The 16th Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic dazzled LA with star-studded matches, gourmet cuisine, and the debut of new champagne cuvées under the sun.
In a dazzling display of sport, style, and champagne, the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic made its triumphant return to Los Angeles, marking its 16th year as one of the city’s most anticipated social events.
Held on 5 October 2024 at the picturesque Will Rogers State Historic Park, this year’s Classic ushered in a new era of daytime elegance, blending the time-honoured sport of polo with the champagne house’s signature ‘Solaire’ joie de vivre.
A Reimagined Celebration Under the California Sun
As the golden California sun bathed the grounds of Will Rogers State Historic Park, a sea of fashionable attendees gathered for what has become an unmissable fixture in the Los Angeles social calendar.
This year’s event, however, was far from business as usual. Veuve Clicquot, ever the innovator, unveiled a host of new experiences designed to elevate the Classic to new heights of sophistication and enjoyment.
The transformation of the park into Veuve Clicquot’s premier ‘Sun Club’ set the stage for a day of unparalleled indulgence. Vibrant décor in the brand’s iconic yellow hue created an atmosphere of joy and celebration, perfectly complementing the finest champagnes on offer.
It was clear from the outset that this was not merely a sporting event, but a full-sensory experience crafted to delight even the most discerning of guests.
Perhaps the most exciting development for champagne aficionados was the American debut of Veuve Clicquot‘s latest cuvées: RICH and RICH Rosé. These innovative offerings, designed to be enjoyed over ice or well-chilled, embody the carefree spirit of ‘la dolce vita’.
Their introduction at the Polo Classic signalled a new chapter for the brand, one that embraces a more relaxed and versatile approach to champagne consumption.
Star-Studded Affair: Hollywood’s Finest Grace the Field
As with previous years, the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic attracted a glittering array of celebrities and tastemakers. Among the notable attendees were Robert Pattinson and Suki Waterhouse, their presence adding a touch of Hollywood glamour to the proceedings. Charles Melton, fresh from his recent successes, mingled with the crowd, while Quinta Brunson brought her characteristic wit and charm to the event.
Supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio, a long-time friend of the Classic, once again graced the field with her presence, embodying the effortless chic that has become synonymous with the event.
The star-studded guest list served as a testament to the Polo Classic’s enduring appeal and its status as a must-attend event for Los Angeles’ elite.
A Match to Remember: Nacho Figueras Leads Team Veuve Clicquot to Victory
At the heart of the day’s festivities was, of course, the polo match itself. The ceremonial ball toss, performed this year by the talented Danai Gurira, set the stage for an exhilarating contest between Team Veuve Clicquot and Team Will Rogers.
Leading the charge for Team Veuve Clicquot was none other than Nacho Figueras, the world-renowned polo player whose skill and charisma have become integral to the Classic’s allure.
In a thrilling display of horsemanship and teamwork, Figueras, alongside his wife Delfina Blaquier, guided Team Veuve Clicquot to a hard-fought victory. The fast-paced match kept spectators on the edge of their seats, showcasing the athleticism and strategy that make polo such a captivating sport.
For many attendees, the opportunity to witness Figueras in action was a highlight of the day. His participation not only elevated the level of play but also reinforced the Polo Classic’s status as a premier sporting event, not just a social gathering.
Fashion Forward: Daytime Chic Takes Centre Stage
As much as the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic is about sport and champagne, it’s equally about style.
This year’s event saw attendees embracing the ‘Solaire’ aesthetic with gusto, their outfits a vibrant reflection of the day’s joyous atmosphere.
The fashion on display was a masterclass in daytime chic, with guests showcasing the season’s hottest trends. Black and white polka dots made a strong showing, their playful pattern a perfect match for the event’s lighthearted spirit. Matching sets, a trend that has dominated recent fashion weeks, were also prevalent, offering a polished and put-together look that suited the occasion perfectly.
Plaid, that perennial favourite of the polo set, was reimagined in fresh colours and cuts, proving its enduring versatility. Footwear choices ran the gamut from classic riding boots, a nod to the sport’s equestrian roots, to fashionable mules, ideal for navigating the grassy terrain in style.
The overall effect was a sea of stylish attendees, each outfit carefully curated to complement the event’s ‘Sun Club’ décor. It was clear that for many, the Polo Classic represented an opportunity to make a fashion statement, and they rose to the occasion with aplomb.
Culinary Delights: A Feast for the Senses
No event of this calibre would be complete without an exceptional culinary offering, and the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic did not disappoint. This year saw a collaboration between Smorgasburg, the wildly popular open-air food market, and acclaimed chef Jean Imbert, resulting in a gastronomic experience that was truly world-class.
The curated selection of gourmet dining options catered to every palate, from classic polo picnic fare to innovative culinary creations. Attendees were treated to a diverse array of dishes, each designed to pair perfectly with Veuve Clicquot’s champagnes, including the newly introduced RICH and RICH Rosé cuvées.
This elevated approach to event catering reflected Veuve Clicquot’s commitment to providing a complete sensory experience. The fusion of high-end cuisine with the brand’s celebrated champagnes created a synergy of flavours that delighted even the most discerning food and wine enthusiasts.
Beyond the Match: Entertainment and Experiences
While the polo match was undoubtedly the centrepiece of the day, the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic offered a wealth of additional entertainment and experiences for guests to enjoy.
Following the conclusion of the tournament, DJ trio Ladies of Leisure took to the decks, transforming the field into an open-air dance floor. Their eclectic mix of tunes kept the celebratory spirit alive well into the evening, ensuring that the energy of the day never waned.
For those looking to take a piece of the Classic home with them, the Veuve Clicquot Shop, presented in partnership with American Express®, offered an array of exclusive merchandise.
From the brand’s iconic Clicquot Arrows to bespoke picnic blankets created in collaboration with Souleiado, the shop was a treasure trove of Veuve Clicquot-branded items. New ‘Sun Club’ merchandise, stylish sunglasses, and elegant glassware rounded out the offerings, all presented in the brand’s signature Clicquot Yellow.
Adding an extra layer of prestige to the proceedings was Hublot, serving as the Official Timekeeper of the match. Their presence underscored the Classic’s status as a high-end sporting event, marrying the precision of Swiss watchmaking with the exhilaration of polo.
A Legacy of Innovation: Madame Clicquot’s Enduring Influence
While the Polo Classic is a thoroughly modern affair, it’s impossible to ignore the rich history that underpins every bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne.
Founded in Reims in 1772, the house of Veuve Clicquot has long been at the forefront of innovation in the champagne industry, a legacy that can be traced back to the remarkable Madame Clicquot.
Taking the helm of the company in 1805, Madame Clicquot became one of the first businesswomen of modern times. Her indomitable spirit and willingness to challenge conventions revolutionised the champagne industry, earning her the moniker “la grande dame de la Champagne.”
Among her many innovations, Madame Clicquot created the first riddling table, a device still used today in the production of champagne. She also introduced the first vintage champagne and the first known blended rosé champagne, setting new standards for quality and creativity in the industry.
This spirit of innovation was very much alive at the 2024 Polo Classic, from the introduction of the new RICH and RICH Rosé cuvées to the reimagined ‘Sun Club’ experience. It’s clear that Veuve Clicquot continues to honour Madame Clicquot’s legacy by pushing boundaries and embracing new ideas, all while maintaining the uncompromising quality for which the brand is known.
A Commitment to Preservation
While the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic is undoubtedly a celebration of luxury and lifestyle, it also serves a greater purpose. A portion of all ticket proceeds from the event goes towards the preservation of Will Rogers State Historic Park, home to one of Los Angeles’ last remaining grass polo fields.
This commitment to preservation underscores Veuve Clicquot’s understanding of its role as a steward of tradition, both in the world of champagne and in the communities where it hosts events. By contributing to the maintenance of this historic venue, the brand ensures that future generations will be able to enjoy the sport of polo in its most authentic setting.
Looking to the Future: The Evolution of the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic
As the sun set on another successful Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic, it was clear that this beloved event continues to evolve and surprise. The introduction of new cuvées, the reimagined ‘Sun Club’ experience, and the ever-increasing calibre of attendees all point to a bright future for this Los Angeles institution.
What began as a celebration of polo and champagne has grown into something much more: a showcase of style, a celebration of culinary excellence, and a testament to the enduring appeal of gathering under the sun to enjoy life’s finer things. As Veuve Clicquot continues to innovate and push boundaries, one can only imagine what future Polo Classics might hold.
One thing, however, is certain: as long as there are those who appreciate the joy of a perfectly chilled glass of champagne, the thrill of a polo match, and the pleasure of a day spent in good company, the Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic will remain a highlight of the Los Angeles social calendar. Here’s to many more years of sunshine, sport, and champagne.
Images: Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic LA
