If you’ve spent any time on a stool in The Oval, tucked into a snug in The Mutton Lane, or watched the world go by from The Poor Relation, we like to say that we don’t just run pubs. We are custodians. We look after these old walls, preserve the history, and keep the lights on for the next generation of Corkonians.
We believe that history isn’t something you lock away in a museum; it’s something you live, breathe, and—occasionally—drink.
That is why we are incredibly proud to announce that we are the first group in Ireland to carry the Martingale product. An honour in our opinion. Our comparison in mindset made it the perfect move for both of us.
We are a family-run business, and we’ve always had a soft spot for others who put family first. Researching Martingale, we found a story that mirrors our own. For over 100 years, the Thomas family in France have been the quiet custodians of one of the most coveted vineyards in Cognac.
For four generations, they’ve been the experts behind the scenes. Now, they are stepping into the light with their own name on the bottle. Just as we have sought to preserve the authentic interiors of our historic buildings while adding our own innovations—like brewing our own beer right here in the city—Martingale is honoring their century-old roots while breaking convention.
You know how we obsess over our Beer Miles? We pride ourselves on the fact that the pint of Rising Sons in your hand was likely brewed about 5 meters from where you’re sitting. We love that control—ensuring freshness and quality because we handle every step of the process.
Martingale does the exact same thing in France. They control the entire process, from the grape on the vine to the glass in your hand. It’s a rarity in the cognac world, but it ensures a quality that aligns perfectly with our own ethos.
Martingale is the “apogée”—the apex of the distilling process. They’ve managed to create a spirit that hits a refined 5-7 year sweet spot. It delivers all the complexity you want without the heaviness.
It’s fresh, it’s fragrant, and it’s designed for a new generation of drinkers. If you love a high-end whiskey, you are going to feel right at home with this
Next time you’re in, take a look at the bottle. It’s etched with stone motifs inspired by their family chateau. It’s architectural, authentic, and honest. Standing on the counter of The Old Town Whiskey Bar At Bodega or glowing by candlelight in Arthur Mayne’s, it just fits. It looks like it’s been there for 100 years, because the spirit behind it has been.
Martingale has famously featured on Rolling Stones Magazine “Veteran DJ, rapper, and photographer D-Nice reflects on the many phases of his career — from hip-hop legend to “Club Quarantine” icon — while embracing a new chapter as a cognac connoisseur and investor in Martingale Cognac. The brand, launched by fourth-generation producers from Cognac’s Ars village, aims to bring a modern twist to a century-old craft for today’s generation.”
Read the article HERE
Want to delve a bit deeper into the product, check out these amazing articles about Martingale on FOOD & WINE where we found out more about how it sits in your pallet from the first sip.
Martingale has since won awards such as John Barleycorn, Esquire and Beverage Testing Institute winning gold in all of its categories.
We could talk about heritage and values all day, but the proof is in the pudding (or the cocktail glass).
We are delighted to announce that official Martingale will be available in each and every one of our pubs and specialized cocktails available in our cocktail bars, The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega, The Fountain, Black Dog, Intermission Lounge & Upstairs.
Whether you’re listening to trad in Sin É or catching a gig in The Pav, you can now experience a drink that matches our passion for history and hospitality.
So, ask your bartender about our new French cousin. We think you’ll get along famously.
Sláinte.
Martin Gale Cognac
Kahlua
Demerara Syrup
Fresh Espresso
Chocolate Garnish
Martin Gale Cognac
Fresh Lemon Juice
Prosecco
Orange Twist
Martin Gale Cognac
Green Chartreuse
Simple Syrup
Angostura Bitters
Lemon Twist
Martin Gale Cognac
Cointreau
Fresh Lemon Juice
Orange Peel