The Grand Voyage Martell offers an unparalleled exploration of Maison Martell’s rich history, craftsmanship, and culinary excellence in Cognac, France. This meticulously curated experience allows participants to delve into the heritage and artistry of the world’s oldest major cognac house, founded in 1715 by Jean Martell. From exclusive tastings to bespoke dining, the Grand Voyage Martell is an immersive journey celebrating the French art de vivre.
Historic Cellar Tour of Maison Martell
In the historic cellars of Maison Martell, participants embark on a sensory exploration of cognac-making traditions. These storied vaults, home to Martell’s extensive reserves of eaux-de-vie, contain over 11,000 references representing the depth of its craftsmanship. Guided by expert sommeliers, guests taste rare and exceptional vintages, including selections aged in fine-grained Tronçais oak barrels, which contribute to their distinctive smoothness and aromatic complexity. This intimate session highlights Martell’s dedication to blending precision and excellence.
Private ‘Art of Blending’ Cellar Master’s Workshop
The experience also grants exclusive access to the Cellar Master’s Workshop, where Christophe Valtaud, the ninth-generation Cellar Master, unveils the meticulous processes behind crafting Martell’s renowned blends. Visitors witness the selection and harmonisation of eaux-de-vie from four key crus: Borderies, Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, and Fins Bois. The Borderies cru, in particular, imparts floral and nutty notes that define Martell’s signature style. This session underscores the heritage and innovation that underpin the Maison’s success.
Signature Martell par Alexandre Mazzia
The Signature Martell par Alexandre Mazzia Experience at the historic Château de Chanteloup is the culinary pinnacle of the Grand Voyage. Chef Alexandre Mazzia, a recipient of three Michelin stars and renowned for his innovative culinary vision, leads this exclusive dining concept. His approach is inspired by his personal history, including his upbringing in the Republic of Congo, which influences his bold use of spices, smoked flavours, and a seamless blend of global cuisines.
Collaborating closely with Martell’s Cellar Master Christophe Valtaud, Mazzia crafts a menu designed to complement and elevate the maison’s finest cognacs, embodying a perfect synergy between gastronomy and cognac-making.
The menu is an intricate progression of flavours, beginning with appetisers such as crispy cassava with red mullet pommade and glazed mussels infused with chilli gel. Courses include sardines with radish and nori, and whelks in a sumac-laced escabeche of courgette, paired with Martell Odyssey. The main dishes showcase the chef’s artistry, such as steamed clams with puffed einkorn and marine algae condiment, and red gambero marinated in plankton and citrus, served with almonds and delicate tomato water. The highlight is a glazed duck breast accompanied by squid and duck jus infused with lemon balm and cinnamon, paired with Martell XXO Grande Champagne 2024. Desserts bring the meal to a refined conclusion, with creations like coffee ice cream with crystallised tobacco leaf and blood orange sorbet with bergamot, perfectly paired with the maison’s exclusive cognacs.
Maison Martell Packages
The Grand Voyage begins with a private transfer from Angoulême train station, ensuring a seamless introduction to Cognac, but there is also a more catered experience by private jet directly to the Cognac military base or by helicopter at the Château de Chanteloup.
There are three packages to choose from: –
€500 for the Signature Martell par Alexandre Mazzia.
€800 for the Signature Martell par Alexandre Mazzia with Historic Cellar Tour.
€1800 for the Grand Voyage Martell, including the Signature Martell par Alexandre Mazzia, Historic Cellar Tour and the Private ‘Art of Blending’ Cellar Master’s Workshop.
Reservations are required, and the Maison Martell concierge ensures every aspect of the journey is tailored to the guest’s preferences. This experience provides an in-depth exploration of Martell’s legacy, combining history, craftsmanship, and gastronomy into a truly memorable journey into the heart of French excellence.
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