Art and bubbly meet at 17th Absa Champagne Festival

The Absa Champagne Festival is back, and this year it blends art with world-class French bubbles and fine fare to create a memorable client experience. 

For the first time, the annual festival will showcase African artists in a luxury experience which will also celebrate the centenary of former president Nelson Mandela.

Guests at the festival will be served premium champagnes from the world’s leading Champagne houses, paired with fine cuisine, while appreciating an exhibition of some of the African continent’s best artwork.

The selection of wall hangings and sculptures, commissioned from both established and up and coming artists, will go under the hammer as a new attraction in the form of a silent auction, with proceeds raised being donated to the Nelson Mandela Foundation.

“This year’s festival is more than a reward for our valued clients,” said Winston Monale, Managing Executive for Absa Wealth and Investment Management. “We are proud to use this established client appreciation platform as a fund-raising activity for the Nelson Mandela Foundation in the year which marks 100 years since the birth of our great statesman. We aim to create a memorable occasion and an opportunity for our invited clients and members of the public to reflect on his life and times.”

This year’s festival showcases the most French champagne houses ever - close to 40 - including Drappier, Billecart-Salmon, Laurent Perrier, GH Mumm, Taittinger, Piper Heidsieck, Bollinger, Lanson and Louis Roederer.

The exclusive event, from October 31 to November 2 at the Inanda Club, promises to once again be a sold-out affair.