THE MORE THE MERRIER

One of the most popular cognacs around has tweaked its recipe for travel retail.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel
One of the most popular cognacs around has tweaked its recipe for travel retail. 
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Since its creation in 1912, few cognacs have gained the sizeable fan base of Martell Cordon Bleu. Whether some of these fans truly appreciate the nuances of this spirit is another story for a rowdier time, but we can all agree that a new expression is due. Martell Cordon Bleu Extra, which was launched globally at Changi Airport last month, earned its moniker with an especially generous portion of eaux de vie from the region that gives the Cordon Bleu its character – Borderies. 

Borderies may not have the same level of prestige as the Grande Champagne cru, but it represents just 5 percent of Cognac vineyards, and grapes grown there give Cordon Bleu its signature spicy, fruity notes. With Cordon Bleu Extra, the candied fruit flavours are intensified while the smoothness remains. The bottle design has also been subtly changed, with a more elongated shape, blue label, and a metal medallion-capped stopper. It will be a travel retail exclusive for one year.