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Boann Distillery will finish its historically inspired Preston’s Irish Whiskey in just three casks made from the ancient tree, with a release planned for 2027. An Irish oak that stood for approximately 1,000 years is beginning an unexpected second life, not in a museum or stately home, but inside a cooperage. The ancient tree once grew on Preston’s Estate at Swainstown Farm in County Meath, where generations watched it become part of the landscape. When Storm Elin brought it down in December 2023, its fall appeared to mark the end of a millennium-long story. Instead, part of its timber has now been transformed into three exceptionally rare whiskey casks. The project brings together Drogheda’s Boann Distillery, Swainstown Farm and Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ireland. Once filled, the new casks will be used for the secondary maturation of a mature whiskey created from Boann’s Preston’s Vintage Mashbill XI. The finished expression is expected to be bottled and released in 2027. Only three 225-litre barrels have been made, placing an obvious physical limit on how much whiskey the collaboration can produce. From County Meath to France—and back again Transforming an oak of this age into vessels capable of maturing whiskey required more than simply cutting its trunk into boards. A carefully selected section of the fallen tree was transported to the Vosges region of France, an area with a long tradition of preparing oak for wine and spirits. Specialist mills split the timber into staves and cask heads before the wood was left to season naturally outdoors for around two years. That period exposed the oak to the elements and gradually prepared it for its new role. The seasoned components were then returned to Ireland and taken to Kentucky Bourbon Barrel’s cooperage in Newbridge, County Kildare. There, Irish coopers examined and shaped the individual pieces before raising the casks, fitting their heads and securing them with metal hoops. The finished barrels were toasted to prepare the oak for its interaction with the spirit. The collaborators describe them as the first complete Irish oak whiskey casks in more than a century to have been coopered by Irish craftspeople on Irish soil. It is a significant distinction in an industry that overwhelmingly relies on imported barrels, particularly ex-bourbon casks made from American white oak. Why Irish oak is so unusual Barrels used to mature whiskey are far more than storage containers. As the spirit moves in and out of the wood, it extracts flavour, colour and aroma, with the species of oak, its seasoning and its treatment all helping to shape the final profile. Native Irish oak is rarely used for the task. Supplies are limited, suitable trees are scarce and restrictions protect what remains. A viable cask requires straight, sound timber that can be split into staves without compromising the vessel’s strength or watertight construction. Oak from a naturally fallen tree of such extraordinary age is rarer still. The precise effect it will have on the whiskey cannot be known until maturation is under way, but its grain, preparation and toast will each influence the exchange between wood and spirit. Importantly, the ancient tree was not felled for whiskey production. Its use followed its natural loss during the storm, allowing a portion of the timber to continue its story in another form. Reviving a lost Irish recipe The liquid destined for the three barrels carries its own connection to the past. Boann’s Preston’s Vintage Mashbill XI is based on a late-19th-century recipe uncovered through the distillery’s Vintage Mashbill programme. The initiative researches and recreates historic styles of Irish whiskey, including recipes that use grains beyond the familiar combination of malted and unmalted barley. The Preston name is particularly significant. The family at Swainstown descends from the Prestons of Drogheda, who operated a prominent whiskey-bonding business from 1886 for almost a century. Whiskey bonders traditionally sourced spirit from distilleries before ageing, blending and bottling it under their own names. Finishing Preston’s whiskey in oak grown on the family’s estate creates a striking connection between the land, its bonding heritage and Boann’s work reviving forgotten recipes. Boann intends the final release to form part of the single pot still tradition, although its precise designation will depend upon the outcome of proposed changes to Ireland’s whiskey product specification. A government consultation on those technical rules opened in June 2026. A whiskey shaped by time No exact bottling date, price, strength or bottle yield has yet been announced. The final number of bottles will depend on factors including the duration of the secondary maturation and the natural loss of spirit from the barrels. What is already clear is that the release will be finite. Once the whiskey has left these three casks, the circumstances behind it cannot simply be recreated. Another thousand-year-old tree from the same estate, carrying the same family history, cannot be ordered from a cooperage catalogue. The whiskey may spend only a comparatively brief period inside the Irish oak. Its casks, however, took a millennium to make.

Argyronisos offers 60 acres of ancient olive groves, private coves and discreet stone residences, all within a 50-minute helicopter flight of Athens. In a corner of the northern Aegean, where silver-green olive trees meet the water and rocky coves interrupt an otherwise untouched coastline, an entire island is searching for a new custodian. Argyronisos, known internationally as Silver Island, has been placed on the market for the first time in more than six decades. The 60-acre private retreat was brought to market with a reported asking price of €35 million, approximately $40 million, and is being offered exclusively through Engel & Völkers Greece. The brokerage’s live listing now gives the price on application. The island has belonged to the same family since 1961. During that time, it has been used as a private home, an organic olive estate and, more recently, an intimate wellness retreat. It has escaped the dense development seen in some of the Mediterranean’s best-known destinations, retaining the sense of privacy that is increasingly difficult to manufacture, or buy. Rather than being dominated by a vast contemporary villa, Argyronisos contains 11 preserved stone buildings arranged discreetly across its landscape. Together, they provide approximately 937 sq m of built space. The estate includes a main residence, a separate dining pavilion, a two-storey villa and a traditional coastal stone house. A caretaker’s cottage is joined by several smaller residences, including buildings known as the Olive House and Mason’s House. From an elevated terrace, another residence looks west towards the sunset. At the heart of the property is the historic chapel of Agioi Anargyroi, a small Greek Orthodox church that anchors the island to a much longer past. Historic stone ruins also remain elsewhere on the estate. The architecture has been kept deliberately modest. White walls, blue accents, tiled terraces and shaded outdoor spaces sit among mature trees instead of competing with them. This is luxury expressed through land, silence and seclusion rather than scale alone. Beyond its residences, the island unfolds across rolling ground planted with cypress trees, wildflowers and centuries-old olive groves that continue to be cultivated organically. When the wind turns the leaves, their pale undersides give the landscape a silvery appearance—the image from which Silver Island takes its name. Small beaches and sheltered coves line the coast, creating private places for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding. Deep-water access allows larger vessels to approach the island, while the protected Gulf of Pteleos offers calmer conditions than more exposed parts of the Aegean. Argyronisos has also been designed to operate independently. Its power is supplied by solar energy, supported by a backup generator, allowing the estate to remain fully off-grid without sacrificing its essential infrastructure. Although it has welcomed entrepreneurs, artists and other prominent guests over the years, the island has never been transformed into a conventional commercial resort. More recently, it has hosted small wellness stays, but its primary identity has remained that of a secluded family retreat. Private, but not impossibly remote The island lies in the Gulf of Pteleos, just off the northern tip of Evia, Greece’s second-largest island. Its position provides access to the Sporades and places Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonnisos within reach for sailing and island-hopping. Visitors can arrive by private boat from nearby mainland docks and marinas. By road and sea, the total journey from Athens takes approximately three and a half hours. A private helicopter can make the journey from Athens International Airport in around 50 minutes, landing on the island, while a transfer from Skiathos is shorter still. That balance is central to Argyronisos’s appeal: it feels removed from ordinary life without being cut off from it. A rare opportunity—and a responsibility Private islands with established residences and working infrastructure seldom become available in Greece. Many of the country’s islands are publicly owned, protected or undeveloped, while substantial future building is typically subject to strict planning and environmental controls. Argyronisos is already operational, giving its next owner the option to continue using it as a private estate or discreet retreat. Any further development would, however, remain subject to the relevant local approvals. For its next owner, the purchase would extend far beyond acquiring a collection of homes. It would mean assuming responsibility for a landscape that has been intentionally protected for 65 years. At a reported €35 million, Argyronisos is unquestionably a trophy property. Yet its greatest indulgence may be the one feature no architect can add later: the feeling that very little here has changed at all.

The only Talbot-Lago Teardrop commissioned specifically for competition will cross the block at RM Sotheby’s during Monterey Car Week. Few cars have made aerodynamics look quite so romantic. With its sweeping wings, impossibly long bonnet and bodywork seemingly shaped from a single drop of liquid metal, the Talbot-Lago T150-C SS Teardrop Coupe is one of the defining automotive designs of the Art Deco era. Yet chassis number 90117 was created for more than admiring glances on a concours lawn. It was built to race. The exceptional 1938 coupe competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans the following year, making it the only known Talbot-Lago Teardrop commissioned specifically with competition in mind. On 15 August, it will be offered by RM Sotheby’s during Monterey Car Week with an estimate of between $7 million and $8 million—approximately £5 million to £6 million. Sculpted for speed Chassis 90117 is one of just 11 second-series “New York”-style Teardrop coupes created with coachwork by celebrated Parisian firm Figoni et Falaschi. Unveiled during a period in which the influence of Art Deco could be seen across architecture, fashion and industrial design, the Teardrop was originally known as the Goutte d’Eau, or “water drop”. Its beautifully streamlined profile made it an instant expression of pre-war French glamour. This particular car, however, was conceived with a distinctly competitive purpose. It was commissioned by Philippe Régnier de Massa, a member of one of France’s oldest noble families, who intended to enter it at Le Mans. According to information accompanying the sale, the body was made four inches longer and two inches lower than those of the other Teardrop coupes, reducing its frontal area and improving its aerodynamic performance. Additional driving lights were incorporated into the front, while an opening rear window and a distinctive heart-shaped sunroof provided much-needed ventilation. The competition-focused alterations continued inside. The driver received a supportive semi-bucket seat and a speedometer reading up to 250kph, or 155mph. Extra reinforcement was fitted within the engine compartment, alongside a long-range fuel tank and an external racing-style filler. Beneath the bodywork sits Talbot-Lago’s enlarged 4.0-litre six-cylinder engine, featuring hemispherical combustion chambers and three Zenith-Stromberg carburettors. Producing approximately 140bhp, it sends power to the rear wheels through a four-speed Wilson pre-selector gearbox, which allowed its driver to choose the next gear before completing the change. A singular appearance at Le Mans In June 1939, the Talbot-Lago arrived at the Circuit de la Sarthe wearing the number eight. The car was officially entered by British racing driver and writer T.A.S.O. Mathieson, while de Massa shared driving duties with French racer Norbert-Jean Mahé. Although it was de Massa’s first international race, Mahé brought valuable experience, having finished ninth at Le Mans in 1934. The pairing was running in ninth position when its race ended on lap 88. Precisely what happened remains disputed. Some accounts attribute the retirement to a broken valve spring; others suggest the Talbot-Lago skidded on oil and travelled in the wrong direction, resulting in its disqualification. Whatever the cause, it would prove to be the car’s only major competition appearance. The Second World War began just 10 weeks later, abruptly bringing its racing ambitions to an end. Lost behind the Iron Curtain By the early 1940s, chassis 90117 had found its way to Germany, where it was discovered in neglected condition and without its original engine. It later passed into the ownership of A. Becker of Rangsdorf, near Berlin. Its location in East Germany placed the car beyond the reach of most Western collectors, and the Talbot-Lago remained largely unseen for decades. Only after the Berlin Wall fell in 1989 did it re-emerge, passing first to German enthusiast Peter Schmitz and later to Dutch dealer Jan Bruijn. In 1996, Californian collector Georg Lingenbrink acquired the car and began a painstaking six-year restoration. A correct-type Talbot-Lago engine was sourced in the UK, while the body was finished in a suitably dramatic shade of deep aubergine, paired with tan pigskin leather upholstery. Collector Oscar Davis purchased the Talbot-Lago in 2006 and subsequently commissioned a further $100,000 of mechanical and cosmetic restoration. The car returned to Pebble Beach in 2007 before travelling to Europe, where it received the coveted Trofeo BMW Group Best of Show award at the 2010 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. A Louis Vuitton Concours Classic Award followed in 2011. Back on the Monterey stage Following Davis’s death, the Teardrop returned to Monterey in 2022 and sold through RM Sotheby’s for $7.265 million. Its current custodian has continued to preserve the restoration, including commissioning recent servicing by RM Auto Restoration. Now it is heading back to the auction block with a valuation slightly above its previous sale price. Its appeal lies in an extraordinary collision of qualities rarely found within one car. It possesses the sculptural bodywork and rarity required for the world’s most prestigious concours events, but also the competition specification and provenance to make it an enticing prospect for historic motoring. Almost nine decades after its sole appearance at Le Mans, the Talbot-Lago remains a compelling contradiction: an Art Deco masterpiece designed not merely to be displayed, but to be driven at speed.

Luxury whisky and motorsport come together once again as Glenfiddich unveils the second chapter of its collaboration with the Aston Martin Formula One Team, introducing a new limited-edition 16-Year-Old Single Malt inspired by the pursuit of precision, craftsmanship and performance. Building on the success of last year's inaugural release, the latest expression takes a more complex approach to maturation. While the first bottling drew its character from three cask styles, this year's edition has been matured across five different oak casks, resulting in a whisky designed to showcase greater depth, balance and complexity. The single malt has spent 16 years ageing in a carefully selected combination of first-fill bourbon barrels, Port pipes, Oloroso sherry casks, wine casks and a small proportion of Fino sherry butts. Together, the casks create a layered flavour profile with notes of buttery toffee, caramelised sugar and gentle oak spice, balanced by the elegant fruit character synonymous with Glenfiddich's Speyside house style. The release celebrates the shared philosophy between two brands where exceptional performance is achieved through meticulous attention to detail. Just as every aerodynamic surface on an Aston Martin Formula One car serves a purpose, each individual cask contributes its own distinctive influence before being brought together into a seamless whole. Commenting on the inspiration behind the whisky, Glenfiddich's Master of Malt, Brian Kinsman, explained that the collaboration reflects the engineering mindset found within Formula One. "Behind every Aston Martin Formula One Team car are hundreds of small decisions, carefully refined to create a seamless whole. The same is true in whisky making. The art lies not in the individual components, but in bringing them together in a way that feels perfectly balanced and instinctively right." The partnership between Glenfiddich and Aston Martin Formula One Team first launched in 2024 with an exceptionally rare 65-Year-Old vintage created to mark the collaboration, before expanding last year with its first 16-Year-Old limited edition. This latest bottling continues that relationship, offering enthusiasts a more accessible expression while maintaining the craftsmanship and storytelling that define both brands. Produced at Glenfiddich's iconic Speyside distillery in Dufftown, Scotland, the whisky is bottled at 43% ABV (86 proof) and is presented in limited quantities worldwide. As luxury brands increasingly look beyond traditional collaborations, partnerships such as this demonstrate how shared values—from innovation and technical excellence to heritage and craftsmanship—can create products that resonate far beyond their respective industries. Whether you're a collector of fine single malts or a devoted Formula One fan, Glenfiddich's latest release offers a compelling meeting of two worlds driven by precision and performance.

Italian shipyard Baglietto has entered a new chapter in its illustrious 172-year history with the delivery of Kinda II, the largest yacht ever to leave its La Spezia shipyard. Measuring just under 200 feet (60 metres), the flagship marks a significant milestone for one of Italy's most respected yacht builders and signals its growing ambition at the very top end of the superyacht market. As the inaugural yacht in Baglietto's new T60 series, Kinda II represents more than just a new flagship, it showcases the shipyard's evolving design philosophy, combining contemporary architecture with the craftsmanship that has defined the brand for generations. Designed by renowned Italian studio Francesco Paszkowski Design, the 60-metre yacht adopts a sleek, architectural profile that departs from traditional superyacht styling. A near-vertical bow, expansive glazing and uninterrupted exterior lines give the vessel a strikingly modern presence, while vast open spaces create a seamless connection between life on board and the surrounding sea. At the heart of the yacht is a spectacular beach club that transforms the stern into a private waterfront retreat. Opening directly onto the ocean, the space incorporates a swimming pool, bar and dedicated gym, creating an entertainment hub that rivals many of the world's finest luxury resorts. Accommodation has been designed with both privacy and comfort in mind. The owner's suite occupies an entire deck, complete with a private office, dressing room and dual en-suite bathrooms. Two exclusive outdoor terraces, including a secluded plunge pool forward and a spacious lounge with a Jacuzzi aft, offer uninterrupted ocean views and complete discretion while cruising. Guests are equally well catered for, with five luxurious cabins welcoming family and friends, while dedicated crew accommodation ensures impeccable service throughout every voyage. Elsewhere on board, wellness and adventure take centre stage. A full spa complements generous sunbathing areas across the upper decks, while a substantial tender garage houses a 23-foot chase boat alongside Jet Skis and additional water toys for days spent exploring secluded bays and coastlines. A touch-and-go helipad on the foredeck further enhances accessibility, allowing owners and guests to arrive or depart with ease. Powered by twin Caterpillar 3512 engines, Kinda II reaches a top speed of 16 knots and cruises comfortably at 12 knots, balancing long-range capability with the relaxed pace expected of a yacht designed for extended time at sea. The launch also highlights the commercial success of the T60 platform before its public debut. Three yachts in the series have already been commissioned, underlining continued demand for larger, highly customised vessels among ultra-high-net-worth owners seeking exceptional space, privacy and bespoke craftsmanship. Kinda II is expected to make her international debut at the Monaco Yacht Show this September, where she will undoubtedly be one of the most closely watched launches of the event. As owners continue to seek floating residences that rival the world's finest private estates, Baglietto's new flagship demonstrates that the appetite for larger, more refined and experience-led superyachts shows no signs of slowing.

The bridal veil has enjoyed centuries as the ultimate finishing touch, but today's brides are proving that tradition is no longer the only route to aisle-worthy style. From sweeping chiffon layers to couture-inspired embroidered designs, the bridal cape is emerging as one of the most coveted accessories of the season, bringing high-fashion drama, effortless movement and a distinctly modern perspective to wedding dressing. It's a shift that reflects the evolution of bridal style itself. Brides are increasingly treating their wedding wardrobe like a fashion collection rather than a checklist of traditions, opting for pieces that feel personal, versatile and editorial. A beautifully crafted cape delivers all the romance of a veil while offering something altogether fresher—creating an unforgettable entrance before seamlessly transforming into a second look for the evening celebrations. According to Sydney Watters, Style Director at Watters Designs, the appeal lies in balancing timeless romance with contemporary styling. "We're seeing brides embrace capes because they offer the romance and ceremony of a veil while feeling modern and like something new. A cape can change the entire silhouette: it creates beautiful movement, makes an entrance feel dramatic, and can transform a gown into a completely different look." Unlike a traditional veil, which often has a single moment before being removed, a cape becomes part of the bridal ensemble itself. It can soften a minimalist silhouette, introduce texture and dimension, or create an almost regal effect without overshadowing the gown beneath. Better still, many designs can be effortlessly removed after the ceremony, allowing brides to transition into a cleaner evening look without the need for a complete outfit change. Today's collections offer a cape for every aesthetic. Whisper-light chiffon creates an ethereal, floating effect, while intricate floral appliqués and delicate embroidery bring softness and romance. Brides seeking a more dramatic statement are gravitating towards oversized silhouettes, sculptural sleeves and sweeping trains that blur the line between bridalwear and couture. Sydney Watters recommends considering proportion as carefully as the dress itself. The neckline should complement the gown rather than compete with it, while the cape's length should feel intentional alongside the train. Brides should also think about practical details, from the venue and weather to how the cape attaches and whether it can be removed with ease. Most importantly, she advises trying on the complete look while walking, turning and sitting to ensure it feels as comfortable as it looks. The rise of the bridal cape also reflects a wider movement across luxury fashion, where individuality has become just as important as elegance. Brides are increasingly embracing styling choices that feel authentic to their personalities rather than simply following convention, and accessories have become one of the easiest ways to make a classic gown feel entirely their own. For those looking to make an unforgettable entrance without sacrificing versatility, the bridal cape is proving that the most modern bridal statement isn't replacing the dress—it's redefining everything that comes after it. https://www.watters.com/

As London settles into the height of summer, the city's hospitality scene shows little sign of slowing down. August brings a fresh wave of limited-time restaurant collaborations, immersive dining experiences, cultural events and stylish seasonal activations that are well worth seeking out before they disappear. Whether you're looking for Michelin-starred menus, waterside street food festivals, elegant cocktail experiences or countryside escapes, these are the standout pop-ups and events defining luxury summer living this month. Seasonal Dining Experiences One of the month's most anticipated culinary events comes courtesy of Michelin-starred Chishuru, where chef Adejoké Bakare is celebrating Nigerian street food through her Summer Suya Sessions. Running throughout August, the relaxed sharing menu showcases smoky suya spices across beautifully executed dishes including grilled bavette, prawns finished with yaji butter and an inventive spaghetti jollof that has already developed something of a cult following. Meanwhile, LUCA is marking a decade in Clerkenwell with a celebratory tasting menu revisiting some of the restaurant's most iconic dishes. Guests can enjoy favourites including Cornish lobster taglierini, Parmesan fries and the return of its caramelised lemon tart, accompanied by a complimentary pour of LUCA-cello. Michelin-starred Clerkenwell favourite LUCA is turning ten For lovers of international flavours, KERB Goes East transforms Canada Water into one of London's largest celebrations of East and Southeast Asian cuisine. More than fifty independent traders will serve everything from Japanese comfort food and Himalayan dumplings to Singaporean classics, alongside live entertainment and artisan markets overlooking the waterfront. Pizza enthusiasts have their own reason to celebrate, with Franco Manca partnering with Wildflowers chef Aaron Potter on a seasonal special combining peach, gorgonzola, crispy coppa and truffle honey — an indulgent combination available for a limited time throughout August. Franco Manca has teamed up with Aaron Potter on a limited-edition pizza Elsewhere, Elsa's welcomes modern Jamaican chef Frankie Clarke for a one-night-only collaboration that blends Caribbean influences with the restaurant's distinctive Franco-Alsatian identity, while renowned baker Lily Vanilli introduces an imaginative Georgian-inspired dessert residency featuring playful interpretations of traditional flavours. For those seeking an unforgettable summer feast, The Camberwell Arms is hosting an outdoor-inspired banquet celebrating the very best seasonal British produce, with generous sharing plates and relaxed communal dining. Experiences Beyond The Plate Summer socialising continues well beyond London's restaurants. Urban Greens has joined forces with premium padel destination Padium for a series of Saturday sessions combining coaching, healthy dining and live music, offering an energetic way to spend an afternoon in Canary Wharf. Over the August Bank Holiday weekend, lifestyle brand Allday Goods collaborates with DEYA Brewing Company to create a nostalgic British pub-inspired pop-up in Shoreditch, complete with limited-edition beers, bespoke merchandise and interiors inspired by traditional boozers. Cocktail lovers should also make time for Cocktails in the City, returning to Bedford Square Gardens with some of London's finest bars serving exclusive signature creations alongside masterclasses, live entertainment and alfresco garden parties. Fitness meets coffee culture during Pip & Nut's final summer run club, while Harrods welcomes a taste of the French Riviera through an elegant collaboration between Moët & Chandon and Pharrell Williams, serving a tropical champagne cocktail inspired by long afternoons in Saint-Tropez. Meanwhile, Mercato Metropolitano celebrates agave culture with its month-long Cantina Libre takeover, introducing sparkling agave beer, premium mezcal and tequila alongside international street food and live music. Film lovers can round off the month with Lower Marsh Lates, where free outdoor screenings transform one of Waterloo's most charming streets into an open-air cinema celebrating classic 1990s films. Escapes Beyond London If you're venturing beyond the capital, August offers equally compelling experiences. Bristol's FORWARDS Festival returns with an impressive programme featuring Lorde, Tems, Little Simz, Self Esteem and Wet Leg, making it one of the UK's standout music weekends. In Somerset, acclaimed Italian restaurant Bocca di Lupo heads into the countryside to celebrate Ferragosto with elegant long-table banquets hosted within the beautiful grounds of Wyke House near Bruton. Feast Over Flame invites guests to board a private boat before arriving at a hidden riverside setting in Marlow For something truly memorable, Feast Over Flame invites guests to board a private boat before arriving at a hidden riverside setting in Marlow, where a five-course dinner is prepared over Big Green Egg barbecues beneath festoon lighting — a quintessentially British summer experience that perfectly captures the season's slower pace.

Audi has unveiled the Q9, its most ambitious SUV to date, marking a significant milestone for the German marque as it enters the growing market for full-size luxury family vehicles. More than simply a larger addition to the range, the three-row flagship has been designed to redefine executive travel, blending commanding performance with business-class levels of comfort and technology. Revealed beneath New York City's iconic Brooklyn Bridge, the Q9 becomes the first Audi model to carry the number nine, signalling its position at the pinnacle of the brand's SUV portfolio. Developed with North American buyers in mind, where demand for premium SUVs continues to dominate, the Q9 reflects a broader shift within the luxury automotive sector, where spaciousness, versatility and cutting-edge innovation have become just as important as performance. Stretching over 17 feet in length, the Q9 is the largest SUV Audi has ever produced. Yet despite its imposing proportions, the design remains unmistakably Audi. A bold, upright stance is complemented by an illuminated Singleframe grille exclusive to North America, while crisp body lines and adaptive Digital Matrix LED headlights give the flagship a contemporary, sophisticated presence. Inside, the cabin has been designed to rival the comfort of a luxury lounge. Seven seats come as standard, while an optional six-seat configuration replaces the middle-row bench with individual captain's chairs, creating a more exclusive environment for passengers. Premium leather upholstery, open-pore wood finishes and ambient lighting combine to create an interior that feels refined without becoming ostentatious. Technology sits at the heart of the experience. Audi's new Digital Stage spans the dashboard, integrating an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit, a 14.5-inch central infotainment display and a dedicated 12.3-inch passenger touchscreen. Powered by Audi's latest software architecture, the system incorporates a ChatGPT-enabled Audi Assistant, offering more intuitive voice interaction alongside navigation, entertainment and vehicle controls. An available 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system further elevates the cabin, transforming long-distance journeys into immersive listening experiences. Performance remains central to Audi's identity. The standard Q9 is powered by a 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 producing 429 horsepower, delivering power to all four wheels via Audi's renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system. The result is a 0–60mph sprint in just 4.9 seconds, remarkable for a vehicle of this size. For drivers seeking even greater performance, the SQ9 introduces a revised 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 generating 591 horsepower. Capable of accelerating from 0–60mph in just 3.9 seconds, the flagship performance model demonstrates that practicality need not come at the expense of excitement. Both models feature adaptive air suspension as standard, helping the Q9 maintain the composed handling characteristics Audi is known for despite its generous dimensions. The system continuously adjusts ride height and damping, ensuring comfort during motorway cruising while preserving agility on more demanding roads. The arrival of the Q9 also reflects changing priorities among luxury buyers. Increasingly, affluent families and business leaders are seeking vehicles capable of accommodating both everyday life and long-distance travel without compromising on craftsmanship, technology or driving dynamics. Models such as the Range Rover, BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS have long dominated this space, and Audi's newest flagship is a clear statement of intent. With prices in the United States starting from $89,095 for the Q9 and $119,395 for the high-performance SQ9, Audi's latest flagship positions itself firmly within the upper echelon of the luxury SUV market. More than simply Audi's biggest SUV, the Q9 represents the evolution of the modern luxury vehicle—one where executive comfort, intelligent technology and dynamic performance coexist within a single, uncompromising package.

There are tennis courts designed for competition, and then there are those created for pure escapism. Suspended between rugged cliffs and the shimmering waters of the Mediterranean, Il San Pietro di Positano’s legendary tennis court offers an experience unlike any other, a game played not only against an opponent, but against the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast itself. Carved into the dramatic landscape surrounding the iconic five-star retreat, the court is one of the most remarkable sporting settings in the world. Perched high above the sea, with uninterrupted views stretching across the coastline, it captures the essence of Italian luxury: effortless, elegant and deeply connected to its surroundings. At Il San Pietro, tennis is not simply an activity. It is part of a way of life, a slower, more considered approach to travel where moments become memories and every experience is shaped by the extraordinary beauty of place. A Court Above the Mediterranean Built into the cliffs below the hotel, the tennis court reflects the same philosophy that has guided Il San Pietro since opening its doors in 1970: architecture should exist in harmony with nature. Reached through the hotel’s private pathways carved into the rock, the court feels almost hidden from the world. One side opens towards the endless blue of the Mediterranean, while the surrounding cliffs and gardens create a sense of complete privacy. Few sporting experiences can rival the feeling of serving beneath the Italian sun with the sound of waves far below and the Amalfi coastline unfolding in every direction. It is this rare combination of sport, scenery and serenity that has made the court one of the most distinctive features of Il San Pietro, an experience reserved for guests who seek something beyond the traditional luxury escape. The Rise of Luxury Tennis Travel Tennis has long held a special place within the world of luxury. From historic clubs to private estates, the sport has become synonymous with elegance, tradition and international sophistication. Today, however, the modern luxury traveller is looking for more than relaxation, they are seeking experiences that combine wellbeing, culture, adventure and a sense of exclusivity. Il San Pietro’s cliffside court represents this new era of experiential luxury. Here, a morning match can be followed by a swim in the private waters below the hotel, lunch overlooking the sea at Carlino restaurant, or an evening spent enjoying cocktails as the sun sets over Positano. The experience is not about performance alone; it is about the ritual surrounding the game, the anticipation, the scenery and the unforgettable setting. At Il San Pietro di Positano, tennis becomes more than a game. It becomes a celebration of place, heritage and the timeless romance of the Amalfi Coast, a reminder that the greatest luxuries are often the experiences that stay with us long after the final point. https://www.ilsanpietro.com/

Dior has officially arrived in Venice with the opening of its first permanent spa in the city, introducing a new destination for luxury wellness at the iconic Hotel Cipriani. Following the success of the Dioriveria pop-up boutique at the Belmond property earlier this summer, the new spa marks a deeper collaboration between the maison and one of Venice’s most celebrated hotels, offering guests an immersive experience centred around beauty, relaxation and Dior’s signature approach to wellbeing. Located on Giudecca Island, the spa’s interiors celebrate Venice’s rich design heritage while incorporating Dior’s refined aesthetic. The space blends influences from the city’s 18th-century Rococo period with mid-century Italian elegance and contemporary touches, featuring Venetian terrazzo, handcrafted stucco details, soft neutral tones and carefully curated Dior accents throughout. The treatment menu combines some of Dior’s most recognisable wellness rituals with three exclusive experiences created specifically for Hotel Cipriani. Among the highlights is Mascarade, a revitalising facial inspired by Venice’s legendary masked celebrations. The treatment combines LED light therapy, myofascial techniques and Dior Prestige skincare to enhance radiance and restore luminosity. For those preparing for a special occasion, Grand Bal offers a personalised beauty ritual designed across the face, hair, hands and feet, creating a complete pre-event transformation. Meanwhile, Théâtre Corporel focuses on deep relaxation, combining guided breathing exercises, aromatic oils and advanced myofascial release techniques delivered by two Dior Wellness experts. Guests can also experience Dior’s signature treatments, including the HydraFacial hydra-dermabrasion treatment designed to refresh and renew the complexion, as well as the New Look massage, which uses targeted techniques to support circulation, tone and relaxation. Beyond the spa, Hotel Cipriani remains one of Venice’s most sought-after destinations. Set beside the lagoon with its own private dock, the hotel offers a Michelin-starred dining experience at Oro, a private sailing yacht, elegant poolside cabanas and Venice’s only Olympic-sized swimming pool. Originally opened in 1956 by Giuseppe Cipriani, the founder of the legendary Harry’s Bar, the hotel has since become part of the Belmond collection and continues to attract travellers seeking timeless Italian glamour. The new Venice spa also expands Dior’s growing presence in luxury hospitality. The maison previously partnered with Belmond on exclusive Dior Spa Treehouse experiences at Grand Hotel Timeo in Sicily, further cementing the brand’s position at the intersection of beauty, travel and wellness.

After almost a century and a half in the hands of one family, one of Wyoming's most remarkable private estates is preparing to welcome a new owner. Hoback River Homestead spans more than 2,000 acres in the breathtaking Bondurant Valley, around 40 minutes from Jackson Hole. Having remained within the same family since 1888, the estate has never before been presented to the market in its entirety, making this a once-in-a-generation opportunity to acquire a substantial piece of the American West. Rather than focusing on grand residences, the property's true luxury lies in its landscape. Towering mountains, rolling meadows, wetlands and dense woodland create an ever-changing backdrop, while over two miles of the crystal-clear Hoback River weave through the estate. Renowned for its thriving native trout population, the river has long attracted fly-fishing enthusiasts from around the world. Beyond its natural beauty, the ranch offers exceptional privacy. Surrounded on three sides by the vast Bridger-Teton National Forest, the property provides direct access to millions of acres of protected wilderness, where hiking, horseback riding, wildlife watching and backcountry adventures begin quite literally from the front gate. Wildlife is part of everyday life here. Elk graze across the open valleys, moose wander the riverbanks and bighorn sheep navigate the surrounding hills, while black bears, grizzlies, wolves and mountain lions all form part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem that surrounds the estate. Unlike many high-end ranches that have been transformed into lavish retreats, Hoback River Homestead has remained true to its agricultural roots. A comfortable residence, built in the early 1980s, is accompanied by a collection of traditional ranch buildings that continue to support hay production, livestock grazing and equestrian activities. For buyers seeking authenticity rather than extravagance, the property's working heritage is one of its defining qualities. Another significant advantage is its flexibility. Without conservation easements restricting future decisions, the next custodian will have the freedom to shape the estate while preserving its extraordinary setting and history. Listed for $59.5 million, the ranch arrives at a time when trophy properties across the American West continue to attract strong demand from buyers searching for privacy, scale and a lasting legacy. Opportunities to purchase an estate of this calibre—particularly one with such a rich family history—are becoming increasingly scarce. For those seeking more than simply a luxury home, Hoback River Homestead offers the chance to own a living piece of Wyoming's history, where untouched wilderness, working ranch life and world-class recreation come together in one extraordinary destination. https://hallhall.com/property-for-sale/wyoming/hoback-river-homestead/a09Nu00000GIoTN/

German luxury engineering powerhouse BRABUS is set to make waves in the superyacht world with the unveiling of its first-ever performance yacht, created in collaboration with Italian shipyard AB Yachts. The highly anticipated debut will take place at this year's Monaco Yacht Show, running from 23–26 September 2026, marking a significant new chapter for the renowned automotive brand as it expands further into the luxury marine sector. While the finer details remain closely guarded, the partnership promises far more than a branded yacht. Instead, the project represents a true collaboration, combining BRABUS's unmistakable design language and obsession with personalisation with AB Yachts' expertise in lightweight engineering, waterjet propulsion and high-speed performance. Already renowned for transforming some of the world's most prestigious performance cars, BRABUS has steadily built its marine presence through successful collaborations with Axopar and Sunreef Yachts. This latest venture, however, takes the brand into an entirely new league, bringing its signature styling to full-sized performance yachts designed for owners seeking exhilarating speed without compromising luxury or comfort. "We see exactly the spirit we value in AB Yachts," said Constantin Buschmann, CEO and owner of BRABUS. "Their ambition to challenge convention and push the limits of what is possible perfectly aligns with our own philosophy. This collaboration opens an exciting new chapter, combining our passion for bold design, individuality and meticulous craftsmanship with AB Yachts' exceptional engineering expertise." Founded in 1992 and now part of Next Yacht Group, AB Yachts has become synonymous with sleek, high-performance vessels engineered for speed, precision and a close connection to the water. Its current fleet ranges from the AB 80 through to the AB 130, with some models capable of reaching an impressive 60 knots. The Italian builder has earned its reputation by employing advanced composite construction techniques, lightweight materials and sophisticated hull designs inspired by aerospace engineering. Combined with waterjet propulsion systems, the result is exceptional performance alongside the spacious, luxurious interiors expected aboard a modern superyacht. That technical pedigree provides the perfect foundation for BRABUS, whose reputation has long been built on delivering dramatic styling paired with uncompromising performance across its portfolio of cars, motorcycles and boats. Giorgio Mattei, Deputy Chairman of Next Yacht Group, described the collaboration as an immediate success. "From our very first meeting, we recognised in BRABUS the same relentless pursuit of innovation, performance and bold design that defines AB Yachts," he said. "Together we are creating something genuinely distinctive that we believe will leave a lasting impression on the yachting industry." At the heart of every BRABUS creation lies what the company calls its 'One-Second Wow' philosophy, designing products that captivate from the very first glance. On land, this is expressed through sculpted carbon fibre, aggressive proportions and exquisitely crafted interiors. On the water, that vision is expected to translate into striking exterior styling, bespoke colour palettes, premium materials and highly personalised interiors tailored to each owner. The Monaco Yacht Show will offer the first glimpse of this exciting new collaboration, with a second BRABUS yacht already confirmed for its world premiere at the 2027 edition of the event. Bringing together Italian yacht-building expertise and German performance engineering, the partnership is poised to introduce a bold new benchmark in luxury performance yachting.