History

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

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

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 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 Cordon Bleu is featured on the menu of a special Orient Express service from Venice to Copenhagen.

In the film Apocalypse Now, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, the character played by Martin Sheen savours a Martell Cordon Bleu cognac.

At twice the speed of sound, Martell Cordon Bleu is served to Concorde passengers flying from Paris to New York.

A case of Martell Cordon Bleu is offered to the Japanese Emperor Hirohito during his state visit to France.

Martell Cordon Bleu is served at a reception given by the French President in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at Château de la Celle Saint-Cloud et du Musée du Louvre.

Martell Cordon Bleu, also named ‘Martell Extra’, is served during a gala dinner held during Prince Rainier of Monaco and Grace Kelly’s wedding celebrations.

Martell cognac hits the headlines when famous explorer Paul-Emile Victor, a great connoisseur of cognac, takes eight cases with him on a polar expedition.

On 27th May, Martell was served on the Queen Mary's maiden voyage from Southampton to New York.

Édouard Martell creates the star of cognacs, Martell Cordon Bleu. It is officially launched in the Hôtel de Paris, Monaco.

Martell cognac is featured at the coronation of King George V of England.

Martell’s renown spreads internationally during the next ten years, with the first exports arriving in Japan and other Asian markets, such as Indonesia, Vietnam and Korea.

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

The family buys the Château de Chanteloup, the iconic home of Martell. Throughout the next two centuries, the château will welcome personalities from around the world.

Martell creates its first VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) cognac.

Rachel hands the flourishing business to her two sons, Jean and Frédéric. Overseas business continues to boom, with the first shipment of cognac to the US soon following.

For nearly 40 years, Jean Martell devotes himself to studying and developing the art of cognac. He travels the region searching for the finest eaux-de-vie, creating bonds with local growers that will last generations. After his death in 1753, his widow Rachel takes over the business, vowing to uphold his attention and integrity.

French Art de Vivre is at its height. Gastronomy, taste and craftsmanship are exalted, celebrating the beauty and pleasure of every moment. It is this culture of refinement and expertise that Englishman Jean Martell finds on arriving in France, having left his hometown of Jersey to start trading eaux-de-vie in Cognac.