Syd Jerome: Spring/Summer 2017

SYD JEROME

SYDJEROME SPRING/SUMMER 2017

SPRING FASHIONS

YOUR ULTIMATE STYLE GUIDE

PEDRO PASCAL SOUTH AFRICAN PINOTS MCLAREN 570GT GOLF IN IRELAND VENETIAN TWILIGHT

BRITISH INVASION MCLAREN 570GT AN EVENING IN VENICE SOUTH AFRICAN SPLENDOR PERFECT PINOTS LINKED IN ON THE EMERALD ISLE

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REMEMEBER HER? SEE PAGE 18

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ROCK ON! It’s easy to find your groove in this season’s super-cool threads

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T H E F U L L C O N V E R S AT I O N AT Z E G N A . C O M

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CONTENTS S/S 2017

FEATURES british invasion | 40 The McLaren 570GT is a highperformance sports car with everyday comfort and driveability.

venice by twilight | 42 Early evening in the “city of canals” brings a special magic that daytime tourists miss.

215 and counting | 56 At Syd Jerome, our loyal customers return to the store year after year not only for the finest suits, sportcoats, shirts and shoes, but for sartorial advice and our friendship too.

ON THE TOWN | 62 Look your best while you’re hitting the streets.

native tongue | 68

It’s easy to find your groove in this season’s super-cool threads.

p.

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| SYD JEROME

Using indigenous ingredients, three chefs honor culinary traditions dating back to America before Columbus.

ROCK ON!

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CONTENTS s/s 2017

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DEPARTMENTS Memo | 12 Grateful for your loyalty.

The syd jerome Guide | 17 The perfect summer sip…Fly 3’s lightweight sweater…healthy eating... socks that rock…Ask Mr. Etiquette… and more.

music | 24 Despite what some trolls say, we’re living in a Golden Age of original music.

Give a listen to these four performers, and you’ll agree.

Clothes talk | 26 Sid Shapiro discusses what’s new for the season and gives you a peek at his own impressive wardrobe.

essentials | 28 Whether you’re going to a ballgame, boardroom or ballroom, there are accessories to finish every look.

THE LEADING MAN

pedro pascal | 34 Game of Thrones launched this red-hot Chilean into the limelight, but it’s his rugged style that’s keeping him there.

on the run | 38

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This season’s Isaia collection is about bold prints and colors.

spirits | 72 If you only have time for one drink in these storied European cities, let it be in one of these classic bars.

grape | 82 You can find splendid pinot noirs down south—South Africa, that is.

Room Key | 86 Find creature comforts galore, redesigned public spaces and heavenly Mediterranean cuisine at The Lowell in New York City.

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the sporting life | 90 Located at the bottom of the Emerald Isle, Old Head of Kinsale will soar to the top of your favorite golf locales.

pursuits | 92 To motor or not to motor? That is the question with the trim, agile Motoped Cruzer, which is ready for both.

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fitness | 94 Try these five routines we’ve finagled from fitness experts, aimed at crafting the sleekest, most presentable you.

The bullpen | 96 Get some insight into the everyday lives of Syd Jerome’s style pros.

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18 ON THE COVER: From left, Sean wears a wool suit, check shirt and silk tie by Canali.

Falk wears a threepiece blue plaid suit and floral shirt by Sand.

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MEMO

SYD JEROME

Grateful for your loyalty

2 NORTH LASALLE STREET CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60602 (CROSS STREET: MADISON STREET) 312.346.0333 WWW.SYDJEROME.COM STORE HOURS MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY: 8:30 A.M. TO 6 P.M. THURSDAY: 8:30 A.M. TO 7:30 P.M. SATURDAY: 8:30 A.M. TO 5:30 P.M.

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we dedicated one n the early of the features in 1900s, a our magazine to a young man select group of Syd named James Jerome customers’ Cash Penney combined years established of shopping with what would us, signifying how become a retail grateful we are empire. That for their loyalty. mega retailer (See the story would be known beginning on to the world page 56.) We wish as JC Penney. we could have James Penney featured everyone predicated who has been his success on shopping with one premise: us for more than one year, but that “Every great business is built on sneak peek number is in the tens of thousands and friendship.” In 1940, that philosophy our publication would be longer than was instilled into one of JC Penney’s War and Peace. employees. That employee, Sam Another great American, Colin Walton, would go on to create his feelin’ blue?

Powell, once said, “Success is the result own legacy. p. 26 of perfection, hard work, learning from For almost 60 years, we have failure, loyalty and persistence.” We are going to recognized that our success can be attributed keep working hard, learning from our mistakes to the relationships and friendships that and settling for nothing less than perfection— we have established with our customers all to maintain your loyalty. and vendors. It was for this reason that

Editor RITA GUARNA Art Director STEPHEN M. VITARBO Associate Editor DARIUS AMOS Art Assistant YVONNE MARKI editorial intern DANIELLE GALLO Contributing Editors LEE LUSARDI CONNOR, LIZ DONOVAN, EVERETT POTTER, MARISA SANDORA, JOSH SENS Contributing Photographers ANDREW COLLINGS, DANIEL SPRINGSTON PUBLISHING STAFF Publisher SHAE MARCUS

Associate Publisher JODI BRUKER National Brand Manager MONICA DELLI SANTI Senior Account Executive KAREN AZZARELLO Director of Production and Circulation CHRISTINE HAMEL Advertising Services Manager JACQUELYNN FISCHER Senior Art Director, Agency Services KIJOO KIM Production/Art Assistant ALANNA GIANNANTONIO Accounting AGNES ALVES, MEGAN FRANK PUBLISHED BY Chairman CARROLL V. DOWDEN President & CEO MARK DOWDEN

SID SHAPIRO

SCOTT SHAPIRO

Senior Vice Presidents SHAE MARCUS, CARL OLSEN Vice Presidents NIGEL EDELSHAIN, RITA GUARNA, CHRISTINE HAMEL

SYD JEROME magazine is published twice a year by Wainscot Media, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale, NJ 07645, in association with SYD JEROME. Copyright © 2017 by Wainscot Media, LLC. All rights reserved.

Editorial Contributions: Write to Editor, Syd Jerome, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale, NJ 07645; telephone 201.782.5730; email rita.guarna@wainscotmedia.com.

The magazine is not responsible for the return or loss of unsolicited submissions.

| SYD JEROME

Subscription Services: To change an address or request a subscription, write to Subscriptions, SYD JEROME Circulation Department, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale, NJ 07645; telephone 201.573.5541; email christine.hamel@wainscotmedia.com.

Advertising Inquiries: Contact Shae Marcus at 856.797.2227 or shae.marcus@wainscotmedia.com.

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#SPARKLING

FOLLOW US:

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THE

SYD JEROME GUIDE A BETTER SWEATER THE PERFECT SUMMER SIP

The Negroni is still enjoying its moment. The classic Italian aperitif, made with equal parts Campari, sweet vermouth and gin, is served over ice with an orange peel for garnish. Two industry trends have fueled its growth: the rise of bartenders as craftsmen and a shift in people’s preference for a more bitter drink.

In fact, there are more bitter liqueurs on the market now than anytime during the past 60 years, notes Warren Bobrow, author of Bitters and Shrub Syrup Cocktails.

The bitter part of a Negroni comes from the Campari, of course, but mixologists have gotten creative and are making variations of the drink using other bitter liqueurs like the lighter and more orangy Aperol, Braulio, an herbal Italian amaro, and the complex, spicy China China from Bigallet.

Traditionalists who prefer the classic Campari version will be glad to know it’s now even easier to enjoy: Campari released a bottled Negroni last fall. As of press time, the premixed cocktail was available in a few markets nationwide (Chicago is one), but if it’s a hit, you’ll soon find it coast to coast.

This time of year, a lightweight sweater is often all you need to feel comfortable. Try one from Fly 3, an Italian brand that specializes in knitwear. The company was founded in 1979 when Luciano Bilancioni, inspired by his passion for sailing, created a water-repellent, anti-pilling yarn. With the help of expert knitters, he launched a unique, sailor-style knitwear collection. A few years later in 1981, “Flytex,” a new waterproof and breathable fabric, was introduced. Fast forward to 2007, when after several attempts to lighten its sweaters, the company developed Hi-Tex technology, creating a garment that is lightweight, reversible and seamless with wool on one side and cotton on the other. A cashmere-and-cotton style followed the next year. Now all their sweaters are reversible, so it’s actually like getting two sweaters in one. And because they don’t have seams, they feel nicer against bare skin or a thin T-shirt.

They come in super-soft merino wool in addition to the wool or cashmere with cotton, in different styles like crewnecks and zip-fronts. Stop by Syd Jerome and take a look at Fly 3. We bet one of these sweaters will be your new favorite.

PORTRAIT OF A BASEBALL GREAT

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SPRING/SUMMER 2017

Yankee hero Joe DiMaggio rarely granted interviews, carefully crafting a public persona that maintained his legacy while fiercely guarding his personal life. But in his last decade, the Yankee Clipper befriended a fellow Italian-American: Dr. Rock Positano. The good doctor shared his memories of DiMaggio with his lawyer-cum-writer brother, John Positano, who penned Dinner With DiMaggio: Memories of An American Hero (Simon & Schuster; $26), shedding light on the enigma that was Joltin’ Joe. Positano, a foot doctor, successfully treated the center-fielder, and the two became close despite the fact that Positano was 40 years younger. Dinner With DiMaggio follows the story of their friendship from its star-struck beginning in 1990 through all its highs and lows over the next decade. Positano’s accounts of their times together reveal DiMaggio’s many rituals and quirks: the same meals at the same restaurants, the same pals, the same look—sportcoat and tie everywhere. DiMaggio also opened up about his relationship with Marilyn Monroe and his falling out with Frank Sinatra. Positano shares never-before-told stories of the famous people DiMaggio rubbed shoulders with.

Positano’s loving tribute of a complicated man brings the baseball great to life and will have fans of the national pastime engrossed from cover to cover.

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THE SYD JEROME GUIDE WHAT SHE NOTICES FIRST

Seven seconds. According to researchers, that’s the amount of time you have to make a good first impression. So what are women looking at when they are sizing you up in those seven seconds?

How your clothes fit you. Ill-fitting garments are a major turn-off, say ladies.

Make sure your suit is tailored and even your casual clothes aren’t too big or too tight.

Your wrinkled shirt. Women notice wrinkles—they make you look sloppy.

Either get your shirts pressed or wear non-iron shirts.

Your shoes. Are they scuffed?

Do they look beaten up and worn out? If you said yes, women might think you don’t care about your appearance, or you’re too cheap to buy new shoes. Consider footwear an investment.

It’s worth spending more to get quality that will last.

If your belt match-

PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP

Looking for new shoes to go with your new spring wardrobe? Ask any Syd Jerome style pro about Lloyd, a German company that’s been turning out top-quality footwear for over a century. Back in 1888, H.F. Meyer dreamed of creating the perfect shoe, and Lloyd was the result. The company has lasted as long as it has because of superior craftsmanship, quality materials and sophisticated design. The fit is exceptional too, so you will feel comfortable and look stylish in your new shoes. For spring, try something a little lighter and brighter than your standard black. Maybe slip on a pair of beige boat shoes or blue suede perforated loafers. From sneakers to formal shoes, Lloyd has you covered for any occasion, so you’ll look as good at your kid’s baseball game as you do at a wedding. With a long tradition of excellence, Lloyd has the quality and style that our fashion-savvy customers will appreciate.

THE RETURN OF KATJA

She’s back and she cares about what you’re wearing.

Katja is Syd Jerome’s editorial intern extraordinaire.

Aside from being a computer whiz, Katja has a keen eye for fashion and knows exactly what she wants when it comes to a well-dressed man. Want to catch her eye? Read these pages to find out what makes her and her friends swoon, then stop by Syd Jerome to get the look that you (and Katja) want.

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es your shoes. Don’t wear a black belt with brown shoes and vice versa. You might think that no one will notice, but she will.

Your watch. Is it a luxury brand like Rolex or Patek Philippe? You probably make a lot of money. Is it sporty? You’re likely the rugged type who spends weekends cycling through the mountains. Is it a Fitbit?

You’re health conscious. Your timepiece says a lot about you, so make sure it’s the message you want to convey.

Your hair. There’s no right or wrong way to wear it, but it better look good. If it’s longer, make sure it’s styled. A little product never hurt anyone. If you are sporting a short cut, keep it trimmed and neat. Going bald? Avoid the combover and shave it off. You need to own your dome with confidence.

Your nails. Grooming is important. She’s glancing at your nails, so make sure they are clean and trimmed.

TURN OVER A NEW LEAF IN 2017

King of color Pantone has dubbed “Greenery” the color of the year. The yellow-green hue (specifically Pantone 15-0343) symbolizes a return to nature. If you’re not the outdoorsy-type, go ahead and pick the color anyway. Green is, after all, the shade of money—certainly an important factor in our lives.

The company has chosen a color of the year since 2000, and the hue tends to influence trends in automotive and interior design, architecture and fashion. So look for Greenery in clothing and accessories, in solid tones as well as accents. The color was already spotted on runways this season. Expect to see more of the hue in everything from sneakers, sweaters and shades to polos, ties and wallets.

To freshen up your look, add some Greenery to your wardrobe.

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THE SYD JEROME GUIDE ALL TIED UP

Bewildered about how to tie your shoes? The general rule is that straight lacing is for dress shoes (oxfords, derbies) and criss-cross lacing is for more casual shoes (sneakers, hiking boots). Straight laces look cleaner and more elegant, so they’re more appropriate when dressing up. Looking to skip lacing all together? The single or double monk strap is a fashionable alternative. These shoes with either one or two buckles are said to have become popular after a gentleman visiting the Alps from England grew fond of a monk’s sandals and was given a pair to take home with him. When locals saw the shoe, it took off almost immediately. Both the single and double monk strap are good choices, but steer clear of three or more buckles, which can look less refined. Find your perfect fit at Syd Jerome.

FISHING FOR HEALTHY BITES You want something healthy to eat, but it needs to be fast. Try FireFin Poké Shop, which opened last summer in the Loop. The restaurant, backed by “Food Buddha” chef Rodelio Aglibot, serves poké, Hawaiian rice bowls with raw fish. You can pick from preset bowls or create your own by selecting the type of fish, sauce and base (purple rice, noodles, lettuce cups or mixed greens). Fish options include ahi tuna, salmon, albacore and snow crab. Chicken and tofu are also available. There aren’t many seats, but you can grab your bowl to go. Maybe on the way back from checking out Syd Jerome’s lastest offerings?

| SYD JEROME

FIREFIN POKÉ SHOP, 10 S. LASALLE ST., 312.754.0609

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ASK MR. ETIQUETTE

Scott Shapiro explains how to sail through life without giving offense.

I have been invited to a “Black Tie Optional” function. Since I don’t own a tuxedo, what should I wear?

—Confused in Chicago Usually this means that a host would like to have a black-tie event but is trying to be considerate to those guys who don’t own a tuxedo and may not want to rent one.

Whether it is a wedding, bar/bat mitzvah or charity event, I would suggest wearing a black suit and accessorizing with a white French cuff shirt with cufflinks, a black or silver long tie or bow tie, and a dressy black shoe. This way you will not stand out to everyone else wearing a tuxedo, and most people won’t notice that it is a suit rather than a tuxedo.

Your new black suit can be worn again on any dressy occasion. Still, you might consider investing in a classic tuxedo for this function and other blacktie events in the future.

MOTHER OF ALL BUTTONS

Ever taken a close look at the buttons that adorn your clothes?

These days, most are made of plastic, but some high-end shirtmakers still use mother of pearl buttons, which give off beautiful iridescent shine and offer more depth of color than their plastic counterparts. In the late 19th century, a large percentage of mother of pearl buttons were made in the United States with factories set up along the Mississippi River. These companies, in towns like Muscatine, Iowa, stamped buttons from the inner surfaces of freshwater clam shells harvested from that body of water.

By 1916, the U.S. was producing close to 6 billion buttons a year.

But by the mid-20th century, overharvesting, plastic buttons, zippers and foreign competition led to a decline in the industry. These days, most pearl buttons are made overseas, but thankfully, shirts from brands like Luciano Barbera, Isaia and Ermenegildo Zegna still offer this luxurious detail.

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THE SYD JEROME GUIDE SOCK IT TO ME

When you want your socks to show, why not really let them shine in a colorful pair by Happy Socks or Red Sox Appeal? Red Sox, a new Italian brand (not that baseball team from Boston), says every collection is designed “for daring and creative men” who like fun fashion and exhibit “a stylistic independence.” You certainly won’t look like all the other guys in their bright red “Prince Charming” style, which sports green frogs and pink lip prints.

Happy Socks, from Sweden, also come in bright colors and creative patterns such as sharks, palm trees, pineapples—you name it. The selection is dizzying, as is their “Optic” style, which features a graphic design of stacked rectangular prisms that will remind you of that ’80s arcade game Q*bert.

But sometimes, you don’t want your socks to show, like in summer when you’re wearing sneakers, boat shoes or any other low-profile shoe. When you desire a sockless look, Red Sox also has you covered with their “no-show” style that sits low and won’t be seen. They come in bright colors and sport fun dots and stripes, so you’re not only protected from sweat and calluses, but you’re also still stylish—even if you’re the only one who knows.

BLACK TIE PREFERRED

STRIKE A POSE

Guys are quickly learning that the benefits of yoga go well beyond breaking a sweat and wearing cozy clothing. It’s actually really good for their health. Once considered a physical activity geared toward ladies, yoga is now— though it’s always been—a popular equal opportunity workout, with just as many men seen holding their warrior poses and downward dogs as women. “There have been a lot more men in my classes lately...from young guys to those in their 70s and 80s,” says yogi Allison Shapiro (Scott’s better half), who does yoga at Chicago clubs like Lakeshore Sport & Fitness. So what are the benefits that guys are chasing? An improved digestive system, better brain function and strengthened immunity, for starters. Lakeshore even offers classes that cater to men. “Many guys have different needs or they might have conditions like arthritis,” says Marcelo Ehrhardt, the facility’s group fitness director, adding that sessions could focus on strengthening hamstrings, and core and lower-back areas. “It’s a comfortable space for guys to connect their minds and bodies.” Like shopping at Syd Jerome, practicing yoga can be very therapeutic.

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Special, distinguished apparel goes hand in hand with special occasions. Dressing for a black-tie event is about projecting confidence through a polished and refined look. That’s where the style pros at Syd Jerome come in. Rely on our decades of experience to ensure that you look your best—whether attending an awards ceremony, wedding, bar or bat mitzvah, charity event, or other special celebration. Remember: The perfectly fitted tuxedo is the fashionable gentleman’s gold standard. So let us help you stand out—in a good way—at a formal event by paying careful attention to your choice of shirt, vest, braces, tie, cufflinks and shoes. Our formal department features tuxedos for the groom, best man, groomsmen and fathers; suits and sportcoats for rehearsal dinners and services; custom shirts and ties to coordinate and complement groomsmen’s gifts; and wedding day valet services.

EVERYTHING’S COMING UP ROSÉ!

In the last few years, rosé has become the thing to drink as the weather warms. No longer considered the unsophisticated and overly sweet wine that Mom and Grandma drank, rosé these days is enjoyed by women, men and wine connoisseurs alike. Fueling rosé’s rise was its increased popularity in the Hamptons, on Long Island in New York, where it came to represent a relaxed, upscale lifestyle. In 2006, Whispering Angel, a Provence rosé by Château d’Esclans, was introduced to the area, and Hamptons regulars contributed to that brand’s swift increase in sales. Another wine that has boosted rose’s prominence is Miraval, from Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s winery. (The two actually married at the French vineyard in 2014.) It’s unclear who’s getting the winery now that they’ve split, but thanks to its star power and well-reviewed rosé, it’s worth a lot. Locally, rosés are flying off the shelves, which is welcome news to Steven Hirsch of Heritage Wine Cellars, based outside of Chicago. “At long last, rosé is cool again!” says Hirsch. “And now a higher quality rosé is available than in the past.” So take a look at their offerings, and don’t be afraid to sip the sweet stuff. You may be surprised by how much you really like rosé.

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MUSIC

SONIC BOOM

FLO MORRISSEY

Despite what some trolls say, we’re living in a Golden Age of original music.

Give a listen to these four performers, and you’ll agree. By Mark Dowden

BEN HARPER Growing up to be a singer-songwriter was a natural path for Ben Harper. His grandparents owned a store called The Folk Music Center and Museum, whose patrons included Leonard Cohen and Taj Mahal. At age 9, Harper heard Bob Marley perform live, and Marley has been an influence ever since.

Harper’s work spans blues, folk, reggae, rock and soul, with lyrical themes ranging from protest music to love songs. In mood and sonic range, his latest album, in particular, is a rewarding roller-coaster ride.

The album: Call It What It Is Go-to song: “Shine” Deeper dives: “Fool for a

Newcomer Flo Morrissey, a 22-year-old Brit, was drawn to folk music from an early age. Her debut album features her original songs—earnest, pastoral works written from a teenage point of reference. Morrissey has said she gets along better with older people than kids her own age, and certainly her velvety voice sounds like that of a seasoned performer. Her latest effort, released this January, is an album of cover duets with Matthew E. White. These two have fantastic chemistry; the tracks bounce merrily along as the two performers trade verses.

The album: Gentlewoman, Ruby Man Go-to song: “Look at What the Light Did Now”

Lonesome Train” and “In the Colors” from Lifeline

Deeper dive: A surprisingly hypnotic version of “Grease” (yes, that “Grease”)

AARON LEE TASJAN Ohio native Aaron Lee Tasjan writes gritty lyrics. The Smoky Mountain News put it this way: “Tasjan’s words are soaked in spilled whiskey, misunderstood tears and dusty memories. Each number seeps into the cracks of your troubled soul.” Roger that. In New York City, Tasjan found himself as lead guitarist of the New York Dolls and also formed his own band, The Madison Square Gardeners. But it was after moving to Nashville in 2013 that the heartachy lyrics started flowing like so much Tennessee whiskey, and his solo career blossomed.

The album: Silver Tears Go-to song: “Memphis Rain” Deeper dives: “12 Bar Blues” and “Everything That I Have Is Broken”

NEKO CASE While attending art school in Vancouver, Neko Case cut her musical teeth as a drummer for local punk bands. She recorded lead vocals for songs that ended up on The New Pornographers’ first album, which was meant as a side project for its musicians but catapulted the band to surprise indie success. In 1997, as a college junior, Case went country on her first solo album. On the solo efforts that followed, she has explored the haunting genre of “country noir” with songs that are often emotionally raw and always cinematic.

The album: The Worse Things Get, The Harder I Fight, The Harder I Fight, The More I Love You Go-to song: “Night Still Comes” Deeper dives: “Ragtime” and “This Tornado Loves You”

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LET’S GET DRESSED Your night out will go better if you turn the act of getting

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dressed into a pre-party. Pour yourself a “dresser”—an aperitif or cocktail to sip as you prep— and put on some feel-good tunes. This playlist will do nicely: “Right Now” by TV on the Radio “When the Tequila Runs Out” by Dawes “With Arms Outstretched” by Rilo Kiley “Lasso” by Phoenix “Be Thankful for What You Got” by William DeVaughn “Australia” by The Shins

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“She Walks in So Many Ways” by The Jayhawks “Occapella” by Lee Dorsey “True Sadness” by The Avett Brothers “Going Back to New Orleans” by Deacon John “These Words” by The Lemon Twigs “Sister Jack” by Spoon

Lee Dorsey

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MONTEREY, CALIFORNIA WWW.ROBERTTALBOTT.COM

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CLOTHES TALK

ELEMENTS

OF MEN’S STYLE

…in which Sid Shapiro discusses what’s new for the spring and summer seasons and allows a peek at his own impressive wardrobe.

How many suits do you own, and which are your favorites?

I have around 40 to 50 suits, and they are all my favorites. I wear every brand that we carry. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t sell it to my customer.

Whether the suit is a Canali, Ermenegildo Zegna, Belvest…I like them all.

How many of your suits are double-breasted?

Double-breasted is probably about 10 percent of my collection. Whether I wear single- or double-breasted is just a matter of how I feel that day. I’ll mix it up when I need a change of pace.

How many suits does the average guy need?

I would say 14 suits, minimum. Guys should replace one or two every season and add two or three. People notice if your suit is old or new, or if it’s out of style. They recognize the difference.

And that’s 14 suits per season. In most cases I care more about my customers suits than they do. There are some suits for all seasons, but he should have a winter suit that looks like a winter suit and the same with summer.

How do you like to wear a pocket square?

It really depends on the style of the garment.

Some pocket squares I wear four-pointed, and some I just fluff. And now we have the new ones that are round, and I have a number of those. They come pre-done, so you just put it in your pocket, and it’s all set.

Tell us about your tie collection.

I probably own 100 to 150 ties. For every suit, I have three or four ties hanging with it. Every outfit has its own ties, its own pocket squares, its own shoes.

Your closet sounds very organized.

Yes, that’s the way my closet looks—everything is done by outfits. I’ve always done it that way. When I get dressed, I don’t have to start looking for a square, a tie or a belt. It saves me a lot of time.

So the big question is, how large is your closet?

It’s huge. I converted my top floor where my sons used to live into a closet, so it runs the length of the whole wall. It runs the length of the whole house, actually. So it’s probably 30 or 40 feet. The only clothes that I keep down in the bedroom area are some casual trousers and pants that I wear to knock around in.

You’re known for wearing blue shoes. Can you tell us why?

I have around 25 pairs of blue shoes. When I dress in blue, which I wear predominately, I wear blue shoes. I have shoes for almost every outfit. But if I wear brown, I wear brown shoes, if I wear black, I wear black shoes, if I wear grey, I wear black or sometimes even a grey shoe. I don’t contrast my shoe, everything is blended.

Which are your favorite blue shoes?

I like my Ferragamos and my Donald J Pliners, and I have some Lloyds that are nice. I don’t have a favorite, it’s more about which has the right style for what I’m wearing. They are all very comfortable shoes.

What trends are you seeing for spring and summer?

Spring is all about color—vibrant shades of blue, and so many other bright hues as well—but also greys, some beautiful tans and browns. Navy blue tuxedos, rather than black, are very in right now, as are navy dinner jackets and printed, silk dinner jackets. For sportcoats, we have new shades of blue and blends of silk, linen and wool.

Also, beautiful patterns are in vogue for spring.

What’s the latest in spring jackets?

We’re showing some really nice, lightweight quilted vests that are great for this season.

They come in very nice colors like blue, grey, orange and red.

What should customers keep in mind as far as trends?

Jackets are getting a little bit shorter, pants are much slimmer, legs are more tapered, shoulders are a little narrower, a little softer. But I think the customer recognizes that. My customer is very sophisticated, so if a style changes, he expects to see it in the store, and we have it.

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From left, Samuelsohn, Luciano Barbera, Edward Armah, Canali, Salvatore Ferragamo.

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ESSENTIALS

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Whether you’re headed to a ballgame, boardroom or ballroom, there are accessories to finish every look.

ballgame...

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Clockwise from top left, nylon jacket and white polo shirt by Moncler, sneaker by John Varvatos and white jeans by Agave.

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www.sandcopenhagen.com Yuki Kempees for SAND Copenhagen

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ESSENTIALS

Cashmere sweaters by Kinross Cashmere.

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boardroom...

Clockwise from top left, purple windowpane sportcoat by Pal Zileri, shirt by Brioni, pocket circle by Edward Armah, paisley silk tie by Ermenegildo Zegna, shoe by Salvatore Ferragamo and pants by Ermenegildo Zegna.

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Clockwise from top left, tuxedo and tux shirt

by Canali, black silk tie and navy bow tie by Italo Ferretti, pin by Silvio Fiorello and shoe

by Salvatore Ferragamo.

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THE LEADING MAN

Red-Hot Chilean Game of Thrones launched Pedro Pascal into the limelight, but it’s his rugged style that’s keeping him there. By Marisa Sandora

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been. “There is a bit of a luxury to experiencing this amount of exposure not as a young man,” he told the Observer. “Because at this point, whether I like it or not, for better or worse…I am who I am.”

Perhaps this self-acceptance is behind the confidence Pascal projects on screen—he gives off a magnetic energy. And his scruffy attractiveness doesn’t hurt. Pascal, 41, looks as good wearing period garb for Game of Thrones or The Great Wall as he does donning the retro styles of the 1970s and ’80s in Narcos. In real life, Pascal dresses down, usually wearing plain T-shirts and casual pants or jeans, but on the red carpet, he can wear a suit or tux with the best of them, often making the look just a little bit cooler by sporting hipster black-framed glasses and stubble. He’s not one of those brooding leading men who never smile. Pascal looks happy. He’s earned it.

Clockwise from top left: Audiences fell for Pedro Pascal when he burst onto the scene playing Oberyn Martell, a.k.a. the Red Viper, in Game of Thrones. Even when he’s dressed up, Pascal’s scruff lends a laid-back vibe to his look.

Pascal dons period clothing once again for The Great Wall. The actor looks retro-chic in L’Uomo Vogue.

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ew knew his name before his scenestealing role as the Red Viper in season four of Game of Thrones thrust him into the spotlight back in 2014. But Pedro Pascal had been pounding the pavement in New York for 20 years after graduating from NYU, taking small roles in shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, CSI and Law and Order before striking gold as the prince with smoldering good looks who would meet his untimely end in an epic battle with the Mountain.

Thankfully for fans, Pascal was quickly cast in Narcos, on Netflix, as a DEA agent intent on capturing Columbian drug lord Pablo Escobar, and on the big screen with Matt Damon in The Great Wall.

Through it all, the Chilean actor, who came to the United States as a baby when his parents fled the military dictatorship in their native country, has stayed humble, seemingly as laid back as he has always

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100% Italian. Born in Vicenza.

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ON THE RUN

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Spring/Summer 2017:

isaia

Colorful and bold, yet laid-back, this season’s whimsical collection is for the man who doesn’t take himself too seriously.

W

SPRING/SUMMER 2017

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ith their bright colors and eye-popping patterns, the spring/summer offerings from Italian luxury brand Isaia might best be described as a breath of fresh air—a breath of fresh ocean air from Capri. Indeed, the menswear company has based its new collection on the “Capri-type man,” a bored-looking but somewhat theatrical fellow who “wants to seduce everyone with flashy colors and languid gazes.”

Breezy striped, check and windowpane patterns in yellow, lavender, pink and ocean blue make for a fun yet pulled-together look. Deconstructed suit jackets sport extra-large lapels and are shorter for comfort.

This is not your standard boardroom attire.

Dressed-down weekends might call for colored denim, a patterned shirt and a reversible suede vest tanned with natural vegetable tannins, an ancient and eco-friendly process that ensures a beautiful, durable finish. It’s not surprising considering all Isaia garments are handmade in bella Napoli, and they feature traditional construction techniques such as hand-stitching.

This season’s collection makes you want to roll up your trousers and soak up the sun while you leisurely work on your next business plan aboard your yacht. If you can’t get to Capri this summer, wearing Isaia is the next best thing.

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BRITISH INVASION

What do you get when you cross a sports car with a vehicle built for everyday comfort and driveability? The McLaren 570GT, a high-performance yet refined ride.

McLaren’s new 570GT features a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, lightweight carbon fiber chassis and aluminum body, allowing an impressive power-to-weight ratio that lets you go from zero to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. But compared with the 570S, it’s more refined and practical, with a softened suspension, more headroom and more luggage space.

That powerful engine pumps out 562 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. The car features a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, but there is also a manual mode controlled via steering-wheelmounted rocker-shift paddles.

Compared with the 570S, the GT’s suspension firmness is relaxed by 15 percent in the front and 10 percent in the rear to make it more comfortable to drive. But don’t worry, the GT still handles like a sports car, hugging the road and feeling impressively responsive.

Going shopping? The 570GT has almost 8 cubic feet more storage space on the back ledge of the car than the 570S (for a total of 12 cubic feet of carrying capacity with the trunk in front). You can even buy McLaren luggage designed to make maximum use of the added space.

Starting price:

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$198,950

The GT cast alloy wheels (19-inch front and 20-inch rear) are fitted with Pirelli P-Zero tires, which minimize unwanted road noise with noise-cancelling foam technology.

The uncluttered interior features a “floating” center console with a 7-inch vertical touch screen plus heated memory seats and sumptuous leather trim.

The rear spoiler sports a higher lip (10 mm over the standard-issue 570S) that provides added downforce and stability.

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The 570GT comes with dihedral doors to make getting in and out easier. The doors gently latch when closing, thanks to the soft-close mechanism.

The panoramic roof makes the roofline slightly taller than the 570S and it stretches back farther to the rear, offering more headroom and amazing views. (Stargazing, anyone?)

The low nose is set off by highintensity LED headlights.

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venice by twilight Early evening in the “city of canals” brings a special magic the daytime tourists miss. By Everett Potter

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ou’re intrigued, no doubt, by the Venice that draws travelers—the historic city of canals, the place that inspired Shakespeare and Thomas Mann, the venerable city-state that 800 years ago was a trading power with no peer. So yes, sightsee as much as you like during the day. But twilight is when this magical place—the best walking city I’ve ever visited—becomes a stage set with a glorious role for you. The ochre walls seem to glow, the lights of the palazzos go on and there’s little doubt that you’re in the most romantic city in the world.

CONTINUED

SPRING/SUMMER 2017

Evenings in Venice are known more for their lively cafes than crowded nightclubs. Venetians are known to partake in highly ritualized consumption of light cocktails and food throughout the night.

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Em nis ut et occusciusae exerchil mintotat il int, tes est, culligendus quiates molore que veri num qui voluptios eost et que lauta quas anditatusam facius inciumquo corendit, volut qui tem Opposite: With a labyrinth of canals, alleys and simincia nisiminvel et, officius dent, quas dolor remporporum et, passageways, Venice at twilight can be seen odisby re,land optatur, quiberferion eaqui di cus soloriaest fugiam quis or sea. This page: As the sun disappears, dolor so do sum the volore lam repe rerum volorecte pre, con nonsent. tourists, leaving daytime destinations likeLesed famedmolupturio.

St. Neque nis alit, quam, siminis ciendigenis velesMark’s Square peacefully quiet. tibus etur simusdae. Net quundenti sume evel ipsam et dicitatior

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of prosecco from the Veneto blended with white peach purée and served ice cold. It’s beyond delicious, and having just one requires willpower. You’ll be in good spiritual company here—Truman Capote, Orson Welles and Charlie Chaplin all haunted Harry’s, as did Ernest Hemingway and the heiress and art patron Peggy Guggenheim. Today there will be well-dressed Venetians inside and perhaps too many tourists.

So visit Harry’s at least once. But for a true giro di ombre, head to other places for a tipple as the sun goes down, to bacari that are more local and more chic.

Wander the streets as the many church bells mark the time, with a backdrop of kids shouting in a square as they thump a soccer ball off a thousand-year-old wall. One memorable night I stood outside of La Fenice, the fabled opera house.

The performance was sold out but you could hear opera emanating from the windows and doors, filling nearby streets with a performance too big to be contained within four walls. No other city is quiet enough for quite this experience.

Your next stop could be Al Prosecco, which is on Campo San Giacomo all’Orio, one of Venice’s great neighborhood squares and away from the wellworn tourist routes. Here you can watch the locals on the square and sip some of the city’s finest prosecco, even sampling the slightly more sophisticated prosecco fermo, a non-effervescent version.

Venice is remarkably safe after nightfall. I’ve always thought that for that reason it’s the best city on Earth in which to get lost. Eventually you’ll find your way to wherever you’re going, thanks to the kindness of strangers or maybe a street map from your hotel stuck into a back pocket. (Note that your phone’s GPS may not work well in the stone maze.)

I know from experience about getting lost. One night I left a restaurant with a group of friends, offering to lead everyone back to our hotel. I pride myself on my innate sense of direction, and so we walked left and then right, down one passageway and then another, into a square and beyond, as they talked and I

SPRING/SUMMER 2017

Feel those cooling breezes wafting in from the lagoon? Pretty soon you’ll notice that the masses of day trippers have departed with the sun—budget tourists who’ve left for their hotels on the mainland in Mestre. That’s fine. Now the curtain has risen and Venice has become your secret show.

But this isn’t Berlin, Rome or Prague—it’s not a place for partying. The fact is that restaurants are stacking their chairs not long after 10 p.m., while many bars close by 11. It’s the rare boîte that stays open until midnight. So I prefer to be in league with the locals, who choose twilight to leave their homes for a local bar or café for an aperitivo. In Venice, that drink is a highly ritualized one and is typically either an ombra or a spritz. An ombra is a tiny glass of red or white wine that is tossed back quite quickly. A spritz is an aperitivo of white wine, Campari and a shot of seltzer or sparkling water. Prosecco, the bubbly white wine made in the hills of the Veneto region, is also a favorite.

This is also when classic Venetian wine bars, or bacari, offer snacks called cicchetti, the Venetian version of tapas. They can include baccalà mantecato (creamed salt cod) on warm polenta, or polpette (breaded morsels) of meat, cheese or tuna. There could be sardele in saor (sardines with sweet and sour onions and sultanas) or ovosodo con arringa (hard boiled egg topped with herring fillet). My favorite is seppioline alla griglia (grilled baby squid).

The best way to enjoy these true Venetian cicchetti is to do as many locals do and engage in a giro di ombre, literally an ombra-crawl, hitting various small bacari. In this twilight ritual you literally rub shoulders with a wide range of Venetians relaxing. And after a while you realize you’ve also eaten dinner—there’s no need for a formal meal. It’s a cool melange of sightseeing, dining and drinking.

But where to go? For decades, the favorite tourist haunt for an aperitivo has been Harry’s Bar, which opened in 1931 and claims to have invented the Bellini, named after the Venetian painter Giovanni Bellini. The cocktail consists

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navigated with confidence. Less than 10 minutes later, we found ourselves standing in front of the restaurant we had just left. Was it a touch too much prosecco? Or had we been bewitched?

So throw caution to the wind. For a glimpse of the real Venice, head to Osteria al Squero, which has a terrific northern Italian wine selection and a creative array of cicchetti. It’s across a canal from one of Venice’s last remaining squeri, or gondola workshops, and you can watch this ancient craft while sipping your wine.

Then head back to the labyrinth of canals big and small, of twisting alleys and winding passageways leading in and out of myriad squares. Even at twilight, it’s an architectural feast for the eyes, with stone doorways and balconies and elaborate stairways, worn by hundreds of years of footsteps and weather.

If you want to go really local, squeeze into Osteria alla Ciurma in the Rialto. It will be jammed with regulars standing, or perched on a stool if they’re fortunate, under a ceiling hung with vintage fishing boats. Have an ombra, order some cicchetti and try to blend in.

For a hipper locals’ place, go to Al Merca, also in the Rialto. A bar by default, it serves ombra and cicchetti but there’s nowhere to sit. You can stand on the edge of the square and rub shoulders with some of the city’s cooler kids.

Feeling full now? Just walk some more. The Adriatic laps at the city’s feet and the crush of visitors has left its mark, but never has decay seemed quite so splendid. By this point, the need for gelato has probably kicked in.

Lots of small shops sell it, but I love Gelateria Nico on the Dorsoduro, which is ridiculously good.

I like to end my evenings in Venice by walking across St. Mark’s Square. It’s when the Café Florian is emptying and it’s a good time to sit, listen to a budding Vivaldi playing to the nighttime crowd and have a final glass of wine or a coffee. Then to the pier to be transported like an Italian film star in a vintage wooden launch to the Belmond Hotel Cipriani, which lies across the Grand Canal on the island called Giudecca.

I first stayed here 25 years ago—it dazzled me then and it still does. It has extraordinary views of the Doge’s Palace and the Venetian Lagoon. There are rooms with balconies overlooking the water and the hotel’s private garden, as well as suites in various sizes, all decorated in an opulent, gilded style. Few places in Europe can rival the sense of grandeur here. Outside there are elaborately tended gardens along the water and the only swimming pool in Venice, remarkable especially for its Olympic size. The legend is that the measurements were mistakenly given in meters rather than feet; hence the gargantuan dimensions of this salt water pool. It will be spotlit when you return late at night, so head to bed and arise by midmorning for a palatial breakfast. Then join the gathering sunbathers around its perimeter in midmorning. Put on your hippest shades and relax, for this is the ultimate spot in Venice to recover from the previous evening’s giro di ombre.

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Opposite, from top: Visitors of the Belmond Hotel Cipriani can dine with a magnificent view.

Seafood Antipasti is a popular dish at A Beccafico. This page: Even after a long day, a gondolier works into the evening and seeks his next riders.

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rock on!

It’s easy to find your groove in this season’s super-cool threads.

SPRING/SUMMER 2017

From left, sportcoat, striped shirt, red polka dot tie and linen pocket square all by Isaia, pants by Incotex. Jacket and printed shirt by Etro, wool pocket square by Robert Talbott, jeans by Ermenegildo Zegna.

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From left, grey striped suit by Corneliani, shirt by Stenstrรถms, silk tie by Italo Ferretti, pocket circle by Edward Armah. Plaid suit by Hickey Freeman, shirt by Taccaliti, silk tie and pocket circle by Italo Ferretti.

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From left, wool suit, check shirt and silk tie by Canali. Three-piece blue plaid suit and floral shirt by Sand.

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From left, blue striped suit by Samuelsohn, check shirt by Taccaliti, polka dot tie by Italo Ferretti, pocket square by Robert Talbott. Plaid sportcoat by Belvest, cotton shirt by Isaia, paisley tie by Brioni, silk pocket square by Eton, trousers by Zanella.

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215

AND COUNTING...

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YEARS, THAT IS

At Syd Jerome, our loyal customers return to the store year after year not only for the finest suits, sportcoats, shirts and shoes, but for sartorial advice and our friendship too.

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25 YEARS

CEDRIC D. THURMAN Business and Civic Leader

SPRING/SUMMER 2017

I’ve been shopping at Syd Jerome for 25 years—it was recommended to me by one of my mentors. I needed a blue suit and was deciding on options from three stores but couldn’t make up my mind about which one I liked more. I showed all three to my girlfriend at the time, and she raved about how distinguished the suit from Syd Jerome made me look. As a guy in my early 20s, the suit was probably out of my price range, but it made her happy, so I bought it. That girlfriend is now my wife, who I blame for my Syd Jerome addiction. I also bought my wedding tuxedo there—I had no other choice! Today I shop there mostly for professional attire, like suits, trousers, sportcoats and ties, and I occasionally buy casual sportswear, like shirts, sweaters and pants. I guess you could say my style is a blend of modern and classic. My mother once told me to go for understated elegance when dressing, so I start with that advice and amp it up a bit. I tend to wear a lot of Canali, and I have a preference for patterns over solids, but I will wear a solid color if it’s interesting or has a nice texture. I frequently mix patterns and textures to create my own look. It’s important to me that I dress in a way that when people meet me for the first time, they think, “I want to do business with that guy.” That’s why I shop at Syd Jerome—you won’t see others wearing what you buy there. It’s the place to go if you want high-quality clothing that will differentiate you from the crowd. Even a solid blue suit from Syd Jerome will stand out among the rest. I know my suit looks good when my dad asks if I got it from Syd Jerome.

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29 YEARS

ANTHONY ABBATTISTA

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Principal at Deloitte Consulting, LLP I’ve been shopping at Syd Jerome for 29 years. The first thing I bought was a grey pinstripe suit, and I’m still getting my suits and business-casual clothing there today. My clothes are a bit traditional because of my work, but I do like suits that make a statement. I try not to be just a “blue and grey suit guy.” I’m a graduate of Northwestern and am proud of that and my Chicago roots, so I wear a lot of purple. I like plaids and stripes. Recently I was wearing a blueand-red plaid Corneliani suit, and a man at a front desk of a hotel said, “Great suit!” Once Scott even talked me into an unstructured jacket that was black with hints of silver that I originally thought was a little flashy for me. Syd Jerome is the perfect store for someone who wants something unique in addition to top-quality clothing and personal attention. I appreciate value in my clothes—I would rather have fewer nice items that are memorable than a lot of unremarkable items. I want clothes that make me feel good and confident. Their tailoring is also top notch—when I lose or gain weight, they are able to preserve my investment. That’s what I get at Syd, an investment in myself and my image.

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96 YEARS

BARRY S. LEVIN, NEAL WISHNICK AND HERB BLUM Three workers’ compensation attorneys in Chicago who have practiced together for more than 40 years

HB: It’s been about 37 years that I’ve been shopping at Syd Jerome, since about 1979 or 1980. Our office was in the same building, and two people I ran it with were dressed by Syd, and I was always impressed with how they looked. The first thing I bought was a suit. I buy Armani suits across the board, and at the time I went into Syd Jerome, the suits were transitioning from the traditional three-piece to a more oversized look that was very cutting-edge. The store has a great assortment that even expands into casualwear. I think it has the most sophisticated selection in Chicago. And they pride themselves on guaranteed tailoring for life, so they’ll stand behind their suits if they start to wear down. Also, what I like is that it’s

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a real family environment. If you go on vacation, the next time you come in, they’ll remember where you went and ask about it.

When you walk into court, it’s mandatory that you look the part—Scott makes it so that I don’t even have to think about what I need.

BL: I’ve been shopping at Syd Jerome for about 25 years, back when it was on Monroe Street. I needed a suit for my son’s bar mitzvah, and Herb recommended I go there. I bought a grey-checkered suit that day and have been buying pretty much everything from Scott ever since. Shirts, suits, ties, sweaters, jeans, winter coats: I don’t pick anything out—Scott does all the work for me. It’s an easy buy—he knows what’s in style and what fits my size and shape. He even puts numbered labels on items so I know what matches.

NW: Herb also sent me to Syd Jerome for the first time back in ’83. I was wearing suits that didn’t have natural fibers in them, and Herb recommended I go to Syd. I think the first thing I bought was a three-piece Joseph Abboud suit. Now I won’t buy a suit anywhere else. The tailoring is outstanding—Scott makes sure you always look good when you walk out of there. I generally don’t like to shop, but when I shop there, I’m comfortable with the process and what I leave with. He knows what looks good, and it always comes out right.

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25 YEARS

MARVIN J. LEAVITT

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Partner at Grund & Leavitt, P.C. My wife, Susie, has been shopping at Syd Jerome longer than I have. Her dad had an office in the same building, so whenever she needed a nice gift for him, a friend or me, she would shop there. I’ve been going for about 25 years. I don’t remember the first thing I bought, but it was probably several suits. Most of my professional wardrobe comes from Syd Jerome, as does a good deal of my casualwear. I grew up in the ’60s and didn’t know anything about suits until I started practicing law. Now I’m as comfortable in my suits as I am in my blue jeans. I usually stick with solid colors, like blues, blacks, greys and the occasional brown—I’m very conservative. Everything I wear looks pretty much the same.

Still, Scott always seems to know exactly what will suit me, no pun intended. He and the staff at Syd Jerome have the best eye for fashion in Chicago. I, like most lawyers, want to be well-dressed to show respect to the court and my clients and to appear effective, and the Syd Jerome staff make it very easy for me to get what I need to accomplish that. And it’s more than just a business relationship. I see Scott at temple and at restaurants I frequent. There’s a family aspect to shopping at Syd Jerome. I’ve known Scott, his parents and other salespeople for years—they’ll even bring items to my house sometimes. Shopping there is always so easy. They show me what they think I like, and the next thing I know, there are new suits hanging in my closet.

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40 YEARS

JIM TAICH

Baird & Warner Real Estate

SPRING/SUMMER 2017

I’ve been shopping at Syd Jerome for about 40 years now. Back then, I passed by the store a bunch of times and never went in, but finally one day, I decided to check it out. The first thing I bought was a custom-made Ermenegildo Zegna suit. It was a great relationship from then on. I even moved to New York for a bit and still came back to Chicago to buy my suits from Syd Jerome. Pretty much everything I own is from there—all of my suits, shirts, sportcoats, shoes and slacks. It’s important for me to look professional and present myself well. I worked on Wall Street for many years, and then I retired to go into real estate with my wife. I tend to dress pretty conservatively, in mostly dark suits. I might branch out and wear a plaid sportcoat if it’s not too flashy. I really trust Sid to tell me what looks good and what doesn’t. And I know he’s doing a great job because people often approach me and ask where I get my clothes. The tailoring is so perfect too. If I want to convince someone to go to Syd Jerome, all I have to say is, “Look at me!”

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on the town

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Look your best while you’re hitting the streets.

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From left, blue jacket, cotton polo and blue jeans by Paul & Shark. Blue vest and down sweater by Colmar, jeans by Agave.

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This page, grey jacket and printed shirt by Robert Graham, pants by Meyer. Opposite, from left, white nylon jacket by Waterville, shirt

by Agave, jeans by MAC. Cotton sweater and shirt by Gran Sasso, green jeans by Paul & Shark.

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From left, blue check sportcoat and shirt

by Robert Talbott, yellow sweater by Umberto Vallati, pocket circle by Italo Ferretti and pants by Incotex. Striped sportcoat and plaid shirt by Circle of Gentlemen, silk pocket circle by Italo Ferretti, tan pants by Canali.

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NATIVE TONGUE

44 X4 X4

Using indigenous ingredients, three chefs honor culinary traditions dating back to America before Columbus.

By Liz Donovan

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the oldest American ingredients have once again found a place on our table. On the following pages, meet three top chefs who are drawing from the past to transform local native foods into culinary delights.

| SYD JEROME

hey say everything old gets new again. Thanks to today’s growing interest in foraging, food preservation techniques and local organic farming—practices Native American tribes have relied on for centuries—

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Jerome Grant Sweet Home Café, Washington, D.C.

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Food and cultural identity are deeply entwined, especially in the Smithsonian kitchens run by Jerome Grant. Just as he did in a past gig at Mitsitam Café, the restaurant at the National Museum of the American Indian, Grant seeks to educate minds as well as palates at Sweet Home, located in the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

His goal? To make meals that are more than meals.

“They’re edible exhibits,” he says.

With no previous experience in indigenous foods, Grant began working as a sous chef at Mitsitam (the word means “let’s eat”) and worked his way up to executive chef. There he invited Native American chefs from around the country to share their dishes so he could observe various tribes’ different methods. (After his departure from Mitsitam, chef Freddie Bitsoie took over as executive chef.)

At Mitsitam, Grant sourced buffalo from The InterTribal Buffalo Council, a collaboration of dozens of tribes, and rice from the Red Lake Nation in Minnesota; now at Sweet Home he works with African American farmers, who provide the collards, catfish and oxtail. “These niche products represent the cultures,” he says. “I have the chance to be an educator and showcase these cultures by helping people identify with these foods.”

Using traditional culinary techniques is important too. Both smoking and stew-making were employed

by Native Americans, who needed a way to preserve proteins, and by freed slaves who had moved west and worked on ranches, he explains. At Mitsitam, these techniques are used in a Western bison and pinto chili. Sweet Home features Son of a Gun Stew, an upscale interpretation of the ranchers’ dish.

At Sweet Home as at Mitsitam, says Grant, simplicity is key, and showy technique never upstages nourishment. “We shouldn’t lose sight of what food truly is,” he says—and, he might add, what it’s been for a very long time.

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John Rivera Sedlar Eloisa, Santa Fe, New Mexico

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| 5102 YADILOH

The opening of this modern Southwestern restaurant, named for John Rivera Sedlar’s grandmother, brought the storied chef back home to the city of his birth, where he presents artistically curated dishes inspired by recipes from both his grandmother and his great aunt, who was celebrated artist Georgia O’Keeffe’s personal chef for more than a decade.

Once called by the now defunct Gourmet magazine the “father of modern Southwest cuisine,” Sedlar is intent on bringing native flavors and ingredients back to Santa Fe, where more “modern” styles of cuisine have recently prospered. “Native cuisine has come full circle,” he says. “It was the first cuisine of America, and now it’s the newest.”

Inspired to help struggling native farmers sell their crop, Sedlar hosted a “corn dinner,” where chefs were invited to dine with the farmers and learn ways to use the heirloom varieties of corn in their restaurants. Sedlar, for example, makes his own tamales and tortillas from masa, a corn-flour dough, and serves up corn ice cream for dessert.

At Eloisa, hue is as important as flavor, as dishes are decorated with colorful shapes and designs. The “Salmon Painted Desert,” for example, showcases both bold Southwestern tastes and a presentation that celebrates arid New Mexico. Images of Sedlar’s grandmother appear in the restaurant and even on servingware. O’Keeffe’s influence is apparent too—Sedlar spent time in her house as a child and has brought ingredients the artist enjoyed, such as sage and lavender, and vegetables she grew in her garden—beets, carrots and watercress—into a special tasting menu called “The O’Keeffe Table.”

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Ryan Swanson Kai Restaurant, Phoenix, Arizona

If you dip into one of the indigenous dishes at Kai Restaurant in the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass resort, expect to be taken on a journey both spiritual and gustatory. The menu, crafted by chef de cuisine Ryan Swanson, guides the diner through a fourcourse culinary experience, from “the birth,” a light bite to pique the appetite, through “the beginning” (appetizers) and “the journey,” a selection of hearty Southwest-inspired entrées, to a culmination in “the afterlife,” the divine dessert round.

Swanson crafts his menu around native ingredients grown locally by the Pima and Maricopa tribes.

“They’re famous as farmers,” he says. “They built all their farms near the river—that’s how they grew their food supply.” He tells of three “sister ingredients”— corn, beans and squash—that, grown in the same plot, help each other thrive. “The corn shields the others from the sun, and the beans and squash provide nutrients to the soil.” Corn is one of the staples at Kai— Swanson even turns it into flour to use in pasta dishes.

He’s also especially drawn to the black tepary bean, a rare bean that native farmers have brought back from near extinction.

The land around the resort inspires the “Native Cactus” dessert, a sweet parfait made from prickly pear cactus and accented with a consommé from nopales cactus, grenita from a prickly pear and syrup from a saguaro cactus, finished with a salty chip from a nopales cactus. Also in the dessert is wolfberry leather, made from one of the 12 species of the nutrient-rich local wolfberry.

Predicts Swanson: “In five or 10 years you’re going to see a lot of these ingredients go mainstream. Maybe you’ll even see black tepary beans in Whole Foods.”

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SPIRITS

BARHOPPING X4 EUROPE4 4 X4 If you only have time for one drink in each of these storied cities, let it be here!

By Everett Potter

By Whomever

| SYD JEROME

By Whomever

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The Connaught Bar London

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I’ve been haunting European watering holes for decades, but I don’t think I’ve ever sat in a more spectacular drinking establishment than the Connaught Bar. It’s located in the five-star Connaught Hotel, London’s most sublime cocoon of luxury. I used to meet friends at the hotel’s lively, clubby and more casual Coburg Bar, which is still there. But in 2008, designer David Collins oversaw the construction of the dramatic Connaught Bar, an Art Deco temple to all cocktails and a nod to the hotel’s heyday. Collins was essentially given carte blanche to go over the top, and he did just that, inspired by English and Irish Cubist art of the 1920s.

The result is a palace with textured walls of platinum silver leaf, mirrors galore, low lighting and leather banquettes, and it feels like a set with you at center stage, a throwback to the glorious, dandified 1920s. You might well think of Brideshead Revisited, and indeed, all the Bright Young Things of today are the habitués. You might go with a drink like Vieux Connaught, made with Ron Zacapa 23 rum, Bulleit Rye, a blend of dry vermouths, Bénédictine, saffron smoke, and Angostura and orange bitters. Or go gaga over the limited-edition champagnes, spirits and liqueurs. You can even speak with Agostino Perrone, director of mixology at the Connaught Bar, if you want something more extravagant. But the classic reason to settle in here—apart from a celebrity sighting like Gwyneth Paltrow, a frequent visitor—is to order a drink from their legendary Martini Trolley. It’s martini as sacrament, painstakingly prepared tableside, using made-in-house bitters and vermouths. These martinis are always stirred, never shaken. Little wonder then that the Connaught Bar took home the “World’s Best Bar” award at 2016’s Tales of the Cocktail festival.

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SPIRITS

Dry Martini and Speakeasy Barcelona

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The concept of Dry Martini and Speakeasy, which opened 30 years ago, might have been dreamt by a Spanish surrealist like Salvador Dali. It starts with a bar called Dry Martini. Now, hidden in the backroom of this classic cocktail bar is a very small restaurant called Speakeasy. So the bar is in the open, quite public, and the restaurant is hidden. Got that? Speakeasy started as an informal restaurant for bar-goers who needed a little sustenance after a few martinis too many. A password was even needed to gain entry. It’s no longer password-protected, so you can now safely reserve a table there. It’s still charming and has a playful air of mystery, vaguely recalling a romanticized version of New York and Chicago speakeasies during the Prohibition Era. There are just a handful of tables in a handsome setting, with walls of stacked liquor and wines, all backlit. But for my money, Dry Martini is the main attraction. It’s all about green leather, velvet drapes and brass fittings. There’s a wooden bar and wooden paneling, and it looks and feels like a classic English hotel bar from the 19th century. It began life as a so-called “Martineria” serving only martinis. It serves other cocktails now, but you will do well to stick to the original, because you will rarely have a tastier one anywhere in the world. Waiters clad in white jackets make an absolutely perfect signature dry gin martini, presented on a silver tray, poured from a shaker right in front of you into a classic martini glass. These guys are masters of the martini art, which is why Dry Martini was singled out as one of the best gin bars in the world by industry journal Drinks International. It’s long been considered the best bar in Barcelona, and I like it because you rub shoulders with lots of locals here, not just wide-eyed visitors.

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Harry’s New York Bar Paris Generations of Americans have made a beeline to this venerable watering hole since it opened in 1911 as “The New York Bar.” The first bartender, Harry MacElhone, ended up owning the joint and more than a century later, his family still does. Long a haunt of writers, artists and expats—Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald drank here, along with other members of the so-called “Lost Generation” of the 1920s—it’s still quite clubby.

I can still recall the first time I saw the ad for Harry’s in the back pages of the International Herald Tribune, decades ago, long before the Internet came along.

It gave the bar’s name and in parentheses read “Sank Roo Doe Noo.” Code? Well, sort of. It’s a phonetic pronunciation of the bar’s address, 5 Rue Danou. The ad ran for years in the IHT, and it was designed so that a newly arrived Yank in Paris, unfamiliar with the French language but eager to go to the storied Harry’s, could shout it at a taciturn Paris cab driver and get there in a hurry.

Even today, the bar itself is a set director’s dream—think Midnight in Paris— dimly lit, with wooden walls lined with a century’s worth of memorabilia. This is a classy drinking establishment, and there’s a piano bar downstairs with red banquettes, a space where George Gershwin is said to have penned “An American in Paris.”

In the 1940s, Harry’s was a favored haunt of British novelist Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond. In Casino Royale, in fact, Bond referred to Harry’s as the best place in Paris to get a “solid drink.” Solid drinks are still what to expect here, and the food is completely beside the point. Harry’s claims credit for inventing both the Bloody Mary and the Sidecar. In this dimly lit bar, the bartenders in white coats will look at you sideways if you ever utter the term “mixologist.” The best advice is to man up and go for one of the preferred tipples: a Manhattan or a dry martini.

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Prinzipal Kreuzberg Berlin You can call it time travel to the Weimar years, to a burlesque bar with tassleclad women on trapeze swings. Prinzipal Kreuzberg is a self-proclaimed “Rabbit Hole” where Alice in Wonderland and Lord-knows-who-else might be found in anything-goes Berlin. On weekdays, it’s a decent and classy bar that offers cocktails and jazz. But on Saturday nights, it becomes something else—Cabaret with a side of David Bowie, with elaborately costumed and un-costumed participants who might keep you out until dawn. In this small, packed space with blinking lights, there’s a touch of Moulin Rouge Paris of the 1920s mixed with the Berlin portrayed

by Joel Grey and Liza Minnelli. It’s all a bit raunchy, as the Weimar years were.

Entrance is through an unmarked doorway on Oranienstrasse in Berlin’s Kreuzberg neighborhood. Think lots of crystal glassware, bowtie-wearing bartenders, mirrored walls and the odd sense of being inside a burlesque star’s dressing room, which, in fact, you might be, since the doors to those rooms are usually open.

Waitresses in corsets and feather boas serve you drinks that use syrups, infusions and bitters that are all made in-house. They have bizarre concoctions like the Bloody Betty, made with vodka, Scotch, house-spiced tomato and white balsamic.

They get even stranger, like the Eflatun Royale, with cognac, lavender, lemon and crémant. There’s also the oddly named Potion of Sykei, with gin, fig-infused vermouth and blue cheese. Of course, not everything may be what it seems. Berlin has long been the mistress of the tease, documented so well by Christopher Isherwood in his Berlin Stories, the very basis of Cabaret. So while there are plenty of femme fatales disrobing on stage, other “ladies” may well be something else indeed. A Saturday night spent here is decadence writ large.

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Jerry Thomas Speakeasy Rome The Jerry Thomas Speakeasy, a hidden boîte in Rome, is sort of the anti-Rome, the last thing you’d expect to find in the city. The bar, which opened in 2010, is named after a legendary or possibly fictional 19th-century American bartender. That’s sort of beside the point. Getting inside is the challenge. In a 21st-century version of the old speakeasies, where entry was provided only to those who knew the password, the password for Jerry Thomas Speakeasy comes from a multiple choice question on the bar’s website. The question always has something to do with some aspect of the cocktail, and it changes all the time. Recently the question was, “Which one is the most known drink by Trader Vic?” You could choose from Zombie, Mai Tai or Suffering Bastard, though most Americans of a certain age would know that the middle response was the correct answer. Armed with the password, you can now make a booking for the same evening. But where is this place? In Vicolo Cellini, an otherwise nondescript street near Chiesa Nuova. Inside it’s small, dimly lit, and jammed with about 40 people. It’s a bit of a squeeze, but I’ve always felt that the best bars are small spaces. If you can’t find a spot on one of the vintage leather couches, you’ll be perched on a barstool, filling out the requisite membership card and paying in cash for the privilege of drinking with Roman hipsters with perfect stubble to the sounds of jazz. The downside is that it can be awfully smoky. The upside is that if you’re one of those Yanks who think that dinner in Trastevere and a stroll along the Tiber is the real Roma—I count myself among them—it’s a passport to a side of the Eternal City that you never knew existed. Plan on sticking to classics like Manhattans, Sazeracs and Old Fashioneds, because the entire place is an homage to the American cocktail. The hours are restricted to Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.

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Me and my Paul&Shark.

DILL NORRIS scuba diver

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GRAPE

going south...

South Africa, that is, where you might not expect to find such splendid pinot noirs. By Josh Sens

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n recent decades, as oenophiles awakened to emergent wine regions around the world, South Africa remained largely out of sight and mind.

Blame politics and preconceptions.

The country’s Apartheid-era isolation didn’t help. But even after the boycotts ended, South African vintners faced stiff competition from a global market that paid their labels relatively scant attention.

Asked for impressions of South African wine, outsiders were apt to mention Stellenbosch, the heat-baked region outside Cape Town that has staked its claim with such sun-worshipping varietals as granache and cabernet sauvignon—if they knew to mention anything at all.

But as with so much else in South Africa, the country’s wine-making reputation has changed.

It is now seen as a hotspot for pinot noir. Actually, cool place is more like it.

At first blush, that might sound unlikely. Pinot noir, after all, is a notoriously temperamental grape that performs most willingly in cool-climate settings like Burgundy, Oregon’s Willamette Valley and the fog-blanketed Sonoma Coast. It can stand some heat but doesn’t tolerate relentlessly high temperatures, and South Africa, of course, gets a ton of sun.

Yet the country is also home to microclimates with just the sort of traits that pinot noir prefers.

Consider the appellation called the Cape South Coast, which stretches southeast of Cape Town over rolling terrain, close to the Atlantic Ocean, covering a collection of grape-growing wards and districts including Elgin Valley, Walker Bay and Hemel en Aarde.

The soil here, rich in clay and shale, is primo for pinot, and so are the climatic conditions, freshened by the ocean’s kiss.

More than 60 wineries operate around the Cape South Coast. Many are small and family-run, and the finest of them share in the conviction that the smartest way to treat pinot noir is pretty much to get out of its way.

“When you are harvesting quality fruit, it’s not necessary to manipulate the wine,” says Jean-Claude (JC) Martin, head winemaker at South Cape Coast winery Creation Wines.

“What you do instead is guide it gently through the process so as to preserve the sense of place.”

Like many winemakers, Martin recognizes pinot noir as “the heartbreak grape,” a nod to its fragility and beauty. But he loves it fearlessly.

Born in Switzerland, he first fell for the varietal in his late teens while working his family’s vineyards on the slopes of Lake Bienne. In 2002, he and wife Carolyn, a native of South Africa, purchased the land where their winery now sits, on

Hemel en Aarde Ridge, transforming what had been a sheep farm into a happy place for pinot noir.

Creation’s vineyard grows at nearly 1,000 feet above sea level, less than 10 miles from the Atlantic. A combination of the clay soil and the ocean’s cooling influence gives rise to elegant wines that favor bright fruit flavors and fresh acidity over weighty oak and tiresome tannins.

“That’s what we think pinot noir should be,” Carolyn Martin says. “Ageworthy wines that pair wonderfully with food.”

Pinot noir of similarly splendid subtlety and structure can be found at respected estates throughout the South Cape Coast. They include venerable properties like Botanica and its Elgin Valley neighbor, Boschendal, a winery whose roots reach back to 1685, as well as relative newcomers like Stellar Winery, whose delicate, fruit-forward River’s End pinot noir is made with organic grapes.

Stellar released its first wines in 2003, one year after JC and Carolyn Martin established Creation. At the time, South African pinot noir flew largely under the radar. But those were the old days. The world is changing quickly. And one of the truths of our brave new age is that undiscovered wine regions don’t remain that way for long.

Clockwise from top: Founded in 1685, the picturesque Boschendal is one of the oldest wine estates in South Africa. Ginny Poval, Botanica’s winemaker, is a self-taught American who relocated to South Africa and planted her first vineyard there in 2009. Take a sip of Creation’s Pinot Noir and you may detect red berry aromas, elegant vanilla and a whiff of wood spice. Botanica’s vineyards, where grapes for The Mary Delany Collection are grown. Visitors are treated to dramatic mountain views at Boschendal. Boschendal’s Elgin Pinot Noir comes from one of the highest planted vineyard sites in the Elgin Valley.

TASTING NOTES Creation Estate 2013 Pinot Noir, $30 This balanced, elegant pinot noir opens with bright berry notes and gives way to a clean, refreshing finish. It marries beautifully with mild fish and poultry.

Boschendal Elgin 2014 Pinot Noir, $35 A complexly structured wine, this pinot noir has hints of cranberry and red cherry on the nose and notes of clove and spiced oak on the palate. It’s a wonderfully food-friendly wine.

Botanica Mary Delany Collection 2013 Pinot Noir, $25 Starting with crisp acidity and refreshing berry notes, this delicate pinot noir shows a feisty character with a bright and spicy finish. It has slight undercurrents of the oak in which it is aged. Try it with roast chicken or shellfish.

Stellar Winery, 2014 River’s End Pinot Noir, $14 On the nose, this organic wine gives off woodsy hints, almost like a morning walk through a dewy forest.

But given time to open, it becomes a medley of blackberries and ripe cherry, with just enough tannins for a dry and elegant finish.

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ROOM KEY

springtime in new york

Inside The Lowell, you’ll find creature comforts galore, gorgeously redesigned public spaces and heavenly Mediterranean cuisine. Oh, and you can step outside too. By Rita Guarna

| SYD JEROME

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he glories of Gotham are almost endless, from marveling at the works of art along Museum Mile to walking the winding trails of Central Park—and of course there’s the Great White Way. Not to mention some of the world’s finest restaurants. But at day’s end, instead of staying in teeming, touristy Times Square, those in the know head to Manhattan’s residential Upper East Side, where well-kept townhouses dot quiet, tree-lined streets. The picture of classic New York style, The Lowell is one of the best places in town to lay your head. And fill your belly.

Built as a luxury apartment house in the 1920s, it’s a sophisticated home-away-fromhome, with its 74 rooms and suites designed by residential designer Michael S. Smith, who is known for his work in the White House—he decorated former President Obama’s private residence—and his modernist take on traditional design. Think of it as a well-appointed pied-àterre where you’ll want for nothing. There is 24hour room service, a fitness center and a fireplace attendant (you don’t think they’d expect you to fan your own flames, do you?). Most of the hotel is dedicated to spacious suites that are perfect for families—complete with terraces, kitchens and, yes, those cozy wood-burning fireplaces.

In March, Charles Masson, one of the country’s most respected restaurateurs, and chef Christian Delouvrier, the legendary epicurean, opened Majorelle at The Lowell. Named after the iconic garden in Marrakech, it features a seasonally driven menu with such treats as Delice au Foie Gras et Pomme Fondante (foie gras with warm apples) and Ris de Veau sur Lit de Mache

et Truffes (veal sweetbreads, mache salad and truffles).

Masson is best known for his role at the family-owned French restaurant La Grenouille.

Delouvrier, renowned for his cuisine at fine restaurants in Paris and in such Manhattan eateries as Lespinasse and La Mangeoire, offers a French menu accented by flavors from Morocco and elsewhere in the Mediterranean.

A five-star boutique hotel privately owned by the Chartouni family, The Lowell is the brainchild of Dina DeLuca Chartouni, a city-born and -raised woman, who wanted to create a haven, but one that would make a major statement. She called on Smith and Mark Pinney, the Londonbased architect for the Armani and Burberry stores, to help her realize her vision, which most recently guided a two-year renovation of the hotel’s public spaces.

And, ah, those spaces. The design’s centerpiece was put in place with the long-awaited opening of Majorelle. The restaurant is framed by marble columns and features a custom-patterned grey and ivory marble floor, vaulted wood arched ceilings, and deep blue silk velvet on the chairs and banquettes. And there’s a retractable roof over the adjacent terrace that makes indoor/ outdoor dining possible year-round. (It’s also the place to be to enjoy Masson’s passion for floral artistry, including exotic plants and fountains!)

Connected to Majorelle is Jacques, an intimate bar with French oak wood paneling, an antiqued mirrored ceiling and a marble bar. Here you’ll imbibe expertly crafted cocktails such as the Bleu de Marjorelle—my favorite—consisting of

Bombay Sapphire Gin, elderflower, cucumber and basil. It’s the perfect guests-only hideaway for entertaining over cocktails and light fare from noon to 4 p.m., when The Club Room opens to the public. That space features a library of art books surrounded by French oak parquet flooring, hand-painted paneling and a wood-burning fireplace. Was indulgence ever so civilized?

Staying at The Lowell almost derailed my plan for a city weekend getaway. The hotel is so perfect that I was tempted not to leave at all.

But leave—at least for a little while—you must, as there is art to see, music to hear and a great city to experience. Recently opened is The Met Breuer, a satellite space of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in the shell of the old Whitney Museum. The Marcel Breuer-designed edifice was acquired to expand The Met’s more contemporary works. And spring is the perfect time for the New York Philharmonic to usher in new talent alongside its repertoire of standbys. New talent too is showcased at The New York City Ballet’s Here/Now Festival in May. On Broadway there are the thought-provoking new musicals Dear Evan Hansen and Come From Away. Or see a revival, say, Allison Janney in Six Degrees of Separation or Kevin Kline in Present Laughter.

Of course, don’t forget about fair-weather fun.

After strolling Central Park, take to the water on a paddleboat or monkey around in the zoo. If you’re too tired to walk back, just tell the cabby to take you home—to The Lowell.

THE LOWELL, 28 EAST 63RD ST. AT MADISON AVE., NEW YORK, N.Y. (212.838.1400); LOWELLHOTEL.COM.

Clockwise from top: There’s plenty of room to spread out in a Deluxe Junior Suite complete with a terrace. In the 1,000-square-foot Hollywood Suite, decorated with one-of-a-kind artwork and memorabilia, there are two large seating areas, one with a wood-burning fireplace, and one with a large dining or meeting table. Book the Penthouse Suite for a romantic evening, where you can enjoy views from the 17th floor. Charles Masson, managing director of the hotel’s new restaurant, Majorelle, is a veteran of famed eatery La Grenouille. The gorgeous Garden Suite features two private terraces, one with a fountain, pictured here, and one with a dining area. The entrance to the hotel is on a quiet, tree-lined street off Madison Avenue.

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THE SPORTING LIFE

linked in in ireland

Located at the bottom of the Emerald Isle, Old Head will soar to the top of your favorite golf locales. By Josh Sens

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| SYD JEROME

o play the most jaw-dropping golf course on the planet, you don’t have to travel to the end of the earth.

It only looks that way.

Sleepy two-lane roads wind through the unspoiled countryside of County Cork, Ireland, spilling south toward the coast, where the Emerald Isle gives way to the Celtic Sea. Here, a diamond-shaped promontory known as Old Head of Kinsale rises from the water, its shale and sandstone bluffs towering some 200 feet above the waves.

Across its wind-blown crown stretch the firm green fingers of a layout so arresting, its beauty verges on surreal. Nine of the 18 holes at Old Head Golf Links cut hard along the cliffs. All 18 holes provide a coastal panoramic. Also looming into view from every green and tee box is a 17th century lighthouse, perched on a jagged point, Old Head’s farthest incursion into the sea.

From the day it opened, in 1997, the links inspired a kind of wide-eyed wonder. Even seasoned travelers were stunned by the surroundings, which prompted Links magazine to hail the layout as “the most spectacular” golf course in the world.

“Are there courses with better bunkering? More artistry in their architecture?

Greater prestige on the global stage?

Sure,” says Joe Passov, chief architecture critic for Golf magazine. “But for the sheer sense of thrill, even an element of danger, there was and is nothing like Old Head.

It’s a golf course setting more awe-inducing than any you’ll see.”

In keeping with its priceless vistas, a round at Old Head does not come cheap.

The pair of Irishmen behind the project, Patrick O’Connor and his late brother, John, dreamed up the course as a high-end getaway for golf-loving globetrotters. Accordingly, green fees top out at 260 pounds, or roughly $325, during peak season. The majority of guests come from overseas, happy to pay prime rates for a chance to cross the course off their bucket list.

As a return on their investment, golfers are a treated to a layout with the improbable features of an Escher painting. Several tee shots and approaches encourage heroics, with long, forced carries over sheer cliffs and chasms. At Old Head, hazards take on a new meaning.

Consider what awaits you on the second hole, a 402-yard par-four whose unforgiving fairway elbows sharply along a bluff. Take a few steps from the tee box, and you’re peering at a dizzying 200-foot drop. When the fog blows in at Old Head, golfers are warned not to wander for obvious reasons; the next step could be a doozie. Better to wait until the visibility clears.

Not that staying put at Old Head is much of a hardship. The course is part of a luxury resort, with a spa, 15 well-appointed cliff-side suites, and a clubhouse bar and restaurant overlooking the Atlantic. Nor is it the only local attraction. Nearby, sits the community of Kinsale, a historic fishing port-turned-tony resort town that is regarded by many as the culinary capital of Ireland, brimming with fine restaurants, wine bars, cafes and pubs. Every October, the town plays host to the Kinsale Food Festival, a three-day celebration of wining and dining marked by foodie walking tours and elaborate tasting menus.

But enough about food. The stars of this golfers’ paradise will always be the scenic course and fabled layout of Kinsale.

Opposite page, clockwise from top: A focal point of the coastal panoramic, a 17th century lighthouse is visible from each green and tee box of Old Head Golf Links. Too much slice or hook off the tee might send your shot into the sea—talk about a water hazard! Power up before your round with a traditional Irish breakfast, including bacon, sausage, eggs, potatoes and more hearty treats. With its variety of restaurants, bars, cafes and pubs, the nearby town of Kinsale is considered the food capital of Ireland. The late John O’Connor, along with his brother Patrick, designed the award-winning golf course at Old Head.

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PURSUITS

Pedal Pusher To motor or not to motor? That is the question with the trim, agile Motoped Cruzer, which is ready for both. By Timothy Kelley

P

ound those pedals to build your calves—or vroom away with a gas-powered 49-cc engine that will take you roughly 100 miles on a gallon. With the Motoped Cruzer, you can do either—or switch back and forth to match your moods. It’s the perfect commuting vehicle for a green, vigor-conscious age that prizes muscle cars less than actual muscles.

They say everything’s up to date in Kansas City; that’s where the Cruzer’s put together. Indeed, perhaps only the latest know-how could do justice to such an authentic throwback. This motorbike honors the ones used in board-track “motordome” races in the 1910s and 1920s.

Alas, the steeply banked wooden tracks of that era are gone. But wood isn’t forgotten; the Cruzer features inlaid fenders of ebony, pine, maple and African blood wood with matching tank trim. And the Brooks saddle is lush aged leather.

The Cruzer has been getting noticed— reportedly comedian Conan O’Brien is a thrilled owner. It has a mountain-bike frame, and its made-in-U.S.A. 1.38-gallon fuel tank is brushed, 16-gauge, 304-grade stainless steel. (The engine comes from China,

but we won’t tell if you don’t.) There are 24-inch wheels, a DNM adjustable front and rear suspension and Hayes 9-inch hydraulic front and rear disc brakes. With a two-speed automatic transmission and a top engine speed of 24 mph (with a little momentum you’ll hit 30) the Cruzer won’t break speed records, but it sets the bar high for classy transportation. And if you wish, it can be customized and equipped to suit your needs, with an added surfboard rack, saddlebags or a cooler for beverages. What could be cooler?

The Cruzer fills up at any gas station, and of course you’ll never be stranded as long as you’ve got legs. Licensing can be simpler than it is for a full-sized motorcycle because many states deem anything under 50 cc a “motorized bicycle,” and the Cruzer gets in just under the wire. (Check your state’s laws.)

We’re not promising instant success with the opposite sex when you show up at the beach with this baby. But you’re free to imagine the possibilities!

| SYD JEROME

Motoped’s lightweight Cruzer (128 lbs.) boasts a single-tube frame with 2.8-inch walls of 4130 chromoly—that is, a steel alloy with chromium and molybdenum that boasts a favorable strength-to-weight ratio.

Peddle away or take an easy ride, guided when it’s dark by the LED head lamp. When the motor’s on, you can still pedal to give it an assist.

A “hog” this isn’t: Both front and rear tires are 24 inches by a svelte 3 inches.

The Cruzer has a standard seat height of 32 inches—or choose an optional 30 inches instead.

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FITNESS

5tips

for a total body reboot What will you wear on the beach? Less! So it’s time to get physical— and heed these five routines we’ve finagled from fitness experts, aimed at crafting the sleekest, most presentable you. Read on....

| SYD JEROME

By Lee Lusardi Connor

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Striking while it’s hot. Mixed martial arts (MMA) is among the fastest-growing sports in the world, thanks in part to the sculpted physiques of superstars like Conor McGregor and Ronda Rousey. “MMA fighters have broad shoulders, slim waists and well-defined arms. A lot of people want to train to look like that,” says Patrick Henigan, an American Council on Exercise (ACE)certified trainer and owner of Jacksonville Fitness Academy in Jacksonville, Florida.

“Some elements of MMA, like wrestling and jiu jitsu, are too dangerous for the average person,” he says. “However, the ‘striking’ sports—boxing and kickboxing—provide an opportunity to learn a new skill, burn a ton of calories and sculpt your body.” While most people think boxing is mostly a matter of arm strength, Henigan explains, it actually involves the entire body—shoulder, rib cage, hips, legs.

The same is true for kickboxing, a combination of karate and boxing.

HIIT with a twist. HIIT stands for high-intensity interval training—workouts of 30 minutes or so that include short bursts of intense activity punctuated by brief recovery periods. HIIT has been gaining in popularity as new research supporting its benefits is published, according to Pete McCall, ACE senior exercise scientist and San Diego-based certified personal trainer.

Now some HIIT offerings tap into the energyboosting powers of music: The Zumba company has partnered with ACE to create STRONG by Zumba, a non-dance, HIIT-inspired workout that emphasizes music more than choreography (and that the company hopes will bring more men into the Zumba fold). Similarly, the popular Masala Bhangra program based on Indian dance has just launched a 20-minute HIIT-inspired workout. Called Transformation, it combines classic moves like burpees and squats with intervals of Bhangra and Bollywood dance moves.

A downloadable version is available for $11.99 at masalabhangraworkout.com.

Climb time. Do you need to be efficient with

Putting the “fun” in functional. If you define a “summer-ready body” as one that’s fit for active fun, consider functional fitness training. This workout emphasizes core stability and motions needed for daily life. “It’s old-school stuff—picking things up, putting things down, doing pushups and squats—but it’s gaining in popularity,” says Tricia Brouk, owner of Brouk Moves, an in-home personal training company based in New York City. “Really, it’s what people pay tons of money to do at CrossFit classes.” One of Brouk’s favorite moves is the Farmer’s Carry.

“I could give you two kettlebells and, if you carry them correctly for 100 feet, you will be working on posture, core, balance, strength and endurance, all at the same time.”

To get your functional moves down, you could hire a personal trainer, or take a few sessions with a trainer at a gym. “Most important, grab someone—a friend, a partner, a spouse—and make yourself accountable,” Brouk says. “You’ll be more inspired to do functional training if you have somebody to throw a ball at.”

I stream, you stream. We’ve had fitness

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videos and online workouts for quite a while, but now we have instructor-led group classes that are live-streamed from the studio for the home screen of your choice. “You get the energy of a live class from the comfort of your own home,” explains McCall. If your time zone or schedule don’t sync up with a live class, many services offer video-ondemand libraries of classes that you can access at your convenience.

“Some people are just more comfortable working out at home rather than going to a gym,” McCall says. “On the downside, you won’t necessarily have access to all the equipment, such as medicine balls or dumbbells, they might be using in the class.” Check out dailyburn.com, which offers more than 600 kinds of workouts; booyafitness.com, with everything from Yoga Boxing to Body Weight Sculpting and beyond, including personalized workout plans; or lesmills.com, which offers every type of on-demand workout imaginable, including its own trademarked classes like BodyPump, Sh’Bam, and BodyAttack.

SPRING/SUMMER 2017

your workout time? Then don’t focus on isolation movements (like bicep curls and bench presses) that develop specific “glamour” muscles. Instead, go for complex movements—those that use two or more joints, such as pulling a sled or doing a full-body row, advises Jason Walsh, Hollywood’s go-to action trainer, who has worked with such A-listers as Matt Damon, Bradley Cooper and Emma Stone.

Climbing is one of the most effective complex movements, Walsh says, and it’s the basis of a group cardio concept he founded called Rise

Nation (rise-nation.com). The program mainly uses the Versaclimber, a machine that provides a fast “vertical workout” that simulates climbing. “It burns twice as many calories as any other piece of equipment out there, and it recruits more muscles as well,” Walsh says. “It’s effective and efficient— and you can get in better overall condition by doing a workout for as little as 30 minutes, three times a week.”

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THE BULLPEN

ADVICE FROM THE

STYLE PROS

The staff at Syd Jerome is dedicated, expert and, not incidentally, a hell-of-anice-group of guys who makes shopping for menswear fun. To help you get to know the staff better, we asked them a few questions about their everyday lives.

Check out their answers, then stop by the store to chat with them in person. The guys—along with Sid and Scott Shapiro, of course—are ready to serve you.

MARIO CRIVELLO

BILLY CAVADA

GARY PALAY

WILLIE JUAREZ

PATRICK KATEN

What was your last Google search? iPhone 8 rumors.

What advice would you give your 12-year-old self?

Study more.

If you could meet any person, dead or alive, who would it be?

Ronald Reagan.

What kind of car do you drive?

Hyundai Tucson.

What’s your favorite sport?

Boxing.

Lake or ocean?

Lake.

If you weren’t working in fashion, what would you do?

Work for Apple.

When you say, “I’ll cook tonight,” what do you make?

Eggs with refried beans.

What’s the movie you can watch again and again?

Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps.

What’s the temptation you wish you could resist but can’t?

Pizza—I have stomach issues.

What was your last Google search?

Green Bay Packers.

What advice would you give your 12-year-old self?

Stay in school.

If you could meet any person, dead or alive, who would it be?

My father, who passed away 15 years ago.

What kind of car do you drive?

Uber.

What’s your favorite sport?

Football, both college and professional.

Lake or ocean?

Ocean.

If you weren’t working in fashion, what would you do?

I’d be president of the United States of America.

When you say, “I’ll cook tonight,” what do you make?

Carry-out.

What’s the movie you can watch again and again?

The Godfather or Rocky.

What’s the temptation you wish you could resist but can’t?

Pizza.

What was your last Google search?

Luciano Barbera!

What advice would you give your 12-year-old self?

Learn as much as possible, find something you really like to do and go for it!

If you could meet any person, dead or alive, who would it be?

I would like to see my grandmother again who passed away when I was in high school.

What kind of car do you drive?

If I could fit two cars in my two-car garage, I would probably have a new Ford Explorer and a 1988 Saab 900 Turbo convertible.

What’s your favorite sport?

Baseball, for sure. Go Cubs!

Lake or ocean?

The lake is a part of my life, but I have to say ocean. The salt water, white sand and clear water are priceless.

If you weren’t working in fashion, what would you do?

I definitely would be in real estate.

When you say, “I’ll cook tonight,” what do you make?

Unfortunately, those words wouldn’t come out of my mouth.

But if so, I’d throw a couple steaks on the grill.

What’s the movie you can watch again and again?

Saturday Night Fever, Grease and Shawshank Redemption to name a few...

What’s the temptation you wish you could resist but can’t?

My son and daughter! The resistance is futile! It’s hard to say no to them.

What was your last Google search?

A story on Lin ManuelMiranda performing at the White House before he wrote the music for Hamilton.

What advice would you give your 12-year-old self?

Marry your future wife earlier!

If you could meet any person, dead or alive, who would it be?

Two people: Gary Larson (originator of The Far Side cartoon) and Aaron Sorkin (A Few Good Men, The West Wing). They are two extremely fertile minds.

What kind of car do you drive?

Subaru Legacy.

What’s your favorite sport?

Whatever I’m currently watching or playing.

If you weren’t working in fashion, what would you do?

Probably something in radio. I dabbled in that after college.

When you say, “I’ll cook tonight,” what do you make?

I grill a steak for me and coconut tilapia for my wife.

What’s the movie you can watch again and again?

The Sting and The American President along with any Hitchcock movie.

What’s the temptation you wish you could resist but can’t?

A big chocolate chip cookie.

What was your last Google search?

IKEA store.

What advice would you give your 12-year-old self?

Study and always listen to your parents.

If you could meet any person, dead or alive, who would it be?

John F. Kennedy.

What kind of car do you drive?

Chevy Malibu.

What’s your favorite sport?

Football.

Lake or ocean?

Lake.

If you weren’t working in fashion, what would you do?

Landscape architect.

When you say, “I’ll cook tonight,” what do you make?

Cold pasta with broccoli and olive oil.

What’s the movie you can watch again and again?

Back to the Future.

What’s the temptation you wish you could resist but can’t?

Eating pizza.

What advice would you give your 12-year-old self?

Play sports!

If you could meet any person, dead or alive, who would it be?

Richard Nixon.

What kind of car do you drive?

Truck.

What’s your favorite sport?

I enjoy watching football.

Lake or ocean?

Ocean.

If you weren’t working in fashion, what would you do?

Write a sports book.

When you say, “I’ll cook tonight,” what do you make?

Pasta.

What’s the movie you can watch again and again?

Meet John Doe. What’s the temptation you wish you could resist but can’t?

Any type of dessert.

| SYD JEROME

JUAN FARFAN

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