BELMAACHI CIGARS AT THE ART OF WHISKEY (Super Bowl Week, New Orleans)
A Gilded Night at MS Rau
Hosted inside the legendary MS Rau gallery in the French Quarter, the evening unfolded among rare antiques, master artworks, and the unmistakable grandeur of one of New Orleans’ most iconic institutions.
Imperial Grandeur Inside MS Rau
A gallery room crowned with monumental portraits, antique globes, and a hand-crafted pietra dura table, showcasing the timeless opulence that defines MS Rau.
Live Jazz & Art
Live music echoed through the gallery as guests explored rare art and boutique spirits — a perfect New Orleans blend of culture, elegance, and celebration.
The Splendor of MS Rau’s Collections
A glimpse into the extraordinary craftsmanship of MS Rau — centuries-old antiques, fine woodwork, and museum-grade pieces that created a breathtaking environment for the event.
Norman Rockwell’s “Blackstone Cigars” (1921)
One of the standout pieces inside MS Rau that evening — Norman Rockwell’s original Blackstone Cigars (circa 1921), priced at $698,500. A fitting backdrop for Belmaachi’s presence among rare art, vintage cigar history, and the culture of fine craftsmanship.
An Evening Among Influential Guests
From legendary entertainers to prominent patrons, socialites, and power players, the room brought together individuals whose influence spans culture, business, and the world of fine art.
Ron Isley Receives a Belmaachi Gift Box
A warm exchange with Ron Isley as he received a Belmaachi gift box — a highlight of the evening.
Ron Isley — Cognac, Culture & Conversation
Legendary artist Ron Isley enjoying his Liquid Gold Cognac, paired with a fine cigar, inside the MS Rau gallery during the Art of Whiskey event.
Media, Art, and Conversation
Interviews, cameras, and captivating conversations filled the gallery lobby as the night unfolded among priceless works of art.
Glamour in the Gallery
Guests from the worlds of business, culture, and entertainment brought a touch of red-carpet glamour to the night.
Belmaachi: Delivering the Evening’s Luxury Cigar Experience
At the Belmaachi presentation table, guests explored our blends and enjoyed personalized cigar recommendations. Later, Sam Falaki hosted a Master Class in the courtyard where attendees discovered what goes into creating a truly luxury cigar, from leaf selection to fermentation and aging. The experience concluded with guidance on the fine art of enjoying a Belmaachi, the cut, the light, the draw, and the moment — paired with a fine whisky, of course.
Belmaachi Courtyard Cigar Masterclass
An immersive Belmaachi masterclass where guests smoked, sipped, and learned the foundations of luxury cigars and the refined art of enjoying a fine Belmaachi.
The Belmaachi Station
Guests explored the complete Belmaachi lineup, including Connecticut, Sumatra, Habano, and Maduro blends, presented in signature black-and-gold boxes.
Belmaachi Cigars Presented as Art
Belmaachi cigars displayed as works of art — the perfect fit for an evening inside the historic MS Rau gallery.
At the Belmaachi Cigar Stand
Founder Sam Falaki presenting the Belmaachi portfolio to guests at the Art of Whiskey event — introducing the blends, the craftsmanship, and the story behind the brand.
The Art of Whiskey Experience
The gallery buzzed with energy as collectors, enthusiasts, and media explored boutique spirits from around the world — from fine Scotch to premium tequila, each showcased alongside priceless works of art.
Beyond Whiskey: A World of Fine Spirits
A standout pour of the night — Alma del Jaguar, the acclaimed tequila featured in the Robb Report.
Torabhaig: A Rising Star in Scotch Whisky
Guests enjoyed pours of Torabhaig — an emerging Scotch whisky from the Isle of Skye, admired for its maritime character and growing reputation among connoisseurs.
Spotlight Moments with the Media
Media teams were on site capturing the energy of the evening, interviewing guests and sharing their perspectives on the Art of Whiskey experience.
Connecting Over Fine Spirits
Guests gathered, enjoying drinks and conversation as the evening unfolded.
Unwinding After the Master Class
After the master class, Sam Falaki relaxed with guests in the courtyard — cigars, good company, and the glow of the gallery lights.