Jean-Rémy Moët
Jean-Rémy Moët (1758–1841) was a French vintner and wine merchant who helped bring the Champagne house of Moët et Chandon to international prominence. He inherited the house from his grandfather and founder Claude Moët.
Friendship with Napoleon
Jean-Rémy Moët first met Napoleon Bonaparte in 1782 at the military academy of Brienne-le-Château when Moët was soliciting orders for his family champagne firm. The two kept in touch and developed an enduring friendship that would last both their lifetimes. During his military campaigns, Napoleon would always make it an objective to visit the Moët estate at Épernay to pick up cases of champagne. The only exception was when Napoleon had to rush to confront Wellington at the Battle of Waterloo.
Napoleon's friendship and patronage greatly benefited the Moët house and as a tribute, Moët built a replica of Grand Trianon on his property, complete with original work by Jean-Baptiste Isabey, for Napoleon and Empress Josephine to stay in when they visit.
Podcasts:
