Moët Hennessy, the wines and spirits division of luxury conglomerate LVMH, is doubling down on India as a key growth market for its premium sparkling wine brand, Chandon.
Celebrating ten years in India, Chandon is marking the milestone with a limited-edition Vintage 2015, crafted from the inaugural grape harvest at its Nashik winery. This release reflects Chandon’s decade-long journey of craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability in the Indian wine landscape.
Chandon’s Strategic Vision for India
In an interview with Businessline, Ipsita Das, Managing Director of Moët Hennessy India, expressed optimism about India’s potential as a leading market for Chandon. “India is one of the biggest bets for Chandon as a market for future growth,” she stated. Das believes that as Chandon continues to expand the sparkling wine category, India will emerge as one of its top global markets.
Chandon India’s Nashik winery, nestled in the foothills of Maharashtra, represents one of LVMH’s most significant investments in the Indian market. This winery not only produces world-class sparkling wines but has also played a transformative role in putting India on the global wine map.
Sparkling Wine Growth in India
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the sparkling wine category in India has experienced remarkable growth. The category grew by 45% in recent years, with Chandon outperforming the market at a growth rate of 17% between 2022 and 2023. Das emphasized that the rise in value has outpaced volume, driven by a premiumisation trend.
“Sparkling wine used to be primarily associated with celebrations in India,” Das noted. “But now, it has evolved into a beverage for everyday moments, reflecting the trend of enjoying life’s smaller joys.”
Chandon’s Indian portfolio includes Chandon Brut, Rosé, and Aurva, offering options that appeal to a diverse consumer base. The introduction of 180 ml bottles has also added convenience, catering to the growing trend of home consumption.
India’s Evolving Luxury Beverage Market
India, traditionally a whiskey-dominated market, is witnessing a significant shift in preferences toward other premium alcoholic beverages, including sparkling wines. Das highlighted the evolving tastes of Indian consumers and their growing interest in luxury experiences.
“With India emerging as a fast-evolving luxury products market, we are responding to the strengthening premiumisation trend through innovative offerings,” Das stated.
Beyond Sparkling Wine: Glenmorangie and Broader Opportunities
Moët Hennessy India’s commitment to the market extends beyond sparkling wine. Das noted that India is among the top three markets for Glenmorangie globally. The company’s approach involves tailoring products to suit Indian consumers' preferences while introducing global innovations at the right time.
A Decade of Innovation and a Promising Future
Over the past decade, Chandon India has pioneered the sparkling wine category, establishing itself as a leader in the luxury segment. From introducing limited-edition vintages to creating everyday indulgence experiences, Chandon is redefining sparkling wine consumption in India.
As Moët Hennessy continues to invest in India’s wine landscape, the country’s growing appetite for premium products suggests a bright future for Chandon. By blending global expertise with local insights, the brand is well-positioned to lead the next wave of sparkling wine innovation in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.
Source: The Hindu Business Line