Absolut Istanbul: Celebrating Historical and Cultural Diversity

Absolut has long been recognized for its innovative collaborations with artists around the world, creating limited edition bottles that celebrate different cities and countries and their unique cultures.

Our aim with every limited-edition bottle release is to capture the spirit of each city by incorporating the distinctive styles and visions of a specific local artist.

In this post, we unlock the vaults to revisit what was Absolut Istanbul.

A Collaboration Embracing Cultural Diversity

Absolut Istanbul – a limited-edition vodka bottle in collaboration with Turkish artist Yigit Yazici – was released in 2012. The collaboration celebrated the magnificence of Istanbul, Europe’s most populous city, with 15 million residents and its rapidly growing contemporary cultural scene.

Istanbul has been a melting pot of culture for centuries. It’s a place where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern innovations. The city’s skyline is dotted with minarets, domes, and skyscrapers, each telling a story of its rich history and vibrant present.

Throughout history, Istanbul has been a major hub of empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. Today, the city is a mosaic of diverse cultures, religions, and civilizations. Istanbul’s rich historical tapestry resonates with Absolut’s own commitment to culture and diversity, which made Absolut Istanbul a celebration of cultural diversity.

The Artwork and Inspiration for Absolut Istanbul

Yigit Yazici’s vibrant artwork on the limited-edition bottle encapsulates the city’s energy and dynamism. He drew inspiration from the city’s richness, with one side facing the Black Sea and the other its unique Princess Islands.

Absolut Istanbul paid tribute to the city’s iconic emblems, depicted in beautiful, vibrant colors. The Galata Tower, featured on the Absolut Istanbul bottle, stands as a testament to the city’s enduring legacy. Built in the 14th century, it has witnessed the transformation of Istanbul from a Byzantine stronghold to a bustling metropolis.

The Bosphorus, another emblem depicted on the bottle, is a symbol of connection. After all, Istanbul is a place where quite literally East meets West.

This narrow strait not only separates Europe and Asia but also unites them, serving as a vital waterway that has facilitated trade and cultural exchange for millennia.

The Bosphorus is a reminder that culture and connection are not just abstract concepts but woven into the very fabric of Istanbul, just as they are for Absolut.

Want to learn more about our Absolut Istanbul limited-edition bottle? Discover Absolut Istanbul