I was sitting in the shuttle after the Martell Caractere launch dinner gushing to my friend Ann about what an incredible night it was, waiting to be shuttled off to the valet area about a mile away when China Chow, Andre and Mr. Brainwash got in the shuttle. That ridiculous YOLO saying popped in my head and maybe the few bold and daring Martell Caractere drinks I had pushed me to just say something. I fangirled over China Chow and started to ask Mr. Brainwash when his next show in LA would be when Rosario Dawson called Mr. Brainwash over to talk. I couldn't help but overhear their convo about Banksy (who happened to be in NY for his October residency) - Rosario's car pulled up, she said bye and Mr. Brainwash yelled for Andre to come out of the shuttle because a car was available for them too. Andre said, "Bye! Wish we could've talked more!" and China touched my shoulder and said it was a pleasure meeting me. It was one of those Hollywood moments where I asked myself if this was real. The art fan in me couldn't have asked for a more perfect evening.
The star of the evening - only available in California.
The Marterita: Martell Caractere, Agave Nectar, Fresh Lime Juice, Fresh Blood Orange Puree
The bold taste of Martell Caractère was crafted as a tribute to the daring spirit of Jean Martell, the visionary founder of the House of Martell. Guided by nearly 300 years of expertise, our cellar master has created a unique Cognac with rich fruit notes of lemon and tangerine-peel complemented by a long finish that develops into generous notes of sweet spices and plum jam. Savor it neat, on the rocks or as part of your favorite cocktails.
Los Angeles: The perfect backdrop for the launch of Martell Caractère, crafted especially for los hombres de carácter.
Actor Andy Garcia - the first Caractere Icon unveiled a short film created in collaboration with Martell showcasing the journey of Mambo pioneer Israel "Cachao" Lopez. The complete version will be released online in February along with the announcement of new icons!
"The way Jean Martell's bold and visionary nature was described to me reminded me of my relationship with Israel 'Cachao' Lopez, the inventor of the mambo," said Andy Garcia. "Both men had a dedication to their passion, pursued their dreams and embody the values Icons of Caractere wants to convey."
The Paramour is my favorite, it is Martell Caractere, Passion Fruit Puree and Lime Juice. Four signature drinks were created for the launch dinner and I had to sample all of them for my readers. They were all good especially since this was my very first time drinking cognac. That's a large serving of Cordon Bleu for this girl but it was excellent. I'm glad I went for it, definitely would've regretted passing it up!
Poached Prawns with Mango, Ginger, Espalette Emulsion, Lemon
Halibut with Olive Oil Poached Potato, Chorizo, Saffron, Rye Crisp and Clams - This was my 2nd time in a week having fish. I am so not a fish person but I was genuinely curious and it was good! My mama would be so proud!
Lou Doillon performed for us during dinner - I totally think dinner concerts should be a thing.
Valrhona Chocolate Tart with Whipped Ganache, Passion Fruit and Pecan - pure magic on a plate. I almost licked it clean!
Labels: Andre, China Chow, LA, Los Angeles, Martell Caractere, Mr. Brainwash, Street Art