The legendary French crystal house and prestigious vodka brand share a passion for marrying centuries-established skills with excellence, resulting in an extraordinarily unique endeavour – 888 handmade pieces for true connoisseurs and collectors.
The Epicure Series, inspired by the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus, embodies Beluga’s dedication to a serene and blissful life – the art of savouring the fleeting beauty of each moment. It’s an ode to the crisp touch of the freshest spring water, the essential element in both crystal and vodka.
Renowned for pursuing ambitious and technically challenging projects, Lalique’s visionary craftsmen have employed time-honoured crystal-making expertise and bold, contemporary methods to handcraft a decanter steeped in symbolism. A cohort of Alsace-based crystal artisans have contributed to the process, from the mould experts to the glass makers – with each meticulous step requiring hours of skill and dedication. Mirroring this unbridled commitment to excellence, Beluga Vodka has embarked on an ambitious journey to ensure the purest spirit. The final step in production sees the vodka rest for 100 days to achieve an unparalleled quality.
This year sees Lalique and Beluga Vodka reignite their special alchemy once more, with a decanter that pursues new artisanal heights – Beluga Epicure Series II. The essence of water serves as the muse – flowing seamlessly, binding the brands together. As the source of vitality, it represents continuity – resembling the enduring partnership between Lalique and Beluga Vodka. Water’s vital role extends beyond the symbolism as a central component in the production of both crystal and vodka. True to Lalique’s creative distinction, the crystal decanter has been ambitiously crafted to resemble a water drop adorned with two Bacchantes figures.
Lalique’s design studio delved into the archives by reinterpreting René Lalique’s iconic Bacchantes motif – the dancing priestesses of Bacchus who take centre-stage on the precious collector’s item. This exquisite detail pays homage to the glassmaker’s recurring depictions of the female shape throughout his Art Nouveau-informed pieces. The finishing touch to this exclusive objet d’art that extends the symbolism of water is a blue ‘cap ’- showcasing the valuable use of colour.
“With the Epicure II decanter, we explore the art of living, a way of making a moment eternal through simple, beautiful moments and objects that give shape to life. Beluga and Lalique are offering collectors around the world a chance to acquire precious and miraculous objet d’art imbedded with a unique heritage and craftsmanship,” states Lalique’s artistic and creative director, Marc Larminaux (below).
Lalique has long been a hallmark of brilliance – lauded as a pioneer in contemporary crystal-making and becoming synonymous with opulence, craftsmanship and its own unique aesthetic. Today, the crystal experts have maintained these guiding principles while reimagining their founder’s eclectic, creative world for new audiences through exquisite collections, from homeware to art pieces, and select partnerships that spark truly special collaborations.
“The Beluga Epicure Series II is an artistic manifestation of two luxury brands, both renowned for their craftsmanship and excellence,” adds Noblewood board member Katerina Mechetina. “For Beluga, creating unmatched products within its category is vital. It showcases the brand’s distinctive character and a timeless luxury appeal.
“The decanter, inspired by water, is crafted at the Lalique crystal atelier in Alsace using the hot glassblowing technique, undergoing ten specialised workshops to achieve its final form. Each decanter is hand-engraved with a unique serial number, making it a remarkable collector’s item worthy of the finest Beluga vodka. The partnership between Beluga and Lalique highlights our commitment to driving innovation and excellence in the luxury market.”
A union of preserved traditions and precision-perfect techniques sets Beluga Vodka apart from its counterparts. With a field-to-table philosophy, a significant chapter of vodka’s unique story takes place along the Adriatic Riviera. The finest grain is sourced in the Baltics and continue a fascinating journey to the ecological sanctuary of Montenegro. The unrivalled dedication has resulted in unprecedented quality and an instantly recognisable, refined taste.
Beluga Epicure Series II will be available for purchase in December 2024, the retail price per piece is EUR15 000.
For more details on Beluga Epicure Series II, click here.
