An unexpected media storm earlier this year left the Duchess of Sus𝓈ℯ𝓍 devastated, according to a new report.

Meghan Markle was left “in tears” after unwittingly sparking a media storm with the launch of her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard.

The Duchess of Sus𝓈ℯ𝓍 revealed the new venture in March with a cryptic teaser video and vague details, shared on a new, official Instagram page.

Further information about ARO was unveiled afterwards, with the announcement that the brand would focus on kitchen and homeware goods, selling oils, butters, james and preserves, home fragrances and furnishings.

Meghan was reportedly upset by the reaction to her new business venture. Picture: Netflix

She had sent 50 handmade jars of jam out to select friends and influencers. Picture: Instagram

Part of the initial PR push included a lavish package of jams, accessorised with lemons, which were delivered to a carefully-curated list of 50 highly influential and high-net worth friends.

However, the soft launch strategy was mocked by many online, who appeared underwhelmed by the result of her long-awaited new career move.

According to royal journalist and author Tom Quinn, the disappointing reaction has proven to be a “fly in the ointment” for Meghan.

“Meghan was in tears when the brand launched and her new jam was widely mocked for being expensive and nothing special,” he told the UK’s .

“She has reached the point now where she thinks that anything and everything she does will be unfairly criticised. Like her husband, she feels that people are unfairly picking on her – she cannot understand why people don’t admire her work.”

Harry and Meghan recently returned from a three-day tour of Nigeria. Picture: Emmanuel Osodi/Anadolu via Getty Images

“She is especially sensitive about any criticism of her luxurious lifestyle in the US – from her point of view this is something to be admired not criticised,” Quinn added.

The publication also claimed that Meghan will undertake a PR blitz in the lead up to the company going live, and is planning chat show and podcast appearances as well as select interviews.