Renais is a Chablis-inspired gin created by Emma Watson and her brother Alex, made with grapes from their family's Burgundy vineyards and bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV) in a 700ml bottle.
Renais is French for rebirth, and the gin gives Domaine Watson's Chardonnay grapes a second life: grape skins are salvaged after pressing for wine and upcycled into the base spirit, minimizing waste. Their father, Chris Watson, began producing wines in Chablis over three decades ago. Pressed grand cru grapes and juniper are complemented by Kimmeridgian stone, the fossil-rich limestone that gives Chablis its minerality, and natural botanicals including angelica root, linden flowers, cubeb berries and acacia honey. In the US it is labeled gin with natural flavors because Chardonnay grape juice is added after distillation.
It balances the minerality of a Chablis wine with fresh citrus and juniper, warming spices, floral notes and a hint of sweetness. The production is certified carbon neutral.
The sculpted golden bottle makes it an elegant gift.
Chablis wines are famed for a crisp, mineral character, and Renais carries that signature into the glass.
Upcycling grape skins turns a byproduct of winemaking into the heart of the spirit.
Its amber hue and gentle sweetness make it stand out from classic London Dry gins.
Serve it over ice with a twist of lemon to highlight the minerality.
A splash of tonic and a slice of green apple makes a bright, refreshing long drink.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Fresh citrus, juniper and florals.
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Palate: Chablis-like minerality, warming spice.
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Finish: A hint of sweetness.
Specifications
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Brand: Renais (Emma and Alex Watson)
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Base: Upcycled Chablis grand cru grapes
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Botanicals: Juniper, Kimmeridgian stone, angelica, linden, cubeb, acacia honey
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Proof / ABV: 80 proof (40% ABV)
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Region: Chablis, Burgundy, France
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Size: 700ml
How to Enjoy It
It makes a superb Negroni or a Martini with a lemon twist, and it works as a neat sip too. It pairs with oysters, goat cheese or white fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Renais?
Emma Watson and her brother Alex.
What does Renais mean?
Rebirth, in French.
Why 'gin with natural flavors'?
Chardonnay grape juice is added after distillation, a US labeling requirement.
Explore more in our Gin collection.
