The Distillate - Autumn 2005
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The Distillate
The Worshipful Company of Distillers
Autumn 2005
The new team from left to right. Master-elect David Grant, Middle Warden Derek Plant, Upper Warden Keith Garrard and Renter Warden Charles Maxwell OUR NEW MASTER: DAVID GRANT David Grant is due to be installed as Master at the Court th meeting to be held on 16 November 2005. He is a distiller by birth and by trade. His great-grandfather, William, established the family business, which David joined on graduating from Oxford in 1962. Following time in the UK, Southern Europe and at Business school, David was appointed marketing manager for Glenfiddich, with the task of launching the brand internationally. From 1973 to 1987 he combined this with responsibility for all the Company’s brands in all markets outside North and South America. During that period he was also responsible for the regeneration of Mildara Wines, later to become Mildara Blass, after the acquisition of Wolf Blass. So he claims to be a wine merchant as well as a distiller!
At the end of the 1980’s he handed over to the next generation of the family and became involved in industry affairs, sitting on many trade associations and committees. He chaired the Wine & Spirit Association and the Wine and Spirit Trades’ Benevolent Society. He also became a founder director of the Walpole Committee, which he helped to set up to promote the best of British goods and services around the world. He retired in 1999. He is married to Laragh, has four children, the eldest of whom, Susannah, is a liveryman. He enjoys, shooting, tennis, bridge, music, food and drink.
A MESSAGE FROM THE MASTER-ELECT The Master’s one-year tenure is like a spell on the bridge of a giant tanker. You can’t stop it, our history and heritage see to that; and even to implement a small change in direction you have to begin the turn the moment you come on watch or you will fail to complete the manoeuvre by the end. The small turns I would like to see implemented are to make the Company both more inclusive and more exclusive. Inclusive by involving more liverymen, together with their partners, in our activities. This may involve widening the appeal of our present events and initiating new activities in which liverymen want to participate. The exclusive element is the sense of increasing the desirability of membership of our Company, especially within the trade. The more success we have with the people that we need to attract as members, the more others of a similar background will want to become members. It is up to all liverymen, but particularly those in the trade, to introduce their friends and colleagues to our friendly gatherings. But there has to be more than a social interest. Members of the trade can be excused for being bemused by public opinion – at least as reported in the press on an almost daily basis – slating the industry in which we work. Is there perhaps an opportunity for our Company to become a forum in which liverymen can debate amongst themselves some of the issues? However interesting these thoughts may be, change must never be allowed to deflect us from achieving our existing goals. The success of the WSET, coupled with its increasing alignment with and support from the spirits trade, is essential. The advances in the Professional Certificate in Spirits course must not distract our attention from the task of building within our trade the understanding of the relevance of this course to all employers and employees alike and the need to achieve success in the exam. THE WARDENS After the Installation ceremony at the November Court meeting the new Wardens will be: KEITH GARRARD: Upper Warden Keith Garrard joined the wine and spirit trade when recruited by John Howell, who was Upper Warden of the Company at the time of his death. Keith’s role was to sell to the wholesale and retail trade in London and the Home Counties. There followed a career in buying with Hedges and Butler spanning twenty-five years, culminating with responsibility for the Grand Cru Chateau Lascombes in Margaux. A much coveted position! He is also the current chairman of the WSET. DEREK PLANT: Middle Warden Derek Plant hails from an island off the West Coast of Scotland, another Scot! He trained with British Transport Hotels, the hotel division of the old British Rail and became a director. In partnership with John Tee, also a liveryman, they founded Compass Hotels of which Derek is an executive director. CHARLES MAXWELL: Renter Warden Charles Maxwell joined the family business of Matthew Clark in 1976. He worked in all facets of the business until his appointment as director of Finsbury Distillery in 1980 and managing director in 1986. He became a board member of Matthew Clark Holdings in 1989. He left Matthew Clark in 1992, setting up businesses in distilling and wines. By 1997 he was distilling and bottling spirits through Thames Distillers, who
became the world’s first organic gin distiller in 1999. Until very recently Charles was our Chancellor and has had a significant influence on the financial fortunes of the Worshipful Company of Distillers. THE APRIL DINNER On Thursday 21 April the Company held a dinner in Vintners Hall attended by Commander Andrew Webb of HMS Montrose together with Lt Commander Andy Kellett. The Company was also pleased to welcome no less than five Masters of other livery companies, namely Richard Everard (Brewers), David Burbridge (Furniture Makers), James Walker (Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers), David Simmonds (Tallow Chandlers) and Mark Ladd (Makers of Playing Cards). Other guests included Admiral Cristiano Bettini, Italian Naval and Defence Attaché and Neil Amner, Visitor of the Incorporation of Maltmen of Glasgow.
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The Upper Warden David Grant, Commander Andrew Webb, the Master, Lt Commander Andy Kellett, Middle Warden Keith Garrard and Renter Warden Derek Plant. Assistant Terry Barr welcomed the guests and Commander Andrew Webb replied on their behalf. The Master, Christopher Hayman, reported that the Company had renewed an ancient tradition of inspecting the product standards at London distilleries. In particular he and the Wardens had “inspected” the Beefeater Distillery and Thames Distillers some weeks earlier. The Master presented a Worshipful Company of Distillers certificate for passing his stiff scrutiny to the representatives of the two distilleries and mentioned that he and the Wardens had received most generous hospitality. He was also able to confirm that the products sampled were of the highest quality.
The Master presents the Distillers Certificate to Charles Maxwell of Thames Distillers Mr Desmond Payne of the Beefeater Distillery presented the Company with a panel from a horse drawn coach used by Past Master William Evans in 1874. The panel, with the Distillers crest painted in the centre, has been framed and will be displayed in the Company’s lecture room in the WSET’s new building.
Mohammed (one horse alone had a value of $180 million) and Churchill Downs the home of the Kentucky Derby. We also enjoyed visits to an arboretum, the Mammoth Cave National Park and the Nashville Country Music Hall of Fame no less! Our last evening was spent at the Jack Daniel distillery, where in the evening they organised a barbecue with live Bluegrass music in their pavilion overlooking the countryside. Mr Desmond Payne presenting the coat of arms to the Master COURT TRIP TO USA In late May some 36 members of the Court and their partners joined an excellent visit to experience the delights of Bourbon and Tennessee whiskey. The first half of the week was spent in Louisville, Kentucky before we moved on to Nashville, Tennessee.
Colleen Minoprio being serenaded at the Country Music Hall of Fame.
A happy group arriving in Louisville, Kentucky During the week we visited five distilleries: Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, Jim Beam and Jack Daniels. We also had a fascinating opportunity to witness the Bluegrass Cooperage production facilities, where over half a million barrels are produced annually.
A rare photo of “Snapper” Raines, this time trying his hand at emulating Elvis.
Firing of the oak barrels at Bluegrass Cooperage Upper Warden David Grant reflecting on the formations in the Mammoth Cave. The party’s sincere thanks go to the Master and Upper Warden for organising such a fantastic visit. We learnt a great deal about Bourbon and whiskey and the variations in methods of production compared to Scotland. Also our hosts were generous both in their hospitality and time to show us their craft. GOLF After our early victory against the Vintners in March, the remainder of the year has not been quite so successful. In May we narrowly lost against the Painter Stainers Company at Tandridge Golf Club, being just one point short of victory. In early August we held our annual match against the Brewers Company at Denham Golf Club, who again proved somewhat stronger than the Distillers.
Not sure whether Middle Warden Keith Garrard is either about to lead the choir after an excellent dinner or report on progress at the WSET! A visit to Kentucky would not have been complete without an outing to the Gainsborough stud farm, owned by Sheikh
We also held our annual golf meeting at Burhill Golf Club in June as well as the annual match against the livery members of West Kent Golf Club in July. We have a varied and full diary of golf days on wonderful courses. So please, if you enjoy a round of golf in very friendly company, please do join us. You will hear more early in the New Year. COURT LUNCHEON On Monday 13 June the Court met at the Tallow Chandlers Hall to elect the Master and Wardens for the forthcoming year: David Grant Keith Garrard Derek Plant Charles Maxwell Master Upper Warden Middle Warden Renter Warden
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His charitable involvement includes the appointment of Honorary Secretary of the City of London Branch of the Leukaemia Research Fund. Christopher Mitchell married Barbara in 1952 and has three sons, a daughter and six teenage grandchildren. One of his sons, Michael, is a liveryman of the Company. He has lived in Buckinghamshire for all his life and his hobbies include gardening and antiques. TREE PLANTING Following the June Court Luncheon the Master planted a tree on behalf of the Company accompanied by Past Master Christopher Mitchell who attended in his capacity as Chief Commoner. The 10-year-old oak tree stands on the corner of Watling Street and New Change in the shadow of St Paul’s.
The Court also appointed Mr Brian Morrison as an Assistant and Mr Grant Gordon and Mr Paul Milsom as Stewards.
Chief Commoner and Past Master Christopher Mitchell assisting the Master to plant the oak tree Assistant Brian Morrison being congratulated by the Master upon his appointment CHRISTOPHER MITCHELL, OBE Past Master Christopher Mitchell has been elected Chairman of the City Lands and Bridge House Estates committee, and de facto, to the historic office of Chief Commoner of the Corporation of London. Christopher Mitchell was born in Amersham and educated at Aldenham. He trained as an apprentice in horticulture and worked in the horticultural and farming sector for 13 years before joining the family wine merchants of El Vino in 1959. He is now chairman of the company, which manages four wine bars in the City of London as well as operating in the wholesale, retail and mail orders sectors. He has served on the Court of Common Council since 1971 and became Deputy of the Ward of Castle Baynard in 1995. He has also been chairman of the Trees and Gardens sub-committee and West Ham Park, Planning and Community Services committees. The City Lands committee is responsible for the property and land belonging to the City of London. There are three estates with a current value of £1.5 billion yielding an annual rental income of £90 million. Whilst the estates are the City’s private ownership, it funds services of a London-wide and national importance, including the management of 10,000 acres of open space such as Hampstead Heath and Epping Forest. In addition it has to fund the Lord Mayor’s diplomatic programme, schools and the wholesale markets including Smithfield and Billingsgate. He joined the Distillers livery in 1965 and served as Master in 1997/98 as well as being a liveryman of the Gardeners Company. He was appointed as an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in 2001. THE MASTER’S REPORT The Master, Christopher Hayman, reports on the events attended since late March. 7 April 13 April 14 April 4 May 9 May 11 May 12 May 13 May 17 May 18 May 19 May 1 June 6 June 7 June 10 June 24 June 27 June 4 July 5 July 7 July 8 July 12 July 13 July 14 July 19 July 20 July 14 Sept 20 Sept 28 Sept 29 Sept 4 Oct 5 Oct Makers of Playing Cards dinner Upholders Installation dinner Royal Institute of British Architects lecture Brewers dinner WSA President’s lunch Past Master Gerald Milsom’s funeral City of London concert Distillers lecture at Heriot-Watt University Sons of Clergy at St Paul’s GVA AGM & Taster of the year “Jailed & Bailed” in the Tower of London, raising £1,800 for the Red Cross in the process WSET lecture by Paul Walsh Wine & Spirits Trades’ Benevolent Society dinner Visit to WSET new building Pewter Live at Pewterers Hall Ironbridge Masters weekend Sheriff’s Breakfast, HQS Wellington & Sheriff’s election King Edward’s School, Witley, tour & lunch Gold & Silver Wyre Drawers luncheon Innholders Mid-Summer dinner London & Scottish Army, HQS Wellington Imperial Society of Knights Bachelor, Annual Service Sheriff & Recorders Fund AGM & reception, Old Bailey Vintners Installation service & lunch Vintners dinner Garden Party, Buckingham Palace Chief Commoners dinner City of London School for Girls, visit & lunch Coopers dinner Musicians choral evensong & supper Lord Mayor’s Divine service & election thereafter Opening of WSET International Wine & Spirit Centre Wine & Spirits Trades’ Benevolent Soc Vintage Festival th 400 anniversary of Butchers Royal Charter reception
6 Oct 10 Oct 12 Oct 13 Oct 18 Oct 31 Oct
Mercers dinner Distillers Young Liverymen dinner London Regiment reception at London Scottish HQ Upholders banquet, Mansion House Masters & Clerks lunch London Scottish Halloween dinner
And a few other events as well, but run out of space! A very, very busy and committed Master, as we all would expect. LIVERY MEMBERSHIP Admissions to the Freedom and Livery At the Court meeting on 21 April the freedom of the Company was granted to Dr Martin Purvis, Mr Emrys Richard, Mr John Taylor and Mr John Wilson. The livery was granted to His Grace the Duke of Argyll, Mr Michael Beamish, Mr Andrew Gordon and Mrs Susan Peters, daughter of Past Master Ian Coombs.
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16 Nov 14 Dec 2006: 9 Feb 26 April 28 April 8 June 9 June 15 Nov
Installation Court meeting and Dinner, Vintners Hall Carol Service Court meeting and Luncheon, Vintners Hall Court meeting and Dinner, Vintners Hall Distillers Lecture at Heriot-Watt University Visit to Glenfiddich Distillery Court Meeting and Dinner, New Club Edinburgh Installation Court meeting and Dinner, Vintners Hall
PAST MASTER GERALD MILSOM, OBE
Gerald in the garden of Milsoms Sadly Gerald Milsom passed away whilst in South Africa on 29 th April. His funeral at Dedham church on 11 May was packed with over 900 of his many friends who came to pay tribute and say farewell to a very special friend.
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The Master with the Duke of Argyll and Mr Michael Beamish after their installation as Liverymen At the June Court meeting the freedom was also granted to Mr Stuart Kaye, Mr Rupert Pritchett and Ms Geraldine Coates. Liverymen may be interested to know that the Duke is our very first world champion, indeed double world champion. Earlier this year he captained Scotland to their second successive King’s Cup World Elephant Polo Championships in Thailand. This was achieved after scoring a golden goal in extra time to win 6-5. We are told that sometimes the elephants get a little frustrated if their rider shows a lack of skill in the striking of the polo ball and give a little help by picking it up with their trunks and projecting it towards goal! Our sincere congratulations to the Duke of Argyll and perhaps he could give the Company a demonstration after the next dinner. THE WORSHIPFUL COMPANY OF DISTILLERS LECTURE ROOM The Master and Wardens, in the company of Ian Harris, visited the WSET new building to check on the refurbishment with particular interest in the Distillers lecture room located on the second floor. The room, capable of holding 70 people, has been designed with murals depicting scenes from the history of our Company and our industry. Above the entrance will be the Distillers crest and the area will be devoted to displays of our history together with interesting artefacts. During the summer the WSET moved into the new premises and th on 30 September Ms Jancis Robinson formally opened the building. FORTHCOMING EVENTS & DATES 2005: 12 Nov Lord Mayors Show
Gerald was born in Epsom in 1930 and in 1952 he persuaded th his father to purchase the 16 Century timbered cottage known as Le Talbooth. Gerald worked hard building up the restaurant business that produced the finest meals from high-class menus. In 1960 he purchased the Dedham Vale Hotel and eventually converted it into an all day brassiere with fourteen bedrooms, calling it Milsoms. In 1969 he acquired the Dedham rectory and converted this property into a luxurious hotel naming it Maison Talbooth. Gerald purchased the Pier Hotel in Harwich turning this into two fish restaurant with a few rooms, until he bought the th neighbouring 18 century Angel pub, transforming the later into a seven bedroom hotel. Gerald was chairman of the East Anglia tourist board between 1971 to 1982. He was an Essex County Councillor and in 1987 was appointed OBE for his services to tourism. Gerald was a keen supporter of Ipswich Town Football Club and a member of the MCC. He became Master of the Worshipful Company of Distillers in 2001 and, with his tremendous enthusiasm, steered the Company forward with its education programme. Gerald was responsible for encouraging the close friendship that now exists between the Worshipful of Innholders and the Distillers. He leaves two sons and a daughter, one of whom, Paul, is managing director of the Milsom Group and a Steward of our Company. HMS MONTROSE Having arrived safely back home from the Gulf, HMS Montrose carried out manoeuvres in British waters before visiting Brest for training exercises with the French, US and Russian navies. The Master and Upper Warden joined the ship during the Spithead Review held in the summer as part of the Trafalgar 200 celebrations. The Company has created a special prize to be awarded annually to the Mess on board HMS Montrose. The prize will consist of an engraved trophy and be presented to either a member of the ship’s company or a team who have contributed most to promote the good name of HMS Montrose. The award ceremony will take place at a Livery lunch or dinner.
Liveryman Gordon Steele arriving on the helipad of HMS Montrose during a visit LIVERY AND LADIES BANQUET On Monday 3rd October the Livery and Ladies Banquet was held in the impressive Egyptian Hall of the Mansion House. The Rt. Hon The Lord Mayor, Alderman Michael Savory, generously allowed our Company to use his home and was in attendance with The Lady Mayoress, Mrs Savory. The Master and his wife lead the top table out of the Egyptian Hall after dinner.
NEWS IN BRIEF The retirement of Michael Ferney, Steward to the Vintners Company for 44 years, was recognised by the Master and members of the Court who presented him with the History of the Distillers Company and a cheque. Michael has been a great help to our livery, organising the delivery and serving of our wines.
The Maser’s wife Karin with the Lord Mayor at Dinner
The Master presenting the book and cheque to Michael Ferney THE CLERKS NEW GOWN Those who attended the Mansion House Livery and Ladies Banquet will have noticed the Learned Clerk’s new gown, purchased to match that of the Master’s and Wardens new gowns Past Master Ian Coombs holding a dirk with liveryman daughter Sue Peters and her two daughters. What a stunningly group who are clearly enjoying a great evening. The Master’s guests were Mr John Rubinstein Master of the Musicians Company, Mr David Port Master of the Fuellers Company, Mr Stephen Martin Master of the Armourers and Brasiers Company, Mr Roddy Lane Master of the Mercers Company and Mr Richard Martin Master of the Founders Company. The Rt. Hon Lord Mayor gave an informative and entertaining speech proposing the Worshipful Company of Distillers and the Master. The Master replied highlighting the Company’s successes and achievements during his year and proposed the toast to the guests. The Master of the Musicians Company eloquently replied on behalf of the guests. THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW On November 12 the Master has organised a Distillers float to take part in the Lord Mayor’s procession. OUR OWN GLEN MORAY WHISKY The cask of Speyside malt whisky will soon be on sale to members of the livery. Special labels are being designed and printed for the Distillers commemorative bottle, with the proceeds going to charity The Glen Moray Distillery distilled the single malt whisky back in February 1980. PUZZLE CORNER The answers to twenty questions in the Spring issue. 1. 3. 5. 7. 9. 10. 12. 14. Fat 2. 1983 240 4. Traffic Wardens 1969 6. 240 Tea 8. The Tempest Started the Great Fire of London Colours of the rainbow 11. Tukan Julius Caesar 13. A Kiss me Kate 15. Rhythm
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16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Banana Aldwych or Knightsbridge A glass of medium sherry. Automation of the speaking clock. Pissario
Thank you for returning your answers but unfortunately no one managed to get them all right! All enquiries to: The Clerk
The Worshipful Company of Distillers
71 Lincoln’s Inn Fields London WC2A 3JF Tel: 020 7405 7091
The Distillate
The Worshipful Company of Distillers
Autumn 2005
The new team from left to right. Master-elect David Grant, Middle Warden Derek Plant, Upper Warden Keith Garrard and Renter Warden Charles Maxwell OUR NEW MASTER: DAVID GRANT David Grant is due to be installed as Master at the Court th meeting to be held on 16 November 2005. He is a distiller by birth and by trade. His great-grandfather, William, established the family business, which David joined on graduating from Oxford in 1962. Following time in the UK, Southern Europe and at Business school, David was appointed marketing manager for Glenfiddich, with the task of launching the brand internationally. From 1973 to 1987 he combined this with responsibility for all the Company’s brands in all markets outside North and South America. During that period he was also responsible for the regeneration of Mildara Wines, later to become Mildara Blass, after the acquisition of Wolf Blass. So he claims to be a wine merchant as well as a distiller!
At the end of the 1980’s he handed over to the next generation of the family and became involved in industry affairs, sitting on many trade associations and committees. He chaired the Wine & Spirit Association and the Wine and Spirit Trades’ Benevolent Society. He also became a founder director of the Walpole Committee, which he helped to set up to promote the best of British goods and services around the world. He retired in 1999. He is married to Laragh, has four children, the eldest of whom, Susannah, is a liveryman. He enjoys, shooting, tennis, bridge, music, food and drink.
A MESSAGE FROM THE MASTER-ELECT The Master’s one-year tenure is like a spell on the bridge of a giant tanker. You can’t stop it, our history and heritage see to that; and even to implement a small change in direction you have to begin the turn the moment you come on watch or you will fail to complete the manoeuvre by the end. The small turns I would like to see implemented are to make the Company both more inclusive and more exclusive. Inclusive by involving more liverymen, together with their partners, in our activities. This may involve widening the appeal of our present events and initiating new activities in which liverymen want to participate. The exclusive element is the sense of increasing the desirability of membership of our Company, especially within the trade. The more success we have with the people that we need to attract as members, the more others of a similar background will want to become members. It is up to all liverymen, but particularly those in the trade, to introduce their friends and colleagues to our friendly gatherings. But there has to be more than a social interest. Members of the trade can be excused for being bemused by public opinion – at least as reported in the press on an almost daily basis – slating the industry in which we work. Is there perhaps an opportunity for our Company to become a forum in which liverymen can debate amongst themselves some of the issues? However interesting these thoughts may be, change must never be allowed to deflect us from achieving our existing goals. The success of the WSET, coupled with its increasing alignment with and support from the spirits trade, is essential. The advances in the Professional Certificate in Spirits course must not distract our attention from the task of building within our trade the understanding of the relevance of this course to all employers and employees alike and the need to achieve success in the exam. THE WARDENS After the Installation ceremony at the November Court meeting the new Wardens will be: KEITH GARRARD: Upper Warden Keith Garrard joined the wine and spirit trade when recruited by John Howell, who was Upper Warden of the Company at the time of his death. Keith’s role was to sell to the wholesale and retail trade in London and the Home Counties. There followed a career in buying with Hedges and Butler spanning twenty-five years, culminating with responsibility for the Grand Cru Chateau Lascombes in Margaux. A much coveted position! He is also the current chairman of the WSET. DEREK PLANT: Middle Warden Derek Plant hails from an island off the West Coast of Scotland, another Scot! He trained with British Transport Hotels, the hotel division of the old British Rail and became a director. In partnership with John Tee, also a liveryman, they founded Compass Hotels of which Derek is an executive director. CHARLES MAXWELL: Renter Warden Charles Maxwell joined the family business of Matthew Clark in 1976. He worked in all facets of the business until his appointment as director of Finsbury Distillery in 1980 and managing director in 1986. He became a board member of Matthew Clark Holdings in 1989. He left Matthew Clark in 1992, setting up businesses in distilling and wines. By 1997 he was distilling and bottling spirits through Thames Distillers, who
became the world’s first organic gin distiller in 1999. Until very recently Charles was our Chancellor and has had a significant influence on the financial fortunes of the Worshipful Company of Distillers. THE APRIL DINNER On Thursday 21 April the Company held a dinner in Vintners Hall attended by Commander Andrew Webb of HMS Montrose together with Lt Commander Andy Kellett. The Company was also pleased to welcome no less than five Masters of other livery companies, namely Richard Everard (Brewers), David Burbridge (Furniture Makers), James Walker (Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers), David Simmonds (Tallow Chandlers) and Mark Ladd (Makers of Playing Cards). Other guests included Admiral Cristiano Bettini, Italian Naval and Defence Attaché and Neil Amner, Visitor of the Incorporation of Maltmen of Glasgow.
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The Upper Warden David Grant, Commander Andrew Webb, the Master, Lt Commander Andy Kellett, Middle Warden Keith Garrard and Renter Warden Derek Plant. Assistant Terry Barr welcomed the guests and Commander Andrew Webb replied on their behalf. The Master, Christopher Hayman, reported that the Company had renewed an ancient tradition of inspecting the product standards at London distilleries. In particular he and the Wardens had “inspected” the Beefeater Distillery and Thames Distillers some weeks earlier. The Master presented a Worshipful Company of Distillers certificate for passing his stiff scrutiny to the representatives of the two distilleries and mentioned that he and the Wardens had received most generous hospitality. He was also able to confirm that the products sampled were of the highest quality.
The Master presents the Distillers Certificate to Charles Maxwell of Thames Distillers Mr Desmond Payne of the Beefeater Distillery presented the Company with a panel from a horse drawn coach used by Past Master William Evans in 1874. The panel, with the Distillers crest painted in the centre, has been framed and will be displayed in the Company’s lecture room in the WSET’s new building.
Mohammed (one horse alone had a value of $180 million) and Churchill Downs the home of the Kentucky Derby. We also enjoyed visits to an arboretum, the Mammoth Cave National Park and the Nashville Country Music Hall of Fame no less! Our last evening was spent at the Jack Daniel distillery, where in the evening they organised a barbecue with live Bluegrass music in their pavilion overlooking the countryside. Mr Desmond Payne presenting the coat of arms to the Master COURT TRIP TO USA In late May some 36 members of the Court and their partners joined an excellent visit to experience the delights of Bourbon and Tennessee whiskey. The first half of the week was spent in Louisville, Kentucky before we moved on to Nashville, Tennessee.
Colleen Minoprio being serenaded at the Country Music Hall of Fame.
A happy group arriving in Louisville, Kentucky During the week we visited five distilleries: Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, Jim Beam and Jack Daniels. We also had a fascinating opportunity to witness the Bluegrass Cooperage production facilities, where over half a million barrels are produced annually.
A rare photo of “Snapper” Raines, this time trying his hand at emulating Elvis.
Firing of the oak barrels at Bluegrass Cooperage Upper Warden David Grant reflecting on the formations in the Mammoth Cave. The party’s sincere thanks go to the Master and Upper Warden for organising such a fantastic visit. We learnt a great deal about Bourbon and whiskey and the variations in methods of production compared to Scotland. Also our hosts were generous both in their hospitality and time to show us their craft. GOLF After our early victory against the Vintners in March, the remainder of the year has not been quite so successful. In May we narrowly lost against the Painter Stainers Company at Tandridge Golf Club, being just one point short of victory. In early August we held our annual match against the Brewers Company at Denham Golf Club, who again proved somewhat stronger than the Distillers.
Not sure whether Middle Warden Keith Garrard is either about to lead the choir after an excellent dinner or report on progress at the WSET! A visit to Kentucky would not have been complete without an outing to the Gainsborough stud farm, owned by Sheikh
We also held our annual golf meeting at Burhill Golf Club in June as well as the annual match against the livery members of West Kent Golf Club in July. We have a varied and full diary of golf days on wonderful courses. So please, if you enjoy a round of golf in very friendly company, please do join us. You will hear more early in the New Year. COURT LUNCHEON On Monday 13 June the Court met at the Tallow Chandlers Hall to elect the Master and Wardens for the forthcoming year: David Grant Keith Garrard Derek Plant Charles Maxwell Master Upper Warden Middle Warden Renter Warden
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His charitable involvement includes the appointment of Honorary Secretary of the City of London Branch of the Leukaemia Research Fund. Christopher Mitchell married Barbara in 1952 and has three sons, a daughter and six teenage grandchildren. One of his sons, Michael, is a liveryman of the Company. He has lived in Buckinghamshire for all his life and his hobbies include gardening and antiques. TREE PLANTING Following the June Court Luncheon the Master planted a tree on behalf of the Company accompanied by Past Master Christopher Mitchell who attended in his capacity as Chief Commoner. The 10-year-old oak tree stands on the corner of Watling Street and New Change in the shadow of St Paul’s.
The Court also appointed Mr Brian Morrison as an Assistant and Mr Grant Gordon and Mr Paul Milsom as Stewards.
Chief Commoner and Past Master Christopher Mitchell assisting the Master to plant the oak tree Assistant Brian Morrison being congratulated by the Master upon his appointment CHRISTOPHER MITCHELL, OBE Past Master Christopher Mitchell has been elected Chairman of the City Lands and Bridge House Estates committee, and de facto, to the historic office of Chief Commoner of the Corporation of London. Christopher Mitchell was born in Amersham and educated at Aldenham. He trained as an apprentice in horticulture and worked in the horticultural and farming sector for 13 years before joining the family wine merchants of El Vino in 1959. He is now chairman of the company, which manages four wine bars in the City of London as well as operating in the wholesale, retail and mail orders sectors. He has served on the Court of Common Council since 1971 and became Deputy of the Ward of Castle Baynard in 1995. He has also been chairman of the Trees and Gardens sub-committee and West Ham Park, Planning and Community Services committees. The City Lands committee is responsible for the property and land belonging to the City of London. There are three estates with a current value of £1.5 billion yielding an annual rental income of £90 million. Whilst the estates are the City’s private ownership, it funds services of a London-wide and national importance, including the management of 10,000 acres of open space such as Hampstead Heath and Epping Forest. In addition it has to fund the Lord Mayor’s diplomatic programme, schools and the wholesale markets including Smithfield and Billingsgate. He joined the Distillers livery in 1965 and served as Master in 1997/98 as well as being a liveryman of the Gardeners Company. He was appointed as an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in 2001. THE MASTER’S REPORT The Master, Christopher Hayman, reports on the events attended since late March. 7 April 13 April 14 April 4 May 9 May 11 May 12 May 13 May 17 May 18 May 19 May 1 June 6 June 7 June 10 June 24 June 27 June 4 July 5 July 7 July 8 July 12 July 13 July 14 July 19 July 20 July 14 Sept 20 Sept 28 Sept 29 Sept 4 Oct 5 Oct Makers of Playing Cards dinner Upholders Installation dinner Royal Institute of British Architects lecture Brewers dinner WSA President’s lunch Past Master Gerald Milsom’s funeral City of London concert Distillers lecture at Heriot-Watt University Sons of Clergy at St Paul’s GVA AGM & Taster of the year “Jailed & Bailed” in the Tower of London, raising £1,800 for the Red Cross in the process WSET lecture by Paul Walsh Wine & Spirits Trades’ Benevolent Society dinner Visit to WSET new building Pewter Live at Pewterers Hall Ironbridge Masters weekend Sheriff’s Breakfast, HQS Wellington & Sheriff’s election King Edward’s School, Witley, tour & lunch Gold & Silver Wyre Drawers luncheon Innholders Mid-Summer dinner London & Scottish Army, HQS Wellington Imperial Society of Knights Bachelor, Annual Service Sheriff & Recorders Fund AGM & reception, Old Bailey Vintners Installation service & lunch Vintners dinner Garden Party, Buckingham Palace Chief Commoners dinner City of London School for Girls, visit & lunch Coopers dinner Musicians choral evensong & supper Lord Mayor’s Divine service & election thereafter Opening of WSET International Wine & Spirit Centre Wine & Spirits Trades’ Benevolent Soc Vintage Festival th 400 anniversary of Butchers Royal Charter reception
6 Oct 10 Oct 12 Oct 13 Oct 18 Oct 31 Oct
Mercers dinner Distillers Young Liverymen dinner London Regiment reception at London Scottish HQ Upholders banquet, Mansion House Masters & Clerks lunch London Scottish Halloween dinner
And a few other events as well, but run out of space! A very, very busy and committed Master, as we all would expect. LIVERY MEMBERSHIP Admissions to the Freedom and Livery At the Court meeting on 21 April the freedom of the Company was granted to Dr Martin Purvis, Mr Emrys Richard, Mr John Taylor and Mr John Wilson. The livery was granted to His Grace the Duke of Argyll, Mr Michael Beamish, Mr Andrew Gordon and Mrs Susan Peters, daughter of Past Master Ian Coombs.
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16 Nov 14 Dec 2006: 9 Feb 26 April 28 April 8 June 9 June 15 Nov
Installation Court meeting and Dinner, Vintners Hall Carol Service Court meeting and Luncheon, Vintners Hall Court meeting and Dinner, Vintners Hall Distillers Lecture at Heriot-Watt University Visit to Glenfiddich Distillery Court Meeting and Dinner, New Club Edinburgh Installation Court meeting and Dinner, Vintners Hall
PAST MASTER GERALD MILSOM, OBE
Gerald in the garden of Milsoms Sadly Gerald Milsom passed away whilst in South Africa on 29 th April. His funeral at Dedham church on 11 May was packed with over 900 of his many friends who came to pay tribute and say farewell to a very special friend.
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The Master with the Duke of Argyll and Mr Michael Beamish after their installation as Liverymen At the June Court meeting the freedom was also granted to Mr Stuart Kaye, Mr Rupert Pritchett and Ms Geraldine Coates. Liverymen may be interested to know that the Duke is our very first world champion, indeed double world champion. Earlier this year he captained Scotland to their second successive King’s Cup World Elephant Polo Championships in Thailand. This was achieved after scoring a golden goal in extra time to win 6-5. We are told that sometimes the elephants get a little frustrated if their rider shows a lack of skill in the striking of the polo ball and give a little help by picking it up with their trunks and projecting it towards goal! Our sincere congratulations to the Duke of Argyll and perhaps he could give the Company a demonstration after the next dinner. THE WORSHIPFUL COMPANY OF DISTILLERS LECTURE ROOM The Master and Wardens, in the company of Ian Harris, visited the WSET new building to check on the refurbishment with particular interest in the Distillers lecture room located on the second floor. The room, capable of holding 70 people, has been designed with murals depicting scenes from the history of our Company and our industry. Above the entrance will be the Distillers crest and the area will be devoted to displays of our history together with interesting artefacts. During the summer the WSET moved into the new premises and th on 30 September Ms Jancis Robinson formally opened the building. FORTHCOMING EVENTS & DATES 2005: 12 Nov Lord Mayors Show
Gerald was born in Epsom in 1930 and in 1952 he persuaded th his father to purchase the 16 Century timbered cottage known as Le Talbooth. Gerald worked hard building up the restaurant business that produced the finest meals from high-class menus. In 1960 he purchased the Dedham Vale Hotel and eventually converted it into an all day brassiere with fourteen bedrooms, calling it Milsoms. In 1969 he acquired the Dedham rectory and converted this property into a luxurious hotel naming it Maison Talbooth. Gerald purchased the Pier Hotel in Harwich turning this into two fish restaurant with a few rooms, until he bought the th neighbouring 18 century Angel pub, transforming the later into a seven bedroom hotel. Gerald was chairman of the East Anglia tourist board between 1971 to 1982. He was an Essex County Councillor and in 1987 was appointed OBE for his services to tourism. Gerald was a keen supporter of Ipswich Town Football Club and a member of the MCC. He became Master of the Worshipful Company of Distillers in 2001 and, with his tremendous enthusiasm, steered the Company forward with its education programme. Gerald was responsible for encouraging the close friendship that now exists between the Worshipful of Innholders and the Distillers. He leaves two sons and a daughter, one of whom, Paul, is managing director of the Milsom Group and a Steward of our Company. HMS MONTROSE Having arrived safely back home from the Gulf, HMS Montrose carried out manoeuvres in British waters before visiting Brest for training exercises with the French, US and Russian navies. The Master and Upper Warden joined the ship during the Spithead Review held in the summer as part of the Trafalgar 200 celebrations. The Company has created a special prize to be awarded annually to the Mess on board HMS Montrose. The prize will consist of an engraved trophy and be presented to either a member of the ship’s company or a team who have contributed most to promote the good name of HMS Montrose. The award ceremony will take place at a Livery lunch or dinner.
Liveryman Gordon Steele arriving on the helipad of HMS Montrose during a visit LIVERY AND LADIES BANQUET On Monday 3rd October the Livery and Ladies Banquet was held in the impressive Egyptian Hall of the Mansion House. The Rt. Hon The Lord Mayor, Alderman Michael Savory, generously allowed our Company to use his home and was in attendance with The Lady Mayoress, Mrs Savory. The Master and his wife lead the top table out of the Egyptian Hall after dinner.
NEWS IN BRIEF The retirement of Michael Ferney, Steward to the Vintners Company for 44 years, was recognised by the Master and members of the Court who presented him with the History of the Distillers Company and a cheque. Michael has been a great help to our livery, organising the delivery and serving of our wines.
The Maser’s wife Karin with the Lord Mayor at Dinner
The Master presenting the book and cheque to Michael Ferney THE CLERKS NEW GOWN Those who attended the Mansion House Livery and Ladies Banquet will have noticed the Learned Clerk’s new gown, purchased to match that of the Master’s and Wardens new gowns Past Master Ian Coombs holding a dirk with liveryman daughter Sue Peters and her two daughters. What a stunningly group who are clearly enjoying a great evening. The Master’s guests were Mr John Rubinstein Master of the Musicians Company, Mr David Port Master of the Fuellers Company, Mr Stephen Martin Master of the Armourers and Brasiers Company, Mr Roddy Lane Master of the Mercers Company and Mr Richard Martin Master of the Founders Company. The Rt. Hon Lord Mayor gave an informative and entertaining speech proposing the Worshipful Company of Distillers and the Master. The Master replied highlighting the Company’s successes and achievements during his year and proposed the toast to the guests. The Master of the Musicians Company eloquently replied on behalf of the guests. THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW On November 12 the Master has organised a Distillers float to take part in the Lord Mayor’s procession. OUR OWN GLEN MORAY WHISKY The cask of Speyside malt whisky will soon be on sale to members of the livery. Special labels are being designed and printed for the Distillers commemorative bottle, with the proceeds going to charity The Glen Moray Distillery distilled the single malt whisky back in February 1980. PUZZLE CORNER The answers to twenty questions in the Spring issue. 1. 3. 5. 7. 9. 10. 12. 14. Fat 2. 1983 240 4. Traffic Wardens 1969 6. 240 Tea 8. The Tempest Started the Great Fire of London Colours of the rainbow 11. Tukan Julius Caesar 13. A Kiss me Kate 15. Rhythm
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16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
Banana Aldwych or Knightsbridge A glass of medium sherry. Automation of the speaking clock. Pissario
Thank you for returning your answers but unfortunately no one managed to get them all right! All enquiries to: The Clerk
The Worshipful Company of Distillers
71 Lincoln’s Inn Fields London WC2A 3JF Tel: 020 7405 7091
