Visiting Martell, the oldest of Cognac’s “Big Four” houses, offers a captivating glimpse into a legacy that began in 1715, set at the striking Fondation Martell complex on Avenue Paul Firino Martell in Cognac, France. Tours, available year-round (with occasional winter adjustments), range from the 1-hour Martell Discovery, featuring tastings of VS or VSOP amid the distillery’s historic cellars, to the luxurious Indolent Experience, a 2-hour journey through rare blends like Martell XO, paired with insights into their Borderies cru dominance and rooftop views of the town. Known for its triple-distillation method—a rarity in Cognac—Martell showcases its craft in a modern visitor center, blending 18th-century heritage with a sleek glass tower designed by architects SelgasCano. Booking ahead is crucial, easily done via martell.com or by calling, especially during peak summer months when slots vanish fast. A visit to Martell promises a refined taste of tradition and innovation, steeped in the spirit of its founder, Jean Martell.
