Davidoff Churchill Late Hour New York Event With The Dalmore Whisky

During Bespoke Unit’s tour of New York, Davidoff invited us to attend their latest special event to celebrate the release of their Churchill Late Hour cigar range.

The exclusive event took place at their Madison Avenue boutique in October 2017. Founder Paul Anthony and our new European Editor, Charles-Philippe, arrived in the early evening. Meanwhile, Travel Editor, Trevor Guilday, joined them shortly later.

Tickets only cost $25 per person. In the following overview of the evening, you will read below how this provided more than satisfying value for money.

The Cigars & Whisky On Offer

We arrived to a warm welcome by Davidoff’s organisers and were each immediately served with a Late Hour Toro (54 x 6″). As our Late Hour review explains in detail, these cigars are indeed a premium choice that offer a refined, full-bodied experience.

This was closely followed by a tipple. On this occasion, we were treated to The Dalmore’s Highland Single Malt Reserve or “Cigar Malt”. This in itself was an unexpected pleasure.

Both the Dalmore whisky and Late Hour cigars complemented each other perfectly by bringing out their respective oak notes.

The Location

The event simply took place at Davidoff’s flagship New York boutique at 515 Madison Ave. As this was after hours, the occasion was decidedly intimate with an exclusive feel.

The impressive boutique recently celebrated its 30th birthday in early October and we could take our time to enjoy the captivating products in-store. Luxurious hand-made humidors were kept proudly on display as well as their range of premium cigars. If you’re ever in the area, we highly recommend a visit even during opening hours!

An assortment of hors d’oeuvres were also served at the far end of the boutique, which allowed visitors to take in Davidoff’s eye-catching displays on their way. There were some fine nibbles as well as a prestigious selection of cheeses.

Special Guests On The Night

The company that attended was warm and outgoing and many strangers would comfortably mix thanks to the intimate setting. We exchanged with many like-minded guests who shared similar passions and friendships were indeed forged on that evening.

In addition, Davidoff had even invited Winston Churchill’s great-grandson, Randolph Churchill, as their special guest. Although Mr Churchill posed for many photos following a brief speech, we were delighted to enjoy a few minutes of conversation.

Left to Right: Charles-Philippe, Randolph Churchill, Paul Anthony

Like a true Brit, Churchill particularly appreciated Charles-Philippe’s full tweed attire complete with Plus Fours. In addition, Randolph Churchill shares the same legendary sense of humour as his iconic grandfather!

Overall, it was indeed an honour to be able to enjoy casual conversation with the descendant of one of my all-time personal heroes.

A Parting Gift

Finally, after many hours of rich discussion that covered diverse gourmet subjects from Champagne to whisky, the wonderful even drew to a close.

As I particularly enjoy Davidoff’s Late Hour Churchills, I made the plunge and decided to take a box home with me. After all, I’d likely be sharing these with Trevor and Charles-Philippe anyway!

Furthermore, I was delighted to be given an additional gift with my purchase. To celebrate the release of the Late Hour, all bought boxes came with a mysteriously wrapped present.

What Was In The Box?

If you love cigars and have a penchant for whisky, then this is the perfect item for you. The wooden block separates into all the accessories you may need during the evening.

Deconstructed, the box turns into:

• A comfortably large cigar ashtray
• Two wooden coasters
• A burning block for making whisky-based cocktails
• A wooden cigar carrying case

Each built-in items offers details such as subtly-etched logos that would excite even the most reserved cigar or Churchill enthusiast. I particularly loved the concept am greatly looking forward to resting my favourite whisky on one of the coasters after a long day.

Closing Thoughts

Overall, attending Davidoff’s special occasion was indeed a privilege and one of the highlights of Bespoke Unit’s New York weekend tour. We were able to enjoy a truly cultural moment in such an intimate setting away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Finally, it is sincerely impossible to pick out our favourite moment. Consequently, we congratulate the thoughtful organisers for their attention to detail. Between the company, the high-end cigars, premium whisky and meeting Randolph Churchill, we were truly spoilt on that memorable evening!

About the Author: Paul Anthony

Paul Anthony is the founder and creative director at Bespoke Unit. He has had a life long affair with design, watches, fragrance and clothing. Originally from England, he now lives in the USA splitting time between NYC & Philly. Favoring "British Style", but has an overall eclectic taste.

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