Standing on the terrace of the enchanting Château de Chanteloup in Cognac, I felt like Snow White as majestic deer emerged from the ancient forest, delicately nibbling from my hand. The air was filled with the melodic chirps of birds, and the sky erupted in a breathtaking sunset, enveloping the scene in a golden glow. I was transported to a world of elegance and romance, writes Donna Richardson.
This 18th-century castle, located in the esteemed Borderies terroir near Cognac, is the ancestral home of the Martell family. Holding a glass of exquisite cognac, I quietly explored the pre-French Revolution antiques that surrounded me, feeling as though I was time-travelling into the rich heritage of Martell, one of the oldest and most renowned cognac houses in France.
In 1715, Jean Martell, a visionary Englishman, founded Maison Martell at the age of 21. He journeyed from the Channel Islands, specialising in trading eaux-de-vie and crafting a legacy that would endure through centuries. After his passing in 1753, his widow, Rachel, took the reins of the business, embodying the motto “Only the best, without artifice.” I found myself imagining their lives as I moved around the rooms they once called home, enveloped in a legacy of excellence and sophistication that inspired generations.
I learned how a small farm was transformed into a residential château in 1838. When this was built, France was in the grip of a revolution that sought to overthrow the monarchy and oust Louis XVI from the throne. The chateau was renovated in the 1930s by Maurice Firino-Martell, who envisioned it as a family home, blending English and Normandy influences to make his wife, Elisabeth, feel at home. Up until now, it had remained a private home, but as an exclusive guest of Martell, I was one of the few guests welcomed in to discover the secrets of this intriguing family.
Rooms
As soon as I opened the door to Room 14, the master bedroom once inhabited by Maurice, I was instantly spellbound. The suite unfolded before me like a scene from a storybook, with a magnificent master bed that beckoned for rest and expansive windows framing breathtaking views of the sprawling grounds below. The sunlight poured in, illuminating every corner and casting a soft glow on the intricate details of the chamber. In one corner, a study stood as a testament to creativity and intellect, lined with books and adorned with the artefacts of a life richly lived, where Maurice had penned heartfelt letters that echoed with history.
Every inch of the room seemed to whisper tales of the past, adorned with exquisite pictures and engravings that celebrated the deep and enduring connection between Martell House and the UK. The two twin beds, dressed in crisp white linen, showcased the Martell crest delicately embossed, a luxurious touch that heightened the room’s elegance.
A charming fireplace graced the space, complete with an antique cuckoo clock whose gentle ticking seemed to mark the passage of time, inviting reflection.
As a writer, sitting at Maurice’s desk in the study filled me with inspiration; I gazed out over the immaculately groomed gardens with my pen poised, imagining how Maurice would have felt as he sat here once.
I headed into the marble bathroom, featuring an exquisite freestanding bath resting on beautifully clawed feet. After indulging in a long, soothing soak, I wrapped myself in a plush robe and opened the window to immerse myself in the spectacular views of the estate fully.
I was aware of my fortune to be among the select few granted such hospitality, as the family rarely shared their sanctuary with guests.
As I descended the grand staircase, I was greeted by the captivating melodies of musician Flavien Compagnon. The light from tiny cognac bottles, strategically placed along the stairs, twinkled like fireflies, enhancing the magical ambiance. Flavien’s exquisite performance was truly a highlight; he has performed for industry icons like Celine Dion and has graced prestigious events hosted by Dior.
We were handed elegantly presented cocktails, carefully crafted by Remy Savage, one of the UK’s most celebrated mixologists. The drinks, adorned with delicate garnishes and served in crystal glasses, were a prelude to the culinary artistry that awaited us.
Stepping outside, we embraced the stunning dusk, the sky painted in hues of orange and pink as the sun slipped beneath the horizon. Surrounding us were graceful deer, their gentle presence adding to the idyllic scenery.
An unforgettable three-star Michelin meal
We were all abuzz with anticipation for the highlight of the evening -an extraordinary dining experience crafted by chef Alexandre Mazzia, a celebrated three-Michelin-star chef renowned for his innovative culinary creations inspired by his childhood memories of the Congo. When people think of three-star Michelin chefs, names like Gordon Ramsay, Michel Roux, and Heston Blumenthal often come to mind. Still, Mazzia is in the same league and pushing boundaries with his African fusion.
He curated the menu for the Paris 2024 Olympics and has opened a stunning restaurant at the Château de Chanteloup, alongside his restaurant in Marseille. As we stepped back into the château, we were warmly welcomed into Alexandre’s intimate kitchen restaurant by his talented team. The laid-back atmosphere, enhanced by the soothing strains of soft reggae music, immediately put us at ease as we prepared to meet the culinary maestro himself. Champagne was poured, as our party of six took our places around a rustic farmhouse table.
Positioned in the front row of the open kitchen, we had a front-row seat to witness the chef and his devoted team perform their culinary magic. He seamlessly executed each course while infusing humour and insight into his interactions with us, personally serving each dish with a warm smile. We began our culinary adventure with a glass of champagne, progressing through carefully curated wine and cognac pairings selected by Christophe, who hosted the dinner, and expertly explained how each drink beautifully complemented the flavours of the dishes and brought them to life.
Alexandre, deeply influenced by his upbringing in the Republic of Congo, offers a delightful fusion of French sophistication and international cuisine. His African heritage is evident in the bold cutlery, vibrant colors, and spicy flavours of his eclectic dishes. Alexandre’s demeanor is refreshingly open and friendly, radiating a calmness that is rare among chefs. Before starting his culinary career, he was a professional basketball player, and his journey from the court to the kitchen is both inspiring and fascinating.
The Signature Martell by Alexandre Mazzia experience was slated to launch in July 2024. However, due to Alexandre’s vital role as the official chef at the Paris Olympics, the Château de Chanteloup opened its doors to the public for the first time in September 2025.
Alexandre’s meticulously designed menu was enhanced by the masterful showcase of the rich flavours of cognac, thoughtfully complemented by unique blends crafted by Cellar Master Christophe Valtaud from Martell’s extensive reserve of eaux-de-vie. Guests were invited to choose from a selection of rare vintages from the Martell reserves, enhancing this unparalleled tasting experience. It was an exceptional and intimate dining experience, a sensory and emotional journey celebrating the harmonious blend of cognac and gastronomy.
The synergy between Alexandre and Christophe felt akin to that of passionate artists, working in concert to elevate the emotions of both the food and the drink, weaving together an incredibly moving experience that lingered long after the last bite.
Alexandre drew deeply from his childhood memories of the Congo to curate a fine dining experience that beautifully showcased the rich and diverse tastes of Africa. He meticulously prepared 20 artfully crafted dishes, each bursting with vibrant colours, aromatic spices, and enticing smoked flavours that transported us to another world. The experience began with the first course, aptly named “Première Teintes,” a series of dishes paired elegantly with Perrier Jouet Champagne.
This refreshing start set the tone for the culinary journey ahead. Selections of Martell Cognac were paired with the subsequent four courses, each pairing accentuated the qualities of the dishes and deepened our appreciation for the craftsmanship that went into them.
One standout dish that left a lasting impression was the “Animal Marine” course, which featured succulent glazed duck breast accompanied by grilled watermelon, flambéed with cognac. This inventive combination harmonised sweetness with savoury richness, creating a delightful contrast on the palate.
For dessert, we were treated to “Douccurs Charentaises,” a heavenly creation featuring creamy coffee ice cream infused with cardamom and paired with a luscious strawberry marmalade. This exquisite finale rounded out the meal beautifully, leaving us both satisfied and enchanted. Throughout the evening, our dishes were paired with a curated selection of Martell cognacs that perfectly complemented each course.
We savoured Martell Impression accompanying our snacks, Martell Odyssée alongside the seafood dishes, XXO Grande Champagne paired with the duck, and finished with Martell Epilogue for the sweet conclusion of our meal. Each pairing was an experience in itself, elevating the flavours and creating a memorable symphony of taste that celebrated the heart and soul of African gastronomy.
After dinner, we gathered around the piano, captivated by Flavien’s enchanting performance. His melodies filled the air, drawing us into a cosy atmosphere that perfectly complemented the elegant evening. Once the final notes faded, we retreated to the living room where we savoured a final glass of cognac while exploring Maison Martell’s exclusive editions. It was an exquisite evening that promised to linger in our memories long after the last sip.
This space, adorned with magnificent tapestries dating back to the French Revolution, exuded a sense of timeless grandeur. It was a true honour to sip cognac alongside the knowledgeable team, sharing stories and laughter in such an exclusive and intimate setting. As the night deepened, we were granted the privilege of spending the night in the castle, a rare opportunity extended to only a select few. With the echoes of the evening in my mind, I drifted off into a peaceful slumber within its storied walls.
Exploring Cognac
Cognac is a renowned region in France celebrated for its production of a distinctive brandy-like spirit. Within the craft of blending eaux-de-vie, a key principle is to combine young Cognac with older varieties. In contrast, older Cognacs are typically enjoyed neat to appreciate their complexity and depth fully. The region itself is divided into six designated growth areas, with Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne standing out for their chalky soils, which are ideal for cultivating high-quality grapes. Cognac labelled as “Fine Champagne” must contain at least 50% grapes sourced from Grande Champagne, enhancing its prestige and flavour profile. XO (Extra Old) brandy represents the gold standard in Cognac, as it is a blend aged for a minimum of 10 years, resulting in a rich and refined taste that delights connoisseurs.
Martell, one of the most esteemed names in this industry, oversees 450 hectares of land referred to as Domaines Jean Martell, which is committed to sustainability and responsible practices at its core. This dedication not only supports the environment but also contributes to the creation of exceptional Cognac that reflects the region’s heritage and craftsmanship. What is more, dining here is just one aspect of the astounding experiences on offer from Martell.
Hitting the right note
Maison Martell offers enchanting private visits, tastings, and guided tours, providing a unique opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the captivating world of this esteemed aged grape spirit. For those seeking a complete experience, guests can create a personalised package that begins with a sensational four-course lunch at Notes restaurant, located at La Nauve, a Relais au Château property. Upon our arrival, we were warmly greeted by Martell’s charismatic global ambassador, Alexandre Combescott de Marsaguet, who would be our delightful host for the day.
The public experience also includes an overnight stay at La Jardin and an insightful cellar tour, allowing guests to delve deeper into the rich history and craftsmanship behind Martell Cognac. In the elegant setting of the restaurant, we savoured a delightful sequence of champagne and cognac that commenced with exquisite amuse-bouches paired with bubbly, setting the stage for a secret gastronomic lunch that awaited us.
The culinary journey began with delicate ravioli stuffed with a medley of wild mushrooms, inviting us to pour our chosen drink over the dish, enhancing its taste. Next, we indulged in perfectly cooked lobster tail adorned with coral dressing, accompanied by crunchy grilled almonds and a rich lobster sabayon sauce infused with verbena.
The experience continued with a succulent chicken supreme, served with melting potatoes that were beautifully paired with the artisan distillate, creating a harmonious marriage of flavours. As the meal drew to a close, dessert arrived – a stunning blanc manger topped with caramelised pine nuts, paired with velvety vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of crème anglaise. Each course was a celebration of culinary artistry, perfectly complemented by exquisite spirits, making for a truly unforgettable dining experience at Maison Martell.
Exploring the Martell Visitor Centre
After lunch, we were invited to its historic Gâtebourse site, in the centre of town, where three separate yet complementary experiences awaited. We were invited to look around the archives and delve into the history of the family as well as see ancient bottles of the drinks sthat have not been touched since they were bottled as well as correspondence from the family and important documents going back centuries.
The Martell Visitor Centre offers an enchanting opportunity to embark on guided tours that delve deep into the storied history and exceptional craftsmanship of the oldest cognac house.
Visitors can engage in the intricate art of blending, explore the unique terroir that gives cognac its distinct character, and relish a curated tasting at L’Atelier Martell. This sensory experience awakens the palate to the nuances of this refined spirit.
Additionally, the Fondation d’Entreprise Martell presents a vibrant array of artistic events, fostering local, national, and international collaborations, and aiming to illuminate the diverse tapestry of contemporary creation.
The crowning moment of our visit was the exclusive invitation into Christophe Valtaud’s master blending room, a sanctuary of creativity and precision where he weaves together the remarkable flavours of cognac. We sat around the table and crafted our very own blends, immersing ourselves in the captivating process that goes into the art of cognac-making.
Our journey continued with a fascinating exploration of the cellar, where the air was thick with the rich aroma of aged spirits, and we tasted the opulent L’Or de Jean Martell. This blend embodied the pinnacle of craftsmanship.
Our adventure began in Bordeaux, the charming gateway to the Cognac region, On the first night we stayed in teh five-star Accor Mondrian hotel. This elegant establishment provided a great start to our adventure and we ate submim susshi at Morimoto restaurant, masterfully prepared by Chef Danny, a culinary artist whose expertise was honed in some of the most prestigious sushi kitchens across the globe.
Overall, my visit to Martell’s ancesttaal home and all the experiences that it came with seemed like a dream full of fine dining experiences and making our own Martell blends to feeding deer in an enchanting castel, It was all like a captivating fairytale, blending heritage, artistry, and the exquisite allure of cognac culture, which was simply unforgettable.
The Lowdown
This gastronomic experience in the historic home of the Martell family is now open to the public.
About Signature Martell par Alexandre Mazzia at the Château de Chanteloup:
Address: 64, Avenue de Cognac, 16370 Cherves Richemont.
Open Tuesday dinner, and Wednesday through Saturday lunch and dinner
Menu with cognac pairings: €500 per person. Wines and champagnes may also be proposed under request.
Privatisation of the full table available upon request for up to 6 guests for €3000.
By reservation only: https://mar.tl/chanteloup
