The Wedding Issue

Jun07 1-11-F 7/1/07 11:24 AM Page 1
FASH ION
LIFESTYLE
ART
E NTE RTA I N M E NT
JUNE 2007
FREE
The
Wedding
Issue
What to Do
Before “I Do”
City of Love
Rings of Romance
The Shogun’s Dowry
Titan Flexes
Its Muscles
yellowmags.com
Jun07 1-11-F 7/1/07 11:24 AM Page 2
T H E
P U B L I S H E R
Photo by Debbie Porter
F R O M
Have you ever wondered why June is considered the prime month for weddings? While June enjoys this reputation, the fact of the matter
is that in the United States, more weddings occur in August. Aside from the fact that the weather is more accommodating in June and
that there are more flowers in bloom, its reign may have its foundation in ancient Rome. June is named after Juno, the Roman goddess
of marriage, fertility and all aspects of pregnancy and childbirth.
This month, we feature a number of articles relating to marriage and married people. You can read about the history of marriage that
may convince you that – notwithstanding the talk about the divorce rate – we live in the most romantic period in human history. Perhaps
that is why more than a third of the 2.25 million marriages that take place in the U.S. are actually remarriages. Yes, we are a society of
romantics. And if Paris conjures romantic images in your mind, there are hints of amore on the pages within.
We also touch on some practical aspects of weddings that include choices of venues, florists, dress designers, and the bakers of cakes.
Or, if you prefer, you can hand over all those decisions to a wedding planner.
On that note, I hope you find our Wedding Issue very engaging!
Viet Hoang
Publisher
Jun07 1-11-F 7/1/07 11:24 AM Page 3
The color yellow has played a recurrent symbolic role throughout
the history of Asian culture. It symbolizes the earth that sustains
all life, yet has been embraced by Buddhist monks as an expression
of unchallenged power. Such is the role of yellow: always revered
but in different ways under different circumstances.
The mission of Yellow Magazine is to introduce our readers to the
artistic , fashion, lifestyle and entertainment contributions made
by Asian Americans. It is our hope that the depth and breadth of
the topics and events we cover do justice to the pride that the color
yellow has represented throughout the millennia. As the publisher
of the Yellow Magazine, my last name is Hoang, which also means
yellow. Just as I am proud of my name, I am proud of my heritage,
and proud of Yellow Magazine.
Publisher
Viet Hoang, President of MV Media
Editor
Fashion Photographer
Henri Merceron
Debbie Porter
Fashion Editor
Stylist
Marc Sifuentes
Kimberly Delape
Arts and Entertainment
Director
Assistant Stylist
Celeste Tammariello
Lifestyle Editor
Jessica Ritter
Travel Editor
Matt Sims
Contributing Writers
Philip Cusimano
Vivian Li
Creative Director
Jeff Martin
Social Photographer
Edna E. Reyna
Hair and Makeup
Andrea Schutter
Business Manager
Karla Montejo
Website
Leo Sipras
Web Marketing
Zulu Creative
Tina Zulu
zulucreative.com
Sopheavy Than
National Advertising
Verve Communications Group
325 N. St. Paul Street
Suite 2360
Dallas, TX 75201
214.965.9933 x106
vervecommunications.com
Local Advertising
713.528.6000 x103
[email protected]
Yellow Magazine
3040 Post Oak Blvd.
Suite 1440
Houston, TX 77056
p 713.528.6000
f 713.228.3186
yellowmags.com
Yellow Magazine is published monthly. All rights reserved. Reproduction in
whole or part of the magazine is strictly prohibited without the permission
of the publisher. Yellow Magazine is not responsible for any unsolicited
materials submitted. Subscriptions to Yellow Magazine may be purchased
for $36/12 issues. Mail check to: Yellow Magazine, 3040 Post Oak Blvd., Suite
1440, Houston, TX 77056.
On the cover:
Him
Armani 3 button suit
$1795 @ Saks Fifth
Avenue
Armani tuxedo shirt
$265 @ Saks Fifth
Avenue
Her
Carolina Herrera
wedding dress $4490.00
@ Saks Fifth Avenue
Vintage gloves @ Saks
Fifth Avenue
Choker, earrings and
bracelet private
collection of Kimberly
Delape
June 2007
Jun07 1-11-F 7/1/07 11:24 AM Page 4
Photos by Sopheavy Than
Page Parks’ 25th Anniversary
Held at Polo’s Signature Restaurant
Yellow Magazine celebrated the May issue release
along with Page Parkes’ 26th anniversary. The
event was hosted at the new trendy, Polo’s
Signature Restaurant located off of HYW59 and
Weslayan. Page Parkes introduced their 2007 new
faces with a mini fashion show of the latest styles
from Muse Boutique and the Factory People.
Sephora introduces the new CKN2U cologne by
Calvin Klein. Yellow Magazine would like to thank
Polo’s Signature Restaurant for providing the
delicious food and Lexis Florist for providing all
of the beautiful floral arrangements.
John Kim, Gordon Quan
Paige and Smoot Hull
Page Parkes Eveleth,
Pamela Tranpark
Stephanie Veale,
Yolanda Williamson
Arnold Vasquez, Kamal Bosamia Tina Hernandez, Sarah Jones
Michelle Martinez, Erik Bechtol, Tabitha Garcia Rose Chen, Sally Chen,
Phebe Chen
Jon Paul, Polo Becerra
Ann Cheng, Yuki Rogers
Thomas Chen, Julie Nguyen, Willis Chen, Carol Trong
Anna Kong, Miya Shay
Dikka Afidick,
Madelynn Campbell
Karla Montejo, Frank Perez
Rachel Duran, Viet Hoang, Page Parkes Eveleth
Clark Sha, Evelyn Cardenas
Mariam and Sue Habib
Teresa Mai, Vy Nguyen
Jun07 1-11-F 7/1/07 11:24 AM Page 5
Jun07 1-11-F 7/1/07 11:24 AM Page 6
C U LT U R E
The Highway to
Love and Marriage
Vena Amoris
b y H E N R I M E RC E RO N
We have all seen the depiction of prehistoric marriages where the caveman is carrying a
club in one hand while dragging his betrothed behind him by the hair with the other. Did
you ever wonder if there was a basis in fact or if cave people even got “married”, for that
matter? Perhaps I can shed some light on these questions and other points of interest
regarding the institution of marriage throughout the ages.
Archaeologists have uncovered evidence showing that cavemen tied
grass rings around the ankles of their “wives” as a way of marking their
property. Later, the rings were tied around fingers instead of ankles.
As you research marriage, you come to the conclusion that our
understanding of it is very different from how it actually existed throughout
the better part of human history. Whereas, we may be able to excuse the
politically incorrect manner by which cavemen laid claim to their women
because, after all, they were just cavemen (sorry Geico), the reality is that
the very foundation of marriage has centered around political and financial
decisions rather than love and romance. At least, this was the case for those
who occupied the highest echelons of society and, for all intents and purposes,
controlled the civilizations in which they lived.
The first civilization to recognize marriage from a legal standpoint was
the ancient Egyptians. Although Pharaohs entered into incestuous marriages
with their sisters and daughters to preserve the purity of their royal bloodlines,
the common folk entered into legally enforceable unions. The marriage
contract clearly stated the rights of each spouse and their respective duties.
Unlike many other societies throughout history, women were accorded
more rights, including the right to divorce. Another custom that was contrary
to most other cultures was that it was the groom who offered a dowry to
the bride’s parents to demonstrate his ability to support their daughter well.
It seems that the land of Cleopatra was more sensitive to women’s rights
than other societies.
The Egyptians introduced the concept of an engagement, allowing the
prospective spouses to get to know each other and test their compatibility.
It was at this time that the symbolic meaning of the engagement ring came
into being. A circle, which has neither a beginning nor an end, is the perfect
shape for a ring that represents timeless and endless love. Further, the reason
it is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand is because it was believed
that the vena amoris (the vein of love) began there and terminated at the
heart. Kind of like a highway to love.
In perhaps one of the most interesting tales of marital intrigue and drama,
Roman Emperor Augustus adopted rules regarding marriage and divorce
that shook the very foundation of his empire. And it all began with Egyptian
Queen Cleopatra.Augustus was
earlier known as Octavian,
cousin to Julius Caesar. He,
Marcus Lepedus and Mark
Anthony avenged the murder
of Caesar after which Anthony
aspired to become Emperor. In
order to defuse his ambition,
Octavian engineered the
marriage of his sister, Octavia,
to Anthony. Anthony’s love for
Cleopatra overtook him and
he married her while still married to Octavia. When he divorced Octavia,
Octavian waged war against Anthony and Cleopatra who committed joint
suicide as an alternative to surrender. In essence, a divorce caused a war.
The ordeal with Anthony and Cleopatra is considered to be one of the
driving forces that led to Augustus’ various decrees in 18 A.D. that were
intended to shore up the social ills he believed were threatening Rome’s
longevity. Among the upper classes, marriages were less frequent, fertility
was low and adultery was high. In response, he made adultery a crime
punishable by exile and loss of property; fathers were permitted to kill
daughters and their adulterous partners; husbands had to divorce adulterous
wives and could kill the adulterous partners. Higher taxes were assessed
unmarried persons and rewards were doled out to those who married and
produced offspring. Of interest, most of Augustus’ laws were subsequently
repealed as a result of Christian opposition. All, that is, except those that
dealt with intermarriages….such as between senators and actresses!
Augustus is credited with originating the adage, “Women. Can’t live with
The Egyptians introduced
the concept of an
engagement, allowing
the prospective spouses
to get to know each other
and test their compatibility.
6
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June 2007
them. Can’t live without them.” However, he stated it more eloquently in
a speech he delivered to the Senate in support of his Julian Marriage Laws,
which were intended to encourage marriage. “If we could survive without
a wife, citizens of Rome, all of us would do without that nuisance; but since
nature has so decreed that we cannot manage comfortably with them nor
live in any way without them, we must plan our lasting preservation rather
than for our temporary pleasure.” Hmmm. Not exactly a romantic endorsement
of marriage.
Some vestiges of upper class Roman marriages have reappeared in modern
day weddings.Wedding dresses were usually white (although made of wool);
brides wore veils that symbolized a commitment to be married until death
and to never seek divorce; and a chain of flowers was worn by the bride (a
bouquet, today).
During the Warring States period (402-201 B.C.), Chinese scholars
authored three books that embodied procedures known as the Three
Covenants and Six Rites, the essential elements needed to join two families
in marriage. Although the weddings themselves may have lasted several
weeks, the complicated set of protocols and bargaining meetings often lasted
years. Fortunetellers were enlisted to compare the birth dates of the intended
bride and groom to affirm a good match before deciding an “auspicious”
wedding date. Although the rituals were simplified during the period to gain
more consistent adherence, the central purpose – beneficially joining families
to ensure a succession of descendants – remained unchanged.The important
parties in the endless transactions leading to marriage were the families of
the bride and groom, and not the bride and groom themselves.
All across the globe, dowries were being gathered by the families of girls
to present to the families of prospective husbands to seal marriages that had
nothing to do with love or romance. It had the feel of a horse race on a
community level in which everyone was jockeying for the best spot within
the social order. It was the primary mechanism by which property and family
wealth was preserved and enhanced.
It was not until the Middle Ages (1066-1500) that laws were enacted
barring the payment of a “bride price” in any form including the exchange,
barter or sale of women for goods. “Arranged” weddings amongst the
aristocracy continued and involved contractual conditions surrounding the
treatment of property and inheritance.
It was also during this period (1090-1292) that the concept of romance
arose. The troubadours, composed of noblemen, knights and kings from
southern France boldly challenged the traditional Christian ideals of love,
marriage, manhood, virtue, and femininity. Although their ranks only
numbered in the hundreds, their influence sparked a fire that gained
momentum in the centuries that followed. Chaucer’s The Franklin Tale (part
of The Canterbury Tales written in the late 1300’s) may have provided the
first written reference that linked marriage and romance.
In 1549, England’s King Edward VI, declared the third finger of the left
hand as the “ring finger”, officially recognizing what ancient societies had
believed thousands of years before.
Weddings during Elizabethan times (1558-1603) most closely resemble
what we have today. They included bridesmaids, wedding rings, bouquets
of herbs or flowers and the exchange of vows. Beyond this veneer of romance,
however, the unions were still arranged and driven by the provision of a
dowry, which was considered a wedding “gift” versus an illegal “bride price”.
It was not until the Victorian era (1837-1901) that some semblance of
choice entered the spousal selection process. When women completed their
education at the age of seventeen or eighteen, they were provided new
clothes to make them as attractive as possible for their public debuts as
eligible prospective wives.Whereas, the upper class mingled in social settings,
the lower classes did so at church events. While most weddings were still
arranged, women were permitted to refuse their prospective husbands, if
they wished. For the most part, the men considered the affair to be one of
financial importance because the property of the women they married would
attach to them. Again, the overriding focus was financial rather than romantic.
It would seem that the institution of marriage as it has come to be known
has not existed in the form with which we are familiar until fairly recently
from an historical perspective. Notwithstanding the vestiges of the superstitions
and rituals that remain a part of such ceremonies throughout many parts of
the world, it is safe to say that we live in perhaps the romantic era in human
history. Civilization and technology have provided us with many luxuries
that our forefathers would have found unfathomable. Whereas, in centuries
past, the gifts defined a marriage, today, marriages are defined by love. And
that is the gift.
Yellow Magazine
Jun07 1-11-F 7/1/07 11:24 AM Page 7
Jun07 1-11-F 7/1/07 11:24 AM Page 8
T R AV E L
When in Paris
Say Je T’aime
Paris, France
b y M ATT SI M S
How can one think about love without thinking of Paris? Imagine strolling the tree-lined
streets past quaint cafes on your way to the Eiffel Tower with that special someone.
Everything about Paris echoes “romance.” What other city has the same combination of
beautiful public spaces, grand fountains, amazing art, and delicious food? And, of course,
who wants to buy perfume that was made in Munich or New Delhi?
While island vacations are a great honeymoon getaway, sooner or later
you have to go to Paris with someone you love. This 2,000 year-old city on
the Seine River is the perfect setting to start a new romance or to rekindle
an old one. Paris is also one of those rare places that faithfully capture your
interest, whether it’s your first visit or your 50th. It’s a vibrant, stimulating
city that reaches out to awaken and excite all of your senses, sometimes all
at the same time.
I suggest you find a nice hotel with the aim of either spoiling yourself
rotten or digging into the real Paris that tourists don’t often see. If you want
to spoil yourself, check into the Four Seasons Hotel George V or Hotel Le
Bristol. Both of these offer luxurious surroundings
which would even make Louis XVI envious. One
factor that must be considered beforehand, of course,
There are far too many interesting places to see and is that a room at one of these bastions of opulence
great restaurants in which to dine in this great city, can set you back about $1,300.00 a night. For much
less, you can ensconce yourself in a very nice authentic
but if it is romance you are after, the following places
French neighborhood away from the tourists and
should be on your sunset itinerary:
get a taste of the real Paris. I like the Hotel Leveque
in the Rue Cler neighborhood, as it allows you to
• Pont des Arts – Embrace here on the oldest
take up residence in a quiet area complete with
pedestrian bridge in Paris under which boats rush bakeries, a couple of decent cafés, wine shop, cheese
shop, bank, post office, and a place to buy fresh fruits
by on the river below while the Louvre and the
and vegetables. Absent are long lines of loud-talking
French Academy stand illuminated on either end. tourists to disturb your experience.
Wake up late in the morning and venture out
• Medeci Fountain – Hold hands and make plans
in search of the perfect croissant to enjoy with your
with the rush of water as your soundtrack in
coffee. Don’t forget to greet the shopkeepers with
a pleasant “bonjour” before you buy something.
this corner of the Luxembourg Garden replete
Parisians (Parisiens if you’re French) are very
with Greek statues and reflecting ponds.
courteous and do not immediately approach the
• George V Cafe – Gaze into each other’s eyes at counter to place their order without first offering
a friendly greeting.Then, explore the neighborhood
this rooftop cafe above a modern art museum
at your own pace. This is Europe, after all, and you
in the Pompidou Center. A captivating view of need to downshift from the fast American pace to
be able to savor the experience waiting for you at
the Paris skyline is yours.
every turn. Sharpen your eyes and ears to catch
• Saint Chapelle – Stand side by side at the
the sound and sights that envelop you. Enjoy the
occasional musician who plays amongst the
soaring stained glass windows and vaulted
pedestrians on the sidewalks. I stopped to watch a
ceilings of this chapel built by order of Louis the
young man and woman playing Bach on the cello
9th and listen to an evening performance of a
and violin as the street came to life around them.
“This is what I came here for,” I thought to myself.
nearby symphony.
Within minutes, at least three little old French ladies
• The Eiffel Tower – Kiss at sunset and watch as
passed me as they walked their poodles. “How
French can you get!” I thought.
the “City of Light” comes alive as it is lit in a
Later, I sat at an outdoor table at Café Du
clockwise spiral pattern.
Marche and watched people walking. Ready for
some inspiration? You should walk from here to the Eiffel Tower, even if you
plan to return to view it in the evening.This towering icon known throughout
the world as a place for lovers to meet offers different perspectives during
the day and at night.
Are you ready for even more inspiration? Catch the Metro to the Louvre.
Trying to see all 35,000 works of art in one trip is futile so, I would plan
on making multiple trips. No matter what time of the day you go, there will
be a crowd of people around the Mona Lisa. Ogle her briefly and then enjoy
Notre Dame Cathedral
8
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June 2007
Arc de Triomphe
the rest of the museum. Linger among the giant sculptures in Marly’s
Courtyard, an expansive area lit by natural sunlight through a glass roof in
the Richelieu Wing. People will filter in and out, but at times you can feel
as if you have the space all to yourself. You will marvel at the incredible
detail carved into the stone, especially the musculature of the figures.
Search for the Sully Wing of the museum in which you will find the
famous armless statue of Venus de Milo. You can expect a crowd parked
around it, as well. Although not as old or large, I prefer Falconet’s “The
Bather,” another exquisite representation of the goddess. You should still
have time for a brief visit to Napoleon’s lavish apartments before you begin
to suffer from “museum fatigue.” Whatever you do, take your time and don’t
rush. You can always come back. Far too many visitors to Paris make the
mistake of trying to run past all the major sites without ever pausing to
enjoy them and to reflect. Just like romance, appreciation for a place takes
time to develop.
Perhaps on another day you’ll want to visit Notre-Dame Cathedral and
climb to the top for a great view of the city and the gargoyle statues which
guard the roof. It took 180 years to build, and you might feel like the line
to climb to the top takes you slightly longer than that, so if you are not
prepared for a long wait, just go inside and see the incredible stained-glass
windows, ornate sculptures, and other features of this Gothic masterwork.
If you still have not seen enough art, make sure you visit the Musée
d'Orsay to view the works of artists like Monet, Van Gogh, Cézanne and
Gauguin.The ground floor sculpture gallery also houses incredible sculptures
by Rodin surrounded by thousands of rose bushes.The Picasso Museum and
the National Museum of Modern Art are also fantastic places to spend an
afternoon after you have loaded up on fruit tarts and espresso from local cafés.
When you feel the need for a taste of authentic Asian food, take the Metro
to the 13th Arondissement and sample some of the busy Vietnamese and
Chinese restaurants in this distinctive neighborhood. The buildings, shops,
and stores are not particularly noteworthy, but when you are hungry for pho,
rice, or noodles instead of coq au vin, steak au poivre, and soufflé, you’ll be
glad you ventured away from the pretty sites for a taste of something different.
At least one day should be reserved for a short excursion to the palace
at Versailles to see how even kings can live beyond their means. Take the
train and try to arrive by 9:00 a.m. to enjoy the best of the palace interior
and the outer gardens. Wandering through the opulently decorated halls and
the enormous gardens, you can imagine how Louis the XVI and Marie
Antoinette must have felt when they had to leave.
Back in Paris by the late afternoon, you’ll probably be planning a nighttime
walk down the Champs-Elysées past some of the most famous shops anywhere
in the world. Start at the Arc de Triomphe, the monument built in honor
of France’s armies, where speedy Citroens now race tour buses around the
traffic circle.Then, walk past all the shops including Cartier, Mont Blanc, Bally,
and Luis Vuitton. As you continue toward the Louvre, you will enjoy a romantic
stroll around the glass pyramid designed by Chinese-American architect I.M.
Pei. The courtyard is stunning at night, like so many sites in Paris.
If you aren’t feeling the romance of Paris by now, it might be time to
take a night cruise down the Seine River. From April to November, a
sightseeing cruise leaves Quai de Montebello (at the foot of Notre-Dame)
every 30 minutes. There is also a dinner cruise, which departs at 8:30 p.m.
for a little over $100 Euros, including the wine.
So are you ready to live life to the fullest? Are you ready for romance?
Then whisper those five little words that no one can resist, “Come to Paris
with me.”
Fountain and gardens at Versailles
I.M. Pei’s iconic glass pyramid at the Louvre
Jun07 1-11-F 7/1/07 10:46 AM Page 9
Jun07 1-11-F 7/1/07 10:46 AM Page 10
C U LT U R E
The Shogun’s
Wedding Gift
Lacquered to Perfection
b y VI VI AN LI
Until recently, no lacquer cosmetic or dressing set from
the Tokugawa royal family existed outside of Japan. The
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston has acquired the Shogun’s
Wedding Gift, a brilliant 18th century chodo lacquer set.
The distinctive aoi Tokugawa crest (the trifoliate pattern
enclosed by a circle) marks each piece.
During Japan’s Tokugawa period (1603-1867), also
known as the Edo period, exquisite lacquer cosmetic and
dressing sets were commissioned as bridal trousseaux for
women who married into the Tokugawa clan. It was
considered the highest honor to become a member of the
Tokugawa clan (even by marriage) since the ruling shoguns
(generals) were drawn from it.
Since the dawn of Japanese history, lustrous lacquerware
has been greatly esteemed for its artistry. Floral designs
created via the maki-e (“sprinkled picture”) technique, in
which gold and silver particles or leaf are applied to lacquer
while still damp, richly enhances the grandeur of the
Shogun’s Wedding Gift.
The set includes numerous components, such as a
dressing table, washing basin, mirror stand, cosmetic boxes,
brushes and combs. All are in amazingly perfect condition.
The lacquer dowry was often nothing more than a means
by which wealth and social status were displayed and was
not intended for regular use.
The set also includes what was an essential component
of any 17th to 19th century Japanese cosmetic set – a tooth
blackening set. Since ancient times, Japanese aristocrats of
both genders blackened their teeth because it was believed
to be healthy and deemed attractive. The practice, referred
to as ohaguro, became so popular by the Tokugawa period
that all married women, regardless of social status,
blackened their teeth.
The gilt bronze tooth blackening set in the Shogun’s
Wedding Gift consists of a long, thin brass plate (watashikane),
basin with handles, spouted ewer, and small bowl. A dark
liquid made from oxidized iron would be placed in the ewer
and set on the plate positioned on top of the basin. It would
then be poured into the bowl, mixed with an adhesive powder,
and applied to the teeth with a brush. The basin would be
filled with water to rinse the mouth afterwards.
Much can be learned about what was considered to be
ideal feminine beauty during Tokugawa Japan simply by
studying this stunning dressing and cosmetic ensemble.
Dr. Laura Allen, a reputed scholar in Edo period art, will
deliver the 14th Annual Asia Society/MFAH Asian Art Lecture
on the Shogun’s Wedding Gift on Sunday, June 3, 2007, at
2:00 p.m. at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Her talk,
“Talented and Beautiful, Virtuous and Sexy: Picturing Women
in Edo Period Japan” will elaborate on the use of the lacquer
chodo and the majesty of its owner as reflected in the set.
This important acquisition was made possible by the
generous support of Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift America,
Inc., as well as a number of other distinguished patrons,
including Dale and Nanako Tingleaf, the Japan Business
Association of Houston, Stephen Hamilton, Dr. Ninan and
Sushila Mathew, Keiji Asakura, and Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Lee
Dunn III.
For more information about the lecture contact
[email protected].
Top:
Teeth blackening set,part of the Shogun’s Wedding Gift
Japanese, Tokugawa period (1603-1868), 18th century
Gilt bronze
Gift of Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift America Inc. in honor of its 15th
anniversary; Nanako and Dale Tingleaf; the Japan Business Association of
Houston; Stephen Hamilton; Dr. Ninan and Sushila Mathew; Barbara E.
Butler; Keiji Asakura; and Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Lee Dunn III
Middle:
Te-arai [hand wash basin], part of the Shogun’s Wedding Gift
Japanese, Tokugawa period (1603-1868), 18th century
Wood with gold and silver maki-e designs on lacquer ground
Gift of Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift America Inc. in honor of its 15th
anniversary; Nanako and Dale Tingleaf; the Japan Business Association of
Houston; Stephen Hamilton; Dr. Ninan and Sushila Mathew; Barbara E.
Butler; Keiji Asakura; and Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Lee Dunn III
Bottom:
Mirror Box, part of the Shogun’s Wedding Gift
Japanese, Tokugawa period (1603-1868), 18th century
Wood with gold and silver maki-e designs on lacquer ground
Gift of Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift America Inc. in honor of its 15th
anniversary; Nanako and Dale Tingleaf; the Japan Business Association of
Houston; Stephen Hamilton; Dr. Ninan and Sushila Mathew; Barbara E.
Butler; Keiji Asakura; and Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Lee Dunn III
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; Gift of Mitsubishi Caterpillar Forklift America Inc. in honor of its 15th anniversary; Nanako and Dale Tingleaf; the Japan Business
Association of Houston; Stephen Hamilton; Dr. Ninan and Sushila Mathew; Barbara E. Butler; Keiji Asakura; and Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Lee Dunn III
Jun07 1-11-F 7/1/07 10:46 AM Page 11
Jun07 12-15-F 7/1/07 11:45 AM Page 1
A N T IC I PAT IO N
Photographer
Debbie Porter
Hair and Makeup
Andrea Schutter
Him
Armani 3 button suit $1795 @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Armani tuxedo shirt $265 @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Her
Carolina Herrera wedding dress $4490 @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Vintage gloves @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Choker, earrings and bracelet private collection of Kimberly Delape
Stylist
Kimberly Delape
Assistant Stylist
Edna E. Reyna
Location
Hotel Derek | Houston
Models
Sixia Wang
Scott Kondziela
12 |
June 2007
Yellow Magazine
Jun07 12-15-F 7/1/07 11:45 AM Page 2
Him
Etro Shirt $340 @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Gucci pants $455 @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Her
Marc Bouwer dress $550 @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Vanessa Riley earrings $298 @ Vanessa Riley of London
June 2007
| 13
Jun07 12-15-F 7/1/07 11:45 AM Page 3
Him
Armani suit pants @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Her
Slip by Hanky Panky $96 @ Top Drawer
14 |
June 2007
Yellow Magazine
Jun07 12-15-F 7/1/07 11:45 AM Page 4
Him
DG top $895 @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Etro pants $360 @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Her
Pucci top $690 @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Pucci skirt $495 @ Saks Fifth Avenue
Yellow patent shoes by Christian Louboutin $640 @ Saks Fifth Avenue
June 2007
| 15
Jun07 16-24-F 7/1/07 11:42 AM Page 1
E S S E N T I A LS
We’ve Searched
So You Don’t Have To!
Wedding Essentials
La Victoria
cakes
7138 Lawndale Ave. Houston, TX 77023 713.503.5991
A fairytale wedding involves knights in shining armor, the
perfect in-laws and a wedding cake fit for a king. The first two
are out of our hands, but Yellow Magazine has a solution for
the cake. La Victoria’s talented pastry chefs can cook up
masterpieces that will fulfill any bride’s fairytale dreams.
Detailed sugar flowers and classic designs produce an elegant
and timeless cake that will change the way in which you think
of wedding cakes forever. La Victoria is willing to go that extra
mile to make sure your wedding is as fairytale-perfect as
possible.
Jungle Café
9110 Bellaire Blvd. #A Houston, TX 77036 713.772.4361
From handmade sugar decorations to elegant artistic designs,
Jungle’s wedding cakes are definitely something to go wild
about. The variety of flavors and decorations that they use to
create their distinctive cakes will further make your wedding
unforgettable.
Olympic Bakery
9256 Bellaire Blvd. Houston, TX 77036 713.772.4361
Olympic's cakes will fulfill any wedding party’s expectations.
Dedicated cake artists, shown through their detailed finishes,
make sure that each wedding cake will measure up to this
once-in-a-lifetime moment.
St. Honor Bakery
10600 Bellaire Blvd. #109 Houston, TX 77036 713.270.6525
St. Honor knows that weddings are a family affair. With their
homey touch and patient chefs, they are prepared to cook up
a wedding cake that the whole family will appreciate.
Cake by La Victoria Bakery
St. Pucchi Sposa
Elegant re-embroidered and beaded Alencon lace bodice with
on the shoulder sleeves and flattering V-neckline. The wrap
around draped peau de soie modified A-line skirt features hand
made silk roses and is finished at the back with a chapel train.
Available at Misora Bridal.
Ezoani Bacia
Scoopneck lace beaded bodice with French Taffeta skirt. Available at
Parvani Vida.
dresses
Parvani Vida
7107 Hwy. 6 South Houston, TX 77083 281.498.9292 parvanivida.com
Parvani Vida is a one-stop shop for brides planning their perfect wedding. Jeannie Nguyen, owner of Parvani Vida, has more than 20
years experience designing wedding dresses for brides who simply cannot find that perfect dress. Jeannie is an expert in collaborating
with brides-to-be to design the wedding dresses as they envisioned – the wedding dresses of their dreams.
Jenny Kim Couture
2524 Amherst Houston, TX 77005 713.528.0500 jkbridal.com
Jenny Kim Couture is another terrific option to consider for all your wedding attire needs. Jenny offers incomparable service that
consistently satisfies brides with custom gowns that provide custom fits. From creating and altering stunning wedding gowns to ring
pillows and accessories, Jenny provides a wide variety of fine fabrics and classic detailing at a location that is easy to find that has an
ambiance in which you just know “love is in the air”.
Misora Bridal
10613 Bellaire Blvd. Suite A-120 Houston, TX 77072 281.564.7270 misorabridal.com
Misora is one of Houston's newest full service bridal boutiques. Nestled just off of the Sam Houston Parkway, it offers a touch of fun
and sophistication to Bellaire Boulevard. The boutique is a splash of feminine pink walls in a boudoir atmosphere. Misora prides itself
on providing a friendly and pressure free experience. Come let owner Jeannie Truong help you find the gown to wear as you walk down
that aisle of matrimony!
flowers
16 |
Hand Tied Bouquet
Elegant Cascading Bridal Bouquet
Fragrant Bouquet
Designed with blue hydrangeas, pink calla lilies,
and sparkling stones to create a stunning bouquet
with an abundance of color.
Flower Art “from the heart”
832.566.0927
Lexis Florist’s signature white orchid,
white roses and yellow Calla Lilies
713.227.6737
Clean and simple designed
with Oriental lilies, Hyacinth,
Peonies and Priceless roses.
From The Secret Floral Garden
832.338.8493
June 2007
Jun07 16-24-F 7/1/07 11:42 AM Page 2
rings
Tiffany & Co.
Minh Tri
Gems by Chao
Redefines traditional taste with striking freshness. Each movement
creates an extraordinary display of light, which continuously bursts
forth with intensity. The Tiffany Novo is paired with matching
diamond bands of platinum, 18k yellow gold and 18k rose gold.
Available at Tiffany & Co.. tiffany.com 800.526.0649
Classic bridal design with contemporary flair. Jeff Cooper platinum
is simply perfect for the bride and groom. Available at Minh Tri.
minhtri.com 281.933.8500
Timeless elegance that is always fashionable, the Asscher cut Art
Deco style platinum ring is covered in diamonds. Available at
Gems by Chao. gemsbychao.com 713.626.0431
Hotel Derek
photos
The Corinthium
Kim Son
kimson.com
Best known for traditional wedding receptions, Kim Son offers five different
locations in Houston from which to choose. With more than 25 years of
experience, it is safe to say that your wedding reception will be stress free.
Kim Son offers you a choice of a traditional 9-course meal or plated meal,
full bar service, complimentary valet parking, ice sculpture and champagne
for the bride and groom. Food selection determines price range. Space is
included. You are advised to make your reservations early.
For more information call Tao La at 713.875.4918.
Hotel Derek
Kim Son
Photos by John Ly
The joy, the tears, the excitement, the anticipation, the finishing
touches and the final moment, how do you capture it all? Wedding
photographers vary drastically, so finding the right one could be a big
hassle. We have found some of the best wedding photographers in
the Houston area to take the load off of your shoulders. These
photographers are devoted artists who will make sure that every
aspect of your wedding is captured beautifully, so that you and your
loved ones can relive those moments again and again.
venues
hotelderek.com
If a fashionable wedding is what you seek, Hotel Derek’s stylish ambiance
can seat up to 350 guests or 500 standing guests for receptions. Hotel Derek
will be happy to coordinate all the details involved in producing a flawless
event, from the ceremony to the reception. Complimentary bridal suite with
a bottle of champagne for the bride and groom are provided. Prices range
from $2,000 to $14,000. Valet parking only. For more information call
713.961.3000.
The Corinthian
Photo by John Ly
thecorinthianhouston.com
For those couples interested in a classic wedding accented by hints of drama, The Corinthian is a full service venue located
downtown in a magnificent neoclassical historic building. They provide everything needed to orchestrate the perfect wedding
ceremony and reception. The renowned caterers, Jackson and Company, will prepare and serve the food at the reception. The
Corinthian recognizes that wedding preparations may be overwhelming so they offer additional services related to assisting you
with invitations, floral arrangements, entertainment, wedding cakes, and limousines. The facility can seat up to 550 guests and
accommodate up to 1500 standing guests for receptions. Price range is based upon the day, time and date. For more information
contact Boyd Bryan at 713.222.2002.
planners
Have you considered hiring a wedding planner?
If not, you may want to reconsider. All you need do is consult family
members and friends who have actually planned a wedding. Invariably,
they will tell you that it was one of the most stressful times they
have ever endured. It is not uncommon for that stress to spread to
all involved. Wedding planners, such as Audrey Hu Gonzalez, are
experts in preparing for that big day. She knows what works best
and what should be avoided. What may take you a hundred hours
to prepare will take her much less time. She can direct you to the
best place to get the dress you want, the best venue for the
reception you want, the ideal caterer or florist, and help with
countless other decisions that will be in keeping with your budget
and personality. She can help you with the design and theme
of your wedding, act as liaison between you and other
parties, and even get discounts not available to you on your
own. It is so unfortunate when someone is paying large sums
of money for a party that they cannot enjoy. Audrey can serve
as the person you designate to whom all problems are referred
during the wedding, leaving you to be included in all those
memorable pictures (with a genuine smile on your face!). The
fees charged by wedding planners range from $2,000 to $5,000,
not an unreasonable amount to preserve your sanity while
allowing you to enjoy the occasion as you should.
John Ly Photography
Ky Signature
7141 Thrush Dr.
Houston, TX 77087
Phone: 832.830.8836
[email protected]
johnlyphotography.com
3400 Fannin
Houston, TX 77004
Phone: 713.647.8505
[email protected]
kysignature.com
Mark Chen Photography
Sam Yuan
Phone: 281.208.MARK(6275)
[email protected]
markchengphotography.com
Phone: 832.309.8026
[email protected]
yuanphotography.com
toasts
Bouquet of Liquid Gold
This month, Martell launches its new
cognac “Martell Creation Grand Extra”.
It is a marriage of fifty and one hundred
year old brandies from the renowned
Borderies and Grande Champagne
regions of France. The resulting bouquet
that is formed slowly releases a
succession of aromas that have developed
over the course of years - dry fruits (figs,
prunes, raisins) and oranges, with
hints of walnut, pepper and
cedar. The taste simply
improves with every sip.
$299
Available at
fine liquor stores.
Events by Audrey
281.261.8421 eventsbyaudrey.com
June 2007
| 17
Jun07 16-24-F 7/1/07 11:42 AM Page 3
Photos by Sopheavy Than
ACC Gala
Held at the Westin Galleria
“Reach for a Magical Dream”, the 12th
Annual Asian Chamber of Commerce
Gala, was held at the Westin Galleria
Ballroom with over 900 guests. Dr. Paul
Chu, the president of The Hong Kong
University of Science and Technology
and the executive director of Texas
Center for Superconductivity at the
University of Houston was the keynote
speaker. Many guest celebrities were
honored, including Yul Kwon, Brian
Ching, and Lauren Anderson.
Na Li, Yul Kwon
Andrea and Tony La
Yuki Rogers, Chairperson
Jean Wilson, Michael Alvarez Diana Wong, Elsie Huang, Betty and Kim Gee
Etsuko Kamo, Consul General Kamo Glen Gondo,
Congressman Al Green
Ken Chang, Brian Ching, Gordon Quan,
CC Huang, Faisal Amin
Jun07 16-24-F 7/1/07 11:42 AM Page 4
Jun07 16-24-F 7/1/07 11:42 AM Page 5
P E O P L E
Managing the Titan
in Property and Philanthropy
by H EN R I MERC ERO N
Mandy and William Kao
William and Mandy Kao are the twin engines that have thrust their real estate investment, development and property
management company, Titan Management, to the pinnacle of success. They have achieved a happy balance that
dovetails their business interests with their charitable ones. Whereas, William’s passion is in real estate, Mandy’s is in
Photographer: Debbie Porter
philanthropy. This mix has proven to be a successful model for the couple.
Mandy and William Kao
William, your passion for real estate ignited
at the age of sixteen when you acquired your
first rental property. How did this come about?
I saw a “For Sale” sign in front of a fourplex adjoining one of my father’s rental
properties. I asked him to buy it and he said
he did not want any more “headaches”.Then,
perhaps half-seriously, he encouraged me to
buy it. The down payment was $45,000 and
I only had $8,000 from working at the family’s
supermarket and shopping center. So, I asked
my sister and my father to come in as investors.
Having watched my father for many years
negotiate with bankers and realtors, I was
prepared for the hardball negotiations with
the seller. My offer was finally accepted. I
shopped for the best mortgage rate but since
I had no credit history, my Dad had to cosign.While we owned the property, I handled
maintenance, tenant issues and rent collection.
After a few years, we sold it at a hefty profit.
Mandy, your philanthropic passion also ignited at a very young age.
In my teens, I started sponsoring children from third world countries
with my Mom’s credit card. I also got my friends to sell our clothes to one
another and donated the proceeds to the charity of our choice. Another
activity that was particularly gratifying was visiting seniors at nursing homes
where I sang karaoke. Community service, whether big or small, has always
been a part of my life.
Last year, you won an award from ACORN for helping Katrina evacuees living
in your apartments. In May, you helped coordinate a “clean-up” in Chinatown
with the Asian American Business Council as part of the Keep Houston
Beautiful program. What or who inspired your philanthropic spirit?
My Mom was my role model for community service as she dedicated
her life to serving others. While my Dad was the president of his own
company, my mom became the president of a number of non-profit groups
and raised a lot of money for the needy. Even today, she continues to be a
regular volunteer.
Are you working on anything else that is new this year?
I just joined the board of the Asian American Family Services, which is
the only agency dedicated to serving the mental health needs of Asian Americans
in greater Houston and the southwestern U.S. If a client qualifies, he can see
a licensed counselor for as little as $20 per session. The agency provides
prevention oriented programs as well as ones developed for crisis intervention.
In addition, they provide youth, senior and marriage counseling programs.
William, tell me a little about Titan Management.
We are a privately held real estate investment, management and development
firm based in Houston with a portfolio that consists of multi-family, retail
and office properties. In the multi-family market, we seek underperforming
and under-managed assets in key markets such as Las Vegas, Phoenix, and
Houston that we can acquire at attractive prices. We invest our resources to
improve landscaping, curb appeal, security lighting, signage and the interior
of the units. In other words, we give the property a cosmetic facelift with a
new office and attractive models. Mandy is in charge of operations such as
human resources, tenant relations, collections, leasing, marketing and promotions.
Our most recent projects include developments of Class A office buildings
and retail shopping centers which have yielded attractive returns. Therefore,
we plan to continue to expand our commercial developments by working
with our investors and partners and creating win-win opportunities for
everyone involved.
Mandy, where did you develop your business skills?
In college, I started a real estate investment company and an image consultant
firm called Image Etc. The image consulting firm was fun. In addition to
helping men and women improve their image, I helped small clothing and
jewelry stores increase their sales through customized marketing and promotional
campaigns. Irrespective of the business you are in, you have to manage the
“4Ps” – product, price, place and promotion. Adjusting a few variables can
“make or break” your business.
Is your business centered around the Asian community?
William: No, we do not own any properties in the New Chinatown. But
with an influx of new development along Bellaire, we decided to join the
Asian American Business Council to help address safety concerns and to also
promote this area, which has such great potential.
I am the chairman for the AABC Beautification Committee and we are
going to have a contest where the public can help design a landmark
Eventually, we hope to have a gateway entrance like the landmark
in San Francisco to make Chinatown a hot spot for visitors and Houstonians.
Mandy, you offer an array of socially responsible programs/classes to tenants
at the apartment complexes you manage such as financial management, job
training/placement, GED preparation, ESL (English as a second language),
after school and summer lunch programs, and provide information about rent
assistance resources. Why?
We want to make a difference in each apartment property that we manage.
I like to work with tenants who can benefit from the programs we offer,
which can literally be life changing. Even if one person improves his or her
life from something they learn, it is worth it.
Tell us about the “Giving Circle.” It sounds interesting.
According to The Foundation Center, 2006 Giving Trends, Asian
American/Pacific Islanders (AAPI) represent 4% or 12 million people. However,
this group only receives .4% of funding support from mainstream foundations.
I have joined with Rogene Calvert of the Mayor’s Office to explore ways
to engage the Asian community to effect change within the AAPI community.
We are currently looking at a model called a “Giving Circle” that mirrors a
social investment club in which individuals combine resources to give to Asian
non-profit organizations. We are hoping to increase the number of younger
Asians who join this effort by keeping the donation amount affordable.
20 |
June 2007
monument for Southwest Chinatown along the Bellaire corridor between
South Gessner Road and Beltway 8. Eventually, we hope to have a gateway
entrance like the landmark in San Francisco to make Chinatown a hot spot
for visitors and Houstonians.
Last year, our group, which is comprised of banks, developers and
apartment owners on Bellaire, donated more than $100,000 to fund our
projects. We have made huge strides with help and support from the public,
the City and HPD.
Conventional wisdom suggests that spouses should carefully consider working
together, lest conflict at the office crossover into the marriage.What are your thoughts
about the conventional wisdom? Do you have any sage advice for other couples?
William and I have been working together ever since we got married ten
years ago.We work well together because, first, we are very compatible. I read
a study in college which stated that the number one factor that determines
if a couple is going to stay together is not love, but rather, compatibility. Second,
we complement each other. Fortunately, we are able to share different
responsibilities because my strength is William’s weakness and vice versa.
Although I know I am a capable, independent woman, I also know that one
household cannot have two heads.Therefore, I have always placed my husband
first. The final word is always his and I never nag him or tell him “I told you
so”. As a result, our marriage has literally been quarrel free.
William: No argument there!
Yellow Magazine
Jun07 16-24-F 7/1/07 11:42 AM Page 6
The Asian American Business Council (AABC) is
holding a design competition to create a Landmark
Monument to promote the new Houston Southwest
Chinatown. The goal of the monument is to create
JUDGING PANEL
AWARDS
Viet Hoang
Yellow Magazine
James Chen
E-bao Magazine
Kenneth Li
Chairman AABC,
President Century 21 South West
William Kao
Chairman AABC - Beautification Committee,
President Titan Management
Edward I. Tsao
AABC Beautification Committee
a new landmark image that will better define the
entrance to the new Houston Southwest Chinatown.
Jackson Chang AABC Beautification Committee
This will help enhance quality of life and improve
Wind Huang
AABC Beautification Committee
Ken Chang
AABC Beautification Committee,
City Bank Texas
the pedestrian experience along Bellaire Boulevard
between Beltway 8 and S. Gessner Rd., while also
generating increased public awareness and
promoting the interests within the community to
provide an environment to attract more businesses
and customers to the area.
Kevin Yu
AABC Beautification Committee,
Dreampod
Winning entries will be selected based on the quality, creativity
and feasibility of presented projects, and clarity in communicating
and reflecting the Asian culture.
1st place:
$500 cash + Yao Ming autographed basketball
2nd place: $200 cash
3rd place: $100 cash
In addition, the winning entries will be featured in Yellow Magazine
and E-bao Magazine
HOW TO ENTER
Rules and regulations, along with the downloadable entry form,
are available at www.aabctx.com or www.yellowmags.com/aabc.
There are no experience requirements – whether you are a
student, architect, artist, or just a creative person with a
great idea – you can enter your design.
Jun07 16-24-F 7/1/07 11:42 AM Page 7
Photos by Sopheavy Than
Shogun’s Wedding Gift Reception
Held at The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, hosted a
small intimate sake and sushi gathering in
the Asian Art Galleries of the Caroline Weiss
Law Building, to thank the donors of the
Shogun’s Wedding Gift, an 18th century chodo
lacquer set. The acquisition was made possible
by the generous support of Mitsubishi
Caterpillar Forklift America, Dale and Nanako
Tingleaf, the Japan
Business Association of Houston,
Stephen Hamilton,
D r. N i n a n a n d
Sushila Mathew,
Keiji Asakura, and
Mr. and Mrs. Jesse
Lee Dunn III.
Kazuyuki Oshiro, Keiji Asakura
Maeda Yuji, Shibata Masato, Mitsuru Murase
Hideaki Ninomiya, Consul General Kamo
Miho and Hitoshi
Hasegawa
Toshi Koseki, Tina Tan
Sayoko and Yasuo Kuriyama
Sushila Mathew, Susan Rutherford
22 |
June 2007
Peter Marzio
Steve Hamilton, Linda and John Barrett
Yoko Ninomiya,
Dale and Nanako Tingleaf
Yuki Rogers, Christine Starkman
Jun07 16-24-F 7/1/07 11:42 AM Page 8
W I N E
You Should Be Seeing Red
This Summer
The Spanish are Coming!
b y P H I LI P C U SIM ANO
As I recently poked around the wine market with my
antenna ever keen, I noticed an influx of Spanish table wines
onto the American scene, an apparent quest to capture a larger
share of our wine purchases. Internationally, there is an
overabundance of wine and the size of the U.S. wine consuming
population makes it a very
Some key terms you might find helpful in
desirable market in which
selecting a wine include the following:
to participate.
Tinto.... red wine
First, some history. Spain
is a prodig ious wine
Blanca.... white wine
producer and has always
Crianza.... aged two years, at
been a major player,
least 6 months in wood
i n t e r n a t i o n a l l y. T h e
Reserva.... aged 3 years, at least
country’s most renowned
1 year in wood
export and its best wine
Gran reserva.... aged at least 2 years
(arguably, one the world’s
in wood and 3 years
greatest) is Sherry, a fortified
in the bottle
wine. Unfortunately, the
Bodega.... winery
best Sherries are rare and
difficult to find. On the
Cosecha, vendimia.... vintage year
other hand, Spanish
sparkling wines known as “Cava” are plentiful and have been
a major marketing success story in the U.S. as evidenced by
the sales volume of major brands such as Cordorniu and
Frexinet.
Now, it appears that Spain is making a concentrated effort
to attain a greater share of the table wine market. I say, “bring
it on!” There can never be too much good table wine from
which to choose.
Some tips to remember: Spanish wines are organized into
regions that are defined by specific geographical boundaries
where winemaking techniques are regulated. This system is
known as the Denoiminacion de Origen, or D.O., and is
similar to the Italian D.O.C. and the French A.O.C.The D.O.
operates as a quality control mechanism. As you shop Spanish
table wine labels you will note the name of the producer
followed by a D.O. designation.The most famous and perhaps
highest quality D.O. is Rioja. Other registered areas include
Calatayud, Campo de Borja, La Mancha, Penedes, Priorato,
Rias Baixas, Ribera del Duero, Rueda,Valencia, and Ribeiro
to list a few.
Each D.O. designation will use the grape types indigenous
to its own area to produce the wines. The grape varieties are
typically listed somewhere on the front or back labels. The
strength of Spanish table wines lies in their red grape varieties,
and the best of the lot is Tempranillo. Other red grape varieties
include Graciano, Garnacha, Mazuelo, Carinena, Mencia, and
Monstrell. The white grape with the greatest availability is
Albarino. The governing body of the respective D.O. (the
Consejo Regulador) not only determines the grape types to
be used but also regulates winemaking techniques such as
blending and aging.
There is a large selection of these wines on retail shelves
with prices ranging from $5.00 to $100.00 per bottle. Spanish
wines are also becoming more prevalent on restaurant wine
lists. The wines are interesting and many of the reds offer fine
quality.
Marques del Puerto, Rioja 02
This Spanish red is a Rioja (D.O.) from the Bodega, Marques del
Puerto, and is primarily made with the Tempranillo grape. The
wine is Crianza meaning it has been aged for two years of which
at least 6 months was in oak. This particular cuvee spent a year
in Bordeaux type wood containers. The wine offers a bouquet
of violets, a teasing hint of red berries with a seductive trace of
sweetness. The body is medium with soft tannins. You can taste
the soil of Spain as you sip and are left with a soft quick finish
that entices your palate to want more. Serve with red meats and
medium weight dishes. $12.00
Columbia Crest Merlot Grand Estates 04
Washington state has always produced elegant easy to drink
merlot. The climate is just right with warm days and cool nights.
The range in temperature from day to night can be as great as
40 degrees. Columbia Crest, whose parent company is American
Tobacco, has been producing quality wines at great prices since
the early eighties and is a major force in the Pacific Northwest.
This offering is very nice, presenting an inviting bouquet of fresh
flowers and a well balanced easy to consume body of blackberry
fruit with a note of underlying sweetness, “A cool breeze”.
Serve with lighter red meats or grilled chicken or simply “chill”
by the pool. $9.00
Palandri Chardonnay Western Australia 04
This winery is located in the highly regarded western region of
Australia where many believe the best wines are found. And, of
course, in the “Down Under”, Aussie winemakers are well known
for their craft and craftiness. They do what it takes to get the
best out of each and every vintage. This chardonnay presents
tropical fruits with a whisper of cream bulked up by pervasive
notes of French oak. The wine is medium bodied, with a mouthfilling taste that is quite substantive. A very good wine that
should pair well with seafood $12.99
Wines available at Spec's Wines, Spirits, & Finer Foods, various
locations. Visit specsonline.com for the store nearest you.
Jun07 16-24-F 7/1/07 11:42 AM Page 9