Renais, the luxury modern gin label founded by siblings Emma and Alex Watson in 2023, has officially entered the United States market.
Emma and Alex Watson’s Renais gin, inspired by French winemaking traditions, is a collaborative effort of distillers, artisans, and tastemakers from the United Kingdom and France. The gin, which is now available in the U.S. for the first time, is produced sustainably using upcycled French wine-pressed grapes, combined with natural botanicals to create a unique spirit inspired by the traditions of Northern France. Watson joins a growing list of celebrity-backed spirits brands, from George Clooney-founded Casamigos and Kendall Jenner’s 818 tequila to Brad Pitt’s French-made Gardener Gin made sustainably in conjunction with his Miraval Estate.
“Embracing decades of experience in the beverage industry, we’ve worked hard to turn Renais into a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of Burgundy. We’ve meticulously sourced the finest ingredients, embraced sustainable manufacturing practices and infused our family legacy into every detail possible,” co-founder Alex Watson, said in a statement. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to introduce a distinctive and innovative gin to the US market, one that welcomes everyone into our family, and launching within California’s long-standing heritage in wine-making feels perfect.”
To mark its U.S. launch, Renais introduced an extended campaign video directed and styled by co-founder, actor, and environmentalist, Emma Watson. The video provides an intimate look into the brand’s inception, offering insight into its story and values. Additionally, Renais released a limited-edition sleeve exclusive to the U.S. market, featuring illustrations by Emma that highlight some of the botanicals used in Renais.
The Watsons’ family’s long history in winemaking inspired the siblings to create Renais. Their father, Chris Watson, planted the family’s vineyard, Domaine Watson, in Chablis more than thirty years ago. Chris is a highly respected winemaker, holding the prestigious title of “Pilier” within the winemaking community. This deep-rooted family legacy significantly contributes to Renais’ success.
“With a heart full of warmth and nostalgia, I am thrilled to introduce – Renais Gin,” Watson shared on Instagram last year when she debuted the gin. “It is an ode to the sun-kissed vineyards of Chablis where my family has been making wine these past 30 years. Renais Gin is our love letter to Chablis; a carbon-neutral product, lovingly made from upcycled wine grapes.”
Renais incorporates rare regional botanicals, including juniper berries, Grand Cru grapes, linden flower, angelica root, and coriander. In addition to upcycled grape skins from Domaine Watson Renais is made in a solar-powered distillery. The product boasts a carbon-neutral status, and the bottle is packaged in 100 percent mycelium-based compostable materials from the Magical Mushroom Company.
Having already won a gold medal in the 2023 Gin Masters, Renais has established a strong presence in the U.K., reaching more than 100 retailers in under ten months, including placement in Selfridges, Soho House, The Savoy, Scarfes Bar, and Gaucho. Renais is now available for purchase online for $65 in 40 states and in select California retailers. The brand plans to expand to additional retailers in new states later this year, building on its current momentum.
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