Last week, I found myself escaping the relentless hum of Manhattan to step into a vibrant, sun-drenched oasis that felt worlds away from the concrete jungle. On Thursday, June 18, 2026, The Garden at The Standard East Village transformed into a sanctuary of pure optimism and high style. As a sommelier, I am always searching for moments where wine transcends the glass and becomes culture, fashion, and emotion. This evening was exactly that. Specifically, it was a celebration of the dazzling new “Chasing the Sun” collaboration between Champagne giant Veuve Clicquot and the brilliant British-Nigerian artist and designer, Yinka Ilori MBE.
The energy was electric, buzzing with the kind of sophisticated glamour you only find when New York’s creative elite gathers for premium bubbles. The Standard’s hidden courtyard, tucked away at 25 Cooper Square, continues to surprise and delight me. It offers unexpected, high-class experiences right in the heart of the neighborhood.
The absolute highlight of the evening was spending time with the guest of honor himself, Yinka Ilori. Often called the “Architect of Joy,” Ilori is a true multipreneur. He is a multicultural visionary whose work bursts with brilliant colors and deep cultural narratives. As a Latina, I felt an instant, instinctive connection to his aesthetic. His bold use of color and storytelling mirrors the the warmth of our own culture. Chatting with him during the inauguration was an absolute dream. Despite his massive global acclaim, he is incredibly humble and approachable. He shared his vision of how art, like great wine, should evoke immediate, unapologetic happiness.
For over two centuries, Veuve Clicquot has cast its solar imprint on the world, a legacy deeply rooted in Madame Clicquot’s bold, pioneering vision. Ilori’s collection for the “Chasing the Sun” campaign beautifully honors this history. His designs feature gorgeous, expressive symbols of protective hands embracing the sun, reimagined stars, and elements of nature. He has turned luxury packaging into literal fine art.
Of course, the true soul of the night belonged to the liquid in our glasses. Surrounded by Ilori’s stunning installations, we toasted with the iconic Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label NV, the undeniable “gold standard” of the house. In the glass, it poured a beautiful golden-yellow with a lively, persistent mousse. On the nose, it immediately opened up with bright aromas of yellow and white fruits, think ripe pear and crisp apple. These notes were seamlessly interwoven with elegant, toasty notes of brioche, vanilla, and a hint of almond. On the palate, it was the epitome of complexity and freshness. The structural dominance of Pinot Noir gave it a beautiful, crisp richness. Meanwhile, it was balanced perfectly by the freshness of Chardonnay and the round fruitiness of Meunier. It is always pure magic.
For those looking to elevate their summer entertaining, Ilori’s limited-edition bottle cases and lifestyle items are stunning collector’s pieces. They bring this exact gozo (deep joy) to your table. Here is a quick look at the collectible pieces currently available:
These sun-drenched luxury collectibles are worth every single penny for a serious wine and design collection.
You don’t need a red carpet or an exclusive invitation to bring the spirit of high-class luxury into your life. Whether you are popping a collectible bottle of Yellow Label for an intimate rooftop gathering or styling your bar cart with Ilori’s sun-drenched designs, true elegance is an attitude. It is about pausing, celebrating the moment, and chasing your own sun.
So, wine lovers, let’s not wait for a special occasion to live beautifully. Grab yourself one of these gorgeous limited-edition pieces before they sell out. Chill a bottle of the gold standard, and toast to the good life. Until the next glass, tell me: how are you bringing a little more happiness and luxury to your table this season? Drop a comment below, and let’s chat. ¡Salud!
Martha Cisneros Paja is an Engineer, Cava Educator and WSET Level 2 certified, founder of Latinas Wine Club Inc. and author of Mexican Wines: A guide to Fall in Love with Wines of Mexico . Read more about one of the most hard-working Latinas in Wine here.
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