LUXURY goods group LVMH said bubbling champagne orders helped its wine and spirits division to report a 20% rise in sales.

The Moet Hennessey Louis Vuitton group, which has drink brands including Dom Perignon and Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, said its champagne business had bounced back in the first three months of the year.

LVMH said its wine and spirits division lifted sales to £562m in the period – as Hennessy cognac got a boost from demand in Asia during the Chinese New Year.

The group posted a 13% rise in like-for-like sales. Total revenues increased to £3.9bn.

LVMH said it expected to strengthen its position in the global luxury industry this year, but warned it would maintain strict cost management.

In the fashion and leather division, which boasts names including Louis Vuitton, Fendi and Donna Karan, comparable growth was 10%, while revenues increased to £1.5bn.