La Châsse du Pape, one of the most widely distributed French branded wines in UK supermarkets, is moving into sparkling wine for the first time.
UK agent Guy Anderson Wines unveiled La Châsse du Pape Blanc de Blancs Chardonnay.
The sparkling wine, made in Burgundy as a methode traditionelle, is expected to retail for around £7.99.
Nadine McCallion, associate sales director at Guy Anderson Wines, said the idea behind the launch was to try and persuade consumers that La Châsse du Pape was not just a “red wine from the Rhône”.
Finding sparkling wine in France of the quality demanded for La Châsse du Pape was not an easy task. “There is an awful lot of shocking sparkling wine in France,” said McCallion.
La Châsse du Pape is best known for its Reserve Côtes du Rhône red, which is stocked by most of the major multiples and which was recently upgraded in quality so it could retail at £5.99, rather than £4.99.
The range also includes a Reserve Côtes du Rhône white and a rosé, and four Vin de Pays d'Oc wines, two reds, a white and a rosé.
Thresher off-licences also offer two dual varietal wines on an exclusive basis.
Guy Anderson Wines is also keen to move the brand into the independent sector. “We have spoken to the likes of Spar and Bargain Booze,” said McCallion.
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