History

Jean Martell leaves his native Jersey and arrives in France to devote himself to studying and developing the art of cognac. He travels the region, searching for the finest eaux-de-vie and establishing ties with local wine-growers that will last for generations.

After the death of Jean Martell in 1753, his widow Rachel Lallemand takes over the business, vowing to uphold his vision and integrity.

She manages the House according to an uncompromising philosophy, saying: ‘I want only the best, without artifice.’

The Treaty of Paris recognizes the independence of the United States of America.

Overseas business continues to boom, with the first shipment to the USA: 87 units of Martell eaux-de-vie.

An import license signed by King George III exceptionally allows Martell cognac to be imported into England during the continental blockade.

Frédéric Martell, Jean Martell’s great-grandson, first uses the ‘Very Superior Old Pale’ label.

The first country to receive shipments of Martell VSOP is England. This cognac has since become a symbol of refinement and savoir-faire throughout the world.

Théodore Martell acquires the Château de Chanteloup, the spiritual home of the Martell family.

It is here that the House of Martell welcomes guests and personalities from around the world.

Martell markets its first bottles decorated with a blue and silver label, produced by a Parisian printer.

The label bears the mention: ‘Old Brand.’

The renown of Martell cognacs spreads internationally with the first shipments arriving in China.

French and British trade opens new Chinese ports to Europe.

Martell launches its new Martell XO cognac. 2 years later, Martell Création Grand Extra joins the family, with a decanter created by renowned glass-designer and artist Serge Mansau.

Martell joins the prestigious Comité Colbert, an association that represents French luxury brands internationally through the promotion of French Art de Vivre.

Martell launches its ultimate high-end cognac, L’OR de Jean Martell, the culmination of 300 years of expertise and passion.

Martell launches ‘ultra-prestige’ cognac, Martell Chanteloup Perspective, in homage to the Martell Cellar Masters.

The House of Martell celebrates its 300th anniversary at the Palace of Versailles, a symbol of French Art de Vivre, with 300 guests from all over the world.

The House has been a benefactor of the Palace of Versailles since 2007.

Martell enriches its ultra-prestige range with the launch of the Single Estate Collection, a tribute to the terroir of Cognac and the savoir-faire of its people.

Martell launches Cordon Bleu Extra, paying homage to the legendary original with an especially generous proportion of very old Borderies spirits.

Martell explores new territories of ageing savoir-faire and pays tribute to its historic ties with the United States with the launch of Martell Blue Swift, spirit drink made of cognac VSOP then finished in Kentucky Bourbon casks.