González Byass is set to become the UK distributor of G.H. Martel’s Champagne brands: G.H. Martel, Maison Vieille France and Cuvée Victoire. 

Set to distribute the wines from 1 July 2026, González Byass said it looks forward to growing the brands in the UK after having formed a close relationship with the family over the last two decades. 

The distributor further explained that G.H. Martel & Co. was founded in 1869 in Hautvillers, the village considered to be the birthplace of Champagne, before being acquired by the Rapeneau family in 1979. 

Today, the company is one of the largest family-owned producers in the region, with more than 200 hectares of owned vineyards and fruit sourced from a further 500 hectares through vineyard partners. 

G.H. Martel’s historic cellars and crayères are also part of the UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site in Reims. Meanwhile, Christophe Rapeneau serves as third-generation president and winemaker, alongside his two sons and nephew. 

Melissa Draycott, MD of González Byass, said: “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome G.H. Martel & Co to our portfolio.  I have personally known the family for over 20 years and always admired their passion, energy and commitment to their Champagnes, region and customers.” 

Jean-Remy Rapeneau, family owner and export director, added: “The time is right to grow our presence in the UK market, and we can’t wait to get started with Melissa and her team at  González Byass UK. We are passionate about producing the very best quality Champagne and giving the best service and to our customers in the UK.’’