Magnum Photos is a legendary agency representing the world’s most talented photographers. Like Velier, Magnum was founded in 1947 by prominent figures like Robert Capa, Henri Cartier-Bresson, David Seymour, George Rodger and William Vandivert. The name of the agency partly derives from the fact that during their periodical meetings at the MOMA’s restaurant in New York the founders had a habit of drinking bottles of French wine; the other reason was that a Latin name clearly conveyed strength and greatness.
What makes Magnum unique is that every picture taken by each of the agency’s sixty current member professionals remains the property of the photographer and not of the magazine where it’s published. This allows the photographers to freely choose their own subjects and themes, giving their production a more personal style completely free from constraints. Its photographers’ independence and fresh look on the world is what enabled Magnum to make a name for itself in the world of photography. The 2021 release is meant as the first of a series, with future releases comprising different rums selected from other distilleries with photographs from other Magnum artists on the labels. The rums selected for this release are from three of the oldest distilleries in Jamaica, Martinique and Barbados – namely Hampden since 1753, Saint James since 1889, Mount Gay since 1703, and Foursquare, the most award-winning distillery in Barbados.
Four unpublished photographs by Elliott Erwitt, a true master in the art of photography, have been selected for this release. Born in Paris in 1928 to Russian parents, Erwitt spent his childhood in Milan, then moved to the United States in 1939. His interest in photography developed very early on and was fueled by frequent trips to France and Italy. In 1953, Erwitt joined the Magnum agency, holding the office of president for three years and working as a freelancer for some of the most iconic magazines of the golden age of illustrated periodicals like Collier’s, Look, LIFE, Holiday and many others. His elegant black and white shots are unmistakable and carry a touch of satirical humor combined with a great sense of humanity so dear to Magnum’s authentic spirit.
The result of this meeting of masters is an all-around work of art both in content and label.
Tasting notes:
The nose is lively and creamy with apricot liqueur, marmalade, peppery notes, roasted banana and dark chocolate. On the palate the rum is powerful and fresh. Lemony, vanilla, caramel, clove, star anise, cocoa powder and cinnamon notes. The finish is long and well balanced with orange, bitter chocolate, roasted coffee, ginger and phlox flowers.
Presentation box included.
