An unique journey of cultural alternate and craftsmanship, uniting African artistry with the savoir-faire of one of many world’s most revered cognac Maisons.
When one thinks of cognac, the primary lesson is that it’s constituted of eau-de-vie – ‘the water of life.’ This poetic time period originates within the tranquil city of Cognac, France, the place the Charente River flows by the plush vineyards that give delivery to the long-lasting spirit.
Mates of Maison Hennessy, Kabza De Small and Maglera Doe Boy, two of Africa’s most influential musical skills, have constantly pushed the boundaries of their craft.
This unique journey was a part of Hennessy’s continued celebration of African city tradition, a dedication to the model’s purpose of championing world expertise and craftsmanship – as seen by Hennessy-led initiatives resembling Hennessy Cypher Africa and Hennessy Again to the Metropolis.
Kabza & Maglera’s invitation to Cognac and Paris marked a major milestone for the duo – an acknowledgement of their artistry by one of many world’s most prestigious luxurious manufacturers.
The embodiment of excellence and refinement, stands on the banks of the Charente River in Cognac, and welcomes very particular friends and mates of the Hennessy’s former household dwelling.
Surrounded by seven acres of luscious land, the property symbolises the French artwork de vivre for which the Maison is famend. It encapsulates friends in a multi-sensory journey by its heritage and structure.
The Château de Bagnolet, constructed greater than two centuries in the past and bought by the Hennessy household within the 1840s, stands as a logo of legacy and refinement. Kabza and Maglera have been welcomed into this historic property, the place custom and savoir-faire have been handed down by generations.
Their journey started with a curated lunch within the Winter Backyard, a placing house the place mild filters by glass panels onto an intricate mosaic flooring. Because the day unfolded, the artists took within the atmosphere of the Château, culminating in an intimate dinner that embraced the rituals of French hospitality. Every gathering concluded with a glass of Hennessy Paradis – a tribute to time-honoured traditions.
Guided by a Hennessy Ambassador, Kabza and Maglera explored the model’s craftsmanship in depth.
The artists explored the experimental vineyards the place Hennessy has grown Ugni Blanc grapes for a few years whereas always creating and implementing agroecological practices to protect the soil well being of its vineyards. Curious, Maglera enquired concerning the harvesting methods – given the vast span of the vineyards. He realized that the Cognac area has one of many largest wine-growing areas in France. Throughout the harvest, which takes place in late summer season or early autumn and lasts for about three weeks, harvesting machines are used to gather the grapes with out damaging the vines.
At La Groie Distillery, the duo witnessed the double distillation course of, the place wine is reworked into eaux-de-vie. Grasp distillers discuss with this liquid as “the center,” which types the soul of Hennessy cognac.
Descending into Hennessy’s legendary cellars, together with the oldest one, the Founder’s Cellar, the artists found the world’s largest assortment of eaux-de-vie, established over 260 years in the past.
The spotlight of the complete expertise was an unique tasting session, permitting the artists to find the layers of complexity behind Hennessy’s blends.
Kabza mirrored, “This was such an eye-opening expertise. The precision and persistence behind each bottle remind me of my very own journey in music.” Maglera added, “Being a Buddy of the Home for therefore lengthy, I lastly perceive the experience that goes into each drop of Hennessy.”
Anele Tshabalala, Advertising Supervisor for Hennessy South Africa, shared, “Hennessy’s legacy is constructed on craftsmanship, artistry, and cultural affect. Collaborating with visionaries like Kabza De Small and Maglera Doe Boy was a pure alignment. This journey deepened their connection to the model, showcasing why they’re true Mates of Maison Hennessy.” As Hennessy continues to champion African excellence on a worldwide stage, this expertise marks the start of a brand new period – one the place music, tradition, and savoir-faire unite to create one thing actually extraordinary.