Ketel One De Nolet

Ketel One Vodka Hosts Spectacular 'De Nolet' Event Series at SXSW Interactive & Art Basel, Blending Cocktails with Art, Entertainment and Interactive Experiences for Over 2,000 Guests

Client: Diageo North America

Timeframe: 2015

Collaborators: Cunning NYC

The Opportunity

Ketel One Vodka embarked on an ambitious three-day event series in Austin and Miami, marking their first major activation in these vibrant cities. The “De Nolet” event seamlessly blended culinary delights and cocktails with interactive performance art and audience participation. This event aimed to showcase Ketel One’s rich heritage and craftsmanship, creating a memorable experience for attendees.

The Approach

The event attracted over 2,000 guests, including tastemakers, bloggers, and influencers, over the course of four days. We secured renowned international DJs such as Neon Indian and Juan Maclean to enhance the event’s ambiance. A centerpiece of the event was a stunning 45-foot copper windmill, symbolizing Ketel One Vodka’s Nolet Distillery, where guests could delve into the brand’s history, authenticity, and craftsmanship through an interactive brand education wall and comparative vodka tastings.

The Takeaway

The Ketel One event at Art Basel was a resounding success, offering a multi-sensory experience that celebrated the authenticity and artistry of Ketel One Vodka. Guests enjoyed expertly crafted cocktails by award-winning mixologist Aisling Gammill and tasting sessions with Ketel One’s National Mixologist Ricky Gomez. Culinary delights by East Side King, light installations by Dev Harlan for CTRL, and mural art by Rubin415 enriched the experience. Each night, the event seamlessly blended education, entertainment, and artistry, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

I worked with Jack on an experiential platform for Ketel One Vodka. He was masterful in understanding our vision and building on it to make it more than we could have ever imagined. He is an incredible listener and is able to take feedback productively, which is incredibly important in an industry that is regulated. He also flexed seamlessly between big, creative, strategic thinking that helped land the idea and the execution minutiae that ensured it came to life brilliantly. Any brand or individual would be lucky to work with Jack.
Lisa Kliegerman
Vice President of Innovation - Luxury, Scotch Whisky, Tequila, Gin, Liqueur, UP+ Vodkas