You probably already have a few classic cocktails in rotation. But the great thing about classics is that they still have room to surprise you.
Martell is reframing how you order a classic cocktail with its new campaign, ‘Make It With Martell’. As part of a global push, the Malaysian edition started with acclaimed bars Penrose and Lavantha, both founded by the local ambassador, Jon Lee.
Ask the bartender to “Make it with Martell”, and experience how the cognac brings out a smoother profile. It’s a good starting point for anyone curious about how a classic can change with a single request.
That difference comes down to the process. Martell distils exclusively clear wines, removing sediments to capture a cleaner expression of the grape. This method preserves the fruit's purity, a clarity that carries through to the cocktail, bringing out a richer, more fruit-forward profile. It’s a subtle shift, but one you can taste, especially with familiar recipes and ingredients.
Each venue offers specially developed menus centred on classic cocktails made with Martell. More bars will be joining the programme from July onwards.
The global campaign debuted at Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week, where guests were introduced to Martell-led interpretations of classic drinks. These included a contemporary take on the Fine à l’Eau, first presented by the brand’s Global Mixologist, Rémy Savage, and made entirely from cognac and water. Alongside this was the Spitfire Fizz, a more revitalising serve with peach, raspberry, and a light fizz.
Martell has also teamed up with local creative studio Rotten Paradise for an exclusive streetwear capsule. The ‘Night Shift’ collection draws on cocktail culture, bar tools, and late-night rituals, translating those details into covetable T-shirts, shirts, tote bags and caps.
The experience continues with Swift Rewards, a programme that encourages multiple visits. As you take part in the ‘Make It With Martell’ journey, complete simple tasks, answer questions, and check in daily to earn points. These can then be redeemed for prizes and blind boxes such as Martell bottles, branded merchandise, and limited-edition pieces from the ‘Night Shift’ capsule.
Visit Penrose or Lavantha and order your cocktail by asking “Make it with Martell”. Explore participating venues and campaign updates here.
Esquire Malaysia
©2026, Heart Media Pte Ltd
