By JQ Louise | Voices of Luxury "No more Rosé all day. Rosé is here to stay." In the sun-drenched hills of Provence, a quiet revolution has been taking place. At the heart of it is Whispering Angel, the now-iconic rosé that helped transform pink wine from a summertime afterthought into a symbol of global luxury. As Whispering Angel celebrates its 20th vintage, I sat down with Paul Chevalier, Vice President and Global Marketing Director at Château d’Esclans, to reflect on two decades of innovation, strategy, and unexpected success. A French-American Story Chevalier's journey began in New England and led him to France, where his passion for wine took root. "I’ve been in the wine business pretty much all of my life." After connecting with Sacha Lichine, the visionary founder of Château d’Esclans, the pair set out to do the unthinkable: make rosé serious. "When we started 20 years ago, no one was drinking rosé outside of the South of France. It had a reputation for being sweet and unserious. We wanted to change that." Marketing Without Advertising Unlike traditional wine marketing built on magazine spreads or prestige placement, the Whispering Angel strategy was rooted in direct engagement. "It wasn’t about advertising, it was about being in the right places, getting glasses in hands, and letting the quality speak for itself." From elite enclaves like the Hamptons and Palm Beach to private islands like Mustique, Chevalier and Lichine relied on what they call "liquid to lips" to create emotional connections that outpaced expectations. From Entry-Level to Estate-Bottled Elegance Whispering Angel may be the headline act, but Château d’Esclans is no one-hit wonder. With over 200 hectares of vineyard, the estate produces a full range of rosés, including small-batch, estate-grown expressions that rival fine whites and even reds in complexity and pairing potential. "Some of our cuvées are fermented in barrels and made from old vine Grenache and Rolle. They hold up to filet mignon, lamb chops, even duck." Yet, rosé still struggles for respect in fine dining. Chevalier sees this as the next frontier: "You won’t find much rosé on Michelin-star wine lists yet, but that’s changing. We’re here to prove that rosé deserves a seat at the table." Wine for a New Generation Approachability remains central to Whispering Angel’s success. "Wine can be intimidating. Whispering Angel makes it easy for new consumers to enter the category." That accessibility, paired with a quality-driven process, has built generational loyalty — starting with millennials 20 years ago and now turning to Gen Z. The brand's alliance with Moët Hennessy is accelerating this global growth, from Formula One partnerships to new markets across Asia and Brazil. A Provence Insider's Guide For those eager to sip Whispering Angel where it all began, Chevalier recommends skipping the coast and heading inland. "Everyone goes to Cannes and Saint-Tropez, but the inland villages are where the magic happens." His top travel tip: visit in September during the harvest, when the weather is ideal and the crowds are gone. "We haven’t even developed the full potential of wine tourism in Provence yet. There is so much to explore." Looking Ahead As the 20th harvest begins, Chevalier hints at a special label release and global events to mark the milestone. But the core mission remains unchanged: "It was never just about Whispering Angel. It was about changing how the world sees rosé." And that mission is far from over.

When it comes to mastering the art of travel style, few people have it down to a science like Tara West . A Los Angeles native turned East Coast fashion powerhouse, Tara has built a career dressing celebrities, executives, and globe-trotters for every possible occasion — from red carpet events to long-haul flights. Her secret? A blend of practicality , versatility , and chic confidence . Whether you’re planning a weekend in Nantucket, a summer in the South of France, or an adventurous trek to Machu Picchu, Tara’s approach proves that travel wardrobes can be both stylish and functional. From Therapy to Threads: A Stylist with a Unique Perspective Tara’s career began in an unexpected place — as a marriage and family therapist . While helping clients navigate their personal lives, she also became known as “the best-dressed therapist in the room.” That passion for style eventually became her calling, and she launched her own fashion styling business. Her psychology background gives her a rare advantage: understanding the emotional impact  of what we wear. As she says, “When you look good, you feel good — and everything else flows from there.” Packing Like a Pro: Sets, Layers, and Shoe Strategy One of Tara’s biggest travel style rules is to pack with purpose .Her essential tips include: Travel in Sets : Matching top-and-bottom sets can be worn together for a statement look or broken up into multiple outfits, multiplying your options without overpacking. Limit Heavy Shoes : Boots and heels add weight fast. Build your outfits around one or two versatile pairs, and always pack a stylish sneaker for sightseeing. Layer Smart : Planes and changing climates require flexible outfits. Light knits, tailored blazers, and scarves are staples for easy transitions. Accessorize for Impact : A belt or scarf can completely transform an outfit, taking it from casual to sophisticated in seconds. Destination Dressing: Respect Meets Creativity Tara stresses the importance of adapting to local culture while maintaining personal style. In Europe : Experiment with statement pieces — bold patterns in Paris, linen in the South of France, or nautical-chic in Nantucket. In Respectful Cultures : Be mindful of modesty norms while still incorporating fashionable silhouettes. On Safari : Lean into “safari chic” with neutral palettes, breathable fabrics, and practical layering pieces for early morning game drives. The Jewelry Rule Every Traveler Should Know Many of Tara’s clients own heirloom or high-value jewelry — but she never advises traveling with it. Instead, she suggests high-quality costume versions  for trips. “No one will know, and you’ll enjoy your trip without the stress of losing something irreplaceable,” she says. Signature Style: Quiet Luxury Meets Global Inspiration Tara’s personal style blends California ease  with East Coast sophistication  — a mix she calls quiet luxury . Think monochrome tailoring, well-fitted blazers, and timeless accessories. She finds inspiration everywhere: The bold lobster prints and nautical motifs of Nantucket. The refined linen and monochrome looks of the French Riviera. The street-style edge of Tokyo. By merging these influences, she creates travel wardrobes that look flawless from the beach to the boardroom. Must-Have Travel Staples According to Tara, the ultimate travel wardrobe includes: A tailored blazer  for flights and evenings out. A multifunctional scarf  that works as a blanket, belt, or sarong. A versatile day-to-night dress  paired with flats or sneakers by day, and heels by night. Layered jewelry  that tells a story. One standout bag  in a bold color to anchor multiple outfits. The Final Word: Travel Light, Look Sharp, Feel Confident Tara’s philosophy is simple: travel wardrobes should work as hard as you do. Every piece should have multiple uses, and every outfit should make you feel like your best self. “Style doesn’t have to be complicated,” she says. “If you love what you’re wearing when you walk out the door — or off the plane — you’re going to have a great day.” Connect with Tara West Instagram: @tarawestfashion Website: tarawestfashion.com

In the world of yachting, where high-value vessels and intricate services intersect, legal issues can have a far-reaching impact on business operations and consumer rights. One area that has seen increased attention is the potential for class action lawsuits, which are playing a crucial role in challenging monopolistic practices and holding large companies accountable. One such case gaining attention involves Safe Harbor Marinas, where complaints about unexpected charges and unfair billing practices have led to a potential class action lawsuit that could reshape the industry. The Role of Class Action Lawsuits in Consumer Protection Class action lawsuits are a powerful tool in consumer protection, especially in industries like yachting where individual claims might be too small to pursue on their own. By aggregating multiple complaints, a class action lawsuit allows consumers to combine their efforts and resources, making it financially viable to challenge large corporations. These collective actions serve not only to seek justice for individual claimants but also to bring attention to wider systemic issues that affect many consumers. Such legal proceedings often address practices that could otherwise go unchecked, particularly when consumer choices are limited. In industries dominated by a few major players, like Safe Harbor Marinas in the yachting sector, class actions allow consumers to stand up against unfair practices that would be difficult to challenge individually. This collective approach ensures that the voice of the consumer is heard and can lead to significant changes within the industry. The Safe Harbor Marinas Case: A Catalyst for Change The lawsuit against Safe Harbor Marinas is rooted in complaints from a South Carolina vessel owner who experienced unexpected charges and billing discrepancies at one of their locations. As investigations unfolded, it became clear that this issue was not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern within the network of marinas operated by Safe Harbor. Reports suggest that customers have faced similar issues across various locations, leading to growing concerns about the fairness of the company’s practices. This case has the potential to set important precedents in the yachting industry. If successful, it could force Safe Harbor Marinas to reevaluate its billing practices, transparency, and overall customer service. Furthermore, it may trigger a shift in the industry as a whole, prompting other businesses to adopt more transparent practices and pay closer attention to how they engage with customers. Industry Implications: Moving Toward Fairer Practices The legal battle surrounding Safe Harbor Marinas has broader implications for the entire yachting industry. It highlights the importance of fair business practices and transparent dealings between companies and their customers. The case serves as a reminder that businesses in the yachting sector must operate with integrity, ensuring that customers fully understand the services and charges associated with their vessels. As more consumers become aware of their rights and the potential for collective legal action, businesses will likely find themselves under increased scrutiny. The outcome of the Safe Harbor lawsuit could set a legal benchmark that influences how other companies approach customer relations, pricing transparency, and contractual obligations. One of the key takeaways from this case is the evolving relationship between yachting businesses and consumers. In an industry where trust is crucial, it’s clear that companies must be proactive in addressing customer concerns and maintaining transparency. Those that fail to do so may find themselves facing legal challenges that could tarnish their reputation and disrupt their operations. Legal Reforms and Industry Growth Though the lawsuit against Safe Harbor Marinas is still in its early stages, the case underscores the growing role of legal instruments in shaping the future of the yachting industry. As more such cases emerge, there is potential for significant reform within the sector. These lawsuits not only challenge individual business practices but also foster a culture of accountability, where consumer interests are given greater weight. As the yachting industry matures, businesses will need to evolve in response to these legal pressures. Companies that embrace transparency and fairness will likely benefit from stronger customer loyalty and a competitive edge in the marketplace. Conversely, those that resist these changes may find themselves at odds with consumers, regulators, and even the law. Looking Ahead: A Changing Industry While it remains to be seen how the Safe Harbor Marinas case will unfold, it has already sparked important conversations within the yachting community. This lawsuit, and others like it, are paving the way for more consumer-friendly and legally compliant practices across the industry. As the case progresses, it could set the stage for new regulations and industry standards that prioritize fairness, transparency, and consumer rights. In conclusion, the growing prevalence of class action lawsuits in the yachting industry signals a shift towards greater consumer protection and accountability. As legal challenges continue to shape the industry, it will be essential for businesses to adapt and adopt practices that foster trust and fairness. This evolving landscape presents an opportunity for positive change, ensuring that the yachting community remains vibrant, fair, and customer-centric in the years to come.

Barrett Wright, President of Hill Robinson USA, offers a deep dive into the complexities and evolution of yacht management. With her extensive experience in the industry, Barrett sheds light on the critical role that professional management services play in today’s rapidly evolving world of yachting. The Expanding Role of Yacht Management As the yachting industry continues to grow, the demand for comprehensive yacht management services has never been higher. Yacht owners are increasingly seeking professional solutions to ensure their vessels are maintained to the highest standards, and Hill Robinson USA has positioned itself as a leader in providing such services. Offering a full range of solutions, including crew employment, training, refit management, and safety compliance, Hill Robinson ensures that every aspect of yacht ownership is expertly handled. Barrett’s career, which transitioned from the world of auctions into yacht management, exemplifies the dynamic nature of the industry. Her story is a reminder that embracing change and pursuing new opportunities can lead to significant personal and professional growth. Hill Robinson: Setting the Standard in Yacht Management Under Barrett’s leadership, Hill Robinson USA has earned its reputation for excellence in yacht management. The company’s approach centers on tailoring its services to meet the unique needs of each vessel, ensuring that owners receive customized solutions regardless of the size or complexity of their yacht. While larger yachts typically require more specialized services, Barrett points out that even smaller yachts—often owned by first-time buyers—benefit greatly from expert management. The key to Hill Robinson’s success, according to Barrett, lies in building strong, trusted relationships with yacht owners, insurance underwriters, and crews. This collaborative approach ensures that every aspect of yacht management is executed seamlessly, from maintenance to regulatory compliance. Women in Yachting: A Growing Presence Barrett is also a strong advocate for the increasing presence of women in the yachting industry, particularly in leadership roles. Traditionally a male-dominated field, yachting is now seeing more women stepping up to the plate and making significant contributions. Barrett herself has broken industry norms, using her journey to demonstrate that women can thrive in leadership positions within yacht management. Though women’s networks within yachting can sometimes seem insular, Barrett emphasizes their value in providing support and fostering visibility for women in the industry. Her own experience serves as proof that women are not just participants but leaders in the yachting world, breaking down barriers and inspiring others to do the same. Navigating the Complexities of Yacht Management Managing a yacht is no small feat, requiring careful coordination between yacht owners, crews, and service providers. Barrett explains that the most successful yacht managers are those who prioritize communication and build strong relationships with all parties involved. From addressing operational issues to ensuring compliance with safety and legal regulations, Barrett’s team at Hill Robinson USA excels in handling the challenges that come with managing a yacht. For Barrett, the heart of successful yacht management is understanding the specific needs of each yacht and its owner, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned and working toward a common goal. The Importance of Professional Yacht Management Barrett believes that professional yacht management is essential for any yacht owner who wants to ensure their vessel is well-maintained and compliant with the industry’s highest standards. From crew training and safety to operational efficiency, yacht management services provide the peace of mind that owners need to fully enjoy their yachts without getting bogged down by the complexities of day-to-day operations. At Hill Robinson USA, Barrett’s leadership ensures that yacht owners receive top-notch service, allowing them to enjoy their time on the water with confidence and ease. With a strong focus on professionalism and personalized care, Hill Robinson USA continues to be a leader in yacht management.