In our weekly series, we bring you the latest in luxury news around the world. This week’s highlights: The Inn of The Five Graces adds five new experiences, Ardbeg commemorates historic moments, and Byredo makes shiny new things
Sunreef 88 Ultima catamaran made for Tim Ciasulli
No better match for a renowned speed champion and former powerboat champion with four world speed records than a stunning Sunreef Yachts creation. Part of the hi-tech Ultima range, the 26.8-metre catamaran combines monohull dynamics with multihull living, boasting advanced design for enhanced performance and energy efficiency. Equipped with Sunreef’s award-winning solar power system and hybrid propulsion, the yacht prioritises green power. The luxurious interior features a full-beam master stateroom, sustainable materials, and a focus on natural lighting.
Heatherwick Studio’s Azabudai Hills opens
Tokyo’s latest city-in-a-city development by Mori Building is a culmination of a 30-year regeneration process. Designed by Heatherwick Studio, the public realm and lower podium level architecture feature shops, restaurants, a hotel, galleries, a medical center, and the studio’s first school. Green spaces are incorporated with walkable facades, an informal amphitheater, and water scapes. The district spans eight hectares and includes skyscrapers of residential and commercial alike. The grid-like structure, made of glass-reinforced concrete, creates a human-scale environment with organic dynamism.
Five Graces Private Experiences welcomes guests
Santa Fe’s boutique Relais & Chateaux resort introduces five exclusive experiences in collaboration with Heritage Inspirations for bespoke adventures. Experiences include Puebloan Horno Baking in Ohkay Owingeh, an immersive day with a local family; The Abiquiu Artists Landscape, exploring O’Keeffe country and artist studios; Culinary River Adventure, combining a thrilling river ride with a gourmet picnic; The High Road to Taos Pueblo, a tour of history and landscapes; and Into The Heart of Bandelier, unveiling ancient cliff dwellings and rich history in Bandelier National Monument.
Ardbeg releases The Rollercoaster
Two historic whiskies from pivotal moments in the Islay single malt’s past share the spotlight here. Distilled in 1981 during Ardbeg’s closure and in 1989 during its hopeful revival, these rare cask single malts capture the Distillery’s lows and highs. The 42-year-old 1981 bottling is lightly peated, showcasing a rare ‘Kildalton-style’ Ardbeg. The 33-year-old 1989 bottling, distilled weeks after the Distillery’s reopening, offers subtle smokiness. Encased in a solid Scottish oak box, only 143 sets are available worldwide through Moët Hennessy Private Client channel.
Byredo launches fine jewellery
The brand’s permanent fine jewellery line expands on its diverse offerings. The Virasaat collection takes influences from founder Ben Gorham’s background; echoing familial connections, memories, and the cultural essence of Hip-Hop. The central motifs, rounded pearl forms interlocked with industrial bars, create a repetitive pattern showcased in necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings crafted in Italy from silver and gold. Designed for enduring totemic objects passed down through generations, the collection will be globally available from 25 January 2024.
HighHouse makes its debut
OUE Restaurants latest establishment comes as a nightlife and culinary destination spanning Levels 61 and 62 of One Raffles Place in Singapore. With over 929 square metres, it offers unparalleled views of the Singapore skyline, creating an ideal setting for exceptional culinary experiences, cocktails, and a progressive soundscape. HighHouse features a grand main bar, private entertainment room, ageing room, and a champagne room with a digital screen showcasing immersive artworks. Led by general manager Wayne Lee, the venue offers diverse music genres, including House, Techno, and Disco, and a Pacific Coast-inspired menu developed by Executive Chef Sam Chin from 15 December 2023.
In case you missed it:
Fans of luxury independent watches should head to Kuala Lumpur now
SHH, the retail arm of Sincere Fine Watches that stocks highly curated independent marques, just opened a 465-square-metre boutique in Malaysia.
The Lotus Emeya GT is set to be one of the fastest electric grand tourers in the world
The Lotus Emeya GT hopes to be 2024’s rival to the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT.
Alberto Vollmer, president and CEO of Ron Santa Teresa, unpacks the intricacies of Venezuelan rum
In One For The Road, we speak with the best bartenders and spirit guides to get to know them better. Alberto Vollmer, fifth-generation president and CEO of Venezuela’s oldest rum brand Santa Teresa, shares the finer points on Venezuelan rum.
