presents
Toast to
the joy of life
OOn the evening of 16 May 1889, the Eiffel Tower stood majestically against the sky of Paris, an iron monument that defied the clouds and celebrated human ingenuity. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the Universal Exhibition, it had just been inaugurated, thus opening the doors to a new vision of progress.
The atmosphere was vibrant with excitement: Parisians as well as visitors from every corner of the planet flocked to admire this extraordinary feat, a beacon of modernity which would illuminate the path towards the new century.
Under its shining lights, a few lucky guests had the honour of attending a gala dinner to celebrate the newly opened Universal Exhibition. In the main hall, at the foot of the huge structure, a long table of fine wood was adorned with an immaculate white tablecloth. Crystal glasses shone like stars in a firmament of elegance, ready to be filled with the precious cognac from Maison Courvoisier. Chosen by the world’s foremost connoisseurs to pay homage to that unique soirée, it had been recently awarded with the international recognition of the coveted Médaille d’or. Founded in the early 19th century in Jarnac, Maison Courvoisier was already a symbol of refinement and joie de vivre, carrying with it the legacy of its founder, Félix Courvoisier, who turned such values not just into a cognac appreciated by the finest palates, but also a philosophy of life.
During the evening, the guests conversed animatedly while the waiters, in black livery, moved gracefully among the diners, serving refined dishes and culinary delicacies.
In that joyful atmosphere, Gustave Eiffel, with pride and humility, rose for a toast. His slender figure was wrapped in an elegant dark suit and his bright eyes reflected the light from the tower.
"Ladies and gentlemen," he said, "welcome to this celebration of life, art, and science. Today we celebrate not only a technological advance, but also a new way of seeing the world. Let's toast together to this symbol of hope and innovation. May the Eiffel Tower remain a beacon for future generations, a place where dreams and ambitions can meet reality."
After his words, the aroma of the Courvoisier spread among the diners as glasses clinked in perfect harmony. Each sip, smooth and mouth-filling, with its aroma rich in complexity, seemed to enclose the essence of an entire century, the determination of visionaries and builders, the fantasies of artists and inventors, the ambitions of politicians and dreamers who found themselves united by enthusiasm for what the tower represented.
As fireworks lit up the night sky and music enveloped the hearts of those celebrating, everyone felt that gala night would never be forgotten. Paris, the city of lights, had found a new symbol to celebrate which would illuminate the way to the future.
The tinkling glasses that met with happy smiles reflected the soft gold and amber of the Courvoisier cognac, as well as the dreams of a belle époque ready to become reality.
Under that twinkling sky there was not only a celebration of human craftsmanship, but also a tribute to the promise of a tomorrow illuminated by shared celebrations and vibrant achievements.
Félix Courvoisier would have been extremely happy!
Had he seen the place of honour reserved for his cognac on this magnificent evening, he would have certainly made one last toast, in his own way:
vivre!