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Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def, delivers a powerful remake of the popular Jay-Z and Kanye hit “Niggas In Paris”. “Niggas In Poorest” is a exactly what the title suggests – a reality check on the global poverty problem. Normally I don’t post music outside of the Classics  Music section, but I thought this was very fitting. Money isn’t everything.

Continue reading »]]> The Tre Bicchieri Vinid’ Italia is a annual wine tasting featuring an all Italian wine portfolio. Last week was the New York stop and Flawless Crowns was invited. Hosted at the Metropolitan Pavillion, this event was definitely a moment as the wine was flowing with enough appetizers to feed a small village.

The Tre Bicchieri is now considered the most important North American presentation of premium Italian wines as over 100 different wine brands were represented. All attendees were gifted to a complimentary wine glass for sampling.

As a big fan of Prosecco, we naturally made our sparkling rounds first. One of the more impressive selections was the Bellavista Franciacorta Gran Cuvée 2005. This was a very well balanced and rich sparkling wine with an impressive nutty nose.

Next was the Monsupello Nature Metodo Classico. This sparkler was very soft but full of dry fruit flavor with a crisp finish.

After the first hour of the Tre Bicchieri we decided to clean our palettes with some much need food. To our pleasant surprise there were multiple food stations offering a variety of hard and soft cheeses, breads, fruit. crackers, olives, cured meats, and more.

The crowd was a great mix of individuals that shared a passion for Italian wines. It was a humbling experience to intermingle with some of the elite in the wine industry.

Another grower that caught our attention in the sparkling wine category was Ferghettina Franciacorta. Their Extra Brut 2005 was a very lively use of Chardonnay and Pinot grapes. It paired with my Pecorino Romano cheese beautifully.

In my opinion the best in show the the sparkling wines was the house of Berlucchi Franciacorta. We sampled different wines from the Berlucchi Cuvée ’61 and each of them were complex and rich.

Our experience with the Berlucchi Cuvée ’61 Brut was fresh and crisp, with hints of citrus and tropical fruit. The Berlucchi Cuvée ’61 Rosé was amazing to the say the least. Sweet fruit flavors that didn’t overpower you because a fine balance of dryness and power. Really an astonishing Rosè!

After touring all the sparkling wine houses we decided to preview some still red wines. Out of several still wines Podere Sapaio 2008 was truly a moment. This red wine was full of dark cherry flavors with a dry finish that left your palette wanting more. So much we had several servings!

Unfortunately we couldn’t savor every bottle in the house but it was reassured to us that Italy is a country takes great pride in their wines. I look forward to attending the Tre Bicchieri Vinid’ Italia Italian wine tasting in 2012. Cheers!

Continue reading »]]> Marc Jacobs is one of the few menswear lines that captures both contemporary and classic. Their Marc By Marc Jacobs Suede Bomber Jacket is an excellent use of taupe suede. This piece also features navy blue trimming, zip closure and two front pockets making this a perfect piece for a breezy day where cotton isn’t enough of a statement.

$880.00

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Boom Varietal

Continue reading »]]> Cocoa Island is a small, private island resort designed for those seeking an easygoing, foot-in-the-sand experience. The rich, warm waters and bountiful coral also promise some of the world’s best beaches, snorkelling and diving.

The Maldives are made up of tiny dots strung out like turquoise ink spots. Many summits sit just below the surface of the water. The coral reefs are exceptional, creating a world-class diving destination. Like Cocoa Island, most resorts occupy their own private island.

For lodging there are several private villas, suites, and bungalows for your leisure.

In regards to activities the Cocoa Island resort offers a serene environment for spa treatments, yoga classes, therapies, and also unique excursions around the island.

Rates for start at $680.00 dollars a nite with options for long term rental. Looks like a very peaceful destination that is surrounded by beauty – seems to be worth every penny. Cheers!

Via Como Hotels