grape growers and 94 wineries, this is a fraction of Sonoma County but is generally considered one of the finest areas in California to grow grapes. Lou Foppiano of the Foppiano Winery was the first to use the Russian River Valley on a wine label in 1970. Previous to that, wines hailing from the area

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Written by Scott Harper, MS

where simply labeled Sonoma County. Official status as an American Viticulture Area came in 1983.

Among wine aficionados, Russian River is one of the Holy Grails of Pinot Noirs, making seductively rich and flavorful world class Pinot Noir. While Pinot Noir may garner the most attention, the number one planted grape by over a thousand acres is Chardonnay. The next grape variety planted by acres after Pinot Noir drops by more than 2,800 acres. So at the end of the day one could say Russian River Valley is all about Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Why does the Russian River Valley grow great Chardonnay? One of the reasons is that it has a fog that is drawn in from the Pacific Ocean every day. This fog can decrease the temperature by as much as 40 degrees, creating a cooler growing temperature that high quality Chardonnay grapes require, giving the wines that touch of more natural acidity for balance and complexity.

A drive down Westside Road is obligatory when visiting the Russian River Valley. The twisting two lane road goes through the heart of the wine country, over rolling hills, across the Russian River, through redwood forests and by many of the iconic wineries such as Williams Selyem Winery and Rochioli Estate. sl

Suggested wines Chardonnay Selby ‘08 (Russian River Valley, California) Susie Selby is the winemaker and owner of her eponymous winery. Selby is one of the most genuinely sweet winemakers and people I have had the privilege to meet. The quality of her wines is exceptional and vastly underrated by the media, but taste the wine and you can see why Ms. Selby is one of the hottest winemakers in Sonoma. Founded in 1993 and with a quaint tasting room just off the square in Healdsburg in Sonoma it makes for a perfect stop in. Selby makes a wide range of wines including Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Malbec, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. Many of the wines are made from Russian River vineyards but Selby also sources fruit from the other areas of Sonoma County.

The sight is a yellow gold wine with green highlights. Fullbodied and dry this Chardonnay has the flavors of ripe yellow apple, pear, fig, honey dew melon, vanilla, light oak, clove and butterscotch all in a seductively seamless texture.

Chardonnay Sonoma Cutrer “The Cutrer” ’05 (Russian River Valley, California) Founded in 1973 Sonoma-Cutrer was initially a Chardonnay only winery, they now make a small amount of Pinot Noir. The focus solely on chardonnay was unusual for California but this focus brought about a state of the art winery and a diligence to make great wine that is still paying off today. Now owned by Brown Forman with winemaker Terry Adams at the helm, Adams makes 5 Chardonnays and 2 Pinot Noirs not all from the Russian River Valley but all from Sonoma County. Sonoma-Cutrer calls their methodology and philosophy Gran Cru, which is the classification used in Burgundy, France for arguably the greatest Chardonnay wine of the world.

Rich yellow-gold color suggest the 5 years age of this wine, a lesser wine would not show as well. The flavors of meyer lemon, apple, and pear, are delicious. The bodied is full and enhanced by all spice and toasty oak; it is a mature and flavorful Chardonnay.

Scott is General Manager of the Bristol Bar & GrilleJeffersonville and is Wine Director/Sommelier for the 5 Bristol Bar & Grille’s in Louisville and Indiana. He teaches wine through Bellarmine University. Scott is a Master Sommelier and a Certified Wine Educator.

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Supercar Serenade

A unique exhaust note accompanies theRapide Aston Martin’ s supremely elegant provides sports car performance for four performance and luxury of the Lexus LFA

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Painstakingly developed from a blank canvas by a small and dedicated team of handpicked engineers that pushed every possible dynamic boundary, the LFA is a halo model for the F performance marquee. Featuring advanced carbon fiber technology, a high-revving 552 hp 4.8-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine and rear-mounted six-speed sequential transmission, the midfront engine LFA combines lightweight construction and ideal chassis balance to deliver exhilarating and usable 202 mph performance.

The goosebump-worthy wail of the LFA’s high-revving V10 engine has been acoustically tuned to deliver a unique Formula 1-inspired soundtrack.

The note is so unique that Lexus has even created an LFA ringtone that can be downloaded at www.lexus-lfa.com (click “Digital Premium”).

Track-inspired highlights include forged aluminum pistons, lowinertia cylinder-shaped valve springs wound from elliptical rod, a fully integrated lightened crankshaft with paired cylinder valleys designed to reduce pumping losses and a magnesium alloy cylinder head cover. A dual air intake-system also enhances engine performance, switching from a primary inlet port at low to medium engine speeds to dual ports at higher revs to boost breathing efficiency.

The V10’s explosive performance is managed by an equally advanced transmission. The LFA’s specifically developed all-new, six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox (ASG) drives the rear wheels through a torque-sensing Limited Slip Differential, and is mounted in transaxle layout over the rear axle to achieve an optimal 48:52 weight distribution, a balance that combines the controllability and straight-line stability of a front-engine, rear-drive layout with the handling dynamism and cornering agility of a midengine, rear-drive platform.

The innovative Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) monocoque chassis and bodywork is a first for Lexus, as are the carbon ceramic material brake discs and extensive use of aluminum, titanium and magnesium in the powertrain and transmission assemblies. Even the steering wheel employs carbon fiber elements to make it lighter and more natural in its responses.

At four times the specific strength of aluminum, the CFRP center section creates an exceptionally stiff and strong structure while delivering major weight savings (more than 220 lbs) over an equivalent aluminum body.

Operated by steering wheel column-mounted paddle shifters, the ASG transmission works hand-in-hand with the engine to help put the driver in full control even under the most extreme driving conditions. Fitted with micro-polished gears for precise gearshifts and to reduce gear whine, this intelligent transmission is engineered to execute incredibly quick gearshifts and can upshift in just 0.2 seconds.

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Sleek, athletic and muscular, the low-slung LFA coupe exudes supercar style from every curve and angle. Despite its mold-breaking styling, the LFA can immediately be identified as a Lexus through adherence to the three key characteristics of the Lexus L-finesse design philosophy: “Incisive Simplicity” or purity; the “Intriguing Elegance” of emotional appeal; and, the “Seamless Anticipation” of the experience and care of Japanese hospitality.

Swinging open the LFA’s doors reveals a dramatic low-slung cockpit that has been intelligently designed and hand-assembled with the finest materials to reflect the car’s driver-centric dynamics. The intimate two-seater cabin has been conceived at every stage – ergonomics, acoustics, materials, comfort, versatility and visibility levels have all been painstakingly engineered – to put the driver at the center of the driving equation. Leather-wrapped seats are orthopedically designed with a split rear backrest, pronounced side bolsters and eight-way electric adjustment to deliver both superb long-distance comfort and outstanding levels of support.

Within the cabin, the hooded instrument panel takes center stage.

Despite its compact dimensions, its advanced technology enables it to deliver an exceptionally high level of information to the driver in a clear and logical manner. The central tachometer runs to 10,000 rpm and features a fast-reacting LCD needle designed to exactly replicate the V10 engine’s insatiable appetite for revs. Housed within the dial are the digital speedometer, gear indicator, transmission mode, vehicle control data, trip information displays and Tire Pressure Warning System display. Displaying this data on the color TFT LCD panel delivers superior visual clarity in even the brightest of conditions.

Further reflecting the materials used in the LFA’s chassis, the cabin sports numerous metal accents. The lateral air vents, center console and door pulls all feature brushed satin metal accents, while the floor-hinged brake and throttle pedals are single-piece forged aluminum. Other touches that 40 slmag.net

highlight Lexus’ inimitable attention to detail include a padded side-molding to assist with entry and exit, a mirror-finish aluminum plate next to the accelerator pedal to assist with quick footwork, an etched left foot support and an aluminum foot brace in the passenger footwell.

Customers can customize their LFA with 30 exterior colors, six brake caliper colors and 12 interior colors. A limited edition Nürburgring Package offers 10 more horsepower than the standard LFA; a .05 second reduction in gear-shift time; a sport-tuned suspension; exclusive black mesh-type wheels; dedicated high-grip tires for better handling; a larger front spoiler and fixed rear wing for improved high speed down force; and special privileges associated with the Nürburgring course itself. “Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the Nürburgring Package’s performance enhancements that were proven on the legendary German track,” said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager.

Lexus has partnered with Tumi to create a premium line of hard shell, aluminum and carbon-fiber like travel cases. The custom sizes enable the pieces to be easily packed and lifted from the cargo area. The vehicle identification number (VIN) corresponding with the owner’s LFA will be inscribed on each bag to complete the exclusive experience.

Production is scheduled to begin in December 2010 and will be limited to 500 cars worldwide ($375,000 MSRP exclusive of delivery, processing and handling fees). Each car will be hand-assembled by “Lexus LFA Works” at the Motomachi Plant in Toyota City at a rate of no more than 20 per month to ensure peerless build quality and attention to detail during the customization process. Assembled by a single engineer, each V10 engine will bear his signature, a testament to the LFA’s bespoke nature. “Although these inspirational, dreamlike moments will unfortunately only be experienced by a lucky few,” said Tanahashi, “I firmly believe the spirit of the LFA will be the pride of any Lexus admirer.” sl

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Photograph by Karen Monroe

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The Heart of Hunt Country

The Goodstone Inn & Estate in Middleburg, Virginia Written by Bridget Williams

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The Heart of Hunt Country Few among us have the good fortune of turning a passion into a profession. Mark Betts is one of the lucky ones. During the many years he spent successfully toiling away in the corporate world, he held onto the admittedly irrational idea that he would like to be a farmer. Like many persons uninitiated in the toil and trial of working the land, the idealized image of a gentleman farmer seduced him like a temptress, until one early summer morning in 1996 when he visited an idyllic 640-acre farm not far from the quaint and historic town center of Middleburg, Virginia.

Even though it was the first farm he visited, so smitten was he that he made a purchase offer the next day. Soon thereafter he surmised that the best way to steward such a large property was to convert it into a Country Inn, and thus, since 1998, the gentleman farmer, with the help of many dedicated people, is now proprietor of The Goodstone Inn & Estate, a member of the small Luxury Hotels of the World collection.

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The property, like the rest of Loudoun County, is “dripping with history,” according to Betts, who compiled a thorough pedigree of the estate. Jamie “the Scott” Leith was the first recorded owner, paying 240 pounds sterling for the tract of frontier plantation in the Virginia Colony. Civil War skirmishes were waged on the property, and following the war, one of Leith’s sons, Benjamin, settled on the property and constructed several structures that stand today, most notably the Dutch and French Farm Cottages.

In 1915, Benjamin sold the farm to the Goodwin Family, who built a large stone house that became the namesake of the property and its prosperous dairy, which operated until the 1960s. The Goodwin House was destroyed by fire in 1939; the surviving façade now serves as a dramatic entrée to the swimming pool, sited to take full advantage of the picturesque cluster of farm buildings poised on the horizon.

Frederick Warburg and his wife Wilma purchased the property in 1943, adding the aforementioned swimming pool, bathhouses and extensive landscaping, which served as an elegant backdrop for their frequent fetes. Renamed Snake Hill Farm, during their ownership the property was operated continuously as a horse and dairy farm until the 1960s. Betts purchased the property from the Warburg Estate. Now 15 years into his ownership, Betts maintains his zealous passion and infectious enthusiasm for the land and has grandiose plans for its future.

A winding drive leads to the Carriage House, which has been exquisitely transformed from 14 horse stalls and areas for hay and grain storage into the centerpiece of the estate.

Accessed through a landscaped courtyard with a bubbling fountain, the cozy common areas, including Hilltoppers restaurant and the Great Room, serve as a hub of activity. The absence of a reception desk makes one feel as though they are being welcomed at the country home of a friend – albeit one with impeccable taste.

There are numerous lodging options scattered throughout the estate, several of which are particularly suited for traveling with extended family and friends. There are three suites and a cozy room fashioned out of the hay loft in the Carriage House; two rooms on the second floor of the stone Dutch Cottage that share a fully equipped kitchen and sitting room on the first floor; four spacious rooms spread throughout the tranquil Spring House, also with a shared kitchen and living room and inviting rocking chairs on the two-story front porch; three rooms in the Provence-inspired French Farm cottage, boasting high vaulted ceilings with rustic rough-hewn beams, authentic barn wood planking and two-foot thick stone walls with hand troweled plaster; four rooms in the expansive Manor House, whose common areas include a large dining room appropriately adorned with exquisite Zuber wallpaper depicting American historical themes. If you are lucky, Betts may share with you the story of a world famous music icon who stayed in the Manor House for weeks with his entourage and could frequently be heard happily singing show tunes as he walked the grounds.

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The Heart of Hunt Country

During our visit we had the great pleasure of staying in the Bull Barn cottage. Located in the heart of the working farm and near the climate-controlled chicken coop and a verdant pasture for grazing sheep, the cottage certainly ranks as one of the most unique accommodations I have stayed in. I was absolutely enamored with the decision to leave in place a good deal of the original bullpen iron framework that now cordons off the sitting room from the wet bar. The décor throughout the tworoom vaulted interior is appropriately rustic but comfortable, incorporating leather and wool upholstery and curtains fashioned from burlap with jute cording. Barnwood cabinetry next to the stone fireplace in the sitting room conceals a flat screen television. Faux hay bale doors are found above the entry to the spacious bath, which is outfitted with an air jet tub and steam shower with multiple body sprays.

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Reluctant to leave the cozy confines (as well as the plate of warm chocolate chip cookies that greeted us upon arrival), but anxious to explore, we laced up our walking shoes and took to the three miles of hiking trails on property that lead through the meadows and along the creek. For those who wish to explore further by foot or bicycle, narrow country roads accessed near the Spring House lead past magnificent horse farms (Loudoun County has the third largest horse population in the country) and grand estates fronted with historic stone fences.

We arrived back from our journey in time for afternoon tea, which is elegantly presented daily in the Carriage House.

After a quick game of shuffleboard on the lawn behind the swimming pool, it was time to dress for dinner, which we knew would be a treat after Betts described Executive Chef William Walden as “working like a dog and cooking like a god.”

Walden, an award-winning chef and native Virginian, cut his teeth in the culinary world as a young boy, working in his grandmother’s grocery and learning to butcher meats and safeguard her recipes. Thanks to an influential aunt and uncle from France, he was able to make pâté à choux by age six. Truly gifted in his art but refreshingly lacking the ego often associated with chefs of his caliber, Walden is just as passionate about the land as Betts and sources as much as possible from the farm. Complementing each meal is an impressive selection of more than 100 wines (1,500 bottles) from all over the world that are stored in an underground cellar/private dining room accentuated by a hand painted hunt country mural.

While my Francophile dinner, which included a Alsatian onion tart, Chateaubriand Et Sa Béarnaise and a Belgian chocolate truffle torte was a delight for the eyes and the palate, I will have to admit that it was his amazing French toast, accompanied by eggs from the farm and applewood smoked bacon (a complimentary made-from-scratch full country breakfast is offered to all in-house guests) that made me a true devotee. When pressed for the secret to the perfectly poached egg tucked under a light blanket of Hollandaise sauce in the eggs Benedict, he proceeded to give a near scientific explanation that made me realize perfection is best left to the experts.

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The Heart of Hunt Country

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After the aforementioned breakfast, rather than allowing myself to be lulled into a blissful food coma, we opted to go canoeing on Goose Creek. A member of the staff transported us across the open fields to the point of embarkation, after which we enjoyed a leisurely downstream paddle that ended (with all of us managing to remain upright) at the base of the hill below the Carriage House. Having spent a few days exhausting all of the property amenities, we ventured out to enjoy nearby Middleburg and the rest of Loudoun County.

Nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Virginia Piedmont, the area is often referred to as the “Nation’s Hunt Capital” and offers a bevy of activities catering to a variety of interests. Horse lovers will want to check out the steeplechase races during the spring and fall at historic locales, such as Morven Park, Glenwood Park and Oatlands Plantation, or attend the annual Upperville Colt and Horse Show near Middleburg, the oldest horse show in the United States.

Take a behind-the-scenes look at some of the country’s most glamorous horse farms during the Hunt Country Stable Tour, held over Memorial Day weekend. An event not to be missed is the Christmas in Middleburg celebration held the first Saturday in December, which brings a parade of riders in red coats on festively turned-out horses with hounds in tow.

While in office, President Kennedy and his family sought refuge from the pressures of the post in historic Middleburg, and today the town still boasts an eclectic bunch of some 60 sophisticated and quirky boutiques, galleries and restaurants (Jackie’s hunting “pinks” are on display at Morven Park’s Museum

of Hounds and Hunting). We loved the vintage-inspired jewelry at Betsey, fun finds from around the world at Crème de la Crème, traditional English apparel at English Country Classics, bespoke suits at Highcliffe Clothiers, unique home accents at The White Bench, fine art at the Trowbridge-Lewis Galleries and Red Fox Fine Art, and the personable service at Duchessa.

We stepped into a bygone era during lunch at one of the oldest established inns in America and the oldest restaurant in Middleburg – the Red Fox Inn, circa 1728. The maze of dimly lit rooms, thick stone walls and artwork depicting the region’s equestrian traditions resonate its historical significance (the pine bar was fashioned from a Civil War field surgeon’s table). For good measure we ordered a mainstay of the menu for decades – Virginia peanut soup – to mixed reviews (perhaps an acquired taste?); the Red Fox crab cakes received rave reviews all around.

Oenophiles can revel in the pleasure of experiencing one or all of the county’s 19 award-winning wineries. In less than 25 years, Loudoun County wineries have emerged as leading Virginia producers of New World grape wines. With over 336 acres, Loudoun County ranks second in Virginia in wine grape acreage planted. Many wineries offer special events, festivals, barrel tastings and dinners throughout the year.

On Ja n u a r y 2 2 a n d 2 3 , a g e o g r a p h i c a l l y d i ve r s e group of purveyors of fine antiques from the 18th to 20th centuries will gather at The Hill School for the 19th Hunt County Winter Antiques Show. I would highly recommend Chef Walden’s hearty breakfast as the ideal fuel for a day of treasure hunting. sl

Stay / Dine The Goodstone Inn & Estate 36205 Snake Hill Road, Middleburg, VA, 20117; 877.219.4663; goodstone.com. Hilltoppers Restaurant is open for dinner Wednesday through Monday from 5-9pm and Sunday brunch from 11:30am-2pm. Red Fox Inn redfox.com Shop Betsey – betseyshop.com Crème de la Crème – shopcremedelacreme.com English Country Classics – cdrigden.com Highcliffe Clothiers – highcliffeclothiers.com Red Fox Fine Art redfoxfineart.com The White Bench whitebench.com Trowbridge-Lewis Gallerie t-lgalleries.com See Glenwood Park glenwoodpark.org Hunt Country Stable Tour huntcountrystabletour.org Morven Park morvenpark.com Oatlands Plantation oatlands. org Upperville Colt and Horse Show upperville.com

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Of note... Fit to be Tried Functioning as art and exercise, Ciclotte ($10,000) is an innovative exercise bike, designed and made in Italy using exceptional materials like carbon, steel and glass fibers. The unique technology of the epicycloids transmission system forms the aesthetic and workhorse cornerstone of the project. Other distinctive features

include an unusual carbon handlebar and touch screen display inspired by home automation systems. The Ciclotte can reproduce the dynamics and performance of on-road pedalling, and is also ideal for high intensity aerobic training like spinning (ciclotte.com).

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A bicycle built for two and weighing just 7.7 lbs without couplers, the Axiom 007 by Seven Cycles ( $6,000 per frameset) features their exclusive Argen™ butted titanium tubeset and a host of tandem-specific features, like an eccentric bottom bracket and a lateral tube design for torsional rigidity and light weight (sevencycles.com).

The TT Custom by Parlee ($9,600) offers speedy performance for duathletes, triathletes and track racers. Exclusively available with full custom geometry and carbon lay-up, the TT Custom features the same smooth ride and efficient drive train as all Parlee frames, yet allows inch-by-inch customization of the frame to match each riders unique positional requirements ( parleecycles.com).

Designed for women, the 2011 ZW5 by Felt ($1,999) boasts a UHC Advanced carbon fiber frame, delivering incredible torsional stiffness for quick acceleration and razor-sharp handling. At the same time, this custom blend of frame materials, built with Felt’s FitWoman geometry, offers comfort and control for a silky smooth ride (feltbicycles.com).

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opposite page (l-r, t-b): Robert Wan for Gellner Tahitian pearl ring (price upon request) from Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers (sheliabayes.com). Tiffany & Co. dogwood cameo ring with diamonds in platinum (price upon request, tiffany. com). de Grisogono ring in pink gold with pearl, pink sapphires and white, brown and black diamonds (price upon request, degrisogono.com). Roberto Coin Ikebana ring (price upon request) from James Free Jewelers (jamesfree.com) and Neiman Marcus (neimanmarcus.com). Seng Jewelers-made 18k yellow gold ring ($40,000) with 9.98 ct. opal with sapphires and emeralds (sengjewelers.com). on this page (l-r, t-b): Tamsen Z star meteorite pin/pendant and necklace ($39,000, tamsenz.com). Tahitian pearl and diamond ring by Gellner (price upon request) from Shelia Bayes Fine Jewelers (sheliabayes.com). Tiffany & Co polar bear brooch ($40,000) in white chalcedony, diamonds and 18k white gold (tiffany.com). Baroque drop earrings by Mikimoto ($36,000) with 16mm white South Sea cultured pearls and diamonds set in 18k white gold from James Free Jewelers (jamesfree.com) and Reising Jewelers (reisingjewlers. net). Estate pin from St. John and Myers (stjohnandmyers.com). Three-strand faceted aqua agate necklace ($185) by W&M Jewelry (wandmjewelry.com).

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on this page (l-r, t-b): Tiffany diamond butterfly brooch in platinum. Price upon request (tiffany.com). Detail of fire agate necklace with vintage gold brooch ($220)

by W & M Jewelry (wandmjewelry.com). Diamond earrings from Aesthetics in Jewelry ($19,750), featuring nearly five cts. of diamonds,1.53 ct removable briolette diamonds and two removable pear-shaped freshwater pearls (aestheticsinjewelry.com). Dubai Night by Gellner combines 75 multi-colored Tahitian cultured pearls, embedded in 417 diamonds, set in blackened white gold. Price upon request. Contact Shelia Bayes Jewelers for more information (sheliabayes.com).

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spread (l-r, t-b):18K yellow gold pendant brooch ($1,800, sengjewlers. com). Diamond bee pin in platinum and 18K yellow gold, signed Turi (stjohnandmyers.com). Tiffany & Co. daisy brooch with diamonds, spessartites and tsavorites in 18 karat white and yellow gold (price available upon request, tiffany.com). de Grisogono ring in white gold with 20.37ct white pearl; amathysts; purple, light and dark blue, yellow, orange, red and pink sapphires; emeralds, white and brown diamonds (price upon request, deGrisogono.com). Seng-made diamond pave horsehead brooch/ pendant in platinum and 18K gold ($20,000 - sengjewelers.com). Meche Boxer ($485) of 14KY with rhodium (sengjewelers.com).

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Jewelry

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on this page (l-r, t-b): Tiffany & Co. bee brooch ($30,000, tiffany.com).

Limelight Paradise cocktail ring from Piaget (price upon request, piaget. com). Roberto Coin Art Nouveau ring ($3,300) in rose gold with diamonds and pink tourmaline from James Free Jewelers (jamesfree. com) and Neiman Marcus (neimanmarcus.com). Piaget “Sex on the Beach” limelight ring in 18 ct white gold set with 214 brilliant-cut diamonds and one 14.70 ct round-cut pink tourmaline and a sculpted peridot fruit (piaget.com). Yellow gold ring set with aquamarine and diamond circa 1960s from St. John and Myers (price upon request, stjohnandmyers.com). Piaget “Cosmopolitan” from the limelight collection (piaget.com). 18K yellow gold ring set with amethyst, circa 1950’s, from St. John and Myers (stjohnandmyers.com). Beetle brooch from the Victorian period ($10,000) with diamonds, garnets and rubies (sengjewelers.com).

on this page (l-r, t-b): 14K yellow gold fox head cufflinks with diamond eyes, circa 1950s from St. John & Myers (stjohnandmyers.com). Twin Spires cufflinks ($1,000) in yellow gold (sengjewelers.com). Tiffany 1837TMcuff links ($400) in titanium, midnight (tiffany.com). de Grisogono cufflinks in yellow gold and enamel (degrisogono.com). Steel treated "Blackor" cufflinks from Milus (milus.com). From the YOU ROCK collection by Gellner, leather belt with buckle of silver and black rhodium, Fiji cultured pearl and black diamonds (sheliabayes.com).

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Bibliotaph Saving Kentucky is about preserving not only land and historic property, but also a way of life. It tells the stories of an eclectic group of Kentuckians, both in their own words and through extraordinary photography. From tenant farmers to urban revivalists, they have one thing in common: a deep connection to their heritage and a fierce determination to presere it for future generations. Sally VanWinkle Campbell, author; Thomas Hart Shelby, photographer - Saving Kentucky: Greening the Bluegrass Hardcover, Limestone Lane Press, savingkentucky.com

From 1802, when the young artist William Edward West began painting portraits on a downriver trip to New Orleans, to 1918, when John Alberts, the last of Frank Duveneck’s students, worked in Louisville, a wide variety of portrait artists were active in Kentucky and the Ohio River Valley. This book charts the course of those artists as they painted the mighty and the lowly, statesmen and business magnates as well as country folk living far from urban centers. Estill Curtis Pennington - Lessons in Likeness: Portrait Painters in Kentucky and the Ohio River Valley, 18021920 - hardcover, University Press of Kentucky, kentuckypress.com Just steps from downtown Louisville, the Old Louisville neighborhood is one of the most significant historic preservation districts in the country, a lovely place characterized by stained glass windows, ornate turrets, hidden gables and inviting entryways.This book offers a taste of what you ll find on the dinner table in Old Louisville as well as a glimpse of the interior design and architecture that make this such a special place today. David Domine - A Feast for the Eyes: Recipes from America's Grandest Victorian Neighborhood - Hardcover, 128 pages, McClanahan Publishing House, kybooks.com

Keeneland Entertains, is a fascinating book about the lifestyle that revolves around Thoroughbred racing and sales in the Bluegrass. Beautifully photographed, the book offers never-before-shared recipes, menus and tips on entertaining that run the gamut from mastering the casual tailgate to hosting an elegant brunch, a relaxed dinner after the races or hosting college kids home for a classic Keeneland weekend. There are heartfelt recollections from Bluegrass hostesses and racing enthusiasts and invaluable advice related to the Keeneland experience, including a primer on racing. Fran Taylor, author; Lee P. Thomas, photographer - Keeneland Entertains - hardcover, 256 pages, Keeneland Association & Eclipse Press, keeneland.stores.truition.com.

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bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf ]: a person who caches or hoards books This exhibition catalogue documents the artistr y and skills of dressmakers who catered to the elite women of Cincinnati while examining the nineteenth-century ideology of women's separate sphere, the early feminist movement, women i n t h e w o rk p l a c e a n d d re s s m a k e r s a s artisans. Cynthia Amneus - A Separate Sphere: Dressmakers in Cincinnati's Golden Age, 1877-1922 - Hardcover, 216 pages, Texas Tech University Press, shop. cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Published by the Cincinnati Art Museum in celebration of the opening of the Cincinnati Wing, this book showcases the rich history of Cincinnati art by highlighting over 300 works, including painting, sculpture, furniture, ceramics, and metalwork. Julie Aronson, Editor - The Cincinnati Wing: The Story of Art in the Queen CIty - Hardcover, 227 pages, Ohio University Press, shop. cincinnatiartmuseum.org.

As one of the oldest art institutions in the United States, the Cincinnati Art Museum has an unparalleled collection of over 60,000 works spanning six thousand years. This beautifully illustrated new volume highlights over 300 works of art from this unique collection, featuring examples of painting and sculpture, decorative art, prints, drawings, photographs, costumes and textiles from Egypt, Greece, Rome, Asia and the MiddleEast, Africa, North and South America and Europe.Aaron Betsky - Cincinnati Art Museum: Collection Highlights - Hardcover, 392 pages, D. Giles Ltd., shop.cincinnatiartmuseum.org

In his inaugural cookbook, Chef Joanthan Lundy invites you into his kitchen and shares his secrets for preparing many of the sumptuous recipes that have made Jonathan at Gratz Park a locally-beloved, globally-followed restaurant. Here, 147 recipes, along with over 100 photographs, are collected for the first time, reflecting the truly original style that has won him awards and acclaim throughout the Bluegrass Region and beyond. Jonathan Lundy - Jonathan's Bluegrass Table : Redefining Kentucky Cuisine - Hardcover, 240 pages, Butler Books, butlerbooks.com

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The Art of the Matter Metro Pictures Gallery, New York

Art|Basel Miami Beach The ninth edition of Art Basel, which wrapped up on December 5th, drew a record crowd of 46,000 who descended on the South Florida hotspot to view works from more than 250 galleries representing 2,000 artists from North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa. Strong sales evidenced that high-quality works remain in strong demand. "This year in Miami was, without a doubt, for the overall quality of the art and the energy, one of the best art fairs I have been to and it certainly was for Pace: we practically sold out works in our booth within hours of the opening,” said Marc Glimcher of Pace Gallery in New York.

This year’s Art Kabinett sector was of high quality and showed an interesting mix of twenty-one carefully curated exhibitions in the booths of the galleries. For the Art Nova sector, 50 emerging and established galleries from 17 countries presented new works by either two or three artists.

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The resulting recent pieces by 131 artists fresh from the studio allowed viewers to discern the newest artistic tendencies.

The new criteria for Art Positions created a platform for a single major project from one artist, allowing curators, critics and collectors to discover ambitious new talents. Art Public, curated for the second time by Patrick Charpenel of Guadalajara, Mexico, placed works in the outdoor public spaces of Miami Beach, within close proximity to the Oceanfront and the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Many leading artworld figures appeared in the morning Art Basel Conversations, which were often standing-room only and attended by the artworld and the broader public. Participants at this year's Art Salon included artworld figures such as Josh Baer, Ute Meta Bauer, Andrea Bowers, Dan Cameron, Jose Davila, Tom Eccles, Elena Filipovic, Naomi Fisher, Francesca von Habsburg, Sofia Hernàndez, Meredith Johnson, Isaac Julien,

Catriona Jeffries Gallery, Vancouver Mayer Riegger Galerie, Karlsruhe, Germany

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The Art of the Matter

Galleria Raffawlla Cortese, Milan, Italy

Scott King, Sigalit Landau, Los Carpinteros, Mariko Mori, Hans Ulrich Obrist, Pascale Marthine Tayou, Nato Thompson and Marnie Weber.

This year’s Art Film event offered the award-winning film 'Waste Land,' which follows artist Vik Muniz as he journeys from his home base in Brooklyn to his native Brazil and the world's largest garbage dump, Jardim Gramacho, located on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro. There he collaborated an eclectic band of 'catadores' - pickers of recyclable materials, to create a new series of works.

Art Basel Miami Beach's public nightly program at the Oceanfront, organized by Creative Time, was a highlight of this year's show. Sited in an environment designed by Phu Hoang Office and Rachely Rotem Studio, the pavilion used

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two types of rope - reflective and phosphorescent – to create a diverse and interactive environment of open-air structures that sway and glow in the night. The Oceanfront Nights program featured four cities at the forefront of today’s artistic experimentation and cross-disciplinary collaboration: Detroit, Mexico City, Berlin, and Glasgow.

Once again, Miami’s leading private collections – among them the Margulies Collection, the Rubell Family Collection, CIFO, the De La Cruz Collection, the Mora Collection, the Scholl Collection, and the Dacra Collection – opened their homes and warehouses to guests of the international art show.

Art Basel Miami Beach 2011 takes place December 1 through December 4, 2011, with an exclusive opening on Wednesday, November 30, 2011. sl

January 6 9 15,16 17-23 18-23 19-23 21 21-23 22-Feb. 19 28 28,29 28-30

Society

Bonhams Las Vegas Motorcycle Sale, Imperial Palace Hotel & Casino, bonhams.com Notre Dame Club of Greater Cincinnati Exemplar Award breakfast, 9 a.m. St. Xavier High School, ndcincy.com Pops Remix with Mary Wilson, Music Hall, cincinnatisymphony.org Scottsdale Classic Car Auctions, barrett-jackson.com; rmauctions.com; goodingco.com Palm Beach Cavallino Classic, cavallino.com 16th Annual Los Angeles Art Show, laartshow.com Friends of CCM Moveable Feast, 6:30 p.m. CCM Atrium on UC campus, 513-556-5000 Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: Russian Fortunes, cincinnatisymphony.org Playhouse in the Park presents Over the Tavern in the Robert S. Marx Theatre, cincyplay.com Pendleton Art Center Final Friday, 6pm, 1310 Pendleton St., pendletonartcenter.com Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: Watts Plays Beethoven, cincinnatisymphony.org Naples Winter Wine Festival, napleswinefestival.com

February 2 2 3 3,5 4 5 5 8 11-13 11-13 12 14 – May 23 15-27 18-20 19 19 24, 26 25 25 26 27

Emanuel Center Triumph Awards, 6pm, Hilton Netherland Plaza, emanuelcenter.org Sotheby’s Important Jewels auction, 10am, New York City, sothebys.com Seven Hills School Books for Lunch dinner with author Michael Cunningham, 6pm, private home, 7hills.org Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: Paavo Conducts Mahler 7 at Music Hall, cincinnatisymphony.org Seven Hills School Books for Lunch, 11am, Cintas Center, 7hills.org Kentucky Symphony Orchestra Here for the Party Gala, 6:30pm. NKY Convention Center, kyso.org Ohio Valley Voices Cocktails, Countries and Cuisines Gala, 6:30pm, Bell Event Centre, ohiovalleyvoices.org Stepping Stones Center benefit dinner at Eddie Merlot’s, 513-831-4660 Cincinnati Pops: A Hollywood Valentine featuring Monica Mancini at Music Hall, cincinnatisymphony.org Cincinnati Ballet: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Aronoff Center for the Arts, cballet.org Good Samaritan Hospital Gala, Hyatt Regency, gshfoundation.com Sunday Salons to benefit Women Helping Women, sundaysalons.org Broadway Across America: Fiddler on the Roof at the Aronoff Center, cincinnatiarts.org Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: Paavo Conducts Beethoven 5, Music Hall, cincinnatisymphony.org KSO Presents the National Symphony Orchestra, 8pm, Florence Baptist Church at Mt. Zion, kyso.org 17th annual Heart Ball, 6pm, Hilton Netherland Plaza, 513-842-8863 Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: Bronfman Plays Tchaikovsky, Music Hall, cincinnatisymphony.org CAC Opening party for Keith Haring, 8pm, contemporaryartscenter.org Pendleton Art Center Final Friday, 6pm, 1310 Pendleton St., pendletonartcenter.com Junior League of Cincinnati CinSation, 7pm, Contemporary Arts Center, jlcincinnati.org People Working Cooperatively Oscar Night America, Hilton Netherland Plaza. www.pwchomerepairs.org

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ArtAbility

Starfire Council hosted an evening of artworks from local and national artists at Country Club Art Gallery as part of ArtAbility. Starfire enables individuals with disabilities to become active and vital members of the community. Since 1993, Starfire has offered innovative programs that address the emerging needs of teens and adults with disabilities.

Tim Vogt, Leslie Shiels, JB Kropp

Photography by Tony Bailey

Ryan & Miriam Gibbs

Erin & Jonas Allan

Holly Mott, Allison Kropp

Carole Workman, Kathy Forte’

Whitney St. Clair, Tim Vogt, Daphne Jergensen, Amy Abbott

Rachael Termini, Russell Detwiler, Kyra Termini, Josh Sclar

Adam Auerill, John Knauer, Ronny Edwards, Dhani Jones, Leslie Auerill

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Allson Picton, Shannon Miller, Jennifer Gibbs

The

14th Annual

HISTORIC KEENELAND

|

LEXINGTON, KY

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ADMISSION

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D A I L Y $ 10

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R U N O F S H O W $ 15

This spring MARCH 11-13, 2011 THURSDAY, MARCH

11

FRIDAY, MARCH

10 |

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Preview Party* 7:00 - 10:00

SHOW HOURS

10 :00

AM

- 6:00

Carleton Varney* 11:30 Keeneland Tour*

FEATURED SPEAKER

WITH

GUEST LECTURES

AM KEENELAND CLUBHOUSE

NICK NICHOLSON 9:00 AM

12

|

SHOW HOURS

10 :00

AM

Nick Nicholson* 11:30 Ben Page* 2:30

FEATURED SPEAKER

- 6:00

PM

AM KEENELAND CLUBHOUSE

PM UKHEALTHCARE LECTURE TENT

SUNDAY, MARCH GUEST LECTURE

PM

MARYJEAN WALL 2:30 PM AND BILL SAMUELS 4:00 PM

SATURDAY, MARCH GUEST SPEAKER

PM

13

|

SHOW HOURS

11 :00

AM

- 5:00

PM

SALLY VAN WINKLE CAMPBELL 1:00 PM UKHEALTHCARE LECTURE TENT

*Reservations required.

HONORARY CHAIRS SPONSORS

Bill and Nanc Samuels sophisticated

LIVING Proceeds benefit The Blue Grass Trust for Historic Preservation www.bluegrasstrust.org | 859.253.0362 | 253 Market Street | Lexington, Kentucky 40507

www.bgtantiquesandgardenshow.org

An Evening Under the Tsars

Cincinnati Opera’s Russian-themed gala event was inspired by the company’s upcoming presentation of P.I. Tchaikovsky’s opera, Eugene Onegin in July 2011. The Hall of Mirrors at the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza Hotel was transformed into the legendary Winter Palace for the extraordinary celebration. Cocktails and mingling were followed by performances from the Cincinnati Ballet and the Barynya Ensemble, a critically-acclaimed Russian dance and music group hailing from New York City. After dinner, guests danced into the wee hours at “Late Night with the Tsars,” the Ball’s official after-party for young professionals. The event also honored longtime Opera patrons Dr. Robert and Suzanne Hasl and Dr. William B. and Jo Selnick.

Ruthann & Jim Sammarco, Ellen Weaver, Alissa Magenheim

Photography by Tony Bailey

Anne and Allen Zaring

Dick Weland, Terry Tolentino

Emily Spears, Renee Jackson

Joanie & Bill Lotts

Anne Zaring, Mona Kerstine, Ruthann Sammarco, Patrick Kerb

Nick Tsimaras, Annette Pfund-DeCavel, Vivian Dobur, Peter Courlas

Tina & John Neyer

Jennifer & Dwayne Allen

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Signature Chefs

Photography by Tony Bailey

Sarah Eckhoff, Todd Hampton

Fourteen local chefs participated in the 2nd annual Signature Chefs Auction.

Proceeds of the event will assist March of Dimes of Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky with their efforts to provide programs and research to better understand and work toward eliminating the causes of premature birth, birth defects and infant mortality. Local and National March of Dimes Board Member Kirk Perry was honored for his efforts on behalf of the organization.

Jodi Allen, Dennis & Kelly Legault

John & Tina Jackson, Randy Collins

Rebecca & Bill Warren

Rand & Susan Smith

Mr. and Mrs. Kirk Perry and their children

Michelle Rowland, Jason Rowland, Mackenzie Curt

Suzanne Fraiche, Whittney Brady, Victoria DeCasto

Find more photos at slmag.net.

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Beaujolais Nouveau

The French-American Business Alliance toasted the unveiling of the Beaujolais Nouveau while celebrating the region’s international business community during their annual gala, held at the Maketewah Country Club. The event featured a buffet of French specialties complemented by Burgundy wines and a silent auction.

Chuck Miller, Ann Cappel, Catherine Fare, David Smith

Meghan Glynn, Jen Mok, Nancy Beil, John Mok

Derrick Wilson, Rennee Caruthers,Elena & Michael Parthenakis

Ashlee Carlisle, Rybecca Hohe, Reba Perry, Andrea Reynolds

Jay Rush, Jennifer Graft, Jamie Burns, Andy Vonlehmann

Mischa Santora, Elisabeth Berge

Ted and Michelle Day

Daniela Noack, Tina Heinrichs

Sylvia & John Linneman, Steve Hirschberg

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Photography by Tony Bailey

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Photography by Tony Bailey

Boogie Nights

The Greater Cincinnati Mortgage Bankers Association hosted “Boogie Nights� to benefit Tender Mercies, which provides housing and related services to homeless persons with histories of emotional and/or mental disabilities.

Bill Schumer, Daniel Longo

Mike & Sue Hyzdu, Debbie Sebastian, Debby & Don Bailey

Adam & Kelly Scovanner

Kimberly Cecil, Jenn Abrams, Howard Richardson

Barbie Hahn, Deanna Hengge

Ellen & Joe Cooney

Gayle and Dan Johnson

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Lauren and Clark Connley

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¡caliente!

A chic crowd packed into Nada for the sold out Patty Brisben Foundation annual fundraising gala. Founded in 2006, the Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health serves to enhance women’s sexual health and well being through research. At the event, Dr. Beverly Whipple was presented with the “Patty Brisben Foundation Award of Excellence in Women’s Sexual Health”.

Chris Cicchinelli, Storm Bennett, Jessica Cicchinelli

Photography by Tony Bailey

Dr. Beverly Whipple, Patty Brisben, Dr. Margery Gass, Willetta Shoemaker

Drs. Margaret Lemasters and Megan Kessler

Leigh McIntire, Genine Fallon

Amy & Pete Scalia

Leigh & Christopher McIntire, Genine Fallon

Patty Brisben, Drs. Andrew and Mary South, Jessica Johnston

Debbie Bowman, Matthew, David & Martha Millett

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Celebrity Waiters

Photography by Tony Bailey

More than 30 local media and celebrities volunteered their services for the 24th annual Celebrity Waiters Luncheon at the Club Lounge East at Paul Brown Stadium to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Honorary chairs for the 2010 event were Bengals defensive coach Mike Zimmer, linebacker Michael Johnson and Oscar Robertson. The three-hour event kicked off with a celebrity VIP reception, a fast paced balloon sale hosted all by celebrities, remarks by emcees Tricia Macke of Fox 19 and a live auction presided over by comedian Steve Caminiti. The fun continued with an after party at Montgomery Inn Boathouse.

Robert Jackson, Jamie Boyle, Ron Boyle

Pam Trester, Bill Connely, Tricia Macke

Bill Weber, Ed Hartman, Jim Breech

Mike King, Ron Felder, Oscar Robinson, Tracy Hoinke, John Janszen

Kim Pluess, Jon Warden

Lori Summers, Rob McCracken

Abby Dever, Lindsay Wiseman, Teresa Rosenbeck, Ron Rosenbeck, Dan Lippmeier

Find more photos at slmag.net.

Heidi DCastro, Robert Coale, Mark Brasington, Jean Zink

Steven Lynch, Bill Weber, Patricia Lohse, Alan Leist

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David Millett Open House

Interior designer David Millett and his staff held a holiday open house for friends and clients at their Rookwood Commons showroom.

Photography by Tony Bailey

Darlene & Larry Webb, Evie & Art Fusaro

Martha, Matthew & David Millett

Mary & Chuck Kubicki, Cheryl & Max Hillman

Jeff Copeland, Erica Varner, Barbara Copeland, Maja Varner

Larry & Beth Uhlenbrock, Steve & Ann Florian, Kathy Stevens, Skip Radel

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Minoo & Rob Messinger

Gloria & Darrel Jackson

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Toni & Neal Moris

Style & Substance

Cincinnati Parks Foundation hosted the 5th annual Gentlemen of Style & Substance awards at Saks Fifth Avenue. Twelve extraordinary gentlemen were honored for their professional achievement and passionate dedication to community involvement. In the past 4 years, the Gentlemen of Style & Substance event has raised over $30,000 for Cincinnati Parks’ Nature Next Door Program, which connects inner city children to nature. While the Cincinnati Park Board has five fully equipped nature centers, many children cannot reach one due to proximity or lack of funds. Nature Next Door solves this problem by bringing the same world-class nature education to five of Cincinnati’s most at-risk neighborhoods.

Photography by Mike Felts

Tim Smith, Valerie Newell

Kevin Shibley, Willie F. Carden, Jr., Krissi Barr, Marty Humes, John Mocker

Dan & Krissi Barr

Jay Springer, Murray Sinclaire, Harry Fath, Stephen Leeper, Samuel Huttenbauer, Jr.,Dr. John Henderson, Chris Cicchinelli, Dhani Jones, Mark Busher, Justin Buckner, Nathan Bachrach

John Mocker, Kelly Collins

Joyce Elkins, Dr. Stanley Kaplan

Dhani Jones, Willie Carden, Jr.

Kevin Lawrence, Jay Springer, Jason Sayers

Harry & Linda Fath

Find more photos at slmag.net.

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Research Innovations for an Epilepsy Cure

The fourth annual Celebrating Research Innovations for an Epilepsy Cure fundraiser and wine tasting was held at Mercedes-Benz of Cincinnati. Guests will be treated to a selection of food by the bite from Ember’s restaurant, exceptional wine, and an exclusive “Sommelier’s Tasting Room,” where guests sampled a variety of rare and tantalizing wines and visited with master winemakers. Event proceeds will support the Epilepsy Center at the University of Cincinnati Neuroscience Institute, a national leader in epilepsy research, patient care, and the training of tomorrow’s epilepsy specialists.

Photography by Mark Bowen

Barb & Woody Uible

Kathy & Rick Maxwell

Alison Maurer, Christopher Klein

Anne & Jim Shanahan

Event Committee

Chris & Shelia Cole

Ellen, Jon & Leah Zipperstein

Susan & Chris Muth

Charles Shor, Carol Goodman, John Simmon

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Key to the Cure

Approximately 150 friends and supporters of The Wellness Community enjoyed an afternoon of fun, food, entertainment, and of course shopping, at Saks Fifth Avenue during a stylish in-store reception that celebrated Saks’ 12th annual KEY TO THE CURE charitable shopping initiative to fight women’s cancers. The highlight of this year’s party was the featured guest, world-renowned jewelry designer Marco Bicego.

Dr. Rebecca Bechhold, Mary Steffel

Marco Bicego, Cassandra Scott

Marco Bicego, Lucy Ward, Kevin Shibley, Rick Bryan

Mo Dunne, Marco Bicego

Dianne Bohmer McGoron, Saundra Kirsh

Judy Herrmann, Anna Maloney, Amanda Baker

Michelle Setzer, Marco Bicego

Rick Bryan, Linda & Greg Sykes

Rick & Kathy Maxwell, Marco Bicego

Find more photos at slmag.net.

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World Snow Polo Championship Written by Bridget Williams

Photography by David Lominska-www.polographics.com

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The sport of snow polo was first introduced in 1985 at the resort town of St. Moritz, Switzerland. In the U.S., snow polo is competed exclusively at Wagner Park at the base of Aspen Mountain in the picturesque Colorado playground. At the 11th annual USPA World Snow Polo Championship, competitors hailing from Florida, South Carolina, Kentucky, South America and France played a modified version of polo on a snow-packed arena surrounded by fencing to keep the larger, lighter and bright red ball in play. Existing rugby posts served as the goal uprights.

Teams from Audi, Beluga, Bombardier, Lucchese and Harry Winston fielded teams of three players, as in typical arena polo, and played four seven-minute chukkers. The field was groomed between each chukker by the Polo Zamboni snow cat.

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Audi winners: Kris Kampsen, Melissa Ganzi, Barry Stout, Juan Bollini, Riley and Grant Ganzi, and Beluga girls.

Beluga Vodka runners-up: Alex Rodzianko, Bill Kraft, Anastasia Rodzianko, Micha Rodzianko, Alejandro Traverso, Gaston Laule and Beluga girls

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Aspen Rancher Barry Stout provided the 30 horses needed for the five teams, which were acclimated to the climate and running in snow, thanks to special shoes that provide better traction and keep the hollow of the hoof from packing with ice.

Spectators decked out in fur coats and Montcler quilted jackets watched from heated tents that lined the field. The VIP tent was festively attired with garland and bows. Team sponsors also catered to the well-heeled with tents and displays of their own.

At the end of play it was team Audi who celebrated a back-to-back first place finish. The team from Beluga Vodka was runner-up. sl

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