Armand de Brignac toasted to not just two great visionaries synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, but starchitect David Rockwell and Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud. The evening was celebrated in style toasting their illustrious careers and enduring friendship at the exquisite Le Jardin sur Madison in the heart of New York City. The presentation of a rare, limited-edition magnum of champagne from Armand de Brignac concluded the toast.
A Meeting of Masters
The evening backdrop was the 6,200-square-foot event space-designed by none other than David Rockwell himself. Walled with floor-to-ceiling glass that framed sweeping views of Manhattan, the venue turned into an ideal setting for the intimate fireside chat that Surface Media’s Jenna Adrian Diaz moderated. A personally curated audience of tastemakers, innovators, and connoisseurs hung on to every word as Rockwell and Boulud told engaging stories and shared insider understandings from their illustrious careers.
David Rockwell, critically acclaimed for designing some of the world’s most renowned hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, spoke about the interplay of design and storytelling that defines his work. Chef Daniel Boulud discussed his passion in creating memorable dining experiences that bring people together, with a portfolio of acclaimed restaurants and two Michelin-star accolades. The conversation also explored their friendship grounded in mutual respect for creativity and innovation in the pursuit of excellence.
An Exclusive Presentation
The evening’s crowning moment was presenting a uniquely rare Blanc De Noir Magnum Vintage 2015 bottle of Armand de Brignac champagne to Rockwell and Boulud. Each bottle was individually engraved and part of an ultra-limited edition of only 1,258; it replicated the rare nature of their accomplishments and actually how rarely true brilliance occurs.
A Culinary Celebration
In honor of Chef Boulud, the evening’s menu boasted an array of exquisite hors d’oeuvres curated by the culinary icon himself. Among these offerings, guests savored:
- Wagyu Beef Brochette with Béarnaise Aioli
Wild Mushroom Quiche with Taleggio
Chickpea Panisse with Garlic and Herb Coulis
Mille-Feuille of Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese on Pumpernickel
Accompanying the culinary works of art were two fantastic champagnes from Armand de Brignac: ‘Ace of Spades’ Blanc de Blanc and ‘Ace of Spades’ Demi-Sec—a marriage that delighted the senses.
A Toast to Excellence
But individual achievements gave way to synergy, creativity, and collaboration in this event. Celebrating two paradigm setters from their own fields, Armand de Brignac resoldered its position as a brand synonymous with luxury and innovation. It was one of those evenings when artistry and passion celebrated life itself—how excellence leaps from the ordinary to the sublime. It was Rockwell and Boulud showing that, indeed, true excellence knows no frontiers, binding design, gastronomy, and life together. Armand de Brignac once again outdid others and set a new standard in celebrating the art of living.
