The Next Flame
Martell heats things up with a new version of their iconic Cordon Bleu. Their cellar master, Christophe Valtaud, speaks to Tien Chew about this new expression
Introduced in 1912, Martell Cordon Bleu has since become an iconic cognac adored around the world. To mark its ongoing success, the cognac makers released a limited edition expression of the Cordon Bleu for the holiday season. Called the Intense Heat Cask Finish, the bottle gets its name from the process in which the casks are made to produce this new expression. “We use a special type of oak to age the cognac. The normal Martell way is to slightly toast the ageing barrels. For Intense Heat, we have changed this a little bit; the timing where the barrel stays on this fire makes it more... toasted,” says Christophe Valtaud, Martell’s recently appointed cellar master. “We call this the crocodile burn,” he adds. True enough, when the wood is sufficiently toasted to the requirements needed for this new cognac, it creates a crocodile-like pattern on the wood that is reflected in its packaging. “Because of this toasting process, you get more notes of vanilla and roasted nuts,” says Valtaud. As explained, taking a sip reveals a sweet flavour followed by a spicy finish that lingers long after you swallow. “The purpose of this new bottle is to be curious. It’s for the consumers to explore more of this exchange between wood and cognac, as wood gives the spirit its characteristics and enhances this part of the ageing process,” he emphasises. The relationship between the cask and the eaude-vie that plays such a vital role in making cognac is highlighted with this new release. Valtaud, who has held his new position as cellar master since April 2016 explains that his job “is to reproduce all Martell products, foresee the future and to preserve the quality of their wines and cognacs.” Hailing from a line of winemakers, he holds a doctorate in biochemistry, molecular biology and plant physiology—with his new appointment we can anticipate exciting new expressions.