For over 300 years, Maison Martell has been pioneering and refining the art of cognac-making. Until now, its labels have all been exquisite blends of eaux-de-vie - from its world-renowned signature Noblige, VSOP, Cordon Bleu and Chanteloup XXO, to rare and ultra-limited editions made from top-notch eaux-de-vie selections and special ageing processes.
Marking a new chapter in its history, the oldest of the Grand Cognac houses broke with tradition recently to launch the Single Cru collection. Featuring cognacs of single origins instead of multi-estate blends, it presents an aromatic exploration of each of the four terroirs within the Cognac region: Fins Bois, Borderies, Petite Champagne and Grande Champagne. These sub-regions contribute to a total of six bottles that make up, in ascending order of exclusivity, the Discovery, Aged and Vintage Editions of this collection.
A MASTERCLASS IN COGNAC PRODUCTION
After flying into the town of Cognac from Paris, Prestige spent two full days discovering not just the exquisiteness of these new crus, but also the passion of the cellar masters, blenders and mixologists.
On the afternoon of the press group's arrival, we were welcomed into the Martell headquarters where we lunched at the highest point in town, the rooftop bar of Indigo, which boasted a glorious 360-degree view of the old town centre and the famous Charente river that's the source of life to the region's vineyards. After knocking back several refreshing cognac-blended cocktails, we were whisked away to the brand's iconic estate in Gallienne, nestled in the Broderies sub-region (or terroir). What greeted us within a large hall lined with distilling equipment was a long row of tables beautifully decorated with plants and fruit.
The agenda: A mini masterclass in cognac production, and a tasting session of the Discovery Edition.
This story is from the March 2024 edition of Prestige Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March 2024 edition of Prestige Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Power To The People
Boucheron creative director Claire Choisne's latest high-jewellery creations are stylish statements of authority and achievement.
Walking into the Blue
Dive into luxury at Depth of Blue, Johnnie Walker Blue Label's first flagship bar in Southeast Asia. Dive into luxury at Depth of Blue, Johnnie Walker Blue Label's first flagship bar in Southeast Asia.
IN THE FLOW
For ANDRÉ FU, travel isn't so much a means of inspiration as it is a way to detach from everyday life to approach his work from fresh perspectives.
CHIC VOLUMES
Impractically oversized but utterly beautiful tomes featuring an eclectic subject, coffee table books serve to kick-start conversations in addition to being subtle avenues of sophisticated self-expression. Here are six titles to consider having on your living room table.
VICTOR OVER TIME
35 years after they broke convention as renegade art students, Phillip Lim catches up with eminent artist SUZANN VICTOR to reminisce about past escapades and how far the artist has come.
Circle of Friends
A Singapore family that has set up a second home in remote Kenya shares their connection with the local communities with guests of their lodge.
VIVE LA WEAVE
Chanel's latest high jewellery collection celebrates the innovation that put her squarely in the pantheon of legendary fashion designers.
VIEW BEYOND THE RACES
For Richard Mille, life in the fast lane is more than just performance-driven machines, it's a profound appreciation for excellence in various forms.
OFF TO THE FAIR
Watch clients are increasingly dropping into Watches and Wonders, a trade fair meant for retailers and media personnel. Here's why.
STEP LIVELY
In the original design of Hermès' Mon Premier Galop shawl by Chinese artist Tong Ren, a horse with an awkward yet happy gait is depicted in simple lines, colour blocks, and decorative-trimming inspired by traditional basketry.
