ESSENCE OF THE TERROIR

Martell introduces the Single Cru collection in a tribute to the distinctiveness of the region's varying terroir. Prestige visits the brand's home in France to immerse in the savoir-faire of the house and beauty of the spirit.

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.