On Saturday, October 11th, 2025, The Glenlivet Nigeria hosted an intimate evening titled “A Taste of Original Heritage,” a private dinner experience with cultural icon Farooq Oreagba and 19 of his closest friends. The evening celebrated The Glenlivet’s enduring philosophy, Live Original, paying tribute to those who embody courage, heritage, and timeless style through originality and self-expression.
Held at a serene private residence in the heart of Ikoyi, the dinner offered guests a refined yet soulful experience that blended The Glenlivet’s Speyside craftsmanship with Nigerian cultural sophistication. Surrounded by warm, earthy tones and lush greenery, the atmosphere reflected the brand’s balance of authenticity, refinement, and confidence, making it the perfect backdrop for an evening that was both elegant and deeply personal.
Guests were welcomed with four signature cocktails created specially for the night: The Glenlivet Ginger, The Glenlivet Hot Chocolate, The Glenlivet Steeze (a nod to Farooq’s popular moniker), and The Glenlivet Grapefruit Paloma, each one crafted to reinterpret The Glenlivet’s smooth, balanced notes through a contemporary Nigerian lens.
The evening began with a guided tasting session led by The Glenlivet’s Brand Education Ambassador, Cameron Piper, who took guests on an immersive journey through the brand’s history and its finest expressions, The Glenlivet 12, 15, 18, and 21 Year Olds. In his remarks, he shared,
“When George Smith founded The Glenlivet in 1824, he didn’t just make whisky; he defined what single malt could be. Every smooth, fruity note you taste tonight is a reminder that this is the whisky that started it all, the one that set the standard for every Speyside that came after.”
Guests explored the distinctive tasting notes of each expression: the zesty citrus and creamy vanilla of the 12-year-old, the exotic spice and silky oak of the 15, the layered complexity and balance of the 18, and the refined depth and lingering warmth of the 21, the pinnacle of craftsmanship that embodies patience, mastery, and timeless character. Guests were treated to a thoughtfully curated culinary experience, canapés inspired by Nigerian flavours, and a sophisticated three-course dinner that paired beautifully with each expression of The Glenlivet. From the first bite to the final sip, the evening was a seamless celebration of taste, craftsmanship, and style.
Farooq Oreagba welcomed guests with heartfelt words, saying,
“I’ve got 19 of my best and closest friends here tonight, and I want to thank you all for being part of this. We’ve enjoyed the 12, the 15, and the 18; each one was special, each one distinct, and now we raise our glasses to the 21. As they say, we save the best till last. But what makes this journey isn’t special because of hierarchy; it’s because of heritage, craft, and the courage to be original. That’s what The Glenlivet represents.”
Known for his iconic aso-oke and agbada ensembles, Farooq personifies A Taste of Original Heritage, a man who honours culture while fearlessly redefining it. His presence and energy mirrored The Glenlivet’s pioneering spirit, merging heritage with modern elegance. The night featured engaging moments, including a cue-card storytelling session that inspired laughter, reflection, and meaningful conversation, all anchored in The Glenlivet’s celebration of individuality.
The highlight of the evening was The Glenlivet 21 Toast, a symbolic moment led by Farooq, dedicated to unity, gratitude, and shared excellence. This signature toast embodied The Glenlivet’s craftsmanship, bringing together elegance, rhythm, and emotion in one unforgettable moment.
Closing the night, Nkaepe Ette, Brand Activation Manager for The Glenlivet, remarked,
“At The Glenlivet, we celebrate those who choose their own path and live with intention. From George Smith’s first bold act in 1824 to icons like Farooq today, we continue to set the standard, not just in whisky, but in originality, craft, and culture. That’s what it means to be made to follow no one.”
The dinner reflected The Glenlivet’s ongoing commitment to experiences that transcend status, inspiring a generation of Nigerians who live with authenticity, intellect, and taste. It was a night where craftsmanship met culture and where The Glenlivet’s declaration to Live Original and Made to Follow No One came vividly to life.
