Martell Cordon Bleu is one of the most storied blends in Cognac, created in 1912 by Edouard Martell and instantly recognized by its deep-blue cord and decanter-style bottle. Produced by the House of Martell—founded in 1715 and the oldest of the great Cognac houses—Cordon Bleu is a XO-category blend built predominantly from Borderies eaux-de-vie, the smallest and most sought-after of the six Cognac growth areas.

Expect a rich, mellow nose of candied fruit, fig, hazelnut, and sweet spice, with a signature Borderies floral lift. The palate is silky and rounded: toasted almond, honey, gingerbread, and dried apricot carry through to a long, subtly oaked finish. Martell distills its eaux-de-vie from clear wine rather than on the lees, which gives Cordon Bleu its characteristic finesse and restraint rather than heavy fruit-forwardness.

Cordon Bleu is a sipping cognac first—served neat at room temperature or with a single large rock. It stands up beautifully after dinner alongside dark chocolate, aged hard cheese, or a toasted-tobacco cigar. A staple of serious home bars and a premium gift for cognac enthusiasts.

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