On September 9, the doyennes and dons of San Francisco high society will dress in their finest gowns and black tie attire to honor the 98th season of the San Francisco Symphony. A mere two days later, the Bay Area’s elite will once again gather for Opera Ball, which will celebrate the opening of the 87th season of San Francisco Opera.

For decades running, these two events have kicked off the cultural season in the Bay Area. Patrons, sponsors, and guests are treated to magical evenings filled with flowing Champagne, fine musical programs, exquisite cuisine, and dancing, all to honor Bay Area arts organizations.

While for guests, these flawless evenings seem to come together each year by magic, the events are really the culmination of countless hours of tireless toils from the chair and co-chair members, combined with the efforts of the committees and a solid volunteer staff.

While both evenings benefit worthy community organizations, gathering support in 2009 has not been as easy as in years past. Luckily, with Jessa Wu in the role of chairwoman of the San Francisco Symphony Opening Night Gala and Teresa Medearis and Adrianna Pope Sullivan co-chairing Opera Ball 2009, both evenings are on track to be smashing successes, chock full of elegant surprises that will delight the attendees.

In the past, chairing a gala evening was about picking out fonts and paper for the invites and securing donations for the gift bags, but this year these three women have taken party planning to a whole new level. With honed business senses, they epitomize a new breed of socialite, a breed that was born in the boardroom.

Mere weeks from the events, the women took time from their incredibly packed schedules to speak with Haute Living about everything that it takes to pull off such intricate and highly anticipated events, and to do so with the level of class and grace that is expected of San Francisco’s high-society members.

Teresa Medearis
Co-Chair
The San Francisco Opera’s Opera Ball 2009

The San Francisco Opera’s (SFO) Opera Ball is the highlight of San Francisco’s haute culture, year after year. It is known as one of the most important annual social events in the entire nation, garnering the attention of high-society from around the country. This year’s event will celebrate the opening of the Opera’s 87th season while also welcoming acclaimed Italian conductor Nicola Luisotti, who will begin his inaugural season as the music director. The Opera Ball kicks off a weekend-long celebration, with the BRAVO! CLUB, SFO’s young professionals group, also holding its Opening Night Gala on Friday, September 11. Sunday, the festivities continue with the annual San Francisco Chronicle Presents Opera in the Park in Golden Gate Park’s Sharon Meadow. A week later, on Saturday, SFO partners once again with the San Francisco Giants to bring grand opera to AT&T Park with a free, live simulcast of Il Trovatore.

The cornerstone of the celebration is certainly Opera Ball, a collaboration between San Francisco Opera and San Francisco Opera Guild, a separate entity whose mission is to provide opera education and outreach programs, as well as to provide financial support to the San Francisco Opera Association. The Guild is comprised of a dedicated group of 100 men and women who are powerful figures in their respective fields; together, they combine to become an unstoppable philanthropic powerhouse.

Opera Guild director and third-generation San Franciscan Teresa Medearis is armed with her masters in engineering management from Stanford, and she has held management positions at Hewlett-Packard and Price Waterhouse. She is active on a number of boards and committees throughout the Bay Area, and served as co-chair for the opening night gala of Macy’s Passport in 2003. Her two-year tenure as president of the Opera Guild ended last year, at which time she was asked to co-chair Opera Ball 2009, along with Adrianna Pope Sullivan.

Haute Living When did you become involved with the San Francisco Opera?
Teresa Medearis For 10 years, I’ve been a board member of the San Francisco Opera Guild. The Opera Guild’s mission is twofold: one, music education for children, and two, support of San Francisco Opera. The Guild is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, and the Opera is opening its 87th season. The Guild has been responsible for Opera Ball since it was inaugurated in 1941.

HL Why were you selected as this year’s co-chair for the Opera Ball?
TM I am the immediate past president of the Opera Guild, and I was very flattered to receive an invitation from the nominating committee to be one of the two chairs. I think they were looking for someone with relevant experience in the community and with fund-raising.

HL What all goes into the planning of an event of this caliber?
TM Our goal is to create an extraordinary experience for our guests. We began planning immediately following Opera Ball 2008, and it has been a year of meetings, sponsorships, partnerships, and negotiations. But it’s really—especially this year—the personal touch that makes the difference, having someone personally reach out to a sponsor or patron.

HL What has been the biggest challenge you have encountered?
TM The biggest challenge has been to try to adapt the event to the current economic environment. We thought hard about every aspect of the event, because we knew we needed to be very respectful of our patrons but still maintain the elegance and luster of the gala. We have scrutinized every last detail, to be as fiscally prudent as possible. This year we decided to host Opera Ball in our beautiful San Francisco City Hall. I think this is very symbolic; we are bringing everything together under the rotunda of City Hall to celebrate the Opera, to celebrate our city, to celebrate our community, and all that we have.

HL What is the theme of Opera Ball 2009?
TM We are celebrating the 87th season of the San Francisco Opera, and we have great cause for celebration. We have a new music director, Nicola Luisotti, who is one of the most sought-after directors of our time. Nicola is absolutely passionate about music. He is only the third music director in the Opera’s 87-year history. He is Italian, as was Giuseppe Verdi, the composer of the opening night opera, Il Trovatore, which is set in 15th-century Spain. It is very important for us to welcome Nicola to our community while also honoring our roots. The San Francisco Opera was started by a group of Italian-Americans, and the War Memorial Opera House opened in 1932 in the midst of the Great Depression as a great success. In planning Opera Ball 2009, we derived a lot of inspiration from our heritage and history. Through the elegance of the evening, we are looking to create a very magical experience, with a theme focused around the Spanish opera. Our event designer, Stanlee Gatti, is looking to surprise everyone, and the theme will be carried throughout the cocktail hour and dinner. From the event invitation, which has a black lace Spanish fan across it, through the entire evening, there will be continuity, which is part of the tradition.

HL How are ticket sales going?
TM We are expecting more than 1,000 guests in total, and are thrilled to be completely sold out. Opera Ball often sells out soon after the invitation is mailed in July, although that was not the case this year. People do want to celebrate the opening of the opera, knowing that 100 percent of Opera Ball proceeds benefit much-needed music in schools. So they are coming out, and feeling good about it, all the while understanding that we are doing things differently this year.

HL Who are the main sponsors?
TM We are very fortunate to have many corporate and in-kind sponsors; Boucheron, Hess Collection, Scharffenberger, and Grey Goose. John and Cynthia Fry Gunn are supporting the inaugural season of Maestro Nicola Luisotti as Music Director of San Francisco Opera. The Opera’s cherished Jeannik Méquet Littlefield is Honorary Co-Chair of the Opera’s Opening Night, and Diane B. Wilsey is the Opening Weekend Grand Sponsor.

HL How much of your time is dedicated to the planning of the Opera Ball?
TM Almost 50 percent. A significant amount of time is spent reaching out and personally contacting individuals to tell them how much their past support is appreciated. It’s so important in this economic climate to have each patron understand how vital he or she is to the Opera, and to inspire our patrons to come again.

HL What will you be wearing for the evening?
TM Adrianna and I wanted to wear something in tune with the Spanish theme, so I am wearing a red lace gown by designer Catherine Regehr, known for her classic elegance. We are also honored to be wearing jewels from our sponsor, Boucheron. And for men, Opera Ball is either black tie or white tie. Our husbands are breaking out the tails!

HL What is it about the Opera Ball and the programs that it supports that make you so passionate and dedicated to the San Francisco Opera Guild?
TM San Francisco Opera Guild’s music education programs help ensure that children in Bay Area schools are exposed to opera. I was the recipient of one of the Opera Guild’s programs in the third grade, when I first attended an opera matinee. The Opera has a portfolio of programs that reach more than 50,000 children in the Bay Area annually, from kindergarten through 12th grade. In our newest program, Book to Bravo, students actually write an opera from a story they are studying in one of their classes, and see that opera is a complex art—there is acting and singing, costuming, sets, and music. I am so appreciative to be a part of this, because it is bigger than all of us. (more…)

A drive out to the Robert Mondavi Winery in Oakville, California, is a scenic tour through the rolling hills of Napa Valley. The road meanders by some of the 400 vineyards that dot the valley and passes through villages that offer some of the finest dining in the country, as well as five-star boutique hotels and shopping destinations.

It is quite a different landscape than in 1966, when the late Robert Mondavi set out to build the first Napa Valley winery constructed since Prohibition. At that time, Napa Valley was a farm community with a few vineyards, even though the name is derived from the Wappo Indians’ word meaning “land of plenty.” Charles Krug established Napa Valley’s first commercial winery in 1861 (which was eventually purchased by the Mondavi family), and it wasn’t long before more than 140 wineries operated in the region. But declining prices of wine and an infestation of phylloxera (plant lice) led to the abandonment of many of these vineyards, and the land sat unused as wineries deteriorated beyond a state of repair. While a revival of some of the vineyards began in the 1940s, a time that coincided with the founding of the Napa Valley Vintners Association, wines from California were deemed subpar in the global market, as no one thought that the climate and land could produce a vintage rated anything more than decent.

Enter Robert Mondavi. His passion for wine was inherent; his father’s California-based company, C. Mondavi and Sons, packed and shipped grapes across the nation for home winemaking purposes. Robert attended Stanford where he received his degree in economics and business administration, at which time he joined his father and brother, Peter, at the Charles Krug Winery. After his father’s death, a feud with Peter about how to run the winery resulted in a fistfight, and Robert was asked to leave the business in 1965. Robert used the opportunity to purchase land in Oakville and Rutherford and launch Robert Mondavi Winery under his own ambitious vision of creating world-class wines. (He later sued for his share of Charles Krug and was awarded most of the family’s important vineyards in Oakville, although Peter remains in charge of the Charles Krug brand.)

In the land and grapes of California, Robert Mondavi saw potential where others did not; he ardently believed he would be able to create wines that would compete with the finest vintages from France and Italy. Many thought he was crazy, but time would prove that he was nothing short of brilliant. Less than a decade after its launch, two former winemakers of the Robert Mondavi Winery won first prize at an historic Paris tasting, elevating the Napa Valley winery in the eyes of the world’s most stringent oenophiles.

Upon Robert Mondavi’s passing at age 94 in 2008, Napa Valley lost its biggest global ambassador. He was tireless in his quest to create fine wine fit for a connoisseur. But as the idiom goes, behind every great man is a great woman. In Robert’s case, that woman was his second wife, Margrit Mondavi. If Robert Mondavi is known as the founding father of modern Napa Valley, Margrit is without a doubt the first lady of California wine.

The Swiss-born Margrit Biever had a life-long goal of uniting wine with fine arts, music, and culinary artistry. When she began working at Robert Mondavi Winery just two years after its founding, it was in a position that today would be referred to as public relations, something that Napa Valley desperately needed. Robert had established a tour and tasting program at the vineyard as soon as it was founded, with a goal of educating guests about the land and the winemaking process. As an active and vocal supporter of the winery, Margrit took this to a whole new level, which soon caught the attention of Robert Mondavi himself, and later the rest of the world.

Without the steadfast efforts of Margrit, Robert could have continued to make the finest wine to ever come out of California, but few would have known about it. In the late 1960s, few visitors made their way to Napa Valley, as there simply weren’t worthy destinations to explore. Margrit made it her mission to change that, first establishing a Sunday art show under the famous arches at the entrance to the winery. She combined the works of established masters with unknown artists, and paired it with fine cuisine and, of course, wine from the vineyard. She soon established an art program at the winery as well, with ever-changing exhibits in the Vineyard Room showcasing celebrated, local, and emerging artists in photography, sculpture, painting, and other visual arts. By featuring a new exhibit every two months, she created a constant reason for people to return to the winery.

“For the first 27 years we never did advertising so of course anything that we did that brought that feeling of wine, food, and the arts together was very important,” Margrit explains. “It was our way to show the wines to the world.” In 1969, she launched the Summer Music Festival, an event that is still going strong today. During a lunch in the Vineyard Room immediately following our photo shoot, Margrit explains that the first year was more than a struggle. “We couldn’t use any money from the vineyard,” she says, “so we borrowed everything we needed to put this together.” She personally solicited chairs from a local church and a portable stage from an area high school for the concert, which featured the Napa Valley Symphony, a guitar soloist, and the Xoregos Dance Company. That first year, tickets were a mere $3 and more than 400 people attended, a wild success for the brand new winery.

Each year, the Summer Music Festival evolved, and now is known as the social event of the season for Napa Valley. The likes of Buena Vista Social Club, Ella Fitzgerald, Benny Goodman, Lena Horne, Tony Bennett, Sarah Vaughan, Johnny Mathis, Boz Scaggs, Aimee Mann, and Stan Getz have all hit the stage at Robert Mondavi Winery, and the event has raised more than $2 million primarily in support of the Napa Valley Symphony, as well as the Napa Valley Unified School District. In 1984, she also launched the Winter Classical Concert at Robert Mondavi Winery, which benefits local music organizations like the Napa Valley Opera. Her dedication to the arts also led her to form a board of directors to rebuild the 19th-century opera house in Napa, which opened in 2002.

Her passion for spreading the Mondavi name extended beyond being the ultimate hostess; she was an advocate for the wines themselves. She speaks six languages, including Japanese, and before the brand made it big, she used these skills to personally pen hand-written letters to some of the biggest sommeliers throughout the world about Robert Mondavi Winery, also sending cases of wine for them to try. Along with Robert she traveled extensively, personally introducing the brand to global tastemakers. “It was so fulfilling when the wines began appearing on the wine lists in some of the most respected restaurants in France and Italy,” she shares.

With an innate understanding that fine wine and cuisine go hand-in-hand, 10 years after joining Robert Mondavi Winery, Margrit launched a culinary program. “Bob always said, ‘We’ve got it all (in California), the ocean for fish and seafood, the grains, the meat, so let’s put it together. The table was always so important to Bob.” The program began as the Great Chefs of France, but as renowned chefs began to emerge in America, Margrit introduced the Great Chefs of America program.

Iconic culinary artists like Julia Child, Alice Waters, Simone Beck, Jean Troisgros, Marcella Hazan, Thomas Keller, Jacques Pépin, and Wolfgang Puck are amongst the luminaries that Margit brought to the winery’s kitchen throughout the last 30 years.

In 2003, Margrit and her daughter, Annie Roberts, the winery’s executive chef for 27 years, collaborated to write Annie and Margrit: Recipes and Stories from the Robert Mondavi Kitchen. The tome took home the “Best in the World” honor during the 2003 Gourmand World Cookbook Awards.

Keeping with Robert’s vision that fine food and wine go hand-in-hand, many great chefs came together this year at the vineyard for Taste Napa Valley during Auction Napa Valley. The location was very fitting, as Robert helped found the auction weekend in 1981. In total, Auction Napa Valley has raised more than $85 million to benefit area healthcare, affordable housing, and youth-service nonprofits. Terry Hall, the communications director for Napa Valley Vintners, the association behind ANV, said, “It seemed like a fitting tribute to carry on the legacy of Robert Mondavi’s visions for the auction to be held at the iconic winery the year following his passing.”

The impact of the couple is felt in virtually every cultural facet throughout Napa Valley. They were the founding patrons of COPIA: The American Center for Wine, Food, and the Arts, with a donation that topped $20 million. It was Margrit who found the downtown Napa location for the center, which opened in 2001. (Unfortunately, the center closed its doors and filed for bankruptcy protection at the end of 2008.) The couple also co-founded the Oxbow School in Napa, an art school that offers a live-in semester-long program to high school juniors and second-term seniors that includes hands-on studio work with college-level instructors and nationally known artists.

At the University of California at Davis, the Mondavis donated $25 million to establish the Robert Mondavi Institute for Wine and Food Science, and another $10 million to finish the campus’ performing arts center, which also bears their name. Despite neither of the Mondavis attending the school, at the time of the donation, Robert explained the reason behind it. “UC Davis has been a true partner in building the international reputation of the California wine industry,” he said. “California wines are equal to the world’s best in quality, diversity, and excitement. We are now leading the way with UC Davis graduates at the helm of many of our finest wineries, Robert Mondavi Winery included. We are greatly honored to support UC Davis with new facilities that ensure its position as the world’s leading educational center for viticulture, enology, and food science.”

In June 2004, UC Davis presented Robert and Margrit with the UC Davis Medal, the highest honor bestowed by the university. “I am delighted to award the UC Davis Medal to them for all that they have done for this university, for the state, for everyone desiring a meaningful and enriched life,” Chancellor Larry Vanderhoef said at the time. “I can’t imagine more deserving recipients.”

The Institute, which opened just months following Robert’s death, really exemplifies the Mondavis’ commitment to Napa Valley as a whole. Rather than competing with other wineries, Robert often did anything he could to help them succeed, whether that meant offering advice, funds, or lending a helping hand. During his life in Napa Valley, he expanded Robert Mondavi Winery into the region’s flagship brand. The company was sold to Constellation Brands in 2001 for more than $1 billion, but it is business as usual at the winery. Haute Ambassador of Winemaking for Haute Living San Francisco Genevieve Janssens, who is the director of winemaking for the winery, works tirelessly to uphold Robert’s vision, and Margrit is still actively involved in the social and artistic aspects of the winery.

As Napa Valley evolved into a cultural destination, Robert knew it was important for other wineries to evolve as well. He epitomized the term “team player,” often pairing up with prominent European vintners for special projects. The most remarkable of these is of course Opus One, which first launched in 1979. It was a collaboration between Mondavi, one of the most celebrated American winemakers, and Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Bordeaux’s famed Château Mouton-Rothschild. When Baron Philippe fell ill, his daughter, Baroness Philippine de Rothschild, stepped into his role. “I worked with Robert Mondavi directly while completing the winery, and now we have this place that I love,” she said in an interview with Haute Living. In 1988, Opus One became the first ultra-premium California wine to be sold in France, the U.K., Switzerland, and Germany.

David Pearson, the current CEO of Opus One, explains the powerful partnership. “When you bring together two great winemaking families, like Rothschild and Mondavi, you necessarily have great expectations. When these two families came together, it brought the focus of the world to a region that had promise, and this set us up to become one of the great winemaking regions of the world.” It certainly worked; the release of the first vintage coincided with the premiere Auction Napa Valley, where a case of Opus One sold for an astonishing $24,000 in 1981.

It was a defining moment for California, and the United States as a whole. Robert Mondavi achieved his vision of creating wines that were equal to those from Europe, and he continued to give back to the community, ensuring that it will continue to thrive. Margrit says that she would like people to remember all of the strides that Robert made in the region and industry. Any look around Napa Valley, and it is apparent that it would be impossible to ignore the everlasting impact of Robert and Margrit Mondavi.

Welcome to extraordinary Phoenix Ranch, a property named after the universal symbol of unsurpassed excellence and beauty. This spacious 10,000 sq. ft. home is clad in natural reds and golds found in its heirloom quality hand-carved stone, steel and native stone.

As you enter through the hand wrought iron gates you are introduced to 40 acres of artfully landscaped grounds capturing the best that Colorado living has to offer. This includes an approved equestrian center with irrigation pond and pump station that greens the property and produces tremendous yields for animals all season long. To compliment the agricultural operation is a freestanding stone barn inspired by New England Barn Architecture. The 5000 sq. ft. barn features the finest in materials including radiant floor heating and oversized drive-through custom doors. The tennis and basketball courts provide resort-grade recreation along with a refreshing custom commercial grade pool and water feature; all secluded in the privacy of hundreds of trees. Views are truly panoramic, with each room designed to present a breathtaking scene ranging from the rolling plains to the towering Rocky Mountains, including a framed view of the famous “14,000 Footer,” Longs Peak.

Like the mythical phoenix, the entire estate appears to have risen from the ground it hovers on, featuring abundant hand-cut Colorado “Buffstone” indigenous to the Rocky Mountains. Rugged steel frames the commercial grade structure that was built by award winning developer CrossWinds Estates, LLC. Oversized entry doors are hand crafted with patinaed copper, framed by Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired design elements. You are struck immediately upon entering the vaulted foyer by the exposed steel and Parallam beams throughout. Custom hand forged fixtures by Hubbardton Forge cast a warm glow on the Venetian plaster walls. The eye-catching square spiral staircase, built of stone, steel and recycled timber, floats without supports between three levels with zero deflection; an engineering feat not seen in residential environments. Warmth and color are provided through furniture-grade trim made of select alder wood and cabinet grade finishes.

Radiant floor heating throughout promises warmth and comfort for those who are only at home in bare feet. Sophisticated year-round climate control is provided with commercial grade heating and cooling, all controllable from a PC or the internet. During cool summer nights the architecture takes advantage of the magnificent Colorado climate, allowing entire wall systems to open to oversized stone patios to foster a seamless connection with the majestic Rocky Mountains. On the main patio you find a 25’ x 50’ dive pool with water feature and resort-grade 12-person built in hot tub, outdoor kitchen area complete with built in appliances and cabana setting with outdoor television and AV. This is another example of a home that emphasizes the natural luxury of the region, providing wonderful opportunities for evening entertainment and refreshing summer breezes.

Phoenix Ranch has two master suites, one on the main level and another “mini” master on the upper level. The luxurious master bath includes oversized steam showers and body sprays reminiscent of a fine spa, complimented by a heated whirlpool tub and fireplace, copper sinks, custom tile throughout, and 8″ Caesar Stone counter tops. Upstairs, the “mini” master suite also has bird’s eye views of the Rocky Mountains, fireplace and easy accessibility to the guest and children’s bedrooms. Each bedroom offers privacy and modern comfort for family and guests alike. On the main level, custom-built barn door tracks open silently into the hand-hewn walnut study.

You will be enchanted by the chef’s kitchen with countless commercial features integrated into its warm atmosphere, including abundant counters, recessed steamer, Wolf ovens, dual 36″ Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer, one-touch espresso machine, walk-in pantry, butler’s pantry and spacious bar and table seating with sweeping Rocky Mountain views. A separate dining area offers a more elegant environment for special occasions and larger gatherings. The great room opens to the kitchen, featuring a 2-story stone and steel fireplace, giant flat screen entertainment center with home theater sound, and unobstructed views of the Rockies.

The downstairs in-law suite offers an unsurpassed experience for guests, complete with all the comforts of home for independent living. A temperature-controlled wine room is crafted of Brazilian Mahogany and patina tile. The exercise room sports rubber flooring and commercial grade equipment looking out on the famous Flatirons. A martini bar blends personality with functionality; bold red countertops, barn door cabinets, and fully equipped bar with appliances make parties effortless. Each room in Phoenix Ranch offers a fully functioning entertainment center for sound, security and wireless internet. The dedicated home theater is an oasis for audio/visual fans. You will be guaranteed a truly regal entertainment experience with plush leather seating for eight and superb sound insulation. From conception to completion, Phoenix Ranch offers the utmost in quality living inside and out.

Looking to the future, the property offers many opportunities while maintaining an agricultural designation. This could include Polo fields, horse paddocks, or crops supported by extensive irrigation and water rights. Phoenix Ranch has no conservation easements attached – a rarity in Boulder County – which allows you to enjoy your land without pre-defined limits. In addition, a stable up to 5000 sq ft has been approved by Boulder County. Possibilities are endless. Phoenix Ranch masterfully combines grace and stout magnificence in a modern estate that makes dreams a reality.

Offered @ $6,495,000

Contact Scott Franklund @ 303.440.4999 or Scott@LegendaryProperty.com. Or visit www.LegendaryProperty.com

South Florida is overflowing with tropical paradises, from the soft white beaches and turquois waters to the tropical gardens that dot the region. Paradise Farms is certainly one such, well, paradise. Gabriele Marewski, owner of Paradise Farms Organic, welcomes South Floridians and visitors to head to Paradise Farms to experience fine cuisine from the most notable chefs in Miami for the Dinner in Paradise 2009/2010 season.  It promises to be a dining experience that will become one of your most memorable!

Surrounded by a dreamy setting of tropical trees, edible flowers, heirloom tomatoes, herbs and greens while sunset turns into twilight, these magical dinners will delight.  Set amid this plush five acres of organic produce, Dinner in Paradise provides one of those “only in South Florida” experiences that celebrates community while offering local gourmets a unique dining experience.  There is something very special about eating great food and drinking fine wines in an out-of-the-way setting, under the stars in the middle of the winter.

Dinner in Paradise was created in 2005 by Gabriele Marewski and Michael Schwartz from Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink to raise money for worthy causes and create awareness of local farms, cuisine and chefs.  Some of the illustrious chef participating this year include: Chef Jeff Mcinnis from the Dilido Beach Club at the Ritz Carlton South Beach, Chef’s Gordon Maybury and Brett Rayon from the Loews Hotel Miami Beach- who donated all the lovely dishes, Chef Michael Schwartz , Giancarla Bodoni from Escopazzo, Chef Michelle Bernstein from Michy’s and new comers: Chefs John Psilakis & Sean McTiernan from Eos at the Viceroy and Chef John Chitchley from Area31 at the Epic Hotel.

Dinner in Paradise welcomes back Shari Gherman, Sommelier and President of the American Fine Wine Competition and the Gold Medal Wine Tour, as Wine Director.  She has coordinated with Stacole Fine Wines to bring a selection of fine wines that she will pair with the dishes prepared at the dinners.

Dinners are scheduled from December through February and begin at 5 PM with a cocktail reception followed by a farm tour.  Dinner begins at 6 PM.  March & April’s dinner will begin at 6 PM.  Each dinner, priced at $165.50, features six courses made with local, organic products, paired with top quality wines.

Visit www.paradisefarms.net for a full schedule and to make reservations.

Extraordinary stone & shingle Georgian. 4+ gated acres, splendid stone terraces and heated pool. Renowned interior design firm of Diamond & Baratta, Rick Mosian architect. Exceptionally large entertainment rooms open out to formal terraces, professional landscapes and Shoreline pool. Rare opportunity in horse country, furnishing negotiable.

Offered @ $7,495,000

Contact Shelly S. Tretter @ 203.618.3103 or visit www.sothebyshomes.com.

Gladstone’s World Class Seafood is getting a makeover—or more like a facelift. Owner Richard Riordan, the former Los Angeles mayor, has decided it’s time for the restaurant to receive a fresh young feel. To accomplish this he brought the nightclub extraordinaire Sam Nazarian on board, whom he will then sell part interest in Gladstone’s to. (Haute Living recently featured Sam Nazarian on the cover of our Los Angeles edition.)

The oceanfront restaurant, located on the Pacific Coast Highway, is known for its long waits for a table, large servings, and tinfoil leftover creations in the shapes of swans and mermaids. With annual revenue of $14 million, Gladstone’s is the highest-grossing independent restaurant in Southern California. However, that didn’t protect the eatery from effects of the recession and poor reviews. Zagat published one such review this week by stating, “Cutely fashioned tinfoil-wrapped leftovers can’t excuse the subpar eats, not to mention the high prices.” The reputation of Gladstone’s being expensive and unimaginative is what prompted Riordan to make the change—and call upon Nazarian to do so.

Riordan, who owns several restaurants, describes himself as an entrepreneur and venture capitalist who likes to own restaurants. Nazarian in contrast, is a flamboyant nightclub creator. He is responsible for creating chic clubs like Hyde Lounge and Area in L.A., as well as the recently opened Mi-6 in Hollywood. Nazarian’s company, SBE Entertainment Group (of which he is founder and CEO), took charge of Gladstone’s operations in July on a short-term management contract. Already, many changes have been made in the restaurant, including layoffs, a new chef, more seating, and updated menus. For example, the drink list is entirely new and the seafood selection has been upgraded. The outdoor seating now has umbrellas to offer shade to the diners, and Riordan said, “It’s amazing in less than two months what they have done.”

In this economic environment Riordan is pleased to have the assistance of Nazarian’s SBE. Hoping to make this a long-term relationship, the two are trying to hammer out a deal to continue working together. The current management contract expires in mid-October but can be extended until the end of January, which most likely will happen. “They have ideas that I wished I had thought of,” commented Riordan. The revenue has already started increasing and although the amount of the restaurant Nazarian might purchase is still unknown, the makeover seems to be filling Gladstone’s order.

Via LA Times

Cure in the Canyons III, the luxury-fest for breast cancer research, returns on Sunday, October 4, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village to raise funds for innovative medical and clinical breast cancer research. This luxe- fest, designed for both men and women, is set between sequoia trees and cascading waterfalls and provides an afternoon filled with the best of lifestyle, beauty, wellness, epicurean delights, and fashion.

Guests will experience more than $1,000 worth of extraordinary free treatments, samples, and gourmet delights as they stroll through 28 cabanas on six breathtaking acres. The Club Car, a luxurious men’s ultra lounge offers mini-spa treatments, Singha Premium Beer, hors d’oeuvres, Harley Davidson showings, and a luxury skin care line just for our gentlemen guests while they peruse three new 2010 Lexus luxury hybrids or take one out for a quick spin.

Five-star gourmet delights from New Zealand Natural Ice Cream, Hamptons, Onyx, Atmospheric Events, and Four Seasons Executive Chef Mario Alcocer add to the day’s epicurean experience with wine and spirit tastings provided by Korbel and Onehope Wine.

Cure in the Canyons honors breast cancer survivors and those undergoing treatment with a very special celebrity hosted tea party sponsored by Revolution Tea. Guests will also enjoy an over-the-top 100+ item silent auction featuring fighter-pilot training, Caribbean yacht charters for seven of your closest friends, sports memorabilia, and fabulous jewels.

Event celebrity co-chairs are TV personalities Shannon Tweed and daughter Sophie Tweed Simmons, stars of A&E’s Gene Simmons Family Jewels. Celebrity co-hosts include actors Thomas Calabro (Melrose Place), Jack Wagner (The Bold and The Beautiful), Tichina Arnold (Everybody Hates Chris), and Marcellus Wiley (ESPN), among many others.

Tickets are $60 and include a gift bag valued at more than $500 upon departure. The first 250 guests to arrive by carpool will also receive a special gift. Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village is located at 2 Dole Drive, Westlake Village. Tickets are on sale now and available at www.cureinthecanyons.com.

Avenue Le Rivage, Boca Raton, Florida. Le Rivage combines privacy and exclusivity in a tropical island setting hosting only 18 estates. This desirable address is just a short drive from Mizner Park’s world-class shops and restaurants, beautiful beaches, the acclaimed Boca Raton Resort & Club, and Boca Raton’s private executive airport.

Old World majesty conveys a magnificent presence in this one-of-a-kind lakefront estate overlooking the shimmering waters to a forested nature preserve. Exquisitely embellished, the keystone-clad villa is introduced by a fountained brick motor court approaching the impressive porte cochere and 8-bay garage. The gorgeous lakeside pool and spa grace a limestone terrace amid exotic palms and tropical gardens. Two summer kitchens serve outdoor entertaining.

This spectacular Boca Raton residence completed in 2009 totals 12,826+/- square feet with high ceilings, limestone/hardwood floors, 5 bedrooms, 6½ baths, 2 climate-controlled wine cellars, elevator, and roof-top observation deck. The main living level is elevated to maximize the breathtaking views. A dramatic cupolaed foyer with onyx-inlaid floor flows into the soaring octagonal salon and banquet-sized dining room with French doors to a limestone balcony. The gilded Deco-inspired theater is resplendent under a “starlight” ceiling. The epicurean’s kitchen highlights an immense granite-topped island, limestone counters, and double Sub-Zero refrigerators. Lake and forest vistas backdrop the family room where beautiful media/storage built-ins frame the elaborate hand carved fireplace. Enjoying a view-filled lakeside balcony, the grand master suite also features hardwood floors, triple tray ceilings, an onyx wet bar, and opulent bath aglow in polished onyx. Another bedroom suite completes this level. Opening by the pool area, the ground level hosts a paneled office, gym with spa-style bath, billiard room with wet bar, and 3 luxurious bedroom suites.

Offered @ $5,950,000

Contact Thomas Walsh @ 561.910.3565. Or visit www.premierestateproperties.com.

Salman Rushdie’s latest novel, The Enchantress of Florence, brings together Florentine Italy and Mughal India, and the cultures that lie between them, in a tale that has been described as a “sumptuous mixture of history and fable.”

On Tuesday, October 6, 2009, at 6:00 p.m., the Metropolitan Museum of Art Concerts & Lectures series will present a conversation with the author and three art historians—Carmen Bambach, curator of drawings and prints, and Navina Haidar Haykel, associate curator of Islamic art, both of the Museum; and David Roxburgh, Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal professor of Islamic art history at Harvard University—to explore major themes and visual imagery in his novel.

The Enchantress of Florence is the story of a great beauty believed to possess powers of enchantment and sorcery, her impossible journey to the far-off city of Florence, and her attempt to command her own destiny in a man’s world. It is also the story of two cities, unknown to each other, at the height of their powers.

Born in Bombay, India, Salman Rushdie is the author of ten novels. A Fellow of the British Royal Society of Literature and a member of the American Academy of Arts and Letters, he has received, among other awards, the Whitbread Prize for Best Novel (twice), the European Union’s Aristeion Prize for Literature, Author of the Year Prizes in both Britain and Germany, the Budapest Grand Prize for Literature, the Premio Grinzane Cavour in Italy, and the Austrian State Prize for European Literature, as well as the Freedom of the City in Mexico City, Strasbourg, and El Paso, and the Edgerton Prize of the American Civil Liberties Union. He holds the rank of Commandeur in the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, France’s highest artistic honor.

From 2004 to 2006 he served as president of PEN American Center, and continues to work as president of the PEN World Voices International Literary Festival, which he helped create. In June 2007, he was knighted for services to literature. His books have been translated into more than 40 languages.

Tickets to the event, priced at $25, are available by calling 212-570-3949, or may be purchased online at www.metmuseum.org/tickets.

Welcome to extraordinary Phoenix Ranch, a property named after the universal symbol of unsurpassed excellence and beauty. This spacious 10,000 sq. ft. home is clad in natural reds and golds found in its heirloom quality hand-carved stone, steel and native stone.

As you enter through the hand wrought iron gates you are introduced to 40 acres of artfully landscaped grounds capturing the best that Colorado living has to offer. This includes an approved equestrian center with irrigation pond and pump station that greens the property and produces tremendous yields for animals all season long. To compliment the agricultural operation is a freestanding stone barn inspired by New England Barn Architecture. The 5000 sq. ft. barn features the finest in materials including radiant floor heating and oversized drive-through custom doors. The tennis and basketball courts provide resort-grade recreation along with a refreshing custom commercial grade pool and water feature; all secluded in the privacy of hundreds of trees. Views are truly panoramic, with each room designed to present a breathtaking scene ranging from the rolling plains to the towering Rocky Mountains, including a framed view of the famous “14,000 Footer,” Longs Peak.

Like the mythical phoenix, the entire estate appears to have risen from the ground it hovers on, featuring abundant hand-cut Colorado “Buffstone” indigenous to the Rocky Mountains. Rugged steel frames the commercial grade structure that was built by award winning developer CrossWinds Estates, LLC. Oversized entry doors are hand crafted with patinaed copper, framed by Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired design elements. You are struck immediately upon entering the vaulted foyer by the exposed steel and Parallam beams throughout. Custom hand forged fixtures by Hubbardton Forge cast a warm glow on the Venetian plaster walls. The eye-catching square spiral staircase, built of stone, steel and recycled timber, floats without supports between three levels with zero deflection; an engineering feat not seen in residential environments. Warmth and color are provided through furniture-grade trim made of select alder wood and cabinet grade finishes.

Radiant floor heating throughout promises warmth and comfort for those who are only at home in bare feet. Sophisticated year-round climate control is provided with commercial grade heating and cooling, all controllable from a PC or the internet. During cool summer nights the architecture takes advantage of the magnificent Colorado climate, allowing entire wall systems to open to oversized stone patios to foster a seamless connection with the majestic Rocky Mountains. On the main patio you find a 25’ x 50’ dive pool with water feature and resort-grade 12-person built in hot tub, outdoor kitchen area complete with built in appliances and cabana setting with outdoor television and AV. This is another example of a home that emphasizes the natural luxury of the region, providing wonderful opportunities for evening entertainment and refreshing summer breezes.

Phoenix Ranch has two master suites, one on the main level and another “mini” master on the upper level. The luxurious master bath includes oversized steam showers and body sprays reminiscent of a fine spa, complimented by a heated whirlpool tub and fireplace, copper sinks, custom tile throughout, and 8″ Caesar Stone counter tops. Upstairs, the “mini” master suite also has bird’s eye views of the Rocky Mountains, fireplace and easy accessibility to the guest and children’s bedrooms. Each bedroom offers privacy and modern comfort for family and guests alike. On the main level, custom-built barn door tracks open silently into the hand-hewn walnut study.

You will be enchanted by the chef’s kitchen with countless commercial features integrated into its warm atmosphere, including abundant counters, recessed steamer, Wolf ovens, dual 36″ Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer, one-touch espresso machine, walk-in pantry, butler’s pantry and spacious bar and table seating with sweeping Rocky Mountain views. A separate dining area offers a more elegant environment for special occasions and larger gatherings. The great room opens to the kitchen, featuring a 2-story stone and steel fireplace, giant flat screen entertainment center with home theater sound, and unobstructed views of the Rockies.

The downstairs in-law suite offers an unsurpassed experience for guests, complete with all the comforts of home for independent living. A temperature-controlled wine room is crafted of Brazilian Mahogany and patina tile. The exercise room sports rubber flooring and commercial grade equipment looking out on the famous Flatirons. A martini bar blends personality with functionality; bold red countertops, barn door cabinets, and fully equipped bar with appliances make parties effortless. Each room in Phoenix Ranch offers a fully functioning entertainment center for sound, security and wireless internet. The dedicated home theater is an oasis for audio/visual fans. You will be guaranteed a truly regal entertainment experience with plush leather seating for eight and superb sound insulation. From conception to completion, Phoenix Ranch offers the utmost in quality living inside and out.

Looking to the future, the property offers many opportunities while maintaining an agricultural designation. This could include Polo fields, horse paddocks, or crops supported by extensive irrigation and water rights. Phoenix Ranch has no conservation easements attached – a rarity in Boulder County – which allows you to enjoy your land without pre-defined limits. In addition, a stable up to 5000 sq ft has been approved by Boulder County. Possibilities are endless. Phoenix Ranch masterfully combines grace and stout magnificence in a modern estate that makes dreams a reality.

Offered @ $6,495,000

Contact Scott Franklund @ 303.440.4999 or Scott@LegendaryProperty.com. Or visit www.LegendaryProperty.com