Martell, the renowned cognac house with a legacy spanning over two centuries, has unveiled its latest creation – the limited-edition L’Or de Jean Martell – Réserve du Château collection. This series will pay tribute to historic French estates through bespoke cognac blends, with the first release honouring the Château de Chanteloup.
Crafted by Martell’s cellar master Christophe Valtaud, the Réserve du Château de Chanteloup is a blend of aged eaux-de-vie and vibrant newer cognacs, resulting in a complex and dynamic flavour profile. The cognac opens with floral notes, leading to rich red and black fruit flavours like cherry and blackcurrant, with a lingering touch of spice, sandalwood, and cedar. Housed in exquisite Baccarat crystal decanters, only 1,000 bottles of this exceptional cognac have been produced, with 90 allocated to Singapore.
Valtaud shared insights into the inspiration behind the blend, its connection to Martell’s history, and his plans for future Réserve du Château releases. As the cellar master for eight years, Valtaud’s vision for creating a more expressive and complex cognac led to the development of the Réserve du Château de Chanteloup. This blend not only showcases his craftsmanship but also pays homage to the expertise of previous cellar masters.
The terroir of Château de Chanteloup plays a significant role in shaping the final cognac, as it holds historical importance for Martell and was once the location of the family’s chateau. Situated in the renowned growing area of Bouderies, known for its signature cognac, the chateau contributes to the elegance of the blend. Additionally, the vineyard in Grand Champagne, owned by the Martell family, adds richness to the cognac, creating a unique and special taste.
Looking ahead, Valtaud plans to create new Réserve du Château releases, each with a unique twist while maintaining the style of Jean Martell. By adjusting the composition to enhance the character of each blend, Valtaud aims to cherish the connection to the château with every sip.
While details of the upcoming château blend remain under wraps, Valtaud hinted that the final ageing process will take place within a castle with a connection to Louis XIII. This release promises a blend of richness and opulence, offering a unique and indulgent experience for cognac enthusiasts.
In the grand scheme of Martell’s long history, this collection is set to be remembered as a celebration of the brand’s French roots and its pioneering role in the world of cognac. With a legacy dating back to the birth of cognac, Martell’s use of French châteaux as a means of celebration pays homage to its rich history and legacy in the industry.
As Martell continues to innovate and honour its heritage through exceptional cognac creations like the Réserve du Château collection, enthusiasts can look forward to experiencing the essence of French craftsmanship and tradition in every sip.