Belvedere, the world’s first super premium vodka, is bringing Legends of the Martini an all sensory experience exploring and celebrating the iconic cocktail, to the beautiful surroundings of Royal Academy Senate Rooms, Burlington Gardens, London. The experience will run until 31st August and STYLEetc were lucky enough to get an advanced preview of the show on our recent trip to London.
The curated experience takes guests on a journey through the evolution of the martini, from gin through to vodka, meeting glamorous and enigmatic characters from popular culture. These include, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor and Kate Moss and they have made the martini famous along the way.
Tory Turk, the exhibitions curator, said: “The martini cocktail has had many manifestations throughout its development, and now holds a distinct image within popular culture. Its connotations evoke an invitation to a sophisticated lifestyle and Legends of the Martini opens the door into this world. From the roaring 20s, past the swinging sixties, through the 90s to the present day, it will highlight characters who have been known to enjoy a martini (or two) in their time.”
The experience will explore the evolution of the martini and its significance in the life of each of the legends. Guests will be invited to match a list of legends to a piece in the experience, based on one of the characters.
A selection of cutting edge names in photography, set design, film and music have been commissioned to re-interpret characters or ‘legends’ from history associated with the martini. They have created a selection of still life images, a film and music, as well as imaginative text, all tied up by Set Desinger Carrie Louise (Vogue and Vanity Fair) who has designer the exhibition.
There are also several opportunities for some photos along the way; including getting your picture taken sat inside a giant martini glass, very Dita von Tesse or stood next to a giant cocktail shaker!
Guests also have the opportunity to purchase tickets to the accompanying tasting bar where they can sample three flights, or miniature versions of martinis on arrival, showcasing the variables of the martini including: Shaken vs. Stirred, a choice of vermouths, Wet vs. Dry and different garnishes.
Claire Smith, head of mixology and spirit creation at Belvedere Vodka said: “The martini is one of the world’s most iconic drinks, it is steeped with history and glamour, yet is extremely divisive. We want to demystify the drink, helping people work out which martini suits their palate and teaching them that there really is a martini to suit everyone.”
We were able to sample a few ourselves throughout the evening and we would highly recommend paying the extra to explore the difference between the different types of martinis.
The sessions last for an hour and fifteen minutes and will run from 5pm-10:30pm
Monday- Thursday, from midday- 10:30pm Friday and Saturday and midday- 5pm on Sundays. Larger versions of guest’s preferred martini variation, alongside special martinis inspired by the legends will then be available to purchase.
Tickets are £15 and available from www.belvederevodka.com/martinilegends
The curated part of experience (exclusive of the tasting session) will also be open to the public free of charge from 10am-10pm daily and a pop-up martini bar selling a selection of Belvedere martinis will also be open outside the entrance to the experience from 6pm-10pm daily (excluding Friday).
Royal Academy Senate Rooms (Burlington Street entrance),
Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BD
By Emily Parker
