Exploring The Historic Martell Cognac Distillery

A Snapshot Of History

The Martell cognac distillery, with over 300 years of history, stands as a symbol of enduring French craftsmanship. Founded in 1715 by Jean Martell, a Jersey-born trader, the distillery was built around a single 18th-century house near the Charente River, a strategic site for trade and production. Jean’s deep understanding of international commerce shaped his vision for distributing cognac across Europe.

One of Martell’s most notable legacies is its expansive archive—over five kilometers of documents—preserving centuries of business correspondence, trade data, and personal letters that offer rare insight into cognac production and international trade. Early records highlight Jean’s customer-centric approach and innovations in branding and quality control, laying the foundation for global success.

After Jean's death in 1753, his widow Rachel Martell took over at age 33, becoming a driving force in the company’s development. Known for her insistence on uncompromising quality, Rachel expanded Martell’s reach across Europe while instilling rigorous standards for taste and production that continue to define the brand.

The distillery’s historic cellars, built in the 1870s, illustrate 19th-century industrial ingenuity, housing massive barrels and featuring systems that optimized barrel movement and measurement. The poetic phenomenon of “La Part des Anges”—the natural evaporation during aging—adds a mystical layer to Martell’s aging process.

The 20th century saw major branding advancements, including the introduction of trademarked bottles and the iconic Cordon Bleu in 1912—the first cognac named for its blend rather than age. Today, Cordon Bleu is the world’s leading XO cognac.

Martell continues to balance tradition with innovation. Modern blending techniques coexist with century-old barrels, and gastronomy remains central to the Martell experience, reflecting its long history of entertaining guests and educating them on cognac appreciation.

The archives, preserved through wars and time, remain a treasure trove for historians. As Martell embraces the digital age, it also honours the irreplaceable value of human insight. The distillery endures not just as a business, but as a living museum of family legacy, cultural heritage, and artisanal excellence.

Stellar Experiences

I was fortunate enough to visit the enchanting Château de Chanteloup in Cognac to indulge in the new Signature Martell par Alexandra Mazzia experience, pulling back the curtain on what was once the Martell family home. This gastronomic journey has been co-created by Martell Cellar Master Christophe Valtaud and three-Michelin-starred Chef Alexandra Mazzia. It celebrates the interplay of stellar dishes paired with exceptional cognac against the backdrop of this spectacular chateau. The synergy between Valtaud and Mazzia was undeniable, as these two artists bring together superlative cognac and fine dining.

The experience is as intimate as it is exclusive. At the very heart of this sprawling chateau, a single table overlooks the open kitchen showcasing Executive Chef Mazzia and his team constructing intricate dishes. The table seats a maximum of six guests to invite open conversation with Mazzia. Spanish designer Jorge Penadés has executed this soothing space. Decor is pared-back and minimalist, bar an 18th century tapestry from Martell’s private collection – a seemingly intentional move to allow the food and cognac to do the talking.

The proceeding meal was a carefully curated celebration of cognac and culinary artistry, showcasing rare blends from the House’s extensive collection of 11,000 eaux-de-vie. The evening commenced with a cognac cocktail at the Chateau bar to kickstart proceedings, executed by renowned mixologist Rémy Savage. The first course — poetically titled Première Teintes— was a refined series of dishes artfully paired with Perrier-Jouët Champagne. This invigorating introduction set a sophisticated tone for the culinary voyage that followed.

The subsequent four courses were thoughtfully accompanied by an exceptional selection of Martell Cognacs, each pairing meticulously chosen to enhance the nuances of the cuisine and underscore the artistry behind every dish. From seafood to meat and vegetables,, the menu showcased high-quality products from a trusted network of regional producers, ensuring each plate reflected seasonality and a deep respect for nature.

Among the many highlights, the Animal Marine course stood out as particularly memorable: tender, glazed duck breast paired with grilled watermelon and flambéed in cognac. This imaginative composition masterfully balanced sweet and savoury elements, offering a captivating interplay of flavours on the palate.

To conclude, we were presented with Douceurs Charentaises, a sublime dessert featuring creamy coffee ice cream delicately infused with cardamom and served alongside a vibrant strawberry marmalade. This elegant finale provided a harmonious close to an extraordinary meal—leaving us utterly enchanted.

Throughout the evening, each dish was elevated by a bespoke selection of Martell cognacs, whose depth and character seamlessly complemented the culinary experience, from fish to meat dishes, smokey to spicy — a complex menu to reveal a new depth to the equally complex taste. The evening concluded with a particularly rarified night-cap, one final cognac in the library where we discovered Maison Martell’s most exclusive editions.

This intimate experience unveils a deeper appreciation for this amber-hued elixir, equally enthralling for cognac connoisseurs and novices alike. In short: a truly memorable meal

Menu with cognac pairings: €500 per person.

Privatisation of the full table available upon request for up to 6 guests for €3000.  

By reservation only: https://mar.tl/chanteloup