William Grant to produce Cognac with Robicquet

Glenfiddich and Hendrick’s maker William Grant & Sons is moving into Cognac production through a partnership with Jean-Sébastien Robicquet and his La Guilde du Cognac brand.

The La Guilde du Cognac range currently consists of four expressions

Robicquet is the owner of Cognac-based Villevert, which has a portfolio of brands that includes G’Vine and Nouaison Gin, La Quintinye Vermouth Royal, June liqueur and Excellia Tequila. Robicquet also distils Cîroc vodka for Diageo.

William Grant & Son has not disclosed any financial terms of the partnership or confirmed whether it involves a stake acquisition.

The partnership will see the firm take La Guilde du Cognac’s existing products to new markets and “over time move on to developing new products together” with Robicquet. The range will become the “world’s first extensive collection of single terroir Cognacs”, according to William Grant & Sons.

La Guilde du Cognac is produced by Maison Villevert and consists of four single-terroir expressions. The range is currently available in France, Spain and Portugal through Renaissance Spirits.

William Grant & Sons’ chief executive, Simon Hunt, said: “We’re delighted to welcome La Guilde du Cognac into our premium spirits portfolio. La Guilde du Cognac complements our brands and opens up an exciting new category for our business.

“Jean Sébastien’s entire team have a like-minded family approach. They too are a team of pioneering and passionate characters, who above all else champion the quality of their liquid. We look forward to working with them and building a partnership for the long-term.”

Robicquet added: “I have been impressed by William Grant & Sons approach to carefully nurture their brands in key markets and develop aficionados for their liquids.

“We want to create a partnership that has the power to show the diversity of Cognac’s great spirits and pay tribute to the inspired artisan distillers who make them.”