For generations, Cognac has represented a luxe lifestyle, especially through music.
From Biggie Smalls to Omah Lay, artists from several genres name-drop the French spirit in hits. By 2012, rap mogul Jay Z, alongside Bacardi, co-developed cognac brand D’USSÉ, further solidifying cognac as a status symbol.
photo credit: Lauren Cowart
Staples in the black community, it was only right for the oldest of the cognac houses, Martell Cognac, and entertainment hub Afrofuture to join forces to deliver a stylish collaboration during New York Fashion Week. On September 12, an evening of Afrobeats and family-style dining, the brands hosted a tasting experience in Midtown to celebrate fashion and Martell’s newest Global Cultural Ambassador, Afrofuture founder Abdul Abdullah.
As an Ambassador, Abdullah will continue Martell’s and Afrofuture’s mission to link black people across the diaspora through storytelling in entertainment, food, and fashion. A Martell tasting and infused dinner was a great way to start, especially when it’s followed by a fashion chat with the head of Africa’s streetwear community, IZ of Street Souk.
photo credit: Lauren Cowart
The tasting, led by Martell Global Cultural Ambassador Jasmin Goldstein, featured three tastes: VS, Blue Swift, and Cordon Bleu; the VS being the smoothest. Paying homage to his immigrant experience as a child whose first meal in America was spaghetti, Chef Tayo of Ebi- Ayo Supper Club cooked up an Italian take on Nigerian dishes laced with cognac and rich in flavors.
photo credit: Lauren Cowart
By the end of the experience, it was clear that Afrofuture’s commitment to showcasing culture with Afrobeats at its center complements Martell’s goal to elevate new voices and shape experiences.
