Driving through beautiful Bordeaux into the Cognac region offers a scenic journey through some of Frances’ most celebrated wine and spirit regions. The drive connects two famous regions but also immerses you in the beauty and culture of southwestern France.
Cognac is a renowned region famous for producing oak-aged wine spirits, or brandies called Cognac. Martell is one of the most prestigious and oldest Cognac houses, founded in 1715 by Jean Martell.
Château de Chanteloup
Dating back to the 18th century, the majestic Château de Chanteloup has been an integral part of Martell’s heritage and innovation. It was once the Martell family home and the signature terroir of Martell.
For the first time in history the ever-enchanting Maison Martell’s Château de Chanteloup opens up its doors to allow guests in to experience a extraordinary gastronomic fine dining and Cognac pairing experience.
The Colliding of Two Worlds
Prepare yourself (and your stomachs!) to go on a truly exquisite journey with Martell’s 9th generation Cellar Master Christophe Valtaud and 3* Michelin chef Alexandre Mazzia, in a unique collaboration that highlights the synergy between fine Cognac and culinary creation.
Chef Mazzia is renowned for his innovative approach to flavours, spices, peppers and roasting. He blends various influences together while maintaining a strong connection to Mediterranean flavours. When I spoke to him, he explained how he was focused on honouring the environment through sustainable methods and sourcing exceptional ingredients locally.
All Cognac pairing is handpicked by Martell’s cellar master, Christophe Valtaud who picks the exclusive Cognac blends from Martell’s reserve of over 11,000 eaux de vies and pairs them with the cuisine
This incredible collaboration has taken the pair a year to fine tune and months of tastings and discussions to create the perfect menu.
Glimpses of the Past and Present
Designed for a maximum of six guests the experience creates relaxed interactions with the executive chef and is designed with conversation and sharing in mind. Featuring a modern modular table which opens up to the working kitchen and surrounding décor that reflects Château de Chanteloup’s rich history. The dining space itself is a mix of history and contemporary design, creating a unique atmosphere that pays homage to the past whilst embracing modern elegance. Spanish designer Jorge Penadés has created a scenography that gradually reveals itself, transforming the space when walking into the room.
The Gastronomy
Our culinary journey started in Château de Chanteloup’s bar with a carefully crafted Cognac cocktail by Christophe Valtaud and Martell Master Mixologist Rémy Savage. Every sip was savoured whilst the sunset and the deer roamed the breathtakingly beautiful Martell estate. From there we were taken to our chefs table and had the most interesting taste tantalising the menu showcases chefs Mazzias visionary use of spices from his childhood growing up in congo paired with exclusive Cognac blends from Martell’s reserve of 11000 eaux-de-vie.
Challenging traditional perceptions by pairing food with spirits and the result is a dynamic interaction between flavours and enhances the overall tasting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Cognac pro or a newcomer to the world of Cognac, Martell offers an engaging and enriching experience you will cherish forever.
Tailored Maison Martell Experiences
A spectacular trio of experiences to try, Signature Martell par Alexandre Mazzia – An intimate lunch or dinner celebrating Cognac and gastronomy Au Coeur de Martell, invites guests to the very heart of Maison Martell, including the Signature experience as well as a private visit and tasting in the historic cellar of the Chanteloup domain.
Grand Voyage Martell, adds a private blending session to the already full programme, featuring the Signature Cognac-and-cuisine pairing, as well as the historic cellar visit and tasting. Available on Thursday and Friday evenings, Saturday lunchtime and Saturday evenings, the experience is €500 per person and privatisation of a table of 6 is €3000 upon request. Reservation is required.
This experience is an invitation to explore the artistry involved in both Cognac making and culinary creation by bridging these two worlds Martell Maison invite guests to appreciate the depth and intricacies of their craft in a brand new light.
Maison Martell celebrates the legacy of craftsmanship, that reflects both the tradition and innovation that are at the core of the brand. Its dedication to quality, sustainability and ability to seduce all your senses, makes it stand out in the name of fine spirits. Maison Martell invites you to explore its rich offerings and appreciate the artistry behind each bottle.
For more information: Our uniques experiences at Chanteloup.
