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Emma Watson, known for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, is stepping into the world of gin production alongside her brother Alex with their company Renais.
Renais crafts gin in Dorset, utilising recycled grape skins from the Watson family’s vineyards in France, and has recently secured financial backing from prominent figures in the food and drinks industry.
Among the companies notable shareholders are Andrew Morgan, former Diageo Europe boss; Jimmy Weir, former Laithwaites Wine executive; Alexander Staartjes, former marketing executive at Pernod Ricard; Jesse Estes of Tequila Ocho; Pete Higgins, co-founder of Charles Tyrwhitt Shirts; and Ryan Kohn, co-founder of Propercorn snacks.
Renais sets itself apart from other gins by offering a unique taste that can be enjoyed straight, according to Alex Watson, the company’s chief executive. Emma Watson plays a key role as “chief creative,” overseeing Renais’ advertising and marketing endeavors.
The Watson family has a long-standing association with the alcohol industry, dating back over 30 years. Renais gin, distilled in Dorset, reflects their expertise and passion for crafting quality spirits.
While Emma Watson gained fame through her acting career, Alex Watson has immersed himself in the hospitality sector, starting as a barman and later working in marketing roles before venturing into gin production with Renais.
Renais joins the ranks of celebrity-backed gin brands, such as The Gardener gin endorsed by Brad Pitt, Ramsay’s Gin by chef Gordon Ramsay, and Ozzy Osbourne’s The Ultimate Gin. In a notable acquisition, Aviation American Gin, backed by actor Ryan Reynolds, was acquired by drinks giant Diageo in 2020.
