An Evening of Savoir-Faire: Africa Toasts with Moët and Chandon in Celebration of Champagne Day
On October 25, 2024, Moët & Chandon marked Champagne Day in a dazzling celebration of art, craftsmanship, savoir-faire, and ingenuity. Set against the backdrop of Hemingways in Karen Nairobi, the evening brought together artisans, trendsetters and creators from various disciplines to share the stories that inspire their passions.
Embracing the theme of “Endless Creativity in Craftsmanship”, the brand’s signature elegance was seen in the gold, black and white décor. At the same time, the guests’ fashion reflected their interpretations of “Glamorously Crafted”. The evening was graciously hosted by Lyra Aoko, the acclaimed photographer and artist, who arrived dressed in a beautiful pink and green dress.
For 280 years, the Maison has been synonymous with exceptional winemaking through its honoring of terroir, its craftsmanship, and its savoir-faire. Moët & Chandon is also recognized as an innovator, in the cellar and in the vineyards, with sustainability at the heart of its vision for the future.
These unique qualities were highlighted as part of this year’s Champagne Day celebrations spanning eight African countries, as the evening unfolded in three distinct phases, guiding guests through an immersive exploration of Moët & Chandon,
The first phase centered on history, with a heritage wall that highlighted the legacy of Moët & Chandon. Guests were able to trace the brand’s centuries-old influence in the champagne industry and its pioneering role in the evolution of champagne-making. Guests were then invited to share in a unique dining experience. The table decor beautifully echoed the evening’s theme of endless creativity in craftsmanship, allowing guests to step into a Parisian chic-inspired dining setting embodying the elegance of Moët & Chandon fused with accents of modernity.
Inspired by the meticulous artistry behind every bottle of Moët & Chandon, chefs brought the creative process to life with a menu that featured Aged beef filet medallion and tiger prawns paired with Moet Brut, Macerated berries, pink caviar, and Meringue dust paired with the Moet Imperial rose and finally steamed figs pudding paired with Moet Nectar imperial. As glasses were filled, Gboyega Ogunfuye delivered an official welcome to Champagne Day before handing the stage over to host Lyra Aoko. We’re delighted to welcome everyone to the Moet and Chandon Champagne Day, celebrating the timeless elegance and craftsmanship of champagne across Africa. Let’s raise a glass to creativity and unforgettable moments together!”
Lyra Aoko shared their interpretation of Moët & Chandon’s savoir-faire, inspired by their journey to Épernay earlier in the year. Drawing from the abundance of Kenyan culinary experience, paired with moet and Chandon, Lyra Aoko envisioned these elements as Nyama choma, Mayai Pasua and Tilapia.
Following Lyra Aoko’s speech, a short video showcased the artistry behind the pieces and the experience shared by the seven African artisans in Épernay, offering guests a rare glimpse into their discovery of Moёt & Chandon and the meticulous craftsmanship involved in the creation of their piece. Guests also shared the opportunity to celebrate their personal achievements of the year by writing down their toasts, and inserting them into golden capsules to take home and revisit as they reach new milestones throughout the years to come.
The event culminated in a vibrant homage to celebration and storytelling, with a performance from J Rabai and the unveiling of the Epernay to Africa photo wall. Just as every bottle of Moët & Chandon carries with it a story – of tradition, artistry, and passion – we are all storytellers at heart. The collection of memories tells the unique stories of the talented craftsmen and craftswomen who journeyed to the heart of Champagne, Épernay, to experience the savoir-faire of Moët & Chandon; and of the incredible guests, who brought that same spirit of celebration with them in Africa.
As the Moët & Chandon Champagne Day 2024 ended, guests departed with a deepened appreciation for Moët & Chandon’s timeless craftsmanship and savoir-faire that infuses every bottle. Through the theme of Endless Creativity in Craftsmanship and the curated ‘Glamorously Crafted’ dress code, Moët & Chandon, alongside host Lyra Aoko, honored a toast to craft, community and celebration. The event was characterized as a memorable tribute to Moët & Chandon’s dedication to blending heritage, innovation, and celebration, creating an unforgettable experience for all who attended.
ABOUT MOËT & CHANDON
Moët & Chandon was founded in 1743 by Claude Moët and elevated to international renown by his descendant, Jean-Rémy Moët, who dreamt of “sharing the effervescence of Champagne with the world.” From royal court to red carpet, Studio 54 to Grand Slams, Moët & Chandon has been bringing people together around thrilling, extraordinary moments. With the largest, most diverse vineyards in the region, the House offers a universal & versatile portfolio of champagnes for every occasion and palate. Easy to love, each creation in white and rosé – from the iconic Moët Impérial to the refined Grand Vintage Collection, from the refreshing Moët Ice Impérial to the gentle Nectar Impérial – dazzles and delights with a broad spectrum of flavors and aromas to capture the astonishing breadth of its terroir. Through Natura Nostra, Moët & Chandon’s long-term sustainability program, the House works to protect biodiversity in the region and, since 2009, Moët & Chandon also supports philanthropic initiatives through Toast for a Cause. For nearly three centuries, Moët & Chandon has been the champagne of choice to mark both significant events in history and personal celebrations, enhancing each toast with the spark of effervescence.