Rémy Cointreau USA Returns To Champagne Category, Launching Telmont Brand

Last fall, Rémy Cointreau announced its purchase of a majority stake in Champagne Telmont, marking its first move in the bubbly category since selling Piper-Heidsieck and Charles Heidsieck to EPI for about $600 million in 2011. Now, Rémy is launching Telmont in the U.S. as the Champagne category surges back after a challenging year in 2020, with overall shipments jumping 48% by volume in the first four months of this year.

Ludovic du Plessis, formerly executive director of Rémy’s Louis XIII Cognac, is now president of the House of Telmont. “In the U.S., we’re starting in Miami, Los Angeles, and New York City,” he tells SND. “Our objective is to target a very selective distribution. Our house produces 400,000 bottles a year, and each bottle is numbered to ensure perfect traceability.” Du Plessis adds that “our priority market channels will be the most prestigious and trendy on-trade venues and a selection of esteemed wine merchants.”

Rémy is introducing the full Telmont range in the U.S. It includes a Reserve Brut ($60), Reserve Rosé ($72), Vinotheque 2012 ($79), Reserve de la Terre ($84), Blanc de Blancs ($89), and Blanc de Blancs Vinotheque 2006 ($209). “Telmont consumers are seeking alternatives to mainstream brands and are frequently on the hunt for purpose-driven brands,” notes du Plessis. Toward that end, Telmont has made sustainability a centerpiece of its brand proposition.

The Champagne house has converted more than 70% of its 24.5 hectares (61 acres) of estate vineyards to organic viticulture, with the estate slated to be fully organic by 2025. Including its partner growers, Telmont is aiming for all cultivation to be organic by 2031, up from about half currently. And, starting this year, it’s seeking to source 100% of its electricity from renewable sources and opt for green energy alternatives across its operations.—Daniel Marsteller

Tagged : Champagne Telmont, Remy Cointrea

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