Maison Martell revealed its outstanding new cognac, Martell Chanteloup XXO, during a dazzling event at the historic Petit Palais (All photos: Martell)
As the setting sun cast its fiery farewell on the gilded domes and gates of central Paris, turning the city into a golden mirage, a new dawn was rising for Martell.
The breathtaking Le Petit Palais was the chosen stage for a very special reveal, and what a stage: the art museum was transformed into a private space, with a baby grand piano and makeshift bar set up in the courtyard while dinner proper was in a hall amid the sculptures, frescos and paintings. It was a night designed around tradition, art and innovation, from the five-course dinner menu conceived by the eminent Michelin-starred Guy Savoy to the limber antics of acrobat and choreographer Yoann Bourgeois, building up to the grand unveiling.
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Bourgeois attempted to climb a staircase to a veiled construction at the top, only each step saw him fall off the stair and bounce back up in a dramatic trampoline performance, until he reaches the object of his desire. The silk veils were lifted to reveal an exquisite made-to-order trunk crafted specially for the new Martell Chanteloup XXO within.
The 100 guests from 10 countries were then treated to the first taste of this Extra Extra Old composition, an exceptional blend of 450 eaux-de-vie from four of the finest terroirs in the Cognac region of France. It was the culmination of 304 years of know-how and savoir faire, handed down through nine generations of cellar masters. The deep amber hue of the Martell Chanteloup XXO hints at the complexities it holds, from the luscious nose of honey, peach, fig and walnuts to the intense play of fruit on the palate with a round, powerful swallow.
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Its assertive presence is evoked in its elegant design, with sleek curves enhanced by graceful volutes reminiscent of the wrought-iron gates of the Chanteloup cellar, as well as that of the bespoke trunk. Customers can personalise this magnificent house in their choice of colours and an engraved plaque. The base price for the Martell Chanteloup XXO Masterpiece is €35,000 (RM162,770).
The Martell Chanteloup XXO is expected to be launched in Malaysia this year-end. For more information, see here.
