Argentina is quickly becoming one of the world’s most popular and is a top destination for wine lovers and with good reason. More commonly known for its dominating Malbec varieties, Argentina also has a vast array of superb Cabernet Sauvignons, Pinot Noirs, and unique Torrentés.

Below are just a few of the reasons why the South American country of Argentina is the ultimate destination for wine lovers. Enjoy a true VIP experience and sample some great tasting wines.

Breathtaking Elevations Make For Exceptional Wines

Argentina is home to the the world’s highest commercial vineyard, at an astounding 9,800 ft above sea level. Most of the country’s vineyards are located at roughly 5,000 ft above sea level. The grapes grown at those high altitudes create wines with sumptuous flavors, and intense colors.

Wines That Won’t Break The Bank

Some of the world’s best Malbecs come from Argentina. Many of the country’s celebrated Malbecs, and other types of wine can be purchased for just $13-$20 per bottle.

Innovative Methods, Innovative Wines

Argentine winemakers are aware of the country’s supremely vast landscape and micro-climates that allow for a wide range of varieties.

Wineries are working with weather stations to better understand their micro-regions in order to grow the best grape for a particular area’s soil and climate. By using grapes from varying elevations, some families are creating rich, and complex wines that are pleasantly rediscovered with each sip.

World’s Best Malbecs

Argentina is arguably home to the some world’s best Malbecs. In fact, in the 2016 Malbec Master Series, Argentine Malbecs took home 70% of the awards given. Because Malbecs are a fickle bunch, they tend to thrive better in the Argentine climate, and make for pure and lush black-fruit batches.

Tantalizing Torrentés

Argentina’s Torrentés variety is unique to the country, and makes for many light and aromatic blends. Torrentés are the perfect summer sipper, with smooth floral notes that are light on the tongue and tropical. Argentine Torrentés are unlike anything you’ve had before.

Dependable Bonarda

Once the wine staple of Argentina, the medium-bodied Bonarda variety is a welcome red at any dinner table. A solid choice, it offers many fruit notes, including dark cherry, plum, and even strawberry. If oaky flavor isn’t your favorite, then the Bonarda is the red for you as many see little to no oak.

Picturesque Patagonia

Not only do Patagonia’s frosty creeks and piney timberland make for spectacular views, the vineyards near them make rich and complex Pinot Noirs.

Winds that gust year-round produce thicker grapes with higher levels of acids and tannins. The cooler climate of the area also allows for many international white grape varieties to thrive, such as Riesling and Semillon.

For more information why Argentina is the ultimate destination for wine lovers, check out the below infographic by Tango Tours, an Argentina wine tour company.

Make your plans now to visit Argentina in South America. It’s definitely a top destination for wine lovers. Return again soon to follow this luxury blog and read more wine industry articles.

Herringbone is a popular ocean-to-table restaurant concept. Tropical Hawaii will become the latest destination for a trendy Herringbone restaurant.

Hakkasan Group is a respected, global hospitality company. This international brand has opened establishments in United States, Europe, Asia, plus the Middle East. The very first Herringbone restaurant opened in La Jolla, California near San Diego. There is much anticipation as the Herringbone Waikiki nears it grand opening.

The new Herringbone restaurant in Hawaii is scheduled to open later this spring. It is being designed by Ocio Design Group. They are utilizing elements from both the La Jolla and Santa Barbara restaurants. What is exciting is the inclusion of a fresh, indoor-outdoor design that will represent the tropical feel of Hawaii.

The restaurant’s ocean-to-table concept is being created by Chef Brian Malarkey. The result is spectacular. The interior design creates a coastal restaurant vibe. The building was a brick warehouse but cleverly utilizes its bow truss ceiling. Hanging down are a series of upside down boats and canoes. But not just for show, they have been morphed into light fixtures. The fixtures use vintage Edison bulbs and are surrounded by olive trees that are imported.

The goal of this new ocean-to-table concept restaurant is to source line-caught fish, in addition to the freshest products. Coming from the ocean, ranch and field, all menu ingredients will be obtained within only 350 yards from the Pacific Ocean. Now that’s fresh!

The Herringbone Waikiki restaurant will provide wonderful views. It can be found on the open-air, third-level of the Grand Lanai of International Market Place in Waikiki on the island of Oahu. Enjoy the incredible hanging gardens that will surround the expansive, 2,000-square-foot lanai. The wood and flora “walls” are made from weathered wooden boxes. Each include fragrant herbs, that literally hang from the ceiling at different heights.

The dining atmosphere will be spectacular. The majority of the seating will be on the lanai. The Herringbone Waikiki ambiance will definitely be relaxed. Enjoy your fine dining experience with leather wing back chairs plus teal-colored metal chairs. The chair cushions pair perfectly with the tables. They are made from blackened steel and zinc, weathered oak, butcher block, as well as white-washed teak. As a result, the feeling while you dine at the Herringbone restaurant seems un-rushed.

Plan a visit to Hawaii and be sure to dine at the new Herringbone restaurant on Oahu. Vacation in luxury on the islands of Hawaii. Be sure to come back again and follow this luxury blog for more luxury travel stories.

Photo: Herringbone Waikiki

Super Bowl Sunday is this weekend. The Big Game draws millions of people all around the world to watch on TV. Many are hosting huge Super Bowl parties and scrambling to figure out what they are going to serve to all the hungry party guests.

Destination Hotels has come up with several delicious Super Bowl recipes that will be a huge hit. The luxury travel brand owns the largest collection of distinctive, independent properties in all of North America.

Super Bowl 51 will be battle of to exciting teams – the Atlanta Falcons and New England Patriots. The Falcons are lead by likely MVP Matt Ryan and the Patriots leader is quarterback legend Tom Brady. It should be a competitive game with two high powered offenses going at at.

Four top luxury properties from Destination Hotels are offering their Super Bowl recipes. They include – Stowe Mountain Lodge, Cliff House Maine, Paradise Point and Motif Seattle. You and your guests will love these great tasting, food recipes.

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Stowe Mountain Lodge
– A Destination Hotel found in scenic Stowe, Vermont. The Solstice restaurant at Stowe Mountain Lodge offers an unexpected twist on classic rural comfort food.
Hong Kong Wings

Ingredients:
2 pound chicken wings
¼ C Soy Sauce
¼ C Brown Sugar
2 TBS Sambal
2 TBS Fresh Ginger
1/3 Cup Coconut Milk
1TEASP BLK Pepper
Salt to taste
1 TBS Cornstarch
Sesame seeds

Steps:
– Place everything BUT sesame seeds in a covered pot on LOW and cook for 2.5 Hours
– Remove and place on a cookie sheet. Place in an oven and cook under HIGH broiler till charred
– Finish with sesame seeds

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Cliff House Maine
– From the gorgeous shores of Cape Neddick, Maine, Nubb’s Lobster Shack at Cliff House Maine offers a classic New England favorite with a fresh take.

Lobster Hush Puppies

Ingredients:
8 Cups Cornmeal
8 Cups Flour
1 Cup minced thyme
2 Tbsp + 2 tsp Baking Powder
4 Tbsp Salt
3 Tbsp old bay
2 Tbsp + 2 tsp garlic powder
1 Tbsp + 1 tsp baking soda
16 eggs, lightly beaten
4 Cups buttermilk
4 Cups sour cream
4 Cups green onion, finely sliced
2 Cups red bell peppers, small diced
2 Cups shishito peppers, small diced
Lobster meat, small chop

Steps:
– Combine all dry ingredients together in a large bowl
– Combine all wet ingredients together in a separate bowl
– Fold wet ingredients into dry, then add in scallion and peppers. 0
– Mix lobster meat into small batches of batter.

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Paradise Point Resort and Spa
– Offered fresh from sunny San Diego, California, Paradise Point’s Barefoot Bar and Grill presents a West Coast classic that’s sure to please the crowd.

Pig Out Burger

Steps:
1. Season a burger patty with salt & pepper and place on hot flat top grill.
2. Simultaneously, toast a brioche bun on the flat top.
3. Place a piece of pork belly on the flat top and grill until nice and crispy on both sides.
4. Cook the burger to the desired temperature and put the pork belly on top of the burger, and cheese on top of the pork belly.
5. Make the sandwich: bottom bun + bbq sauce + sautéed mushrooms + burger patty + pork belly + crispy onions + bbq sauce + top bun
6. Serve with desired side!

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Motif Seattle
– Located in the epicenter of Seattle’s thriving art, fashion and music scene, Motif Seattle’s Frolik restaurant offers an inventive take on some American classics.

Tater Tot-tine
– Crispy tater tots topped with a rich mushroom gravy, crispy bacon and beechers cheddar cheese curds.

Ingredients:
1lbs of your favorite tater tots
6oz of your favorite cheese curds- new use Beechers – sliced
6oz mushroom gravy- recipe follows
2oz cooked crispy bacon bits

Steps:
– Deep fry the tots- they could be baked as well
– Drain but keep piping hot
– Add them to a bowl along with the sliced cheese curds and allow them to sit for about 2 minutes to soften the curds
– Pour the mixture into a serving bowl
– Pour the gravy over the top and garnish with the chopped bacon

Enjoy Super Bowl LI and we hope you find the above Super Bowl recipes as good as we do. Let us know what you think.

Try these incredible Super Bowl recipes. Come back soon to read more food and culinary stories on our popular luxury blog.

During a recent stay in the beautiful Napa Valley, I had the opportunity to visit Domaine Carneros and take the “Art of Sparkling Wine“ winery tour.

As you head west on the Carneros Highway (Hwy 12/121) to Sonoma, you’ll notice the iconic Chateau-style winery up on the hill. Take a left on Duhig Road and turn right into the parking lot. It’s a well known, local landmark and a very popular winery to visit.

Domaine Carneros was originally founded by Champagne Taittinger, which is the stately Champagne house of France. During the late 1970’s, Claude Taittinger search the United States for a place to produce wines locally. He purchased a rolling, 138-acre parcel located in the heart of Carneros, Napa Valley. The classic 18th century château-style building that resides onsite today was finished in 1989. The inspiration for this gorgeous building was the historic Château de la Marquetterie in Champagne, France.

The Carneros region is famous for both its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. These two varietals are essential for the best tasting, premium sparkling wines. A varietal wine is primarily made using a single variety of grape.

It was recommended by a colleague to take the wine tour. The Art of Sparkling Wine tour provides an intriguing, educational experience. It’s a terrific way to learn how sparkling wine is made. Of course, the highlight for most is to actually taste several of the sparkling wines, as well as Pinot Noirs.

The Art of Sparkling Wine tour is offered three times a day. The tour times include 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. The price is only $30 per person, plus local sales tax. The tour usually runs between 1 and 1-1/2 hours.

To start, our group of 12 people met in the a tasting room. We were all looking forward to a great VIP experience. After an intro of the winery’s history from our guide Michelle, we all tried a glass of 2011 Estate Brut Sparkling Wine. It had a crisp, yet light taste and was delicious. The sparkling wine is made using 2/3 Pinot Noir grapes and 1/3 Chardonnay. Brut is the wine industry’s common name for “dry”. Extra Brut is counter-intuitive and actually means more sweet.

We learned that Domaine Carneros uses two stage fermintation process. The first is in the large wine tanks and the second, in the wine bottle itself. The combination of sugar and yeast causes CO2, which makes the famous bubbles in sparkling wine as well as champagne. Our guide explained the term “nose” of a wine. It actually means the aroma or bouquet. The nose actually is the key method we perceive the wine’s flavor in our own mouth.

The Art of Sparkling Wine tour includes watching a 10-minute video. Then we got to walk along an observation area to see the large wine tanks and the winery’s bottling operations from above.

Depending on the time of the year and weather in the Napa Valley, the tour may include a walk to the nearby vineyards. Take in the amazing lake and vineyard views from your terrace table. After our walking tour, we ended in a tasting room and sat down to taste additional sparkling and still wines. We were served a plate of local artisanal cheeses, crackers and raisins to pair with our wines.

We tried a 2008 Prestige Cuvee which was decadent. It’s a heartier food wine with a full taste. Next was a 2012 Brut Rose that we were told is ideal with salmon. Next was a 2013 Avant-Garde red wine, which was rather light. What followed, was a heavier red wine – 2013 Pinot Noir Estate.

We all enjoyed the casual atmosphere of the tasting area and the opportunity to try many, great tasting wines from Domaine Carneros.

It was interesting to learn about the micro-climate regions of both Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley. The Carneros region is perfect for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. The result is a world-class, California sparkling wine.

Once the wine tour is over, you can take your time wandering around the massive property that covers about 4,800 square feet of space. Enjoy strolling around the winery and view the grand staircase, formal gardens and fountain. It’s such a peaceful setting in the middle of this world famous wine region.

Domaine Carneros was a wonderful stop during our day of sightseeing and wine tasting. The winery is located in an incredible and beautiful setting among the vineyard covered hills. The staff was top notch and provided VIP style hospitality. I look forward to returning once again.

Domaine Carneros
1240 Duhig Road, Napa, CA 94559
(707) 257-0101 or (800) 716-2788

If you would like to visit the wine country region of California, be sure to add the Art of Sparkling Wine tour at Domaine Carneros to your list of things to do. We can help plan your perfect Napa Valley or Sonoma Valley getaway. Read our luxury blog to learn about more luxury travel ideas and must-see places to visit.

Photos: The Life of Luxury

Tonight, people around the world will be enjoying the official kick-off of the red carpet award season. The Golden Globes will be held tonight, January 8th, 2017 at the Beverly Hilton hotel in California. Toast to the Golden Globes with a Coffeetail No. 51 cocktail made with LAVAZZA coffee.

This year’s 74th Golden Globe Awards event will be hosted by comedian and late-night TV talk show host Jimmy Fallon. Lavazza is the official coffee sponsor of the 74th Golden Globes awards and will be served both before and all during the famous awards ceremony.

If you are hosting your own Golden Globes party, be sure to include Coffeetail No. 51 cocktail, made with LAVAZZA coffee. There is a popular coffee-cocktail trend underway, so be trendy yourself and ride the wave!

The Coffeetail No. 51 is made with cold brew LAVAZZA coffee, vodka, Gran Marnier, plus ginger ale. Sounds so delicious right?

Enjoy your own coffee-cocktail along with all the famous Hollywood celebrities at the red carpet award show. The Coffeetail is the perfect DIY cocktail for your Golden Globes viewing party or just watching the show at home. With the cold of winter gripping our lives, warm up with this delicious coffee-cocktail.

Here is the drink recipe for the LAVAZZA Coffeetail No. 51

Ingredients:
· 3 parts ginger ale
· 2 parts cold brew coffee concentrate
· 2/3 part vodka
· Splash of Grand Marnier
· Splash of simple syrup
· Sliced lemon, orange and cucumber
· Fresh mint
· Maraschino cherries

Method:
– Fill a 12 oz. glass with ice.
– In a shaker, combine cold brew, Grand Marnier, vodka and syrup; pour over the ice.
– Top with ginger ale.
– Decorate with wheel or slices of orange and/or a lemon.
– Skewer cherries and cucumber wedge. Garnish with mint.

We hope you enjoy the LAVAZZA Coffeetail No. 51 and share with us how your Golden Globes party went!

Come back soon to follow our luxury blog. We offer a variety of VIP event planning services can offer VIP experiences to many red carpet award shows. Drink up with LAVAZZA Coffeetail No. 51

Photo: LAVAZZA

Almost everybody loves chocolate. As a result, when going on a vacation or business trip, chocolate connoisseurs search out the best chocolate. It makes a perfect gift or to be consumed when you return home. A visit to the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany is a must.

The Chocolate Museum (Schokoladen Museum) was first opened in 1993. It is a popular place to visit in Köln or Cologn, Germany. The museum sits on the banks of the iconic Rhine River, near the stunning Cologne Cathedral. The museum looks like a might, metal and glass ship. Inside is a treasure to many – lots of delicious chocolate!

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne consists of nine different exhibition areas. It covers about 4,000 square meters in size. Visitors will gain an appreciation of chocolate production as well as learn the long history of cocoa. From the days of the Olmecs, Mayas and Aztecs to modern times, it’s a wonderful journey.

Be sure to check out the tropicarium. It’s a large glass house where you can view live cacao trees. This visual helps many people better understand where the cocoa bean and where chocolate starts from. See various chocolate molds and machines that can make chocolate bars.

There are numerous, guided tours available for adults, children, school classes, as well as persons with disabilities. For example, there are 5 different adult tours to choose from:
– From the Cocoa to the Chocolate
– 100% Chocolate – guided tour with tasting
– Brown Gold – a sweet temptation
– Temptation to Pleasure
– Cocoa – Global good, stored locally! Sustainable cultivation and fair trade

Back in In 2006, the popular Lindt chocolate company became a partner at the Chocolate Museum. When you walk around, you’ll notice the majority of chocolates on display and sold is from Lindt.

First of all, the top attraction for almost everybody who visits, is the chocolate fountain. The chocolate fountain is 3 meters high and a stunning, visual sight. The fountain can hold up to 200 kilos of beautiful, liquid chocolate. It’s warm and looks mouth watering. Museum employees actually dip waffle cookie (wafer) into the fountain to hand out to many anxious people. Therefore as you can imagine, it puts a smile on many faces.

The Chocolate Museum in Cologne is open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 – 18:00 hours plus Saturday, Sunday and German bank holidays from 11:00 – 19:00 hours.

If you are considering a trip to Germany, be sure to visit the Chocolate Museum in Cologne. The Life of Luxury can assist planning and booking your luxury vacation. Come back soon to read our blog for more, sightseeing hot spots.

Photo: Chocolate Museum

Italy has long been a popular choice for travelers. The European country is rich in both history and culture. We wanted to share 4 amazing culinary experiences in Italy. Don’t settle for seeing only the sights that hordes of tourists flock to. Immerse yourself in the best Italy has to offer.

Fuoritinerario – Discover Your Italy is a well respected, travel company that is located in Perugia, Italy. They take pride in creating authentic excursions and the chance to see the true “Italian’s Italy.” Fuoritinerario is now offering 4 amazing culinary experiences that will delight your culinary desires. These exclusive travel packages offer a unique way to enjoy wonderful Italian food, plus take part in cooking classes.

For a once in a lifetime treat, these new culinary travel packages provide the opportunity to explore the canals of Venice, enjoy open air-dining in the streets of Siena and see the historic palazzos by the sea in Sicily. It’s a cultural experience you don’t want to miss.

Sicilian Cooking Traditions Revealed in a 19th Century Sicilian Kitchen (Catania photo above)
The sea meets the mountains in Catania’s authentic recipes featuring an incredible variety of dishes and flavors that spring from the cultural melting pot that is Sicilian fare. Guests who seek to learn more about Sicily’s culinary fusion can embark on a gastronomical adventure beginning with a guided tour of Pescheria (the traditional fish market). After purchasing local ingredients, head to a stunning 19th century kitchen of the Catania Historical Society for a cooking class where traditional dishes, such as spaghetti rolls alla Norma, pasta with squid ink and ricotta cheese or with anchovies and wild fennel, fish meatballs (whitebait), caponata, cannolo or the so-called “St. Agatha’s breasts” will be prepared and savored.

Dine in the Streets of Siena During the Palio with a Contrada
Twice a year, the 17 districts or contrade of Siena compete against each other in the world-renown race, the Palio di Siena. On the next race day s – August 16, guests will enjoy the thrilling atmosphere of the Palio Horse Race in Siena and dine with one of the district teams in the afternoon. Belissimo! Prior to the race, guests will assist with the medieval parade that showcases all the teams in their colorful dress and, of course, the beautiful horses. Later, after guests catch their breath from watching the legendary horse-race, they will join one of the contradas for their open air dinner – hopefully it is the winning district!

Live Like a Royal: Attend a Gala at a Venetian Palace
For one night in Venice, guests will live the life of a noble Venetian aristocrat as they are whisked away aboard a private water taxi to a gala dinner set in a palace overlooking the Grand Canal. It will be an evening of total sensory experiences while guests linger over cocktails and dinner in this extremely unique historic mansion that has welcomed a legendary A-List from today’s Hollywood set to the Doges of Venice and Italian Nobility.

Cooking by the Sea in Sicily with The Duchess
This is not a simple cooking lesson in an 18th century palazzo by the sea. It’s a fascinating journey through Sicilian culture and food. Rise early, meet ‘The Duchess’ and follow her through a colorful local market to buy the seasons freshest ingredients. Throughout her tour, The Dutchess will share hidden treasures of Palermo, one of the most intriguing cities of the Mediterranean. In the spacious and historic kitchen at her palazzo, guests will learn to cook a whole Sicilian menu under The Duchess’ guidance. After lunch in the elegant dining room, enjoy a tour of the lush terrace and the beautifully restored palazzo, the last home of Prince Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa, author of the world-famous novel The Leopard.

Has Italy been on your Bucket List as a lifetime dream destination? Then consider making plans and booking one of these incredible travel itineraries. Visit this fascinating country and see some of the most amazing historical landmarks in the world.

Contact The Life of Luxury if interested in booking one of the above, amazing culinary experiences in Italy. Our travel specialists can help plan your next luxury vacation, anywhere in the world. Stop by soon and follow this lxuury blog. Keep up on the latest travel trends and news.

Photo: Fuoritinerario – Discover Your Italy

The affluent continually look to push the boundary of luxury living. It’s not just about keeping up with the Joneses, but beating them. Now you can enjoy an incredible opulent event and partake in the world’s most expensive dining experience for a jaw-dropping $2,000,000!

The WORLD OF DIAMONDS Group is Russian conglomerate and one of the largest privately held diamond mining corporations. They have been involved with some of finest diamonds and jewelry pieces sold around the world. In addition, WORLD OF DIAMONDS Group introduced The Royalé Dream. It was the world’s most expensive perfume collection and was sold last year in Singapore.

Now in 2016, Singapore again is the place where a new record will be broken. Two people can be part of world’s most expensive dining experience for $2,000,000. WORLD OF DIAMONDS Group collaborated with CÉ LA VI Singapore. This ultimate fine dining restaurant is owned by L Capital Asia. The Asian private equity business is actually part of the Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy (LVMH) Group. This VIP experience is actually much more than simply a romantic dinner for two.

The luxury package also includes an exhilarating helicopter ride, the ambiance of 10,000 roses adorning the private venue, plus a delicious, 18-course degustation dinner menu. But that’s not all! You’ll be treated to pairings of 44 and 55-year old vintage wines, plus eat with diamond-encrusted chopsticks. While dining, relax in custom-made designer furniture. As you are served your decadent dessert, be presented with a gorgeous 2.08 carat celebrity Blue Diamond ring. The night to remember ends with a fantastic fireworks display.

The exclusive culinary experience for two is a dream come true. The world’s most expensive dining experience takes place at CÉ LA VI Singapore. The high-end restaurant is located on the 57th floor of the luxurious Marina Bay Sands Hotel in Singapore. The Director of the WOD Group is Mr. Karan Tilani, He was quoted, “CÉ LA VI is a diamond in the sky. This could be the ultimate proposal, an exceptional occasion, or simply a celebration of life.”

No details have been overlooked and this 8-hour retreat is opulent from beginning to end. You’ll commence your journey with a scenic 45 minute helicopter ride. Take in the beauty of Singapore from the air. Once you land, you will be whisked away VIP style, in a chauffeured Rolls-Royce. Next get on board a luxury yacht for an amazing private cruise. Take in the coastal sites before arriving at CÉ LA VI.

As you step out of the hotel’s elevator, you become immersed in literally a sea of 10,000 fresh roses. Gaze out the large windows of the restaurant for stunning 360 degree views of Singapore. As the sun sets, your anticipation continues to build. It’s time to begin your 18-course Modern Asian meal. The degustation menu was carefully created. Each culinary item will delight your taste buds as you dine in ultimate privacy.

We want to share your mouth watering menu. We’ve also listed each of the 44 and 55 year-old vintage wines that will be paired with your delicious meal.

* New Zealand Langoustine with Black Sesame Cornet – Avocado, pearl onion crème fraiche
* Fresh Belon Oyster – Champagne foam, ikura
* Almas Caviar – Blinis, egg yolk, white
* Blue Fin Otoro Sashimi – Sekai ichi apple salad
* Jamon Iberico – Yubari melon
(Paired with – Salon ‘S’ 1988 from Champagne, France)

* Gewürztraminer-Poached Foie Gras- Oven dried figs, gewürztraminer rudy roman grapes
*Veal Liver – Raspberry vinegar
* Lamb Sweetbread – Braised endive, morel mushroom sauce
(Paired with – Domaine Leflaive, Chevalier Montrachet 2008 from Cote de Beaune, France)

Bresse Poulet Consommé- Scallion, radish salad
Line-Caught Striped Seabass- Artichoke barigoule, soy dekopon orange glazed
Air-Flown Alaska Wild Salmon – Braised rhubard
Verjus Sorbet – Poached peached
(Paired with – Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, Romanee St. Vivant 1996 from Cote de Nuits, France)

* Slow Cooked Pigeon – La bonnotte potatoes, red wine sauce
* Glenvale Pork Loin – Northern territory mango
* Pan-Roasted Graham Morrison Lamb Tenderloin – Cassoulet bean, sage sauce
* Apple-Wood Grilled Mishima Sirloin – Golden chanterelles, pommes anna, bordelaise sauce
(Paired with – Haut Brion 1961 from Pessac-Leognan, France

* Whipped Brie De Meaux – Aged balsamic glazed, baby mache
* Decadence of Valrhona 70% Dark Chocolate Croquembouche – Saffron, Iran pistachio, tahitian vanilla white chocolate ganache
(Paired with – Oremus, Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos 1972 from Tokaji, Hungary)

The dinner guests will enjoy their lavish meal using diamond-studded chopsticks. Each pair are actually customized and engraved with their respective names. Dining in ultimate comfort, enjoy your culinary voyage while seated in custom-made designer furniture. Both luxury, grand armchairs were fabricated by The Plush.

How can you top this over-the-top candle-lit affair? As your dessert is being served, you will be presented with The Jane Seymour ring. This rare 2.08 carat Fancy Vivid Blue diamond ring was actually presented and worn by British actress Jane Seymour in April. The event also took place at CÉ LA VI Singapore. The Blue Diamond ring is absolutely stunning and has a mesmerizing blue hue. We provided a recent review of the The Jane Seymour ring. Please read it here at –
Sensational Blue Diamond Ring – “The Jane Seymour”

As your world’s most expensive dining experience nears its climatic end, there’s another surprise in store. When the clock strikes midnight, a spectacular fireworks display begins. The sky lights up, capping the , enjoy the smooth taste of Louis XIII de Rémy Martin cognac.

Mr. David Sarner is the CEO of CÉ LA VI Singapore and stated, “At CÉ LA VI, we live to create unique experiences that stimulate the senses, elevate the spirit, amplify passion and fuel the pursuit of pleasure. This ($2,000,000 dining experience) done conjointly with our esteemed partner, WORLD OF DIAMONDS Group, is the zenith of all experiences.”

One last note, simply having $2,000,000 is not enough. If you are interested in the world’s most expensive dining experience, only “qualified individuals” will be approved. This unknown criteria will at the discretion of both WORLD OF DIAMONDS Group and CÉ LA VI.

The Life of Luxury wants to make dreams come true. Our luxury concierge specialists can put together incredible VIP experiences for any occasion. For example – a honeymoon, anniversary, birthday and more! The sky’s the limit. Let your imagine go wild and let us make it happen.

If you would like to be part of the $2,000,000 world’s most expensive dining experience, please contact us immediaitaly. Come back again soon to follow our popular luxury blog. We enjoy sharing the best in luxury living.

Photo: CÉ LA VI Singapore / 2011 Rory Daniel

The world’s biggest wine festival is held each year in Bad Dürkheim, Germany. Held during the second and third weekend of September, Wurstmarkt hits an important milestone year. 2016 will mark the 600 year occurrence of this popular wine festival. The very first German wine festival was held way back in the year 1417.

Wine making is big business in Germany. The European country has thirteen different wine growing regions. The regions produce incredible wines ranging from crisp Riesling wines to a floral Pinot Noir.

What is interesting is that the wine festival’s name – Wurstmarkt – translates to sausage market. Most people don’t associate wine and sausage together. The town of Bad Dürkheim is located in the premier wine-growing state, Rhineland Palatinate. The legend of how Wurstmarkt got its name is due to the large amounts of sausage that was eaten during the early years of the wine festival. Now it’s the World’s Biggest Wine Festival and people attend from all around the world.

It is expected that greater than 600,000 people will attend this year’s wine festival in Germany. Be sure to check out the Giant Cask, named Dürkheimer Riesenfass. It’s known as the biggest wine barrel in the world. Surprisingly, it even includes a restaurant inside.

Wine connoisseurs can try about 300 award-winning wines and sparkling wines. In addition to the many food and drink stands, plan on enjoying the various fairground carnival rides. There will also be music concerts and spectacular fireworks displays. This is an amazing cultural experience that should not be missed, especially for wine lovers.

This year’s Wurstmarkt wine festival will be held on the consecutive weekends of September 9 to 13 and 16 to 19.

Be sure to attend Wurstmarkt in Germany at the World’s Biggest Wine Festival. Contact The Life of Luxury today for help booking your luxury travel itinerary. Come back again to follow our luxury blog and read about other popular events from around the world.

It’s already been a busy year for The Meritage Resort & Spa. They have hosted numerous dinners to date, partnering with Joseph Phelps Vineyards, HALL Wines/St. Helena and Caymus Vineyards and Conundrum, which are part of Wagner Family of Wine. The luxury Napa report has announced their 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series schedule.

Wine and foodie lovers will really enjoy the 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series. Most of all, it’s a unique way to participate in a fine dining experience along with some of the best wines in the Napa / Sonoma area. The upcoming dinners will include: Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Silver Oak, Opus One and the iconic Robert Mondavi Winery.

Frederic Najem is The Meritage Resort director of food and beverage and was quoted, “These dinners are an opportunity for top Napa Valley wineries to showcase their wines in a unique way in their own backyards,” said . “Wineries often have these types of dinners at restaurants throughout the country and overseas, but rarely in the Napa Valley or Northern California. This is their opportunity to work directly with our culinary team to create a menu that pairs perfectly with their wines from the first sip to the last bite.”

The Meritage Resort & Spa is a spectacular, Mediterranean style property that offers its guests luxury accommodations. While located beside a hillside vineyard, this four-diamond resort provides endless luxury amenities. It is the perfect place to stay and discover all that Napa Valley has to offer. Furthermore, you can read a recent review we did on the luxury resort titled – The Meritage Resort and Spa – True Napa Valley Luxury

The 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series has been developed to provide dinner guests a VIP experience. You can enjoy fine dining at Estate Cave restaurant, along with sipping delicious tasting wines. Many of these wines are often not made available to the public. Dinner guests are now in for a special treat. In addition, you will have the unique opportunity to talk to wine owners, their winemakers and other representatives.

The intimate setting of each winemaker dinner is a special event in itself. First of all, your night begins with a wonderful reception. Taste many, delicious appetizers and try local wines. The reception is held on the Vineyard Deck with views of the surrounding hillside vineyards. It’s a tranquil setting and the perfect way to begin your memorable night of great cuisine and wine drinking. An amazing multi-course dinners follows. Complement your meal with first release and exclusive wines that have been hand chosen for each event.

Below is the 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series schedule:
June 17 – Master Sommelier Dinner: Old World vs New World (Siena at The Meritage Resort)
July 1 – Masters Winemaker Dinner with Opus One
July 17 – Masters Tequila Dinner with Don Julio (Siena at The Meritage Resort)
August 5 – Masters Winemaker Dinner with Pride Winery
September 2 – Masters Winemaker Dinner with Arkenstone
October 7 – Masters Winemaker Dinner with Robert Mondavi Winery, 50th Anniversary
November 18 – Masters Winemaker Dinner Series with Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars

Pricing for the 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series ranges between $85 and $349 per person, inclusive of both taxes and gratuity.

The Meritage Resort & Spa also offers other monthly dinners. Due to these events being smaller than the winemaker dinners, they’re held on the patio in partnership with Siena, its farm to fork restaurant. As a respected dining establishment, Siena is known for sourcing local ingredients. These dinner events take guests on a unique wine journey. From sampling both New World and Old World wines, New York City Master Sommelier Brian Cronin shares his extensive expertise.

Contact us to book your reservation to Napa and attend a 2016 Masters Winemaker Dinner Series event at The Meritage Resort & Spa. Be sure to folow our luxury blog for more fine dining and luxury travel stories.

Photo: The Meritage Resort & Spa

Bon Appétit is the number one and award-winning, food lifestyle brand that covers the popular and trendy topic of food. Las Vegas welcomes the 10th Anniversary of Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit.

This year’s event will be held several of the top, luxury resorts in Las Vegas – Caesars Palace, The Venetian, The Cromwell and The Palazzo. It will run between April 28 and May 1. If you plan to attend, you better hurry. There are only a limited number of tickets available.

Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit is a fun-filled event and attendees have the unique opportunity to enjoy a VIP experience with some of the top food chefs in the world. There are intimate events with a personal touch and mega events filled with excitement and fanfare.

Just a few of the highlights of this year’s show include: at The Venetian and Steakhouse Redux with Michael Mina at Golden Steer – the only-in-Vegas Dinner on the Strip plus attend Dine in the Dark: A Sensory Lunch to be held at Bacchanal Buffet at Caesars Palace. Get the chance to meet and mingle with many of the top, celebrity chefs and mixologists, including: Emeril Lagasse, Nobu Matsuhisa, Gordon Ramsay, Guy Savoy, Daniel Boulud and Giada De Laurentiis to name a few.

Here is a list of some of the most notable events you can attend at Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit.

The Venetian
* Dinner on the Strip (Thursday, April 28)
Dine with the incredible, surrounding atmosphere of Las Vegas Boulevard and towering Sin City resorts. Celebrity chefs Emeril Lagasse, Daniel Boulud, Olivier Dubreuil, Kim Canteenwalla, and David Werly will prepare a multi-course dining adventure. What an experience! It’s a one-of-kind, fine dining evening event like no other. Enjoy great tasting food, wines and cocktails.

* Brunch & Bubbles at the Boss’ House (Saturday, April 30)
Brunch it up VIP style at Buddy V’s Ristorante at The Venetian. This awsome Italian food event will be hosted by the operating partners of “Cake Boss” Buddy Valastro – the famous husband and wife team of Chef Kim Canteenwalla and restaurateur Elizabeth Blau. Enjoy classic, brunch favorites, in addition to seafood stations, bottomless bubbles, a caviar ice bar, a Bloody Mary bar, and a tempting dessert display.

* Southern Hospitality: Beers, Bourbons & Bites at Yardbird (Saturday, April 30)
Enjoy this ideal, Southern-infused happy hour. Sample a selection of bourbons, beers and snacks. This event will be hosted by Yardbird Southern Table & Bar. Pair your drinks with tasty hors d’oeuvres.

Caesars Palace
* Dine in the Dark: A Sensory Lunch at Bacchanal Buffet (Friday, April 29)
A lunch that’s hosted at popular Bacchanal Buffet. This restaurant has been named by USA Today as the number 1 buffet in all of Las Vegas. Your culinary journey will have your taste buds tingling with anticipation. What makes this foodie event so intriguing is each lunch guest will be actually blindfolded. Once seated in a private dining room, feast on a delicious menu full of Bacchanal signature dishes. You don’t want to miss this one.

* Tamales and Tequila: A Tour of the Latin World (Saturday, April 30)
If you are a Chase Sapphire® and Chase Sapphire Preferred® card member, it’s time to rejoice. Try Mexican food from around the world over lunch. Dishes will be prepared by Chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken. Also try unique cocktails and paired wines.

* Master Series: Dinner and a Show with MR CHOW (Thursday, April 28)
International chef MR CHOW, who has a restaurant at Caesars Palace will be creating delightful, Beijing cuisine dishes for you. Enjoy great food and a theatrical dining experience. Imagine feasting on a succulent, the Beijing Duck? Yum!

Off the Vegas Strip
* The Ultimate Comforts & Classics Affair (Downtown Container Park) – (Saturday, April 30)
This Las Vegas hot spot is becoming extremely popular for a great dining experience. Enjoy various foods such as – burgers, birds, and various comfort classics. Discover the proper pairing options with beer, champagne and craft cocktails. Be treated to sampling the limited edition Crackle Burger.

* Steakhouse Redux: Michael Mina x Golden Steer (Saturday, April 30)
Super Chef Michael Mina teams with chefs from Golden Steer Steakhouse. They will create awesome, steakhouse dishes. The iconic Golden Steer Steakhouse is named the oldest steakhouse in Las Vegas. It opened back in 1958. Enjoy live music and a fabulous, four-course lunch.

This 10th Anniversary Celebration of Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit should be a monumental event in Sin City. Foodies should planning to attend and partake in an incredible VIP experience. Great food and drinks and popular chefs – this event has it all! While in Las Vegas, be sure to attend one of the fabulous stage shows. Vegas is a 24 hour destination of sights and sounds that everyone must try once in their life.

Contact us immediaitely if you are interested in attending the upcoming Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appétit. Return again soon and follow our luxury blog. We love sharing the best in luxury travel and culinary news.

Photo: Vegas Uncork’d by Bon Appetit