Speed, style and seduction – the three words that described today’s event.

The Annual Concorso Italiano rolled into Monterey on August 17, 2012 at The Laguna Seca Golf Ranch. The course was arrayed with some of the most stylish automobiles Italy has to offer. With cars from Lamborghini, Fiat, Bertoni, Ferrari – and my personal passion of the day, the Pagani- the full day event gave enthusiasts an opportunity to view these creations up close and at a leisurely pace.

Of note this year was an increase in the number of female car owners as well as attendees. And why not? The exceptional beauty of these automobiles naturally draws a woman’s attention. My personal favorite goes to the Pagani. A master work of art on wheels. From the deep, crimson colour to the gull wing doors to the rendering of the sleek, cat-like profile – this is a one-of-a-kind hand-built beauty.

One of the highlights of the day was meeting Sig. Stephan Winklemann the President and CEO of Automobil Lamborghini S. p. A. A European gentleman – suave, fashionable, trimly tailored and genuine. Standing alongside the Aventador LP700-4, one might say that the company’s product reflects the style of its leader.

The Concorso Italiano Best of Show award went to the 1955 Ferrari 250 GT Europa owned by Ken and Dayle Roath of Newport Beach. This cream-coloured, two-seat coupe would have been at home in the Sean Connery Bond films – had the production budgets been a bit larger. The trademark oval grill and modest trimming are, even 60 years later, touchstones of style and elegance.

To my photographer’s eye, a stand-out in the crowd was Sig.ra Lilli Bertone, the head of one of the oldest and prestigious automobile manufacturers in Italy. Attired in traditional colours of the Italian Flag – red, white and green – her demeanor drew my lens. Her special visit coincided with the 100th anniversary of the Bertone franchise and 20th year with Concurso. Several of “The Cars of Bertone” were featured along with the 2012 Bertone Nuccio Supercar Concept – a shark-nosed, stealth, street fighter of a vehicle without peer.

The organizers should be credited with managing a great event which was enjoyable for all ages. I hope to return next year to see what new, fantastic designs are in our future.