Martell Cordon Bleu Cognac

Martell Cordon Bleu Cognac shines when sipped neat in a snifter, allowing its complex aromas and flavors to unfold gracefully, though it also excels in spirit-forward cocktails that showcase its depth. This luxurious cognac is perfect for cooler evenings year-round, pairing beautifully with rich, savory dishes like foie gras, roasted game meats, or aged cheeses that complement its robust character.

Nose: Dried fruits like raisins and figs dominate, accompanied by hints of toasted oak and vanilla. Subtle notes of cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth, while a touch of candied orange peel provides brightness.

Palate: Rich and full-bodied with flavors of baked apples and pears. Honey sweetness balances well with oak tannins. Hints of roasted coffee and dark chocolate emerge, along with a gentle spiciness reminiscent of ginger and clove.

Finish: Long and satisfying. Dried fruit flavors linger, transitioning to a pleasant oakiness. A subtle warmth reminds of the spirit's strength, while notes of caramel and tobacco leaf add depth. The finish tapers off with a slight nuttiness, leaving a refined, dry sensation.

Martell Cordon Bleu Cognac is crafted using a unique blend of over 100 eaux-de-vie, primarily from the Borderies region, which are aged for 10 to 25 years in fine-grained oak barrels. The extended aging process, coupled with the use of Borderies grapes known for their floral and spicy notes, contributes to the cognac's distinctive smooth texture and complex flavor profile featuring hints of candied fruit and sweet spices.

• Martell Cordon Bleu was created in 1912 to celebrate the company's 200th anniversary, but its distinctive blue ribbon and bottle design were inspired by the "Cordon Bleu" medal awarded to French chefs for culinary excellence.
• Unlike most cognacs that primarily use grapes from the Grande Champagne region, Martell Cordon Bleu's signature flavor comes from a high proportion of older eaux-de-vie from the small Borderies cru, known for its unique floral and spicy notes.
• The cognac gained unexpected popularity in China during the 1990s, where it became a status symbol and was often mixed with green tea, leading to a significant boost in Martell's global sales and influence in the Asian market.