Renais Alex and Emma Watson

Siblings Alex and Emma Watson launched the brand in 2023

The gin brand started by Harry Potter actress Emma Watson has raised £5m to support its global push.

Renais launched in May 2023 and has already entered the US market, as well as 11 other countries – with a distribution agreement in a further 22.

The fundraising will aid the business’ continued growth in the US, with a focus on distribution to new states supported by marketing campaigns, as well as upcoming launches in 2025 in France, Spain, Dubai and Canada.

Renais also bolstered its board with the appointment of ex-Laithwaites CFO Jimmy Weir. He joins other drinks industry veterans such as ex-Diageo European chief Andrew Morgan and Alex Staartjes, previously global marketing director at Pernod Ricard.

Watson founded the premium brand alongside her brother Alex, who is also the company’s CEO.

“It’s been an exciting year for Renais and this new raise is a key milestone in the brand’s growth,” Alex said. “The raise will support expansion in the US off the back of our successful California and New York launch, as well as our continued focus on content and community engagement.

Gin brand founded by Harry Potter star Emma Watson raises £5m

“As consumers’ preference for premiumisation and a desire to drink less but better continues to grow, we are in a unique position in the gin category to capture their attention and tell our story of heritage, craftsmanship and provenance. I am also excited to have some of the foremost drinks experts on board as investors – their experience will be invaluable to Renais to reach its full potential.”

Investors in the round included US-based InvestBev and Jean-Sébastien Robicquet of Maison Villevert.

InvestBev general partner Brian Rosen added: “We are thrilled to support Renais Gin in its journey to become a globally recognised brand. The premium gin category continues to demonstrate remarkable potential, and Renais Gin’s quality and sustainability credentials align perfectly with our strategic investment focus. We believe our capital, coupled with our deep industry expertise and network, will amplify Renais Gin’s ability to reach new consumers and markets.”

The Watson siblings were inspired to launch Renais by childhood trips to their family’s vineyard, Domaine Watson, in France, which their father has operated for more than 30 years.