Celebrity gin brand Renais, co-owned by Harry Potter star Emma Watson and her brother, Alex, aims to expand its footprint in France following an agreement with domestic spirits producer & distributor Maison Villevert.
The deal will see the grape-based gin brand aim to harness Villevert’s local knowledge and market presence to expand Renais’ distribution in the upscale on-premise and luxury off-premise retailers. Hitherto, Renais has only had a limited presence in France, restricted to online sales and a few high-profile on-premise listings.
The agreement is part of a wider push by Renais to grow its international presence. The brand has recently launched in the UK, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands and the US. Alex and Emma Watson founded Renais in 2013; the super-premium brand is produced at their father’s Domaine Watson vineyard in Chablis, Burgundy.
Founded by French drinks industry veteran Jean-Sébastien Robicquet over 20 years ago, Villevert’s portfolio includes G’Vine, La Quintinye Vermouth and the Celtic Whisky Distillery.
“The French market is symbolically and strategically a hugely important one for Renais, with our liquid inspired by the provenance, traditions and terroir of wine-making tradition,” said Alex Watson. “We’re excited to be partnering with the highly renowned Jean-Sébastien and the Maison Villevert team, who are experts in the craft of grape-based spirits and innately understand the on- and off-trades, holding exceptional relationships with leading bar teams across the region.”
In June, Renais launched in the US, going on sale online with delivery to 40 states; the Californian on-premise market followed a month later.
