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Fisher Island, Miami's Most Exclusive Zip Code, Has Its Own Perfume

Steve Boxall
Steve Boxall

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Fisher Island is, without a doubt, Miami's most exclusive and mysterious zip code. Accessible only by ferry or private boat (read: yacht), it's impenetrable unless you know someone who lives there, which would mean you've rubbed elbows with the likes of Oprah, Max Azria, and tennis star Caroline Wozniacki who have all owned properties there at some point. But while Fisher Island has no plans to soften its strict "millionaire's only" mantra, it has embarked on a venture to bring mere mortals a hint of what life is like on on this illustrious island: it's own scent, titled 1936.

Why 1936? That was the year that William K. Vanderbilt II began building his luxurious Mediterranean-style mansion on the island after a legendary trade with South Beach's founder, Carl Fisher. "My island for your boat," Fisher allegedly said, and the rest, quite frankly, is history.

So what does Fisher Island smell like, exactly? Well, it seems the jazz age never left its shores. 1936 contains hints of bergamot, tea, orange blossom, coriander, jasmine, and rose. It's a very feminine, daytime scent, best suited for afternoon tea at the Vanderbilt's courtyard. (In reality, Fisher Island smells more like ocean water and salty air, but could you imagine mixing that with a set of Chanel pearls and St. John sundresses? No, roses and coriander will do).

Don't get too attached, though. "1936" is only available in the Fisher Island Club's hotel lobby, so the only way to get your hands on it would be to either live on the island, rent a hotel room there, or know someone who does. Although the aroma of Fisher Island has been captured in a small $50 bottle, it seems the island will always keep a bit of its glamour, exclusivity, and mystère.