Martell Cordon Bleu Old Classic Cognac NV 40% vol. 700ml with OC ' old release from the 1990's'

Here is a detailed review of the Martell Cordon Bleu "Old Classic" Cognac (NV, bottled circa 1990s), 40% vol, 700ml with "OC" labelling:

Basic identification

• Name: Martell Cordon Bleu

• Line: "Old Classic" (OC) - Historical bottling of the 1980s-1990s

• Category: Premium Blend Cognac (predominantly Borderies & Petite Champagne)

• Alcohol: 40% vol.

• Filling quantity: 700 ml (export standard of the era)

• Era: Non-vintage (NV), bottled around 1990s

• Status: No longer produced - iconic "pre-reform" version

Historical context & significance

• First release: 1912 - created for King Edward VII ("Cordon Bleu" = Blue Ribbon, highest gastronomic honour)

• 1990s version:

  • "Old Classic" (OC) denotes traditional production before EU reforms (e.g. sugar restrictions from 2000).

  • Grapes from old vineyards, higher proportion of Borderies eaux-de-vie (typical of Martell).

  • Matured in fine-grained Limousin oak for at least 10-25 years.

• Legendary status: Considered one of the best Martell blends ever produced - more complex than modern bottlings.

Sensory profile (based on tastings of historic bottles)

• Colour: Warm copper with golden reflections.

• Nose: Elegant & complex - dried apricots, caramelised almonds, violets, cedar wood, delicate truffle notes. Barely noticeable alcohol.

• Palate: Creamy texture, perfect balance. Honeycomb, prunes, ginger, cocoa, tobacco leaf. Slightly mineral (chalk).

• Finish: Long lasting with gentle spice (cinnamon, pepper) and nuances of marzipan and roasted coffee.

Key characteristics of the "Old Classic" version (vs. modern)

Packaging & authenticity check

• Bottle: Classic bulbous shape with gold-coloured seal ("Martell" + centaur).

• Label: Blue and gold design with embossing. "Old Classic" is missing on modern bottles!

• Cork: Natural cork with "Martell" embossing - solid on intact bottles.

• Counterfeit warning:

  • Modern refills often use thicker labels or glossy varnish.

  • Genuine 1990s cardboard has a matt finish and specific fonts.

Value & collector relevance

• Collector factor: High - especially sought after in Germany/Japan as a "lost gem".

• Price range (2025):

  • €180-€300(unopened, with box).

• Value driver:

  • Fill level ("Top Shoulder" or better).

  • Documented cold storage.

• Auction houses: Often listed on Whisky Auctioneer or Catawiki.

Storage & enjoyment recommendation

• Storage: Vertical, 15-18°C, dark - beware of cork dryness (after 30+ years).

• Maturity: Ideal now - further ageing unlikely.

• Serving suggestion: Serv e neat at 18-20°C in a tulip glass (e.g. Scotch whisky nosing glass).

• Life expectancy (opened): 6-12 months (under protective gas 24+ months).

Market comparison & conclusion

• Positioning: The "King of Blenders" - less bombastic than XO cuvées, but more harmonious.

• Modern counterpart: Martell Cordon Bleu aktuell (€180-€300) - lighter, fruitier, less depth.

• Collector's verdict: A timeless masterpiece of balance - represents the crown of the art of blending before the effects of globalisation. Its value will increase in the long term.

Expert tip: If you suspect a forgery, check:

1. UV reaction of the label (genuine 90s do not fluoresce),

2. Bottle base engraving (irregular if handmade),

3. the inside of the carton (typical fibre pattern of the 90).

For a concrete evaluation of your bottle, I recommend photos of:

• Bottle neck/fill level,

• Front & back label (incl. serial number),

• Cork (if visible),

• carton (all sides).
  I would be happy to refer you to Cognac experts - this Old Classic deserves precise documentation! 🥃