Champagne Pommery Celebrates 150 Years of Brut Champagne at The Armory Show

In a year that marks a significant milestone for Champagne Pommery, the maison has chosen to celebrate the 150th anniversary of its groundbreaking Brut Champagne with an unforgettable fusion of art and luxury at The Armory Show in New York City. Known for its innovative approach to champagne-making and its long-standing dedication to the arts, Champagne Pommery continues to push boundaries with the launch of its exclusive Cuvee Apanage 1874, a tribute to its iconic creation by Madame Pommery in 1874. This exclusive cuvée made a special journey from the historic Pommery cellars in Reims, France, to New York City—by sailboat, no less—reviving a centuries-old tradition that ties back to the brand's storied heritage.

A Journey Across Time and Seas

Champagne Pommery's Cuvee Apanage 1874 journeyed across the Atlantic to The Armory Show aboard a sailboat, honoring a historic tradition dating back to the maison’s early days. Over 120 years ago, the first bottles of Pommery champagne made their way to America by sailboat aboard the Foudre de Gale. By choosing to revive this method of transportation, Pommery nods to its innovative legacy and its commitment to sustainability, all while honoring the maritime history that helped bring its champagnes to global prominence. This gesture ties the maison's storied past with its forward-looking approach to champagne-making and cultural patronage.

The Art of Brut Champagne

The Cuvee Apanage 1874, crafted to commemorate 150 years of Brut Champagne, exemplifies the pioneering spirit of Champagne Pommery. The champagne, a blend of tradition and modernity, mirrors Madame Pommery's original creation that first introduced the world to the concept of Brut—dry—champagne. Her vision was revolutionary at the time, creating a sparkling wine that was drier and more refined compared to the sweeter champagnes popular in the 19th century. Today, Brut Champagne remains a staple of elegance, sophistication, and celebration.

A Celebration of Art and Culture at The Armory Show

Pommery’s celebration at The Armory Show was much more than just a champagne launch. As a longtime patron of the arts, Champagne Pommery is known for its "Expériences Pommery" exhibitions, where artists are invited to create and showcase their work within the historic Gallo-Roman chalk cellars of the estate in Reims. At The Armory Show, this commitment to the arts was on full display with the Champagne Pommery Lounge—a stunning space where guests could indulge in tastings of the new Cuvee Apanage 1874 while surrounded by works of art that speak to the maison's passion for creativity and innovation.

The 2024 Pommery Prize: Honoring Artistic Excellence

In conjunction with the 150th anniversary celebration, Champagne Pommery awarded its sixth annual Pommery Prize at The Armory Show. This year, the prestigious $25,000 prize was presented to Bahamian artist Anina Major for her piece, "The Landing." Major's installation, which explores the intersection of identity, migration, and craft, resonated deeply with the ethos of Champagne Pommery—melding tradition with a modern perspective. Her work, featuring distinctive woven ceramics and structures reminiscent of Caribbean market stalls, reflects the artist’s exploration of home and displacement, and received acclaim for its thought-provoking narrative and craftsmanship.

Continuing Madame Pommery’s Vision

Madame Pommery was a trailblazer, not only in the world of champagne but also in her commitment to the arts. From commissioning monumental sculptures by Gustave Navlet for her wine cellars to donating masterpieces like Jean-François Millet’s "The Gleaners" to the Louvre, her influence is felt far beyond the vineyards of Champagne. Today, Champagne Pommery continues this legacy by integrating art and culture into its brand philosophy, recognizing that champagne is not just a drink, but an experience that encompasses heritage, elegance, and creativity.

A Toast to the Future

As Champagne Pommery celebrates this monumental anniversary, it does so with an eye to the future—continuing to innovate while honoring the heritage that has made it a symbol of French luxury and savoir-faire. The celebration at The Armory Show was a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to excellence, creativity, and cultural enrichment, ensuring that the spirit of Madame Pommery lives on in every bottle.

Champagne Pommery’s presence at The Armory Show exemplified a perfect blend of luxury, art, and history—a fitting tribute to 150 years of Brut Champagne and a vibrant testament to the maison’s enduring influence in both the worlds of fine wine and fine art.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.