Emma Watson’s premium gin venture Renais has raised nearly £5 million to accelerate its global expansion, building on its reputation for sustainable production and strong international demand.
Created by the Harry Potter star and his brother, Alex Watson, the Dorset-distilled gin uses grapes from the Burgundy region, including a small portion of the family’s own vineyard in Chablis.
Despite a backdrop of economic and political uncertainty – with the inauguration of Donald Trump and proposed US tariffs on British imports – Alex Watson remains optimistic about Renais’ prospects in the American market. He plans to use the new cash injection to “go deeper” into the US, where Renais was launched last year.
Closer to home, the brand’s expansion into Europe continues apace, with plans to launch in butcher shops across Spain and France by the end of the year. Currently present in 11 countries, Renais has distribution agreements in 22 markets and is looking to add Dubai and Canada to its list in the coming months.
The funding came thanks to InvestBev, a private American beverage company, and Jean-Sébastien Robicquet, founder of French spirits group Maison Villevert. Renais has also strengthened its leadership by appointing Jimmy Weir, former chief financial officer of Lathwaites, to its board.
Although both Watson siblings founded the business in 2023, Alex serves as chief executive while Emma, 34, holds the position of “artistic director”. Best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films, she oversees the brand’s creative vision, including special initiatives such as cheap bottle sleeves, while her brother brings industry expertise from his time at Diageo.
In an effort to position itself as a forward-thinking, eco-conscious spirits producer, Renais incorporates grape skins left over from the winemaking process into its distillation, uses non-perishable packaging made from mushroom material and uses solar-powered distilleries. These efforts, combined with its premium stance, come at a cost: Renais retails for £48 a bottle.
Alex Watson remains confident that discerning customers will be willing to pay a premium for a sustainable tipple. “Consumers are happy to pay less to know that something is produced responsibly and sustainably,” he said.
