Why not enjoy a glass of fizz made by Louis Roederer, a long time supporter of the arts, at Nobu Hotel at Portland Square for the rest of May. At the same time, check out some award-winning art currently showing in their White Box gallery.
The theme for this year’s Louis Roederer Photography Prize for Sustainability was ‘Flow’ – representing circulation, exchange and the circular interactions with nature and life forces, which in the case of the Champagne house is illustrated by the constant tension between nature and people.
The awards were launched to support contemporary photographers with an interest in shining a light on sustainability and environmental issues, and this year’s theme drew 26 entrants, selected by a team of nominators, all collectors and renowned experts in the art scene. The six shortlisted finalists were spread from Miami to Jakarta, Casablanca and Tokyo by way of London.
![]()
And the winner was…M’Hammed Kilito for his evocative series entitled ‘Before It's Gone’. His series of pictures is an ongoing long-term project that documents life in many oases with a focus on oasis degradation in Morocco and its impact on their inhabitants. His work sheds a light on the rich environment whose water is the vital element in the genesis of oases and their biodiversity. Along with the hope are the sad realities: desertification, recurrent droughts, changes in agricultural practices, overexploitation of natural resources, rural exodus, and the sharp drop in the water table. His work was praised for the way his series tells “the story of the beauty, history, and the perilous present of these oases” and for his “highly artistic, documentary style”.
![]()
On behalf of M’Hammed Kilito, a friend received the photographer's prize of £7,500 (to continue funding his projects) together with a jeroboam of Louis Roederer Brut Rosé from Louis Roederer CEO, Frederic Rouzaud, and chair of the judges Darius Sanai (pictured at top). The two runners up were Hengki Koentjoro (based in Jakarta) and Yasuhiro Ogaya (from Tokyo) were also highly praised by the judges for their interpretations of the theme.
The works of these three finalists are now on display at The White Box at Nobu Hotel Portman Square until 31 May 2023. And, if you are enjoying a glass of the Louis Roederer Collection 243 with some bar snacks from the Nobu kitchens, you’ll find the sweetness of the Nobu food is the perfect foil for the dry minerality and steely elegance of the Champagne.
![]()
Sustainability has been at the heart of Louis Roederer’s operations for the past 20 years, during which time they have been engaged in what they call ‘renaissance viticulture’. This approach translates as respecting and protecting the living environment to allow the nuances of the Champagne terroir to be expressed in full – meaning more vibrant flavours and expressions in the Louis Roederer grapes and wines. These practices are inspired by the permaculture model and allow the ecosystem to self-regulate. This means, amongst other things, growing fruit trees and installing beehives, using biodynamic composts and proper fallow periods, and maintaining hedgerows.
Looking to treat yourself? These are the most expensive Champagnes that are worth splurging on.