The limited-edition vodka, Beluga Epicure by Lalique, is the result of the close collaboration between Beluga Noble Russian Vodka and French crystal and jewellery maker Lalique. Beluga Epicure will be introduced to the travel retail market at TFWA World Exhibiiton, Cannes (Oct 3-7).
Beluga brand director Katerina Mechetina met with Lalique creative director Marc Larminaux to develop the concept. Marc drew inspiration for the design of the decanter from Lalique’s heritage and production process, as well as Beluga ingredients. Beluga Epicure revisits Lalique’s ‘Three F’ theme - female, flora and fauna, and its Art Nouveau style features a female nude figure surrounded by ears of wheat, a symbol of harvest and fertility.
Artisans at Lalique workshops in Alsace, France produced each decanter by hand, blowing the crystal pieces individually in an iron mould to create its distinctive shape. Master polishers then refined the contrast between the clear and satin-finished crystal, emphasizing its monumentality and vulnerability. The final touch is a unique serial number engraved on the bottom of each decanter.
After leaving the workshops, the decanters are sent to the Mariinsk Distillery in the heart of Siberia, Russia. Located in one of the most environmentally clean and tranquil places on earth, where Beluga has been producing vodka for over 100 years.
Only 1,000 crystal decanters have been produced and the first was sold for €11,000 on September 9 at a charity auction. Beluga Epicure by Lalique will be available for purchase in Russia at the end of 2016 and in other markets in 2017, the retail price per piece being approx. €6,000.
26 September 2016 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor-in-chief