92NY Presents “Voice and the Violin” Joshua Bell, violin & Larisa Martinez, soprano October 20, 2022
Leading NYC cultural institution welcomes audiences to a live, in-person opener for their 22/23 season
The 92nd Street Y, New York (92NY), one of New York’s leading cultural venues, presents:
“Voice and the Violin”: Joshua Bell and Larisa Martinez
on October 20, 2022 at 7:30pm ET at the Kaufmann Concert Hall.
Joshua Bell, Larisa Martinez, and Peter Dugan open the season with an array of arias, solos, and duets specially arranged for them.

Violinist Joshua Bell
The concert will also be available for viewing online for 72 hours from time of broadcast.
Tickets for both the in-person and livestream options start at $25 and are available at 92ny.org/event/joshua-bell-and-larisa-martinez.
Program:
Mendelssohn, “Ah, ritorna, età dell’oro” from Infelice
Bloch, “Nigun” from Baal Shem
Massenet, “Je suis encore tout étourdie” from Manon
Hérold, “Jours de mon enfance” from Le pré aux clercs
Chopin, Nocturne in E-flat Major, Op. 9, No. 2 (arr. Bell/Wallace)
Delibes, “Les Filles des Cadix”
Rachmaninoff, “O Cease Thy Singing, Maiden Fair”
Wienawski, Scherzo-Tarantelle, Op. 16
Gimenez, “Zapateado”
Narciso Figueroa, “Mi Rancho”
Bernstein, West Side Story Suite (Arr. Brohn/czarnecki)

Soprano Larisa Martinez
“Our concept for the Voice and the Violin program began during the pandemic, while we were quarantined and finding new ways to collaborate and enjoy music together.
Although finding repertoire written specifically for violin and voice can be a challenge, we discovered and fell in love with these gems featured in tonight’s performance.
An example of this comes from one of Mendelssohn’s lesser-known works, “Ah, ritorna, età dell’oro” from Infelice.
It was wonderful to explore a work by one of our favorite composers that was originally written for this unique instrumentation.
Another happy discovery was Hérold’s “Jours de mon enfance” from the opera Le pré aux clercs. This piece features exciting dialogue moments between the voice and the violin, making it especially fun for us to perform this piece together.
Larisa is especially proud to showcase the song ‘Mi Rancho’ by Puerto Rican composer Narciso Figueroa, and lyrics by Luis Lloréns Torres, as a little gem from her homeland. Closing the performance is a medley based on Bernstein’s beloved West Side Story suite, arranged by our friend Charles Czarnecki. Based on an earlier violin and orchestra arrangement of the suite, this piece now sparkles in a new light.
We are so happy to see this project come to fruition and are thrilled to be performing it with our friend Peter Dugan.” – Joshua Bell and Larisa Martínez
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NYC’s Newest Margarita: Hailee Steinfeld Launches Angel Margarita: A Premium Ready-to-Drink Margarita Cocktail with Premium Beers Group
Hailee Steinfeld Launches Angel Margarita: A Premium Ready-to-Drink Margarita Cocktail with Premium Beers Group
Academy Award-nominated actress, multi-platinum recording artist, and producer Hailee Steinfeld, in partnership with Premium Beers Group, a leader within the alcohol industry in Mexico, proudly announces the launch of Angel Margarita.
Hailee Steinfeld falls in love with flavor
Hailee Steinfeld has openly expressed her love for margaritas, often sharing glimpses of her favorite citrusy cocktail on social media. Whether enjoying a classic lime margarita or experimenting with fun flavors like spicy or strawberry, she appreciates the drink’s refreshing and vibrant appeal. Her enthusiasm for margaritas perfectly complements her fun-loving personality, making it a go-to choice for celebrations and casual outings alike.
This premium ready-to-drink margarita cocktail is made with 100% Agave Tequila from the rich soil of Jalisco, Mexico.

Angel Margarita: A Premium Ready-to-Drink Margarita Cocktail
To ensure that each can offers an authentic and refreshing taste experience, Angel Margarita is then fully crafted just moments from the Agave fields.
Blending Hailee’s West Coast style with the deep Mexican roots of her co-founders Jordi Zindel and Rodrigo Hernandez, Angel Margarita will lead the category with its commitment to quality. Angel Margarita will launch with four vibrant and refreshing flavors: Lime, Grapefruit Paloma, Ranch Water, and Wild Berry.
“Margaritas have always been my go-to cocktail,
so making a ready-to-drink version with high-quality ingredients that didn’t compromise on taste was important to me,”
Hailee Steinfeld
co-founder
“After visiting the Blue Agave fields in Jalisco with my partners Jordi and Rodrigo, I was inspired by the region. I am so proud of what we have created together and cannot wait for the world to try Angel Margarita.”
In 2023, premixed cocktails were the fastest-growing spirits category in the US, valued at approximately $2.8 billion, marking a 26.8% increase year over year. Tequila was the second fastest-growing category, valued at $6.5 billion, up 7.9% yearly.
To underscore the excitement and potential of this fast-growing category, Angel Margarita has partnered with Philip Button, Founder and CEO of Seven XV Ventures and Geloso Beverage Group, one of the leading alcohol beverage manufacturers and distributors in North America. With their support, Angel Margarita will begin its launch in Southern California.
“Hailee is the perfect partner to help us share an authentic piece of our culture and redefine the ready-to-drink market through Angel Margarita with a more global audience,” said Jordi Zindel and Rodrigo Hernandez, co-founders at Angel Margarita. “We invite consumers to taste our 100% Agave Tequila premium cocktails and to experience an authentic piece of Mexico in every sip.
Stay up to date on Angel Margarita: www.angelmargarita.com / @angelmargarita
100% Tequila, 100% Angel Margarita.
Angel Margarita stands out with its high standards of craftsmanship and tradition:
- Protected Denomination of Origin sourced and manufactured in Jalisco, Mexico
- Expertly crafted high-quality ingredient list featuring 100% Agave Tequila Blanco, a blend of sparkling water, agave syrup, and natural flavors
- Each 12 oz can is 6% ABV and is gluten-free
- Available in four flavors to start: Lime, Grapefruit Paloma, Ranch Water, and Wild Berry
- Retail = $14.99 / 4-pack, $28.99 / 8-pack variety
About Hailee Steinfeld:
Academy Award-nominated actress, multi-platinum recording musician, and producer Hailee Steinfeld remains a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry. Her leading performance in the 2016 critically acclaimed film THE EDGE OF SEVENTEEN garnered her two Critics’ Choice Award nominations and a Golden Globe nomination. Her big-screen debut was in 2010 with the Coen Brothers’ film TRUE GRIT, for which she earned an Oscar nomination at only 14 years old. Up next, she will star alongside Michael B. Jordan in Warner Brothers and Ryan Coogler’s latest film, SINNERS. The supernatural action horror-thriller is set to release globally on April 18, 2025.
About Premium Beers Group:
With over 3 decades of experience, Premium Beers Group has innovated and revolutionized the alcohol category in Mexico. PBG was the first company in Mexico to import 100% malt beers from Europe and introduce craft beer and non-alcoholic beer. Premium Beers Group is the benchmark for excellence and a leader within the premium alcohol category.
About Geloso Group:
A leader in the innovation and development of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Geloso Group manufactures and distributes premium malt beverages, wines, ciders, beers, and spirits. Geloso Group is a valued supplier and trusted partner recognized for its professionalism and commitment to quality, service, and marketing.
Thanksgiving in NYC: the perfect stuffing bread DOES exist – and it’s… [Recipe here]
This Thanksgiving in NYC, the perfect stuffing bread DOES exist – and it’s brioche. As in St Pierre Brioche Thanksgiving Stuffing
No Thanksgiving spread is complete without a hearty stuffing. While add-ins are a matter of preference, choosing the right bread is crucial. One underrated choice is eggy, rich brioche – and with St Pierre Bakery, you don’t need to go to France to get it.
Thanks to its butter and egg content, St Pierre’s Brioche Loaf provides the perfect balance of crisp toastiness while remaining soft and creamy inside, while its lightly sweet flavor adds a decadent quality that can still lean savory. Attached below is an approachable recipe for stuffing allowing for all the craveable crunch for the whole family with minimal effort required.
St Pierre Brioche Thanksgiving Stuffing
By @BrandiMilloy
Ingredients
1 loaf St. Pierre Brioche Bread
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 medium onion, diced
3/4 cup celery, diced
3/4 cup carrots, diced
1 cup mushrooms, diced
2 large eggs
1 tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
3 sprigs fresh thyme, just the leaves
1 tbsp. fresh sage, chopped
1 small apple (granny smith works well), peeled and diced
Salt and pepper
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350 F. Cut brioche bread into 1” cubes and bake for about 10-15 minutes until toasted.
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Meanwhile, into a pot over medium high heat add butter until melted. Add onion, celery and carrots and cook until everything starts to soften, about 7 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes longer. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Into a bowl whisk together the eggs, herbs, apples, mushrooms, and salt and pepper. Add your cooked vegetables and mix to combine.
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Pour mixture on top of toasted bread and stir to combine. Bake stuffing for about 45 minutes. If your stuffing starts to get too brown, cover until finished baking. Enjoy!
As America’s favorite brioche brand, St Pierre’s products are widely available via grocery stores nationwide as well as Walmart.
The Rise of Mushroom Coffee: A New Era in Health-Conscious Brewing
In today’s health-focused culture, where wellness transcends mere goals to become a lifestyle, mushroom coffee is emerging as a leading trend. This innovative beverage combines the classic energizing effects of coffee with components often linked to the reputed benefits of medicinal mushrooms. Such a blend makes mushroom coffee a more mindful, health-oriented option for daily consumption, resonating especially with those who weave wellness into their daily routines.

Image courtesy of Freepik
The uniqueness of mushroom coffee lies in its ability to enhance the usual coffee experience by potentially offering additional benefits. For those who find regular coffee too acidic, mushroom coffee presents a more stomach-friendly option. Additionally, it incorporates adaptogenic mushrooms, which are believed to help the body better manage stress. This attribute makes mushroom coffee especially enticing to wellness enthusiasts and those seeking a natural way to support their body’s stress response.

The Rise of Mushroom Coffee, Image Courtesy of Freepik
Finding a coffee that delivers on both taste and health promises can be a daunting task. Leading the initiative is More.Longevity & Wellbeing with its Coffee Superfood Blends. These products are meticulously developed, selecting each ingredient for its quality and scientific backing, ensuring they contribute effectively to the blend. Flavors such as Salted Caramel Vanilla and Mocha are designed to mask the natural earthiness of mushroom, making the beverage more enjoyable while enhancing its appeal. The addition of adaptogens and essential vitamins in the blends aims to support overall health by boosting immunity, enhancing energy, and improving mental clarity.

The Rise of Mushroom Coffee, Image Courtesy of More.Longevity & Wellbeing
The company’s commitment to radical transparency ensures that consumers receive a product free from unnecessary fillers and additives, affirming a respect for consumer health and environmental sustainability. This level of honesty and ecological consideration is becoming increasingly important to consumers who prefer products that are both healthy and environmentally conscious.
As the trend continues to carve a niche within the beverage market, consumers are presented with expanding choices. It’s no longer just about picking a brand; it involves selecting a philosophy and a level of quality that resonates with personal health values and taste preferences. The coffee not only invites coffee lovers to rethink their daily mug but also serves as a gateway to a more mindful and intentional morning routine.

Image Courtesy of Freepik
About the Author
Joe Wehinger (nicknamed Joe Winger) has written for over 20 years about the business of lifestyle and entertainment. Joe is an entertainment producer, media entrepreneur, public speaker, and C-level consultant who owns businesses in entertainment, lifestyle, tourism and publishing. He is an award-winning filmmaker, published author, member of the Directors Guild of America, International Food Travel Wine Authors Association, WSET Level 2 Wine student, WSET Level 2 Cocktail student, member of the LA Wine Writers. Email to: Joe@FlavRReport.comYou Might also like
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Performance with Elegance – BioLift Focus Drinks Deliver with Flavor
BioLift Focus Drinks Deliver Performance with Elegance and Flavor
Supplement drinks have raced into your grocery store. What started with one shelf has exploded into several aisles and sometimes their own stores – devoted to delivering aggressive results!
What’s your favorite supplement drink?
Most of us have one. Some of us have more than one. A morning drink, an afternoon drink, even a before bed drink. Each with different flavors and functions.
Yeah, competition is fierce. And so are these supplement company’s claims. Weight Loss. Focus. Help you stay awake. Help you fall asleep. Help you run faster, build bigger muscles.
Placebo vs Real
Some of the most common questions involve the science behind it, the supplements effectiveness and flavor – what does it actually taste like?
A dirty (not-so-secret) secret to some of these drinks is that they hide a bitter or sandy “science taste” behind big sugar and big flavors.
BioLift Focus wants to get you moving. Launch you in the morning, float you over your lunchtime dip, keep you awake, alert, focused. In a healthier way than others, with no crash and no heart rate or blood pressure increase. Today we’re looking at BioLift Focus line of drinks.
BioLift Focus Flavors are Subtle and Elegant
Sparkling Mixed Berry has notes of raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry .
Sparkling Mandarin Orange has citrus notes blended with vanilla spice aromatics.
Sparkling Peach Mango has sweet peach and tangy mango.
For all three, the flavoring is subtle. In a world of “berry blasts” and “Epic frosts”, these are a welcomed change. Mandarin Orange was my favorite.
The Science Behind BioLift Focus Drinks
BioLift Focus’s WakeUp!® formula is rooted in Chronobiology. What is chronobiology? It’s the biology of natural physiological rhythms and other cyclical phenomena.
Every living organism – including us, humans – responds to the cycles of the sun and moon. Chronobiology studies those periodic cycles and how organisms adapt to them, especially through our internal biological clocks.
But is BioLift Focus’s WakeUp Actually Healthy?
BioLift Focus’is very mindful of wanting to be healthy, using nature-based options to create the results that normally would be chemicals in a factory. Here are details summarized from their website:
Guarana: From the Amazon forest, contains Guaranine, which is similar to caffeine, but more effective in mental and physical stimulation without the common drawbacks.
Ginkgo Biloba or Green Tea is a powerful antioxidant that supports blood circulation, affecting concentration, mood, fatigue, and response rates.
Elderberry is known as the “medicinal tree”. Its flowers have anti-viral and antioxidant effects, contributing to proper function of the immune system.
Carob and Apple Extract are natural, low glycemic sweeteners derived from fruits to help manage fatigue by maintaining a constant sugar level, reducing a decline in energy levels for better, longer-lasting physical and mental results.
Visit the Biolift website here.
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Sofitel Saigon Plaza Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary, commemorating a quarter century of Joie de Vivre in Vietnam.
Sofitel Saigon Plaza Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary, commemorating a quarter century of Joie de Vivre in Vietnam.
Sofitel Saigon Plaza is delighted to commemorate a significant milestone this October with the celebration of its 25th anniversary.
Drawing inspiration from local Vietnamese culture and traditions while embracing life with a French zest is what the hotel successfully stands for a quarter century.
Daniël Stork, Consul General of The Netherlands, Mario Mendis, Sofitel Saigon Plaza GM and guests
Since its establishment in 1998, Sofitel Saigon Plaza has consistently delivered a 5-star luxury experience marked by heartfelt service and hospitality excellence in the heart of Ho Chi Minh.
Globally acclaimed through the decades, Sofitel Saigon Plaza has welcomed dignitaries and political figures, from the former French President Francois Hollande to the US Secretary of State John Kerry.
Ambassador Lesly Benoit of Haiti performing with Jazztown
On October 5th 2023, Sofitel Saigon Plaza hosted an enchanting Anniversary Dinner at its opulent Diamond Hall in presence of Mrs Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel.
Maud Bailly, CEO of the Sofitel, M Gallery & Emblems Worldwide
At this extraordinary soirée, the hotel had the privilege of hosting esteemed guests, ranging from international diplomats and government officials to renowned celebrities, CEOs of prominent corporations, and dedicated Heartists (Accor team members) who have passionately served Sofitel Saigon Plaza for over two decades.
Chef Kieko Nagae
The honoured guests were thus invited to enjoy a sumptuous six-course dinner crafted by Michelin-star and celebrity chefs from Asia and France. This exquisite evening was topped off with spectacular performances blending these two cultures. To mark the occasion, Heartists whom are within the property since the opening have been highlighted and recognized for their exceptional commitment and remarkable work.
“Founded almost 60 years ago, Sofitel was the first French luxury hotel brand to develop an international network of hotels and resorts…
Maud Bailly
CEO of Sofitel
“…Each of the establishments now artfully blends the French art-de-vivre with the essence of the local destination, offering chic design, the best of culinary arts, and exceptional personalized service. The 25th anniversary was truly an illustration of the cultural link between France and Vietnam, exemplifying the symbolism of the Sofitel logo, which signifies the seamless blending of French and local cultures. Over these two and a half decades, we have not only celebrated the excellence of Sofitel but also the enchanting partnership of Saigon’s vibrant spirit with the elegance of French heritage. At Sofitel, we want to inspire people to celebrate life and its beauties with joy, impertinence, and, most of all, pleasure! This celebration embodies the essence of our vision, where the rich traditions of Saigon meet the sophistication of French savoir-faire, creating a world of endless delight and unforgettable moments”, commented Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel.
“It is a privilege to be part of an establishment that has redefined luxury, elegance, and service in Ho Chi Minh City. Our gratitude goes to our valued guests, passionate team, and partners who have been unwavering supports in this journey. This anniversary not only pay tribute to our past but also reaffirms our dedication to offer unforgettable experiences to our guests in the future”, said Mr. Mario Mendis, General Manager of Sofitel Saigon Plaza.
Michelle Wee- CEO Standard Chartered Vietnam – Madame Trang Le R- Counsel General Daniël Stork of The Netherlands
The festivities will continue during the 5th Saigon Gourmet Week, taking place from October 6th to 8th at Sofitel Saigon Plaza.
Event Curator and Producer Tracie May-Wagner
This event promises a delightful array of culinary experiences, including immersive cooking classes, exclusive lunches and dinners, and an unforgettable brunch featuring renowned chefs.
Phoung Nam Art Theater
The lineup includes Sébastien Voelker (French Pastry Chef), Truc Dinh (Vietnamese Chef), Shozo Tsuruhara (Japanese Chef), Victor Savall (Spanish Pastry Chef), Sakal Phoeung (French-Cambodian Chef), Keiko Nagae (French-Japanese Pastry Chef), Vuong Vo (Vietnamese Chef), Adrien Guenzi (French Chef), and French Michelin-Star Chef Thierry Renou.
Sofitel Saigon Plaza
Sofitel Saigon Plaza harmonizes the sophistication of French art de vivre with the vibrancy of local Vietnamese culture, delivering a luxury hospitality experience enriched by genuine heartfelt service. Conveniently located in a tranquil enclave on Le Duan Boulevard, Sofitel Saigon Plaza places you in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s business, cultural, and shopping district.
The hotel boasts 286 rooms and suites adorned with refined décor and deluxe amenities, a fitness center feauring advanced exercise equipment, and an outdoor swimming pool with breathtaking city views.
Sofitel Saigon Plaza also features five dining establishments serving local and French cuisine, seven polished meeting rooms, and an opulent ballroom equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, making it the ideal destination for business, leisure, meetings, and gatherings.
Sofitel Hotels & Resorts
Sofitel Hotels & Resorts is an ambassador of modern French style, culture and art-de-vivre around the world.
Established in 1964, Sofitel is the first international luxury hotel brand to originate from France, with more than 120 chic and remarkable hotels in many of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Sofitel exudes a refined and understated sense of modern luxury, always blending a touch of French elegance with the very best of the locale.
Sofitel also includes a selection of heritage luxury hotels under the Sofitel Legend banner, renowned for their timeless elegance and storied past.
Some notable hotels in the Sofitel portfolio include Sofitel Paris Le Scribe Opera, Sofitel London St James, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, Sofitel Mexico City Reforma, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi and Sofitel Ambassador Seoul.
Sofitel is part of Accor, a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,400 properties throughout more than 110 countries, and a participating brand in ALL – Accor Live Limitless – a lifestyle loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards, services and experiences.
sofitel.accor.com | all.accor.com | group.accor.com
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60+ New York Restaurants offering Bordeaux Wines to Showcase ‘Eco-Heroes’
New York Restaurants Showcase ‘Eco-Heroes’ of Bordeaux Wine in November with Rare 3-Liter Bottles
Over 60 restaurants will pour big bottle formats that spotlight fourteen inspiring wineries and Bordeaux’s significant environmental commitment
The Bordeaux wine region is joining forces with New York restaurants to celebrate the “Eco-Heroes” of Bordeaux with a special big bottle promotion this November.
New York restaurants will feature fourteen Bordeaux wine
New York restaurants will feature fourteen Bordeaux wineries that exemplify the region’s significant commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. Making this particularly memorable for New York wine lovers, the featured wines will be offered in 3-Liter bottles, a rare, double-magnum size.
Ranging from wine bars to Michelin-starred restaurants, more than 60 accounts in New York have signed up to support the program this fall.
Launching November 1, participating accounts will pour a selection of wines from 3-Liter bottles, and many are opting to host additional tasting experiences and promotions.
“Sustainability in winemaking
is really at the forefront for winegrowers in Bordeaux,”
said Allan Sichel, President of the Bordeaux Wine Council.
“We are thrilled to work together with our wineries, importers and New York hospitality partners to honor the ‘Eco-Heroes’ of Bordeaux this season and hope to inspire all who taste the wines with their collective achievements.”
The Bordeaux region is committed to collective and individual environmental practices that encourage long-term vine health and mitigate the impact of climate change. Recent efforts have reached impressive sustainable benchmarks: 75% of the Bordeaux vineyard is certified by an environmental approach; 23% of the vineyard is organic or in conversion; and collectively, the region has reduced carbon emissions by 24% since 2012. Many winegrowers are also actively developing biodiversity initiatives to encourage healthy bat, bee and tree populations to thrive in synergy with vineyard plantings.
Meet the Eco-Heroes of Bordeaux Wineries
The participating winemakers and châteaux representatives from Bordeaux represent the rich biodiversity and range of their region. Their wines capture the artistry and depth of various Bordeaux appellations from many different perspectives.
The featured wineries this November in New York include:
- Château Biac (Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux), Gabriel Asseily, Owner
- Château Clarke (Listrac-Médoc), Fabrice Darmaillacq, Winemaker & Technical Director
- Château Corbin (Saint-Émilion Grand Cru), Nicolas Fabre, Cellar Master •
- Château d’Arche (Bordeaux Blanc), Mylène Caillemet, Sales Director
- Château de La Dauphine (Fronsac), Stéphanie Barousse, General Director
- Château de Parenchère (Bordeaux Supérieur), Julia Gazaniol, Sales Director
- Château des Laurets (Puisseguin-Saint-Émilion), Fabrice Bandiera, Technical Director
- Château du Moulin Rouge (Haut-Médoc), Geoffrey Ribeiro, Owner/Winemaker
- Château Fourcas Hosten (Listrac-Médoc), Eloi Jacobs, General Manager
- Château La Rame (Bordeaux Rouge), Olivier Allo, Manager
- Château Puyanché (Côtes de Bordeaux), Bernadette Arbo, Manager
- Château Roquefort (Bordeaux Blanc), Camille Giai, Commercial Director
- Château Thieuley (Bordeaux Rouge), Sylvie Courselle, Owner
- Clos Floridène (Graves Rouge), Jean-Jacques Dubourdieu, Own
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