Martell Cordon Bleu Review: A Connoisseur's Perspective

Unravel the rich history of Martell Cordon Bleu, a luxurious drink that continues to enchant connoisseurs worldwide

Martell Cordon Bleu is undoubtedly the king of cognacs, and not just by reputation — it's the very embodiment of tradition and excellence. As the oldest XO equivalent cognac still in production, it's an admired spirit.

Crafted in 1912 by Edouard Martell, the great-grandson of the founder, Martell Cordon Bleu uses grapes from the vineyards in the Borderie subregion in its eaux-de-vie and Tronçais oak for its casks. This combination results in an exceptionally smooth cognac.

Let's take a laid-back journey through this iconic drink's fascinating history, masterful craftsmanship, and mouthwatering flavours.

Martell Cordon Bleu 700ml

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Key Features

• Classification

  XO Cognac

• Location

  Cognac, France

• Made From

  Predominantly Borderies eaux-de-vie of the Ugni Blanc varietal

• Price

  $244.95 - $278.00 ($239.95 member price)

• ABV

  40%

A Timeless Emblem of Excellence in Cognac

Martell Cordon Bleu 700ml

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Martell Cordon Bleu 700ml

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The Process of Creation

To produce the Cognac, the distillers rack the juices before and after distillation. The process allows sediments to settle at the bottom of the tank, ensuring the drink is well-filtered and bright.

Martell's winemakers use traditional pot stills to heat the wine. The vapour goes through the still head and along the swan's neck, finally entering the coil where it condenses and creates a crystal-clear drink. Then, they cut the tails—juice retrieved from the second pressing of grapes—to keep the undesirable flavours from contaminating the drink.

The Eye, Nose, and Palate

• The Appearance

  The Martell Cordon Bleu boasts a golden copper hue reflecting its rich and mature character. The timeless bottle design complements the luxurious appearance, embodying this legendary cognac's exquisite elegance and heritage.

• The Smell

  A blend of candied fruit, gingerbread, and hints of cinnamon, with a sweet prune-like quality.

• The Taste

  A smooth tapestry of velvety flavours. Notes of sweet dried fruits, gingerbread, vanilla, and citrus peel are complemented by a leathery astringency, subtle hints of cinnamon, roasted cocoa beans, and chestnut aromas.

• The Pricing

  If you've read this far, now is the perfect time to sign up for a Paneco membership. By doing so, you'll get Martell Cordon Bleu at a special price of $239.95 for the 700ml and $354.95 for the 1-litre bottle.

Final Verdict: Is Martell Cordon Bleu Worth the Money?

In a world of innovations and new flavours, Martell Cordon Bleu stands its ground as a timeless masterpiece. Its dedication to traditional craftsmanship makes it a cognac that transcends the ages. While it may come with a premium price tag, every sip is an investment in an unparalleled experience.

Some may argue that the cost is prohibitive, but true connoisseurs understand that excellence often comes at a price.

Martell Cordon Bleu 700ml

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FAQ

• What Mixes Well with Martell Cordon Bleu?

  Martell Cordon Bleu is best drunk sipped neat with a splash of hot water, or a single ice cube so its complex flavours may bloom.

• What Size Does Martell Cordon Bleu Come In?

  Martell Cordon Bleu comes in two sizes: the classic 700ml bottle and the larger 1-litre, perfect for special occasions and gatherings.

• How Long Can Martell Cordon Bleu Be Kept?

  You can keep it for decades if you store it properly. Ensure the bottle is upright, away from direct sunlight, and at a consistent temperature to preserve its exceptional qualities.