AMAN TO OPEN LUXURY ISLAND RETREAT IN THE BAHAMAS

Renowned luxury hospitality group Aman is bringing its signature brand of serenity and sophistication to The Bahamas with the announcement of Amancaya, an ultra-exclusive resort and residences development set across two private islands in the Exumas.

The project marks Aman’s first foray into The Bahamas and its third destination in the Caribbean, following the success of Amanera in the Dominican Republic and Amanyara in Turks and Caicos.

Meaning “peaceful island” in the Indigenous Taíno language, Amancaya will deliver a low-density, ultra-luxury retreat anchored in Aman’s hallmark pillars: privacy, transformative experiences, and exceptional service.

Set in one of the most pristine and secluded parts of the Caribbean, the new property will feature a 36-pavilion Aman hotel and a limited collection of fully serviced Aman Residences. Guests and residents will have exclusive access to a private marina, Beach Club, Aman Spa, and a suite of refined dining venues spanning the two cays.

The design and experience will be tailored to emphasise barefoot luxury and deep immersion in nature, with panoramic ocean views, white-sand beaches, and world-class diving at their doorstep.

“This is a significant milestone for Aman,” said Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of Aman Group. “We’ve seen incredible success in the Caribbean, and our guests have long asked for a Bahamian retreat.

“In Dona Bertarelli, we’ve found a visionary partner who shares our values, and in Exuma, we’ve found a setting that perfectly embodies our brand — untouched beauty, cultural richness and unparalleled tranquillity.”

Bertarelli, a Swiss investor, philanthropist and champion sailor, said Amancaya will reflect her own deep connection to the Exumas. “Guests will experience the same wonder, peace and connection to local culture that I’ve been fortunate to feel here,” she said.

“Aman is globally renowned for its elegance and bespoke experiences, and I’m delighted to help bring that vision to life in this extraordinary part of the world.”

Amancaya is currently under construction, with development supported by Squircle Capital. Sustainability is a key pillar of the project, with the resort aiming to achieve LEED certification and align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS).

From responsible design and building practices to a commitment to local engagement, the project is being positioned as a model for thoughtful, sustainable development in the Caribbean.

With a global portfolio spanning 35 locations across 20 countries — including 15 sites near UNESCO World Heritage landmarks — Aman continues to set the benchmark for high-end travel. Amancaya promises to extend that legacy with a destination that blends natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and understated luxury.

Italian fine wines are gaining momentum among Australian collectors and drinkers, with new data from showing a surge in interest driven by value, versatility and a new generation of producers.

Long dominated by France, the premium wine conversation is beginning to shift, with Italy increasingly positioned as a compelling alternative for both drinking and collecting.

According to Langtons, the category is benefiting from a combination of factors, including its breadth of styles, strong food affinity and more accessible price points compared to traditional European benchmarks.

“Italy has always offered fine wine fans an incredible range of wines with finesse, nuance, expression of terroir, ageability, rarity, and heritage,” said Langtons General Manager Tamara Grischy.

“There’s no doubt the Italian wine category is gaining momentum in 2026… While the French have long dominated the fine wine space in Australia, we’re seeing Italy become a strong contender as the go-to for both drinking and collecting.”

The shift is being reinforced by changing consumer preferences, with Langtons reporting increased demand for indigenous Italian varieties and lighter, food-first styles such as Nerello Mascalese from Etna and modern Chianti Classico.

This aligns with the broader rise of Mediterranean-style dining in Australia, where wines are expected to complement a wider range of dishes rather than dominate them.

Langtons buyer Zach Nelson said the category’s versatility is central to its appeal.

“Italian wines often have a distinct, savoury edge making them an ideal pairing for a variety of cuisines,” he said.

The move towards Italian wines also comes as prices for traditional French regions continue to climb, particularly in Burgundy, prompting collectors to look elsewhere for value without compromising on quality.

Italy’s key regions, including Piedmont and Etna, are increasingly seen as offering that balance, with premium wines available at comparatively accessible price points.

Nelson said value is now a defining factor for buyers in 2026.

“Value is the key driver for Australian fine wine consumers… Italian wines are offering exactly that at an impressive array of price points to suit any budget,” he said.

The category is also proving attractive for newer collectors, offering what Langtons describes as “accessible prestige” and a more open entry point compared to the exclusivity often associated with Bordeaux.

Wines such as Brunello di Montalcino and Nebbiolo-based expressions are increasingly being positioned as entry points into cellar-worthy collections, combining ageability with relative affordability.

At the same time, a new generation of Italian producers is reshaping the category, moving away from heavier, oak-driven styles towards wines that emphasise site expression and vibrancy.

“There’s definitely a ‘new guard’ of Italian winemaking… stripping away the makeup… to let the raw, vibrating energy of the site speak,” Nelson said.

Langtons is also expanding its offering in the category, including exclusive access to wines from family-owned producer Boroli, alongside a broader selection spanning Piedmont, Veneto, Sicily and Tuscany.

The company will showcase the category further at its upcoming Italian Collection Masterclass and Tasting in Sydney, featuring more than 50 wines from 23 producers across four key regions.

For collectors and drinkers alike, the message is clear: Italy may have been overlooked, but it is no longer under the radar.

AMAN TO OPEN LUXURY ISLAND RETREAT IN THE BAHAMAS

Ultra-luxury brand Aman has announced Amancaya, a new resort and residences set across two private islands in the Exumas.

Italian wines are emerging as a serious contender for Australian collectors, offering depth, rarity and value as French benchmarks continue to climb.