Rhone wine brand Les Dauphins expands to US

Published: 19 February, 2015

Rhône wine brand Les Dauphins will launch in over 40 US states this spring, marking the opening of its 25^th export market.

The UK was the first country to introduce the Les Dauphins brand back in 2011, and this year it is planning to ramp up its consumer marketing and communications, with a bigger emphasis on consumer sampling at high profile shows and festivals, and more activity on social media. Last year the brand confirmed to Harpers.co.uk that it was now selling more than 1 million bottles around the world.

The wine is produced by the Union des Vignerons des Côtes du Rhône, also known as Cellier des Dauphins, a co-operative of more than 3,000 growers. Four years ago UVCDR and UK partner Dedicated Wines claimed they "saw an opportunity to develop a concept which would take brand leadership of the Rhône category".

Premium range extensions are also planned for the brand, to be launched at next month's ProWein and France Under One Roof shows.

Frank Gaudet, who joined UVCDR as managing director nine months ago said he wants to make Les Dauphins a pivotal brand for the Rhône and a route for consumer discovery of the region.

Dedicated Wines director Richard Evans, who has been instrumental in the brand's development, said: "In this ultra-competitive world, wine brands that work are vital for everyone in the wine industry, whether supplier or retailer. Les Dauphins has shown it has exceptional consumer appeal and that's why we are investing in connecting with them, giving them the information and experience they clearly want and an aspirational purchase which adds value to them and to all of us."

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