Maison Courvoisier, the highly acclaimed cognac house, proudly welcomes back British Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori in the capacity of the “Ambassador of Joy.”
This exclusive role was tailored specifically for Ilori, recognizing his talents as an artist, designer, and storyteller. Ilori returns for a second year to unveil a limited-edition design for Courvoisier’s VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) bottle, drawing inspiration from the happiness of a summer day in Jarnac, France – the birthplace of Courvoisier. This special release will feature four distinct ombre color variations, accentuating the vibrancy of Jarnac’s beauty.
“I am thrilled to once again collaborate with Courvoisier in my capacity as the ‘Ambassador of Joy’,” expressed Ilori. “As an artist and designer, my work seeks to spread joy, promote unity, and create delightful memories – values that Courvoisier also upholds. Crafting this new bottle design, my aim was to capture the essence of celebration. Whether it’s appreciating art or relishing the flavors of Courvoisier in good company, I hope my lively designs inspire moments of bliss and infuse more joy into people’s lives.”
Renowned for his dynamic and vibrant creations, Maison Courvoisier initially engaged Ilori in 2022 to lead the cognac house on a journey of honoring its heritage while embracing the future. This initiative included the launch of a fresh Courvoisier identity centered around the French concept of “joie de vivre,” embodying the art of savoring life’s genuine pleasures. Drawing from the Maison’s French origins and the essence of “joie de vivre,” Ilori orchestrated a series of immersive events that brought to life the allure of summer in Jarnac, France, the home of Courvoisier.
Jon Potter, Managing Director for Maison Courvoisier, commented, “Similar to Yinka’s dedication to infusing art with playfulness and community spirit, we are committed to making the cognac experience a joyful one accessible to everyone. We continue to redefine the cognac landscape by placing Courvoisier in vibrant and vivid consumption scenarios. Yinka’s VSOP bottle design, featuring bold colors inspired by our Jarnac home, continues to breathe life into our brand’s world of savoring life’s pleasures.”
Ilori’s exclusive limited edition VSOP bottle is now available as a UK exclusive at the prestigious luxury retailer Selfridges London and online at Selfridges.com. The bottle is priced at £200.00 in the U.K. A global allocation of nearly 1,000 bottles is planned, with further releases scheduled for October 2023 in the U.S., Canada, and France.
Courvoisier’s VSOP combines four crus to create a distinct and intricate richness. Distinguished, refined, and intricate, the VSOP is an expertly crafted cognac boasting a delicate bouquet and an excellent equilibrium of oak and exotic flavors. The subtle aroma reveals harmonious undertones of peach, toasted almond, and jasmine.
A recommended signature serving, Courvoisier Gala, calls for 1.75 parts Courvoisier VSOP and 4 parts Fever-Tree Sicilian Lemon. The ingredients are combined over ice in a highball glass and gently stirred, garnished with a lemon wheel, and served.
