Affluent Page Features: Barcelona Avant-Garde

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Luxury Auto Issue

Bodacious BritThe Aston Martin

One-77

King of diamondsGraff Expands His Empire

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APRIL 2011AFFLUENT PAGE

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Wind. Sky. The open road. Nothing beats the feeling of open-top motoring in a supercar. If you’re also attracted to the extreme driving of our Continental Superports, you’ll love the new convertible. A mus-cular four-seater with distinctive exterior and interior styling, it is the epitome of open-top motoring. Power up the roof and experience the sumptuous comfort and refinement of the driver-focussed environment. Or lower it in just seconds and enjoy the rush of wind and glow of the sun – all in a car that can still power effortlessly past 200mph.

This is the extreme Bentley open-top driving experience for those who demand supercar performance with exquisite Bentley craftsmanship. The 621bhp engine provides a remarkable 590lb ft of torque, propelling you from a standstill to 60mph in just 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 202 mph. But more than raw figures, it affirms our commitment to de-velop the world’s highest-powered FlexFuel production car: a 6-litre engine that runs on biofuel, gasoline or a mix of both – all in a Bentley way.

The name ‘Bentley’ and the ‘B’ in wings device are registered trademarks. © 2010 Bentley Motors, Inc. Model shown: Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible.

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Wind. Sky. The open road. Nothing beats the feeling of open-top motoring in a supercar. If you’re also attracted to the extreme driving of our Continental Superports, you’ll love the new convertible. A mus-cular four-seater with distinctive exterior and interior styling, it is the epitome of open-top motoring. Power up the roof and experience the sumptuous comfort and refinement of the driver-focussed environment. Or lower it in just seconds and enjoy the rush of wind and glow of the sun – all in a car that can still power effortlessly past 200mph.

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The name ‘Bentley’ and the ‘B’ in wings device are registered trademarks. © 2010 Bentley Motors, Inc. Model shown: Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible.

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Section title

10 AFFLUENT PAGE | APRIL 2011

contentS

FeaturesAPRIL 2011

33 Top Supercars for 2011 From Bugatti to Shelby, we reveal the latest supreme supercars.

52 Delaire Graff Estate A jewelry salon, winery and spa are just a few of the amenities awaiting your arrival in South Africa, where Laurence Graff extends his empire beyond the diamond business.

52

40

El ToroPatented Perpetual Calendar. Self-winding movement.

Platinum case with ceramic bezel. Water-resistant to 100 m.

Also available in 18 ct rose gold.

Limited to 500 pieces.

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68 Design Eddie Meeks proves he does not have to rely on technology to build the ideal automobile.

70 Escape Patricia Urquiola blends the romance of Spain with a state-of-the-art aesthetic for Mandarin Oriental Hotel Barcelona.

74 Indulge Henri Lurton nurtures Classified growth Bordeaux for Brane-Cantenac wine.

80 Last Word Morgan Motor Company creates a three-wheel vehicle that makes its own lane.

DepartmentsAPRIL 2011

18

18 The Ride Aston Martin unleashes a vehicle that would give James Bond a run for his money. 22 Time Harry Winston unveils the rare Histoire de Tourbillon 2.

24 Sparkle Chopard commemorates its 150th anniversary with an haute joaillerie Animal Collection.

28 Perfection A German business tycoon collaborates with Pininfarina to reintroduce the Lancia Stratos.

62 Insider RM Auctions European managing director shares essential tips for purchasing classic cars on auction.

74ON THE COVER: Rolls-Royce, Phantom Drophead Coupé, pg. 46

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AFFlueNt PAge is published by epic One Media, llC and does not assume liability for products or services advertised in its pages. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and are not necessarily those of Affluent Page. All letters and their contents sent to Affluent Page become the sole property of Affluent Page and may be used and published in any manner whatsoever without limit and without obligation and liability to the author thereof. Copyright © 2011 by Affluent Page, an epic One Media, llC publication. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part or storage in any data retrieval system or any transmission by any means therefrom without wr itten permission is prohibited.

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With a reputation built on success, your next automotive purchase should exude the same opulence. Not only does this issue of the Affluent Page offer you more than a dozen exclusive options for

ultimate four-wheeled performance and pleasure, but exquisite ways to satisfy your palette, your timepiece passion and even an ultra-luxe getaway in the diamond capital of the world.As automobile aficionados ready to discover the next new design, it would almost be remiss to overlook the skill level of inventor eddie Meeks. Although we have given you a glimpse of the types of creative feats Meeks can accomplish,we have also showcased the newest releases from some of your favorite brands.

Not only do we detail such incredible machines as the inspired Aston Martin One-77 and unique Lancia Stratos, but we round up ten amazing cars that collectively crank out more than 8,000 horsepower and are sure to delight your pent-up thirst for power,

speed and exclusivity. Our coverage of hot rides extends to a two-wheeler that is as much a piece of art as it is a machine.

this issue also includes our take on a unique collection of baubles from one of the world’s preeminent jewelers and watchmakers, and a look at a groundbreaking new tourbillion timepiece from another legendary craftsman. take a virtual sip of the “Lamborghini of the wine world” and plan a luxurious South African vacation that is beyond imagination.

So press the start button, slip into first gear, and roll through these pages filled with the best the world has to offer.

Rosetta Nichole MitchellEditorial and Creative Director

20 AFFLUENT PAGE | MARCH 2011

RiDe

Bodacious Britincredible aston martin one-77 supercar is the real deal.

By Tom Lapointe

T he next time James Bond heads to the market for a new car, the incredible Aston Martin One-77 supercar is a shoe-in to make the short list. there is no need for cliché weapons or defensive measures on

this beast. Its voluptuous curves announce its performance intent and a massive V12 engine backs that up with 750 screaming horsepower. Nearly two years after its debut at the prestigious Concorso d’eleganza on the grounds of the grand Hotel Villa d’este in Italy, production vehicles are making their way into the hands of eager buyers. As the name implies, only 77 of the handcrafted vehicles are scheduled to roll with few available units remaining at press time.

As the famed British sports car company nears its 100th birthday, the amazing One-77 gives the marque a halo supercar with outrageous performance

potential that matches its looks. From its signature front grill to its muscular shoulders in the rear, the car has Aston Martin’s unmistakable outline, while at the same time, it pushes the design envelope to extremes. In particular, the air intakes that bisect the connection between the front bumper and fender on either side of the signature grill are extremely aggressive, and its single strake in either door helps differentiate it from mere “normal” Astons. A handcrafted aluminum body is stretched over a high-tech carbon fiber monocoque chassis, and the company will reportedly leverage its race car expertise to specially tune the suspension of each car for every buyer’s preferences.

APRIL 2011 | AFFLUENT PAGE 19

“…the amazing One-77 gives the marque a halo supercar with

outrageous performance potential that matches its looks.”

RiDe


“the craftsmanship and design that has gone into the creation of the Aston Martin One-77 lifts automotive engineering into the realm of art,” said Aston Martin Chief executive Dr. ulrich Bez. “With its finely sculpted forms and sleek lines, it is an expression of unparalleled beauty that embodies everything Aston Martin stands for.”

While the One-77 has enough curb appeal to ensure it garners

all the attention in any valet line or exotic car event, its powerful 750-horsepower, 7.3-liter V12 engine guarantees credibility as a performance contender in any cocktail party discussion—or track event. If you like Aston Martin’s symphony of cylinders in the DB9 and DBS sports cars, you will love the modified version that has been specially tuned by Cosworth to make the One-77 a performance powerhouse. Racing-style dry sump lubrication allows the front midmounted engine to be mounted four inches lower in the chassis, which benefits handling. A strengthened version of the DB9’s six-speed automated manual transmission with paddle shifters helps get the prodigious power to the ground, while massive carbon ceramic brakes give it effective stopping power and a huge air diffuser in the rear helps keep it planted firmly on the ground.

Aston Martin continues to tout its thorough testing process for the new car, and reported that the first production unit was delivered in February. Dr. Bez explained it would be easier to make a one-off concept car than a full production run, referring to the project as “77 one-offs.” With the company’s commitment to ultimate performance and a limited release, the One-77 is sure to be not only a star in any automotive crowd, but it has long-term collectability potential, as well.

Aston Martin, +44.1908.305530, www.astonmartin.com

“...its powerful 750-horsepower, 7.3-liter V12 engine guarantees

credibility as a performance contender in any cocktail party discussion—

or track event.”

aston martin one-77manufactured: England

list Price: $2 million (approx.)

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torque: 553.2 pound / feet

layout: Front midmounted engine / rear drive

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Time


In keeping with its inventive sense of design and constant exploration into new ideas at once aesthetic and func-tional, the House of Harry Winston has rewritten history, so to speak, with its Histoire de Tourbillon 2, which the

company unveiled at Baselworld, the recent, annual international watch and jewelry show in Basel, Switzerland.

This highly unusual and str iking timepiece actually represents a second edition of Winston’s original Histoire de Tourbillon series launched in 2009—itself a ground-breaking watch that likewise artfully

combined both technical sophistication and pioneering innovation in design. Powered by an exclusive mechanical hand-wound movement, the Histoire de Tourbillon 2 retains the sci-fi appeal and design sensibility originally developed by Maximilian Büsser, Winston’s watch-making wunderkind often credited as the man most responsible for the esteemed jewelry house’s virtual overnight success in the realm of complicated horological achievements through his celebrated Opus series.

Though limited to just 20 pieces, the new 18-karat white gold Histoire de Tourbillon 2 is already being viewed as Winston’s latest signature-style timepiece given its bi-axial flying tourbillon with running seconds at 9 o’clock, the hours with day to night indication at 2 o’clock and the minutes at 6 o’clock and displays isolated in independent subdials with their own partitioned fields of expression set at varying levels.

Further innovations abound, including the two concentric carriages on the tourbillon that increase precision by enabling the regulating organ to perform multidimensional rotations. Visually striking, the outer titanium carriage completes one full turn in 120 seconds and houses an internal carriage that revolves in just 40 seconds and maintains the balance, balance-spring and escapement.

The subdials are underscored by a beveled inner bezel ring, and swept over with orange-accented hands that stand

out against the backdrop of an opaline black dial. Readability is also enhanced

by day to night indications, which distinguish night and day by color: orange for day and blue for night. The decidedly masculine appeal of the Histoire de Toubillon 2 is reflected in two additional dial

aper tures set in a s tra ight- l ine guilloché motif adding a finishing

touch to the watch’s aesthetic appeal.Apart from the complexity of the inner

mechanism, few would argue that Büsser’s design is pretty intense and innovative not

just in design, but pure aesthetics. The Histoire de Tourbillon 2 features a hand-crafted,

handsome circular-grained, polished and shot-peened finish, highlighting the timepiece’s

many components in “an extraordinary contrast between light and dark shades.”

In addition, the watch features eight sapphire crystals. Three of the five on the dial side provide time indications, and the House of Harry Winston

descr ibes another three on the case back as “windows to a futuristic world in which technology forges the passing of time.”

The oversize 48.5mm case of the Histoire de Tourbillon 2 has a power reserve of up to 50 hours, features a matte black alligator strap and is water resistant up to 30 meters. Price available upon request.

Harry Winston, 212.245.2000, www.harrywinston.com

By Ralph DiGennaro

History Class:Harry Winston: Histoire de Tourbillon 2

The aptly-named new edition continues the jewelry house’s pioneering spirit.

“...Winston describes another three on the case-back as “windows to a futuristic world in which technology forges the passing of time.”

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Animal Planet

Famed Swiss jeweler and watchmaker, Chopard, celebrates 150 years of imagination, luxury and wonder with Animal Planet: a 150-piece fairytale haute

joaillerie collection of baubles inspired by the animal kingdom, from the everyday to the rare and mythical.

Chopard Co-President and Artistic Director Caroline gruosi-Scheufele devised the collection, settling on the theme of animals to honor her love and appreciation for them. the collection melds the best of new technology at Chopard with techniques that have been central to the core of its jewelry-making process since the beginning. In addition to the usual parade of gorgeous rubies, diamonds, sapphires and emeralds, Chopard’s Animal Planet collection welcomes quartz, kunzites, pearls, Paraíba tourmalines, moonstones, red gold, titanium and precious woods to enhance and authenticate the natural experience of an animal and its habitat.

gruosi-Scheufele poured over various specialized encyclopedias and a Chinese calendar and mythical materials to cull her collection of both worldly and other-worldly beasts. From the usual bee and frog to the hippopotamus, stork and majestic dragon, Chopard’s anniversary collection literally leaves no stone unturned. each piece is crafted from flawless gems,

metals and woods, such as an 11.43-carat, pear-cut brown diamond imagined as a turtle. Its shell is pavéd and set with 370 brilliant champagne, cognac and deep chestnut brown diamonds to resemble the turtle’s delicate scales.

Other pieces, such as the Clownfish plastron necklace, boast more than 2,160 stones of all hues from diamonds, apatites, aquamarines and sapphires to Paraíba tourmalines, quartz,

moonstones and chalcedonies. It took more than 750 hours of Chopard genius and craftsmanship

to create the necklace, which depicts four clownfish suspended in the fluid splendor of the ocean. Another

ocean creature, the sea horse, claims its stake in the spectacular collection by way of a pair of earrings. the pair’s

onyx eyes radiate outwards to a body smothered in brilliant-cut diamonds lending the sea horse its elusive and magical quality. Perhaps most wondrous of all, however, is the cloud of 108 effervescent rose-cut diamonds resembling bubbles that cushion the bottom of each sea horse as it makes its journey through the sea of air above the neck.

A pair of storks in midair makes a perfect present to an expectant mother or for a birthday, Mother’s Day or no holiday in particular. Chopard’s Stork earrings are adorned with a multitude of black-and-white diamonds set in white gold. the surprise, of course, is in the packaging: A little blue bundle of topaz represents a sleeping baby boy, while you’ll find a little girl nestled among a subtle drop of pink kunzite.

For the admirer of rare, quality gems the world over, it doesn’t get any better than Chopard. Celebrate a very happy birthday by delighting in a fit of her fancy—Chopard’s Animal Kingdom simply dazzles.

Chopard, 212.223.2304, www.chopard.com

By Ariel Jastromb

chopard celebrates 150 years of excellence in fine jewelry with a 150-piece collection of unprecedented proportions.

MARCH 2011 | AFFLUENT PAGE 27

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a lightweight and sleek design makes this car speed past the competition.


It’s a foot shorter, 500 pounds lighter and gets 33 more horsepower than the vaunted Porsche Carrera turbo. But fast isn’t the best adjective for the Lancia Stratos. this car is going to put the fear of god into Ferrari, Porsche and

Aston Martin owners. It will not only outsprint those marques, but out-corner them as well. the key is an übershort footprint barely two feet longer than a Mini Cooper, and an exceedingly low weight. Why sweat weight? Because it’s the enemy of great handling and cannot be overcome by suspension design. And if the rebirth of this car, the new Lancia Stratos, was to stand for anything, it had to be about producing the very best handling sports car on earth.

Or perhaps the best-handling car since the 1970s, when the Stratos HF, based on the Ferrari Dino, won three-straight World Cup titles, from 1974 to 1976.

“...if the rebirth of this car, the new Lancia

Stratos, was to stand for anything, it had to be about producing the

very best handling sports car on earth.”


this new Stratos, of which roughly 25 examples will be produced, was penned by brilliant design house, Pininfarina, and pays homage to the original batlike Stratos. Like the original, the 2011 Stratos is also based on a Ferrari, the 430 Scuderia, but is cut down from the original chassis by nearly a foot. A shorter chassis shaves nearly 200 pounds off the car’s weight, but the Stratos is also stiffer with a carbon body that’s directly bonded to the aluminum subframe. It is also safer thanks to an FIA-approved roll cage, which the Ferrari lacks. At 2,900 pounds, the Stratos is lean, and with such a short wheelbase, begs to take corners as fast as you can focus on the next apex.

A near afterthought in all this talk of handling and carbon fiber re-skinning: the Stratos is as sharply angled and arresting to see as the original with a lower nose than the Ferrari, and the rear engine tucked in just aft of the driver, plumb ahead of the rear axle, and then boom, the car dead-ends right in back of the rear wheels.

Beneath the shell, while this car has Ferrari at its roots, there

are distinct differences. the seats are carbon buckets with a thin skin of leather, and even the dash and steering wheel are unique. Mechanically, the Stratos is deeply revised for higher performance. the donated Ferrari V8 is more urgent than that of the Scuderia thanks to a revised computer and exhaust that yield 533hp peak output. the engine launches the Stratos to 60 mph in three seconds flat, and you’re pulling 125 mph, in a 747-like sub-10 seconds. Remember that business about weight being the enemy of handling? Less weight is the fr iend of fearsome acceleration.

However, the fast run against the clock isn’t just about that Ferrari V8. the Stratos has a quicker-shifting transmission than the Scuderia—a sequential six-speed from Drexler that also allows for greater lockup of the rear wheels on launch. Finally, the suspension is entirely new as well, with driver-adjustable settings that deliver a far more aggressive, race car-like tune. If all this sounds like way more than a poser supercar, you’ve read right, because finally—well, maybe since the original Stratos was sold—a carmaker has realized that the best racing machine isn’t necessarily the one with more horsepower, but the one with the right combination of horsepower, low weight and a small footprint.

New Stratos, [email protected], www.new-stratos.com

“The engine launches the Stratos to 60 mph in three seconds flat, and

you’re pulling 125 mph, in a 747-like sub-10 seconds.”

APRIL 2011 | AFFLUENT PAGE LUXURY INDEX 35

By Tom LaPointe88MAGNIFICENT RIDES for 2011

Our top roundup this year is all about survivors. In an era that manufacturers big and small routinely fall by the wayside because of the global economic recession,

this group of exotics and supercars survives and even thrives thanks to amazing performance and strong brand cachet, which helps keep these superstars screaming down the road.

There are many ways to quantify “best” or “fastest.” For this collection, we have a variety of players, and all are available for purchase. Claims to fame range from quickest to 60 or even 200 mph, to highest priced or even extremely limited availability—all factors that play into a buying decision when you have to pick one. That is, unless you have the desire and ability to pick one of each.


88 MAGNIFICENT RIDESfor 2011

Ferrari 458 ItaliaThis heir to the throne deliversthe late enzo Ferrari, who started the company that still bears his name, was oft quoted the best Ferrari is “the next one,” and the 458 Italia undeniably delivers on that promise. this cavallino rampante leverages decades of success on the track to raise the bar on the F430 it succeeds to amazing heights. From small aeroelastic winglets in the front to its triple exhaust pipes in the rear, the evolutionary design continues the company’s fo-cus on ultimate performance while still offering an artistic mas-terpiece. With 570 horsepower and a race-bred, dual-clutch transmission with F1 paddles and seven speeds, the car easily preserves the brand’s legendary heritage.

Ferrari, 845.425.2600, www.ferrari.com


Price: $225,000

Engine: 4.5 liter DOHC V8

transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch (F1 Superfast)

Power : 570 hp

torque: 398 pound/feet

curb Weight: 3,042 pounds

Zero-to-60: Under 3.5 seconds (mfr. est.)

top speed: 202 mph




Gumpert Apollo SA street-legal race car with requisite gull wingsWhile the gumpert brand may not be at the forefront of a supercar discussion, and its primary model a bit aged, the Apollo earns its place on this list with world-class power and its dominant third-ranked time for production cars on the legendary Nürburgring track. Outrageous looks, gull-wing doors and a screaming twin-turbo V8 sourced from Audi combine to ensure this wheeled rocket will be the center of attention in any exotic car gathering. the cars are imported in sections and assembled by evolution Motorsports, in tempe, Ariz., and the company is reportedly working on its tornante concept for future production.

Gumpert, +49.3447.499.3960, www.gumpertracing.com

Price: $550,000+

Engine: Twin-turbo, Audi-sourced V8

transmission: 6-speed automated manual

Power : 650-800 hp

torque: 627 pound/feet


Zero-to-62: 3.1 sec (mfr. est.)

top speed: 224 mph



Hennessey Venom GTThis Bugatti beater brings the heatMaster car tuner John Hennessey revives the tried and tested method of dropping an American V8 into a British sports car to create the ultimate performance vehicle. In the case of the Venom gt, a 1,200-horsepower V8 with twin turbos is shoe-horned into the tiny Lotus exige. the result is something close to strapping yourself to the ubiquitous Acme Rocket for launch, with Hennessey boasting a 0-200 mph (that’s tWO hundred) time of 15.9 seconds that bests the Veyron by more than eight seconds. Custom-built engines are manufactured in texas and shipped to england for final assembly, and the car is probably the most incredible “sleeper” ever contrived.

Hennesey Venom, 979.885.1300, www.venomgt.com


Price: $1 million

Engine: Twin-turbocharged 6.2-liter V8

transmission: Ricardo 6-speed manual

Power : 1,200 hp

torque: 1,155 pound/feet


Zero-to-60: 2.5 seconds (mfr. est.)

top speed: 267 mph (mfr. est.)


Koenigsegg Agera RSwedish super car is green—and meanAs production of Koenigsegg vehicles near the 10-year mark, the brand continues to earn a top spot in the supercar world with its incredible Agera R. Arguably one of the most beautiful on the road, it has exquisite wind-tunnel-tested proportions with just the right amount of race-car aggression. An evolutionary successor to the CC, CCR, CCx and CCxR, the Agera not only cranks out an amazing 1,115 horsepower from its rather small twin-turbocharged V8 engine, but requires e85 ethanol to do so (pump gas rating is around 900 hp). In normal mode the car is limited to a “mere” 233 mph, but the company estimates that in high-speed mode the car has the potential to hit 270 mph or more with the right conditions.

Koenigsegg, +971.4.881.0301, www.koenigsegg.com



Price: $1.4 million (approx.)

Engine: Twin-turbocharged 5.0 liter Biofuel DOHC V8 with dry sump lubrication

Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual

Power : 1,115 hp

Torque: 885 pound/feet

Curb Weight: 3,127 pounds

Zero-To-60: Under 3.0 seconds (mfr. est.)

Top Speed: Up to 270 mph (mfr. est.)



Lamborghini LP7OO-4 AventadorThe bull’s horns just got bigger—and fasterLamborghini has traditionally eschewed artistry in their design and headed straight for outrageous, and the company’s latest supercar takes that to new heights. The name actually denotes much of its potential. The LP in the model name is for Lon-gitudinale Posteriore, meaning the engine is mounted in the rear, the 700 represents the 700 horsepower from its monster V12 engine, and the 4 designates its all-wheel-drive configura-tion. A worthy successor to the wild Murciélago, the Aventador (named for a courageous Spanish bull) is lighter and features technology upgrades throughout the car, including a stiffer body, F1-inspired suspension and all-important 217-MPH top speed. Even with its amazing looks and performance, the Aventador is one of the most affordable supercars in this group. “Entry level” never looked so good.

Lamborghini, +390.516.81.7611, www.lamborghini.com


Price: $379,700 (approx.)

Engine: 6.5-liter V12

Transmission: 6-speed automated manual

Power: 700 hp



Zero-To-62: Under 2.9 (mfr. est.)

Top Speed: 220 mph


Pagani HuayraAndean god of wind set to rule the streetsForget boasting about the carbon fiber body of your car at the next cocktail party, because according to Pagani, carbon titanium is the new chic. From its outrageous looks to its gull-wing doors and incredible twin-turbocharged V12 engine sourced from Mercedes-AMG, the Huayra looks every bit like the contender it is. The Huayra replaces the Pagani in the Italian carmaker’s lineup, and unlike its predecessor, is engineered to meet U.S. requirements for import. More than 700 horsepower ensures its performance can back up its outrageous looks, and its seven-figure price tag guarantees it will be a rare sight on any continent.

Pagani, +39.059.473.9201, www.paganiautomobili.it



Price: $1.5 million (approx.)

Engine: Mercedes-AMG 6-liter twin-turbo V12

Transmission: 7-speed sequential automated manual

Power: 700+ hp


Curb Weight: 3,000 pounds (dry)

Zero-To-62: Under 3.5 seconds (mfr. est.)

Top Speed: 230+ mph (mfr. est.)



Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead CoupéForget the mustard—pass the driving glovesWith curb weight and dimensions that rival a large SUV, this Rolls will never compete for supercar status, but when prestige and comfort are on the agenda nothing can match its ostentatious presence. From its optional stainless steel hood to its yacht-quality teak tonneau cover, the handcrafted car literally oozes luxury and exclusivity. Whether you cruise with the top up or down, the car commands respect and is engineered (by corporate parent BMW) to be whisper quiet. Three-fourths of the car’s torque is available at a mere 1,000 RPM, so you have the option to drive in a stately or urgent manner, whichever the situation demands.

Rolls-Royce, 516.882.1440, www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com



Engine: 6.7-liter DOHC V12

Transmission: ZF 6-speed automatic

Power: 453 hp



Zero-To-60: 5.6 (mfr. est.)

Top Speed: 150 mph (computer limited)


SSC Ultimate AeroRaw speed in a raw packageBefore the upgraded Veyron Super Sport captured the world speed record for a production vehicle, the SSC Aero held the record for nearly three years. Shelby SuperCars (no relation to Carroll Shelby) has a new model in the wings, but the Ultimate Aero earns its spot on this list as one of the fastest and most powerful cars of any era. Some may argue that the design is a bit aged, but there is no denying that a 257-mph top speed and zero-to-60 times of 2.78 seconds are timeless credentials. A pure sports car, it lacks any safety aids like ABS brakes or stability control, but it performs like a superstar.

Shelby, 506.279.0624, www.shelbysupercars.com




Engine: 6.34-liter, twin-turbocharged V8

Transmission: 6-speed Tremec manual

Power: 1,287 hp

Torque: 1,112 pound/feet


Zero-To-60: 2.78 seconds (mfr. est.)

Top Speed: 257 mph

Brand registryFerrari 458 Italia

845.425.2600www.ferrari.com

Gumpert Apollo S+49.3447.499.3960

www.gumpertracing.com

Hennessey Venom GT979.885.1300

www.venomgt.com

Koenigsegg Agera R+971.4.881.0301

www.koenigsegg.com

Lamborghini LP700-4 Aventador+390.516.81.7611

www.lamborghini.com

Pagani Huayra+39.059.473.9201

www.paganiautomobili.it

Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé516.882.1440

www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

SSC Ultimate Aero506.279.0624

www.shelbysupercars.com

88MAGNIFICENT

RIDESfor 2011

MARCH 2011 | AFFLUENT PAGE 53MARCH 2011 | AFFLUENT PAGE 53


GRAFFDELAIRE

E S T A T EThe King of Diamonds opens South African lodges and a

spa for an ultimate luxury vacation experience.

By Ariel Jastromb

Nestled in the crest of the Helshoogte Mountain Pass in the lush Stellenbosch wine lands countryside, Laurence Graff ’s Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa redefines the luxury vacation. The “King of Diamonds” has expanded his terr itory to where he

does much of his work, leaving no stone unturned, or diamond unpolished. A cornucopia of fine art, design, cuisine, wine and,

of course, diamonds, the Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa caters to the most discerning consumer. The site

combines top-notch service with ecological sustainability—a mission Mr. Graff has

pursued in his search for the finest diamonds in the world by employing

local craftsmen, both in the jewelry company and the

newly minted Delaire aGraff Lodges

aand Spa.


“A cornucopia of fine art, design, cuisine, wine and, of course, diamonds, the Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa caters to the most discerning consumer.”

GRAFF

The London-based British jeweler is famous for the flawless quality of their stones in cut, color and clarity. Perhaps the most famous Graff diamond is the 603-carat Lesotho Promise diamond, ranked as the 15th largest diamond ever discovered. It was recovered at the Letseng Mine in Lesotho, a kingdom surrounded by South Africa. The flawless D-color quality diamond was studied in the rough for three months before Graff ’s experts even thought about cutting into it. The diamond ultimately yielded 26 multishaped, top-quality diamonds for a total weight of 223.35 carats. The Lesotho Promise gave way to a 76.41-carat pear-shape diamond, a 43.12-carat heart-shape diamond, a 27.03-carat round brilliant diamond and a 20.05-carat emerald-cut diamond. The dazzling Lesotho Promise necklace sparkles resplendently with all 26 diamonds.

As a shareholder in SAFDICO, the South African Diamond Corporation, Graff ’s exceptional team of jewelers number 300 in Johannesburg and 500 in Botswana. Proceeds of his 2007 coffee-table book, “The Most Fabulous Jewels in the World,” benefit the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. Due to Laurence Graff ’s extensive involvement with South African people, resources and charities, the country was a natural choice for Graff ’s new venture into the complete jet-set lifestyle with Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa.

“The London-based British jeweler is famous for the flawless quality of their stones in cut, color and

clarity. Perhaps the most famous Graff diamond is the 603-carat Lesotho Promise

diamond, ranked as the 15th largest diamond

ever discovered.”

DELAIREE S T A T E




“The Lodge also boasts a 230-ton wine cellar, one of the Southern Hemisphere’s finest, which is packed with famed winemaker Morné Vrey’s Delaire wines, derived straight from the vineyards that surround the Lodges and Spa.”

Located just 45 minutes from Cape Town, Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa seamlessly melds with its lush surroundings, where top-quality accommodations encompass incredible views of the Simonsberg Mountains and sweeping, panoramic views of Cape Town and beyond. Traditional African style, like polished peach-pit flooring and slate walls, mingles with Cape Dutch architecture illustrating Graff ’s dedication to discovering the perfect jewel from its rough, natural state.

The Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa consist of 10 separate units, including the 175-square-meter Owner’s Lodge with a fireplace and two bedrooms, and the 150-square-meter Presidential Lodge also with two bedrooms. All lodges, including the eight 80-square-meter Luxury and Deluxe Lodges, offer private heated infinity-edge pools.

In addition to these lavish living quarters, the Lodge’s Reception Area offers a pr ivate dining room, conference facilities and a boutique cinema. Pieces from Laurence Graff ’s own extensive art collection grace the lodge’s walls. Its refined restaurant, designed by local architect Derek Henstra and London-based inter ior architect David Collins, offers up “Sunshine Cuisine,” which caters to the sophisticated palate and blends Mediterranean flavors with local ingredients. The Lodge also boasts a 230-ton wine cellar, one of the Southern Hemisphere’s finest, which is packed with famed winemaker Morné Vrey’s Delaire wines, derived straight from the vineyards that surround the Lodges and Spa.

To add to the Delaire Graff ’ experience, a full-service spa contains four treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam room, a state-of-the-art gym facility, a Pilates reformer machine and a qualified Pilates instructor. For the ultimate in luxury, the spa utilizes Switzerland’s famed La Prairie Spa skin care products to coax even the most stubborn complexion into brightness and health.

GRAFFDELAIRE

E S T A T E


GRAFFDELAIRE

E S T A T E



Aside from the sustainable structure of the Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa, Chelsea Flower Show Gold medal finalist and horticulturist, Keith Kirsten, landscaped the estate, filling the South African terrain with the alluring sight of Milkwood, Yellowwood, Sneezewood, Wild Olive and African Coral Trees, along with the magical scent of flowering shrubs like Hibiscus, Hydrangea, Rose and exotic Frangipani.

Two South African exclusives call the estate home, including the 100% Capri boutique for fine linen and, of course, a Graff Diamonds salon. Graff Diamonds, which are considered some of the finest in the world, include stones, such as the 50.01-carat La Favorite; the folded-pear-shaped 137.82-carat Paragon; the 101.28-carat Golden Star, an intense fancy yellow diamond; the beloved 100.57-carat Star of America; the 5-carat intense fancy pink Rose; the heart-shaped 53.11-carat Star of Lesotho; the 6.19-carat stunningly deep Graff Blue; the Pink Orchid, a 22.84-carat pink marquise-cut beauty; the 118.08-carat fancy yellow Delaire Sunrise—no doubt an inspiration for the Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa; the 102.79 round Graff Constellation; the exquisite 12.42-carat Exceptional Purple Pink marquise-cut sensation; the 91.23-carat Windsor Diamonds and the Rose Queen, which clocks in at 70.39 carats, among many other important, named diamonds.

Laurence Graff ’s passion for diamonds can best be summed up by his own words: “Diamonds excite me; diamonds are my life—I see inside the stone, look at the colour and cut and assess its natural beauty and value.”

“Located just 45 minutes from Cape Town, The Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa seamlessly melds with its lush surroundings, where top-quality accommodations encompass incredible views of the Simonsberg Mountains and sweeping, panoramic views of Cape Town and beyond.”

GRAFFDELAIRE

E S T A T E


The salon houses some of Graff Diamond’s famous collections, such as the Butterfly Collection, Diamonds on Diamonds, The Waterfall Collection, The Chandelier Collection and Graff ’s sparkling array of fantastic watches.

For a unique travel experience in one of the most exotic and gorgeous locations in the world, the Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa offers sustainable, world-class accommodations, cuisine, vineyards, wine and diamonds, where a Graff Diamond salon sits

nearly on top of the source of its splendid sparklers. For the avid diamond collector, one can imagine the excitement of exploring the very land where the world’s finest diamonds are culled. For the oenophile, gem lover, spa fiend, traveler and explorer, the Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa is sure to engage and delight every sort of luxury vacation seeker.

Delaire Graff Estate, +27.21.885.8160, www.delaire.co.za

“For the oenophile, gem lover, spa fiend, traveler and explorer, the

Delaire Graff Lodges and Spa is sure to engage and delight every sort

of luxury vacation seeker.”

MARCH 2011 | AFFLUENT PAGE 63MARCH 2011 | AFFLUENT PAGE 63

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[email protected] • www.travel15.com

Travel15_1.indd 1 4/4/11 5:52 PM

InsIder


RM Auctions managing director shares tips to help you obtain the consummate classic car.

Invaluable Advice

1. Do Your HomeworkWhen you decide on your ultimate dream car, do your homework. Use the Internet to research. Classic car clubs and live auctions are great places to network with enthusiasts. Before you buy, have an expert check it over, and always buy from a reputable source.

2. Study the MarketSeveral publications, like Sports Car Market and Classic & Sports Car, offer insight into the market and track auction results. Market price guides, such as Kelley Blue Book and Hagerty’s Price Guide, list current values based on recent sales and most auction houses publish sales online. RM Auctions are available online at www.rmauctions.com.

S howing off your vintage classic collection can be rousing, but the acquisition is a worthy experience in itself. Max Girardo, managing director of RM Auctions Europe, the

world’s largest collector car auction house, shares insider tips to help improve your next hunt for classic collectible cars.


3. Do it for Love Don’t buy with the thought of making money overnight. Buy a car you’re going to enjoy. Be sure not to fall in love at first sight. Some cars have great visual appeal, but that doesn’t always translate into value or reliability. 4. Buy a Significant Make Classic cars with famous heritage such as Ferrari, Duesenberg or Porsche are better long-term investments than less desirable marques. Not every manufacturer’s model is valuable—each has its winners and losers. 5. Make it Rare, Please Low production and survival rates are important factors. While fewer than 100 produced is valuable, fewer than 50 is better, such as the Jaguar C-Types (50) and Ferrari GTOs (39). One-of-a-kind, prewar luxury cars like Duesenberg and Packard, and

certain ’50s and ’60s American cars built in low numbers with special options hold their value.

“Low production and survival rates are important factors. While fewer than 100 produced is valuable, fewer than 50 is better...”

InsIder


6. Bigger is Sometimes BetterBigger engines can sometimes mean a bigger return on investment. The most desirable 1960s cars are the high-performance, big-block V8, four-speed muscle cars, built in limited numbers. The V12-powered sports cars of Italy took many track victories because of their power and aerodynamics, making them instant classics like their derivative road cousins. 7. Learn Your HistoryThe car’s complete history is very important. Any factory-issued documentation can add considerable value to its selling price. Who was the original purchaser and where was it sold? Did a former celebrity or notable individual own it? Did the owner keep a service log?

8. Consider a Sports or Race Car Some of the strongest segments are sports and racing. Consider a vintage sports or race car as they are always in demand, which almost ensures a lasting market. For example, the current market for a Jaguar D-Type is about $2 million, but the one Stirling Moss drove at Le Mans is worth considerably more. There are also many established international vintage events that will let you “exercise” your prize.

9. Build the Right Portfolio Compiling a car collection will help build a reputation beneficial to its future value. A well-planned portfolio will draw a specific and much attuned market of potential buyers at auction time to secure a return on the original investment. 10. Care for Your CarMake allowances for upkeep. Classic collectibles require climate-controlled garages or storage facilities, plus regular service and maintenance. And don’t forget car insurance. Surprisingly, insurance on a classic is more affordable than a new car—just keep an eye on the miles. Max Girardo saves the most important tip that he can give any vintage car collector for last. “Enjoy the ride,” Girardo says. “ There’s no other investment that compares to the enjoyment and memories of owning a classic car.” Once the perfect classic automobile is obtained, you can participate in a juried show like a concours event or enter your car in competitions. These opportunities help garner awards and renown that can secure the car’s provenance and value for a lifetime. RM Auctions, 519.352.4575, www.rmauctions.com

“Enjoy the ride...there’s no other investment that compares to the

enjoyment and memories of owning a classic car.”

SPECIAL MARKET OPPORTUNITYYour Expert Guide to the World’s Finest Coins

Nicholas J. Bruyer, Chairman & Founder, First Federal Coin Corp.ANA Life Member Since 1974

®

1-888-324-9123Go to www.firstfederalcoin.com and enter offer code FFE134.

American Numismatic AssociationNicholas BruyerLife Member 4489

$5,690 for an Ounce of Silver Bullion? Impossible!

10 years ago I’d have called you crazy to make such a prediction. Yet today it’s a fact. Now our deal with a $4 billion precious metals wholesaler

nets you a great deal for America’s hottest ounce of silver!It wasn’t more than ten years ago that we met with former U.S. MintDirector Donna Pope. She spoke with pride about what she consideredto be her greatest achievement as Director under President Reagan:Creation of the American Eagle silver and gold bullion coin programs,the first of their kind in our nation’s history.

The purpose of these coins was to give people the opportunity to ownphysical silver and gold in a form certified for weight and purity by the U.S. Mint. While the bullion coin program was a signal success,nobody took into account the profound effect it would have on thecollector market.

Silver Eagles = Today’s Morgan Dollars In the 1800s and early 1900s, the U.S. Morgan Silver Dollar was struckyear upon year at various mints and circulated at face value. Their corevalue was in their precious metal content. However, in top grades,Morgan Silver Dollars can sell today for tens and even hundreds ofthousands of dollars each!

For the same reason, many collectors today see the Silver Eagle series as a literal “ground floor” opportunity to acquire the top-grade coins asthey are released. They started submitting Silver Eagles to the leadingindependent coin grading services, Professional Coin Grading Service(PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), praying that the coins would come back with the highest possible grade: MS70 (allUncirculated coins are graded on a point system from a low of 60 to ahigh of 70, with 70 representing flawless perfection). Of all the SilverEagles produced by the U.S. Mint in 2010, less than one out of every681 earned the NGC MS70 grade!

MS70 = $$$$$!In the rarified atmosphere of MS70, Silver Eagles have soared to marketprices that I can only characterize as surreal. Consider this: MS70Silver Eagles have been selling for truly stratospheric prices. Here arejust a few eye-popping examples:

1996 MS70 Silver Eagle $5,6901988 MS70 Silver Eagle $3,1901991 MS70 Silver Eagle $2,8101994 MS70 Silver Eagle $1,470

It Just Keeps Getting Better I was thrilled to lock up a guaranteed supply of Perfect Gem MS70 2011Silver Eagles from a primary distributor who gets them directly from theU.S. Mint. (This is a coin you cannot buy directly from the U.S. Mint).Moreover, every coin is certified and encapsulated by NGC, one of the top two firms for grading coins. But better yet, because we received thevery first coins released from the mint, they all have the value-enhancing“Early Release” designation.

What Does “Early Release” Mean? NGC designates only those coins it certifies as having been released during the first 30 days of issue as Early Release. Collectors place a premium on these coins because they are struck from freshly made dies, which is thought to impart superior quality. Only a miniscule number of the mintage gets the Early Release pedigree.

This Early Release certification can turbo charge the value of an already valuable MS70 coin. For example, a MS70 2006 20th Anniversary Silver Eagle from the West Point Mint is valued at $2,000—but add the NGC “Early Release” pedigree and the value skyrockets to $2,995—that’s 50% more!

CALL IMMEDIATELY BEFORE THEY’RE GONEBecause of our industry-leading status, you can take advantage of our “bolt of lightning” deal on these Perfect Gem MS70 2011 SilverEagles at blowout prices even lower than the 2010s: just $149 each!But, you can save even more. Order 5-9 for only $139 each, and order10 or more at the best deal—only $129 each! To avoid disappointment I urge you to call immediately. Hurry! This is a first-come-first servedoffer. Call 1-888-324-9123 and mention offer code: FFE134

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Past performance is not an indicator of future performance. Prices subject to change without notice. Note: First Federal Coin Corp. is a private distributor of government and private coin and medallic issues and is not affiliatedwith the United States government. Facts and figures were deemed accurate as of January 2011. ©First Federal Coin Corp, 2011.

FFE134_7.375x9.875_Layout 1 3/31/11 4:18 PM Page 1

desIgn


By Joseph M. Maldarelli

Defy ConventionEddie Alexander Meeks can design and build your next dream automobile by hand.

The creator of one of the most beautiful motorcycles ever designed says it will never be ridden. “It’s a showpiece, a rolling piece of art,” says designer, builder, architect and artist Eddie Alexander Meeks, whose

creativity only begins in the garage.The Quantum Leap, which Meeks describes as something

out of the movie, “Tron,” was a labor of love, taking more than four years to complete. Meeks custom designed everything on the bike except for the engine and transmission. However, as with most concept cars and motorcycles, it is one-of-a-kind and not for sale. His partner, Simon Solomon, at Solomon and Meeks, LLC, is the proud owner of what

Meeks calls “the crowning piece” of his portfolio.Meeks skills are obvious; his design for the Quantum Leap

went against the norm for most production bikes by flipping the ends around, making it a front-wheel drive with rear steering. He also handcrafted most of the bike, including the steel bodywork, the copper, bright and black nickel plating and even the headlight. Meeks is multitalented. Not only is he a designer, inventor and metal crafter, but also an architect, artist (he hammers out copper by hand to create his sculptures) and a luthier (he makes acoustic guitar s and cases). All this is done at his workshop,

EAM S tud io s , i n Greensboro, N.C.


“We always build radical, innovative bikes and always wow the crowds

when we unveil them.”

He began designing and building motorcycles in 1994, and by his count has created approximately 35

bikes. Meeks also says Solomon and Meeks, LLC has won many awards and accolades for the motorcycles at

national shows from Florida to New York to Nevada. “We always build radical, innovative bikes and always wow the

crowds when we unveil them,” says Meeks. He has also started drafting a design of a limited edition production motorcycle

“with an unusual power plant for the modern day.”What’s next for Meeks? What about building a custom car? “I’ve

thought about it, but haven’t done it,” he says. “Someone would have to have deep pockets and patience. It’s not like you can go and buy this car like you would a Ferrari.” He could not predict the endeavor’s time frame, but says the price tag to custom build an automobile is probably in the seven-digits range (The Quantum Leap cost about $250,000 to build).

Some of his other inventions range from bathroom fixtures, remote-control spy planes to better beer containers. He also creates furniture in his woodworking studio. All of his creations are individually numbered with tiny plaques—be it one of his sculptures (Sculpture 004) or the Quantum Leap (FWD 001).

Looking ahead Meeks would like to be a consultant for companies seeking help with design. “Sometimes having someone from the outside like me come in and take a look at a project can save hours and money for a company,” he says. But he will continue to build and invent. “My talents for creating anything are just about unlimited.”

Solomon and Meeks LLC., 336.545.1004, www.eddiemeeks.net


escape

Barcelona Avant-Garde

Barcelona’s most exclusive hotel gets a contemporary makeover by internationally renowned Spanish designer, Patricia Urquiola.

By Ariel Jastromb


The new Mandarin Oriental in Barcelona blends the best of Spain’s most romantic

city with all that’s new in architecture and design. Situated at the city’s most exclusive address, the hotel offers a sumptuously intimate setting with just 98 rooms and suites. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, known for its exceptional hotels and resorts worldwide, delivers the ultimate experience in luxury accommodations, combining the city’s old-world beauty and charm with Urquiola’s stylish, ultracontemporary interiors and a touch of the Group’s Asian heritage.

Located on the bustling Passeig de Gràcia, the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona boasts two world-class restaurants, Blanc and Moments, as well as Banker’s Bar—all chic places to see and be seen while enjoying delectable cuisine and imbibing Spain’s finest wines and liquors. Al fresco dining, a luxury of the temperate Mediterranean climate, can be enjoyed at the hotel’s breathtaking 660-square-meter Mimosa Garden or poolside on the Terrat rooftop, where panoramic views of the glittering city’s famous

architecture provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic meal.

Steps from Barcelona’s most famed attractions, such as the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas, the hotel’s central location proves one of its greatest assets. Designer shopping, local dining and Barcelona’s incredible cultural amenities abound, including two of the city’s most celebrated Gaudí-designed buildings. Other neighborhood staples include gorgeous churches, parks, museums and promenades.

“Situated at the city’s most exclusive address, the hotel offers

a sumptuously intimate setting with just 98 rooms and suites.”

escape


“The spa also offers a selection of individual treatments for both men

and women...developed in consultation with specialists in traditional Chinese

medicine...tailored to meet the individual needs of each guest.”

For the traveler that prefers to view from afar, many rooms and suites at the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona include sweeping balconies and terraces with views of the glamorous Passeig de Gràcia or the impeccably landscaped hotel garden. The 2,542-square-foot Penthouse Suite, the hotel’s most exclusive and private accommodation, occupies the entire top floor, boasts views of the Passeig de Gràcia and is outfitted with top-of-the-line Bang & Olufsen technology. The suite has two bedrooms. The master bedroom boasts its own set of rooms and a terrace. The second bedroom has an en suite bathroom. The Penthouse Suite also has two living areas, one of which has a sweeping terrace. It also has a kitchen, a dining room equipped for eight and a guest powder room. A personal butler rounds out the whole experience at $10,000 per night.

To ease weary feet or just plain relax, indulge in the hotel’s 1,000-square-meter Spa at Mandarin Oriental—the destination for pure pampering. The spa’s tranquil setting and holistic approach to beauty and wellness ensure a variety of treatments to suit every taste. Signature spa programs include both full- and half-day options. The daylong Pathway to Radiance, a rejuvenating program, promises to reveal the best you, and includes a personalized

80-minute aromatherapy massage, the Signature Quintessence Body Scrub and the Age-Defying Facial.

For an afternoon of bliss after wandering Barcelona’s storied streets, the spa’s Urban Escape package awakens the body and soul with an invigorating sea salt, menthol and lime scrub, followed by the Therapeutic Massage and the Regenerating Firming Eye Treatment. The spa also offers a selection of individual treatments for both men and women, including the Signature Spa Therapies, a nearly two-hour-long, full-body treatment developed in consultation with specialists in traditional Chinese medicine, which are tailored to meet the individual needs of each guest.

From its stunning architecture and perfect location to its delicious cuisine, excellent spa and spectacular views of this storybook city, a visit to the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona promises to be a truly remarkable experience. The Mandarin Group’s brand of excellence has surely exceeded itself in the hotel’s development, but it is the groundbreaking design and personalized approach that will ensure the perfect vacation destination for the well-heeled traveler.

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, +34.93.151.87.68, www.mandarinoriental.com/barcelona

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Indulge

Bordeaux Enchantment

In the 2,000 year history of the wine world, Classified Growth Bordeaux still retains its magic, value and allure. Created in 1735, Margaux-based Château

Brane-Cantenac caught the roving eye of the “Donald Trump” of the Bordeaux wine world in 1833: Baron Hector de Brane. By all accounts Brane was quite the socialite, and despite his vibrant personality, he had a deep scientific educational background and was largely responsible in identifying Cabernet Sauvignon as the Médoc’s ‘premier grape.’ By the time of the 1855 classification, Brane-Cantenac achieved the lofty second Growth classification.

Today the château is under the direction of the charming Henri Lurton, whose family bought the estate in 1925. Unlike many château owners who live in Paris and hire a vineyard manager to look after their property, Henri Lurton lives near his vines and can be seen in the vineyard almost daily, examining the grounds or overseeing trellising work. Near harvest, he tastes the grapes for ripeness in addition to sending the results for laboratory analysis. Recently, he invested in an optical sorter in addition to handpicking, which ensures that only the ripest grapes make the first wine.

Why this dedication? Perhaps it’s due to the fact that as eldest son, Henri received Brane-Cantenac, the family’s most prestigious estate, while the other nine siblings were bequeathed lesser estates.

The 1952 Margaux-based Brane-Cantenac has enjoyed heated bidding in the international auction market, with an estimated $900 retail value as a Second growth estate vintage.

By Marisa D’Vari

“Henri Lurton lives near his vines and can be seen in the vineyard

almost daily, examining the grounds or overseeing

trellising work.”


Indulge


Or that in the winery, the year “1925” (the year of the family’s acquisition) is carved into the wall, reminding Henri daily about his grandfather’s dedication to the brand. Either way, the highly credentialed owner holds oenology degrees from many institutions, including the University of Bordeaux, and as a young man worked in South Africa, Australia and Chile to perfect his skills and learn the newest technology in the industry.

Brane-Cantenac is one of the first Classified Growth estates to make this expensive investment of the optical sorter, signifying its continued desire to move toward the modern age and create the finest wines on the market.

Vintage variation is so crucial in Bordeaux there can be a several hundred dollar difference from one vintage to the next. The 1952 vintage sells for nearly $900 on the international online market — a very rare occurrence due to an excellent vintage. On the nose, the wine is fresh and lively, with concentrated black fruit

on the palate and the kind of acidity and balance with firm tannins, which is responsible for its incredible longevity.

Many people assume that the older the wine, the better. While this is usually true for Classified Growth Bordeaux, Burgundy and Barolo, at some point (typically 15 to 20 years) the wines plateau and then slowly fall apart. The freshness of Brane-Cantenac’s 1952 is a testament to the vintage and the skill of the Lurtons as winemakers.

French tradition dictates that the most expensive and rare wines are served at the end of the meal, and usually with cheese. And in the case of the 1952, this is an appropriate choice as the wine still has incredible acidity and concentrated depth of fruit, yet the tannin is softer, and not as appropriate for steak as it would have been in its prime.

Brane-Cantenac, +33.557.888.333, www.brane-cantenac.com

“The freshness of Brane-Cantenac’s 1952 is a testament to the vintage and the skill of the Lurtons as winemakers.”

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