In a bold celebration of heritage and innovative luxury, Glenfiddich showcased a unique fine-dining experience, honouring the release of its exquisite, limited 31-Year-Old Grand Château whiskey.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Johannesburg at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel, The Westcliff, the three-day affair transformed the venue into an unforgettable immersion into artistry, flavour and unmatched elegance.
Glenfiddich’s partnership with chef Katlego Mlambo, who invoked his maverick spirit to create masterful French fusion cuisine, set the stage for a culinary journey that redefined fine dining.
“Creating a menu for the Grand Château experience involved infusing the essence of French finesse with the Scottish roots of Glenfiddich,” said Chef Mlambo, who captured the allure of a menu that perfectly blended sophistication with playful twists. Each dish was meticulously crafted to enhance the intricate notes of Glenfiddich’s spirit, embodying the richness and legacy of the whiskey.
The immersive journey began as guests passed through archways modeled after Glenfiddich’s signature “paper play” animations, which echoed the whimsical elegance of the Grand Château. Inside, the design, led by artistic genius André Saraiva, was a tasteful reflection of a collaboration of cultures: richly draped walls, delicate French details, and subtle nods to Glenfiddich’s heritage created an ambiance of refined opulence. Staff uniforms, inspired by the late Vivienne Westwood, brought an edgy sophistication, nodding to her fashion’s daring elegance, while perfectly complementing the evening’s luxurious tone.
Lifa Bakana, brand manager at Edward Snell & Co., spoke passionately about the vision behind the Grand Château experience and said that the idea was to create a world that captured the spirit of Glenfiddich’s Grand Château – a place where culture, history, and modern luxury merge seamlessly.
“We wanted guests to feel the legacy, to taste it, and to lose themselves in an experience as rare as the whiskey itself,” he added. Bakana’s words resonated throughout the evening, as the intricate design, food, and curated cocktails brought Glenfiddich’s ethos to life.
Upon arrival, guests enjoyed a selection of signature cocktails, each crafted to complement the whiskies’ complex flavour profile. The journey continued with an indulgent five-course meal, each course thoughtfully paired with a Glenfiddich pour and cocktail to accentuate each whiskey’s character and the depth of chef Mlambo’s dishes.
