History
300 years of audacity
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Martell is Born1715
Jean Martell leaves his native Jersey and arrives in France to devote himself to developing the art of cognac. He travels the region in search of the finest eaux-de-vie and establishes ties with local winegrowers that will last for generations.
Family Spirit1753
After Jean Martell’s death in 1753, his widow Rachel Martell takes over Maison Martell, vowing to uphold his vision and integrity.
She manages the House according to an uncompromising philosophy: ‘I want only the best, without artifice’.
Stars and Stripes1783
In 1783, the Treaty of Paris recognizes the independence of the United States of America and the first shipment of Martell cognac makes its way to US shores: 87 units of Martell eaux-de-vie.
An Exceptional Cognac1808
An exceptional import license signed by King George III allows Martell Cognac to be imported into England during the continental blockade. A truly exceptional Cognac!
VSOP is Born1831
Frédéric Martell, Jean Martell’s great-grandson, first uses the ‘Very Superior Old Pale’ (VSOP) mention.
England is the first country to receive shipments of Martell VSOP. It has since gone on to become a symbol of refinement and savoir-faire throughout the world.
Returning Home1838
Théodore Martell acquires the Château de Chanteloup, the spiritual home of the Martell family.
It is here that Maison Martell welcomes guests from all around the world.
Silver and Blue1848
Martell markets its first bottles decorated with a silver and blue label produced by a Parisian printer. The label includes the text: ‘Old Brand’.
Asia and Beyond1858
The renown of Martell Cognacs spreads internationally and the first shipments arrive in China.
Fit for a King1911
Martell cognac is served at the coronation of King George V of England.
Cordon Bleu is Born1912
Edouard Martell creates Martell Cordon Bleu, the first extra-old cognac to have its own name. It is officially launched at the prestigious Hôtel de Paris in Monaco. It goes on to become a legendary cognac, an icon of Maison Martell.
A Peace Offering1918
Martell cognac is served during the signing of the World War I armistice in Compiègne, France.
Cognac on Ice1935
Martell cognac hits the headlines when cognac connoisseur and famous explorer Paul-Emile Victor takes eights cases with him on a polar expedition.
High Seas1936
Martell Cordon Bleu is served on the maiden voyage of the Queen Mary, the world’s most luxurious transatlantic liner.
An Extra Celebration1956
Martell Extra is served during a gala dinner to celebrate the marriage of Prince Rainier of Monaco and US film star Grace Kelly.
Royal Bleu1957
A crystal carafe of Martell Cordon Bleu is presented by the French President to her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in honour of her first official visit to France.
International Diplomacy1971
A case of Martell Cordon Bleu is presented to Emperor Hirohito of Japan during his state visit to France.
Supersonic Cognac1977
Passengers flying from Paris to New York on Concorde at twice the speed of sound still have time to savour Martell Cordon Bleu cognac.
Hollywood Stardom1979
Martin Sheen‘s character in Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now enjoys a glass of Martell Cordon Bleu.
Special Service1986
Martell Cordon Bleu is featured on the menu of a special Orient Express service between Venice and Copenhagen.
XO is Born2005
Martell launches Martell XO. Its power, intensity and distinctive arch-shaped bottle quickly make it a classic.
Luxury Associations2006
Maison Martell joins the prestigious Comité Colbert, the association representing French luxury brands internationally through the promotion of French Art de Vivre.
Gold Standard2009
Martell launches its ultimate cognac, L’Or de Jean Martell, the culmination of 300 years of passion and expertise.
Prestigious Perspective2011
Martell launches Martell Chanteloup Perspective, an ultra-prestige cognac that pays homage to generations of Martell Cellar Masters.
300 Years of Art de Vivre2015
Maison 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.
Single Vision2016
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.
A Classic is Reborn2017
Martell launches Cordon Bleu Extra, a homage to the legendary original with an especially generous proportion of very old Borderies spirits. The birth of a new classic.
An Audacious Spirit2017
Martell pays tribute to its historic ties with the United States with the launch of Martell Blue Swift, an audacious spirit made of VSOP then finished in bourbon casks.
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