SOMM TV wine & food Episode 276: The inside story of Cognac
Jan 8, 2026
Join Christophe Veltod, the cellar master and master blender at Martell, the oldest Cognac house, for a captivating dive into the world of Cognac. Discover Martell's rich history dating back to 1715 and learn about the unique grape varieties used, primarily Ugni Blanc. Christophe reveals the intricate balance of blending and aging that defines Martell’s signature style. He also discusses the importance of terroir, global consumption trends, and his expert recommendations for food pairings, making this a must-listen for any spirit enthusiast.
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Martell's 300-Year Origin
- Christophe Veltod says Martell was founded in 1715 and is the oldest Cognac house still operating.
- He describes working daily in the Atelier as cellar master continuing a 300-year legacy.
How To Become A Cellar Master
- Learn wine, distillation, aging, and blending to become a cellar master in Cognac production.
- Blend extensively to reproduce consistent house style across variable vintages.
Blending Preserves House Identity
- Cognac houses blend many eaux-de-vie to maintain a constant product despite vintage variation.
- Christophe notes Cordon Bleu's style has been reproduced since 1912 through careful blending.