An ex-royal butler has shared words of caution about Meghan Markle’s developing brand and future empire. Meghan Markle launched the As Ever brand as a reconfiguration of her initial American Riviera Orchard label.
The development of Meghan’s brand comes after Meghan and Prince Harry’s departure from the Royal Family in 2020, and the couple have since been pursuing their own independent ventures. Speaking on behalf of Casino, former royal butler, Paul Burrell, spoke about how the Firm might view Meghan’s latest venture: “I think they’re amused by it. I think the Royal Family and we [the public] on this side of the Atlantic are all amused by it.”
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, he added: “But listen, this is an empire just beginning. Make no mistake, she will go into fashion, into jewellery, maybe have her own perfume. ‘You, too, can smell like Meghan Markle.’ I wonder what that would be like?”.
The latest product release from Meghan Markle’s brand was Napa Valley rosé which sold out within an hour on July 1. Before selling out, customers were able to purchase three bottles for £66 [$90], six bottles for £117 [$159], and 12 bottles for £222 [$300].
Containing 14.5 percent alcohol in a 750ML bottle, the As Ever rosé was described on the bottle as a “delicately balanced rosé with soft notes of stone fruit, gentle minerality, and a lasting finish.”
After selling out, Meghan took to her As Ever Instagram account, writing: “Still soaking it in- feeling endlessly grateful.
Cheers to what’s ahead!”
The Duchess has also revealed As Ever’s “thoughtful expansion into wine” with a sparkling version due to drop later this year. Her previous promotional image for the rosé showed a bottle. and two glasses beside a glittering swimming pool, with cut apricots arranged on a tablecloth
Fans of the As Ever brand who purchased the wine are currently receiving their orders. The beverage, released on July 1, immediately sold out, is “inspired by a Provençal-style” and “harvested in the stunning wine country of Napa Valley”, according to its description.
Since the Duchess of Sussex launched her personal social media handle on January 1, 2025, she has regularly posted family updates too, as well as pomoting her brand’s page.
Meghan Markle returned to Instagram after deactivating her accounts in January 2018, just months after getting engaged to Prince Harry.