Lagos recently played host to an exclusive gathering that celebrated African excellence in spirits as premium South African gin brand Inverroche brought its global ambassador Lauren Penny to Nigeria's vibrant commercial capital.
An Evening of Craftsmanship and Community
The intimate event brought together media personalities, influencers, and industry partners who share Inverroche's passion for storytelling and African excellence. Among the distinguished guests were actress Beverly Naya, Chika and Eche of the popular Afropolitan Podcast, and Lara Rawa, founder of Lagos Cocktail Week, alongside other creative minds from Nigeria's dynamic social scene.
Evane Chenuet, Marketing Director at Pernod Ricard, welcomed attendees and emphasized the brand's growing presence in the Nigerian market. "Inverroche represents a unique blend of heritage and innovation," she stated. "We are proud to share this experience with a community that values craftsmanship and the stories behind the brands they enjoy."
The Story Behind the Spirits
Michael Ehindero, Managing Director at Pernod Ricard, provided insights into the brand's origins in Still Bay, South Africa, highlighting its commitment to mindfulness, quality, and sustainability. "Inverroche was born from a curiosity to create something truly meaningful," Ehindero explained. "Every bottle tells a story of nature, people, and purpose, and tonight we celebrate that story with our Lagos community."
The evening's highlight featured a comprehensive gin tasting and education session led by Lauren Penny herself. Guests had the opportunity to explore Inverroche's signature expressions:
- Amber variant with its rich, warm character
- Verdant expression offering fresh botanical notes
- Classic profile representing the brand's foundation
Penny expertly explained how the gin's distinct character is shaped by rare fynbos-inspired botanicals, drawing fascinating parallels between gin-making and the art of perfumery. "Inverroche is more than a gin; it's a celebration of nature, craftsmanship, and the women who bring it to life," she emphasized during her presentation.
Women Leading the Spirit Revolution
Lauren Penny particularly highlighted the brand's focus on women empowerment, revealing that over 70% of Inverroche's team are women. From the distillation process to creative marketing campaigns, women play a central role in shaping the brand's spirit and purpose, establishing Inverroche as a genuine symbol of African luxury and intentional craftsmanship.
The memorable evening concluded with a toast led by Ebere Aham, Brand Activation Manager at Inverroche, who expressed gratitude to guests for participating in an event that truly embodied the brand's core values. "Inverroche brings people together, inspires creativity, and honours the beauty of African craftsmanship," Aham stated.
Beyond the Event: Immersive Lagos Experience
Lauren Penny's connection with Lagos extended far beyond the single evening event. The global ambassador spent ten full days engaging deeply with the city's culture and creative economy. Her comprehensive itinerary included:
- Retail tours with key stockists across Lagos
- Specialized bartender workshops and training sessions
- Trade education programs for industry professionals
- A women-focused bartending event supporting female mixologists
During her extended stay, Penny also connected with nightlife leaders, media personalities, and influential industry figures, experiencing Lagos' renowned vibrant culture firsthand and building meaningful relationships within Nigeria's growing premium spirits community.
Founded in Still Bay, South Africa, Inverroche Gin has gained international recognition for its use of rare fynbos botanicals sourced from the unique Cape Floral region. Each bottle reflects the brand's commitment to heritage, sustainability, and exceptional craftsmanship. As the brand continues to expand its presence in Nigeria, it remains dedicated to connecting with communities that share its values of creativity, quality, and authentic African storytelling.
