The Distillate - Winter 2006
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The Distillate
The Worshipful Company of Distillers
Winter 2006
The Master and Wardens together with the Learned Clerk and Beadle after the April Court Dinner. From left to right: Roy Warman (Beadle), Charles Maxwell (Renter Warden), Keith Garrard (Upper Warden), David Grant (Master), Derek Plant (Middle Warden) and Christopher Hughes (Learned Clerk).
THE NEW MASTER, Mr Keith Garrard Keith Garrard is due to be installed Master on 15 2006, taking over from retiring Master David Grant.
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November A MESSAGE FROM KEITH I welcome this early opportunity of paying tribute to David Grant, who has been tireless in his efforts to promote and enhance the Company during the past year. In particular the refurbished Distillers’ Room and the continuing international success of the Professional Certificate in Spirits course are testament to his perseverance in raising the necessary funding. In addition, in pursuit of his objective that the Company is more inclusive, he has arranged several and varied social events that have been much enjoyed by all. For my part I will also be encouraging greater involvement and enjoyment in our Company and am convinced that this will flow naturally from our liverymen and their wives and partners getting to know each other better. What I hope will be considered an exciting new venture is a Ladies lunch (not for Livery Ladies!) that will be hosted by Ailsa in the Gassiot Room at Vintners’ Hall, on the same date as, but separate from, our February Lunch. Numbers will be restricted but I do hope the opportunity will be taken for our wives and partners to have a convivial few hours together. For liverymen we will be making use of our splendid Distillers’ Room for a couple of informal events as detailed elsewhere in this newsletter and I will be arranging a tour of Lords Cricket Ground (nothing selfish here!) followed by a cocktail party in the Pavilion for liverymen and guests. All of these will be intent on fostering friendships and sociability. I will be hoping that our diligent Appeals Committee will get the support they deserve as they set about replacing the £50,000 we donated to the ever successful Wine and Spirit Education Trust. In addition I plan to continue the success of recent Past Masters in promoting our Company within the City of London and elsewhere at every opportunity.
Our new Master Keith Garrard (left) with Past Master Tim Morrison Keith joined Roger Grayson in the early 1960’s and found himself offering wholesale discounts to retailers in London and the Home Counties on DCL and other brands as well as selling a full range of French and Spanish wines. Keith had been educated at the Chatham House Grammar School, Ramsgate, where apart from being head boy he had represented the school at cricket, rugby and hockey, as well as captaining the Kent Young Amateur’s cricket team. He captained several club sides at cricket as well as scoring hundreds for the MCC. Sport for Keith has always been and remains a passion. He took the Livery in 1975 and at about the same time joined Hedges and Butler, the wine arm of the Bass Group, as a buyer, being variously responsible for the fillings for Hirondelle on the one hand, and the sourcing of the finest Clarets and Burgundies on the other. Whilst fully acknowledging his greater affinity with wine, he does recognise that spirits have played a considerable part in his business life. Not least because of his company involvement with major spirit brands including Bacardi and Remy Martin, but in particular Grants whisky which was for many years the preferred pouring brand in all group outlets! Keith ended his buying career as the Group Wine and Spirit Purchasing Director when in 1992 he was asked to take responsibility for Chateau Lascombes, the 2eme Grand Cru Classe property in Margaux, this being the last remnant of earlier Bass diversification into the wine trade. Eight years later, during which time he acknowledges he had one of the best jobs in the company, if not the trade, his final act before retiring was to pick a bunch of grapes as the wonderful 2000 vintage got under way. In retirement Keith has been our Distillers’ Trustee on the WSET Board and as Chairman has been instrumental in helping the Trust go from strength to strength. This included securing their own splendid premises in Bermondsey Street, introducing the Professional Certificate in Spirits Course and seeing exam numbers grow internationally to an all time high. He is married to Ailsa, who is much looking forward to the excitement of the coming year and has two married sons, with golf handicaps that put his to shame, plus five grandchildren aged under seven, most of whom are developing the family frown!
Keith conducting the Distillers’ Court choir during our visit to Kentucky in 2005. CITY BRIEFINGS: Dates for your diary These “briefings” will be held throughout 2007 on 13 February, rd th th 23 May, 10 October and 13 November. They are aimed at freemen and liverymen to give a short introduction to the work of the Corporation, especially in relation to the Livery companies. They start at 5:00pm and finish at
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7:00pm followed by a light buffet. Stewards of the Company are particularly encouraged to attend a course prior to joining the Court. For further information please contact the Clerk. THE SCOTTISH VISITATION, 7 to 9 June 2006 In the very best traditions some took the high road, whilst others preferred planes and trains, as thirty-four members of the Court, Livery, and accompanying wives/partners arrived amid scenic splendour at Pittodrie House, a fine building set in the Highlands of Aberdeenshire. After sampling some local products guests were piped in to dinner, where after the Robbie Burns Selkirk Grace the Master, David Grant, displayed previously unknown thespian tendencies as he addressed the Haggis in its entirety, in emotional tones.
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The Master clocking in for work at the Glenfiddich Distillery.
Following coffee and an impressive audio visual presentation we broke out into small groups for an extensive tour, and if not all the secrets and mysteries of distillation were revealed then our knowledgeable guides ensured we learnt most of them. It could, indeed, be said that we were shown everything, worts and all! We were impressed to find many of the pipes had been repainted in Distillers’ blue. The Master had been responsible for the colour scheme in the dining room, which again matched our ties, this time the yellow! Lunch was a splendidly informal and relaxed meal, where local Speyside salmon, produced in four different ways, and a range of superb Scottish cheeses, were accompanied by the best of wines. During the meal Immediate Past Master Christopher Hayman presented the Master with two engraved gold decanter labels for Glenfiddich and Balvenie in recognition of his efforts in arranging this Scottish trip, and also for being such an instrumental part in the organising last years much enjoyed trip to Kentucky.
The Master addressing the Haggis. Following dinner the assembled company repaired in best country house party tradition to the drawing room where we were splendidly entertained to Scottish folk music and singing with Clasach (Scottish Harp) accompaniment. As ever all good things come to an end, and in our case this was when we were invited to sing along ourselves! It has to be conceded that our efforts were rather more enthusiastic than the renditions were melodious, with the exception of soloist Pauleen Morton who raised the standard considerably when comparing her love to a “red, red rose”. But not to be outdone, Douglas then joined the Master in an adroit and enthusiastic display of sword/broom dancing which concluded the evening and was heartily appreciated by all. The next morning dawned bright and sunny, with the Highlands being at their very best as we made our way by coach and cars to the Master’s spiritual home, the Glenfiddich Distillery where welcoming bagpipes were again to the fore. The Master had forewarned us that the Glenfiddich crowd (himself included) are pretty good at enjoying themselves and ensuring that their guests do too, and this certainly proved to be the case!
The hospitality team at the Glenfiddich Distillery who entertained us so royally. And so to Edinburgh after a scenic drive through the sun drenched Highlands where an informal supper was enjoyed to the distant strains of bagpipes in Princes Street below. The Court met in the afternoon and then ninety-eight members of the Court and Livery, together with guests assembled for a reception at the New Club, where we were joined by our Ladies who, led by the Mistress, adjourned for their own dinner at the local Fishers restaurant. The excellent Livery Dinner was accompanied by fine wines and spirits, the highlight undoubtedly being the Balvenie single barrel 15 year old, which was generously supplied by the Master. We were then entertained to eloquent and amusing speeches by Assistant Brian Morrison, who proposed the Guests. Sandy Gordon replied with a number of revealing anecdotes about the
Master. Finally the Master responded and was in the best of form being amongst so many friends and former colleagues. After which the Scottish mist descended!
During our visit we also enjoyed the camaraderie and banter that was exchanged between our guide and his colleagues.
Liveryman, wine writer and international wine competition judge Dave Hughes (right) with his brother Peter enjoying a fine glass of wine. VISIT TO THE ROYAL HOSPITAL and PHYSIC GARDEN, CHELSEA Royal Hospital In early July the Master organised a new event for members of the Livery that was both interesting and educational. After suitable lunch time refreshment in a local bistro, some forty members of the Livery, together with wives, partners and guests, gathered at the main gate of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea.
The Great Hall where pensioners enjoy their meals. What an amazing canteen.
The Physic Garden Just a short walk away and we were in the Physic Garden, founded by the Apothecaries at about the same time as we were th granted our Livery in the 17 century. Here plants with medical properties from all over the world were assembled, many thriving in the walled microclimates of the gardens. Today the plants, shrubs and trees are growing in beds according to the diseases or complaints for which they are known to provide direct or indirect treatment. The assembled company were impressed by the knowledge that grazing cows, having been seen to haemorrhage after chewing on a particular decaying leaf, resulted in the development of a most effective anti coagulant drug. The brief visit came to an end all too soon, with many vowing to return and the Master being thanked for his inspired initiative, which had resulted in many being at a livery event for the first time and, having enjoyed it so much, vowed to come to more.
Aerial view of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea Our 75 year-old guide, one of the Pensioners, regaled in his full dress red smock coat kept us amused with his erudite commentary, topical quips and wealth of knowledge and good humour during our tour. We were to learn that to apply to become a Chelsea Pensioner you had to have served a minimum of 22 years in the Army and be over 65 years of age. On hearing this it was noted that Geoffrey Churton (Colonel) and Andrew Paviour (Brigadier) were paying particular attention. However it was explained that Pensioners were welcomed from the ranks, had to be widowers and upon entering the Royal Hospital had to forego their Army pension for the rest of their days. In exchange for this they had their own nine-foot square cabin, full board and lodging, with first class food, and the best of medical attention. They also had access to the wonderfully ornate chapel and other Christopher Wren designed buildings, as well as to the spacious and well laid out gardens. These sweep down to the Thames and are used to host the annual Chelsea Flower Show, an event that clearly provides much excitement and pride for the Pensioners themselves.
Statue of Sir Hans Sloane in the Chelsea Physic Garden. HMS MONTROSE HMS Montrose returned to UK in late April 2006, having been away from home for just over six months, a trip that included a most successful Distillers visit on the return leg. The Ship's Company took some well earned leave, then carried out a maintenance package before setting off into UK South Coast waters to carry out duties as a training platform for the next generation of Commanding and Warfare Officers. She also managed a weekend visit to Portsmouth, but other than that has been based in Devonport. The Ship is conducted Operational Sea Training until late October and then visited Hamburg and Dundee as part of her Area Capability Training (Anti-Submarine Warfare) package. The Ship will then return to Devonport for another maintenance
package before Christmas leave and will depart for her seven month NATO deployment early in January. The Ship continues to forge the strong links with the Distillers and the Commanding Officer (Cdr Tony Watt RN) and Marine Engineer Officer (Lt Cdr Paddy Parvin RN) will be attending the th Installation Dinner on Wednesday 15 November 2006.
The Master replied thanking Alderman David Lewis for his eloquent words and welcomed his guests, namely Edward Demery CVO Master of the Vintners’ Company, Christopher Cash Master of the Armourers’ and Brasiers Company, Anthony Steinthal Master of the Curriers’ Company, Colonel Stephen Henwood TD London and Scottish Regiment and Tim Piper Master of the Tallow Chandlers’ Company. The Rt. Hon Lord Robertson KT, GCMG, PC thanked the guests and in particular the London and Scottish Regiment for their support and fine display on the bagpipes. Born on the Isle of Islay Lord Robertson explained his long connection with the Scotch whisky industry.
HMS Montrose returns to Devonport. LIVERY & LADIES BANQUET On Monday 2 October 2006 liverymen and their guests were greeted at the entrance to the Mansion House by the sound of the pipers of the London Scottish Regiment. At the reception the Master and his wife Laragh welcomed the guests and Livery members. The glamorous ladies captivated the excellence of the evening in their resplendent colourful evening gowns. A quartet played at the reception before liverymen and their guests were ushered into the grand Egyptian Hall for dinner. Honorary Assistant Chris Parker with family.
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Immediate Past Master Christopher Hayman and Karin able to enjoy the evening this year!
The Master oversees the Loving Cup ceremony to the dulcet tones of the Bagpipes in his right ear!
Past Master Nigel Churton with guests.
Assistant Simon Leschallas holds the lid of the Loving Cup for Mrs Rhona Cash, wife of the Master of the Armourers’ and Brasiers. In an entertaining speech Alderman and Sheriff David Lewis proposed the health of the Master and the Worshipful Company of Distillers.
Distiller and Liveryman Richard Watling has recently retired as Chairman of the Keepers of the Quaich after five years in office. Distillery Inspection Continuing the ancient practice laid down in our charter of 1638, the Master and Wardens, accompanied by the Beadle, inspected the three distilleries still operating in London in September. The group is seen here in front of Greenwich Distillers, owned by Tate and Lyle, which produces grain neutral spirit for the drinks trade. The other two inspected were Thames Distillers, makers of specialised organic gins and vodkas, and Beefeater in Kennington. All three distilleries were found to be operating to an appropriate standard and have been certified accordingly. Ailsa Garrard with Mr Christopher Walker. Learned Clerk Do you know why our Clerk, Christopher Hughes, is frequently referred to as the Learned Clerk? Well, all Clerks who are practising solicitors are entitled to this prefix to their title. Similarly all members of the armed forces who are appointed Clerks of livery companies are referred to as the Gallant Clerk. Our new Website: www.distillers.org.uk The design of the Company’s website has been completed and we are now online. There is a great deal of information about our history, treasures and the City of London that will be invaluable to our guests, those considering membership and liverymen. The site lists forthcoming events and activities and it is hoped you will obtain great benefit from having a website. The strategy committee has taken great care preparing the various pages. However you may have some ideas or point out other items that could be included and we would be most grateful for you contacting the editor with your views. Call Robert Hobson at robert.hobson@btopenworld.com MEMBERS SURVEY RESULTS In order to increase the Company’s activities to cater for all liverymen, we carried out a survey to ascertain member’s hobbies and pastimes. The result was extremely helpful and it is the intention of the Company to organise events that reflect those interests at affordable prices. We hope that you will attend these new functions that will be another method of meeting more fellow liverymen and their wives/partners. Out of interest we list the more popular classifications, expressed as a percentage of numbers responding to the survey. No great surprises which came first! Wine tasting Classical Music Golf Theatre Opera Rugby Cricket Shooting Antiques Art Galleries National Trust Historic Buildings Horse Racing Visiting Gardens 57% 46% 42% 40% 40% 38% 33% 32% 32% 31% 31% 31% 31% 30%
LIVERY NEWS Admissions to the Freedom and Livery Since the last edition of the Distillate, the following have been admitted to the Company: Mr Ian Barrett Curle and Mr Peter Grant Gordon were • approved for the Freedom and Livery. • Mr Philip Edward Mills was granted the Freedom by redemption • Mr Stuart Gunn was granted the Livery by redemption. Nigel Strofton Having reported in the last Distillate on one world champion, namely the Duke of Argyll and his World Elephant Polo championship success, we have another world champion to record. Earlier in the year Past Master Nigel Strofton played hockey for the England over 60’s team in the World Cup knockout tournament held in Leverkusen, Germany. England won the first round and then beat Germany in the semi-finals. In an exciting final against Australia, England won a hard fought contest 2-0.
Past Master Nigel Strofton (right) holds the Over 60’s Hockey World Cup after England’s win. Vanessa Wright Liveryman Vanessa Wright has become the first woman to chair the Wine and Spirit Trades’ Benevolent Society. Vanessa took th up the post on 6 June 2006. Richard Watling
FORTHCOMING EVENTS AND DATES
15 Nov 7 Dec 2007 th 8 Feb 7 March 25 Apr nd 2 May 3 to 8 June May/June 26 June
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Installation Court meeting Vintners’ Hall Carol Service and supper
and
dinner,
Court lunch preceded by a tour of Vintners’ Hall and Scholarship presentation Absinthe tasting in Distillers’ Room, WSET followed by finger buffet Court meeting and dinner, Vintners’ Hall Debate on topical trade affairs in the Distillers’ Room, WSET followed by informal reception Court visit to Bordeaux Tour of Lord's Cricket Ground with cocktail reception in Pavilion Court meeting and lunch (Court only) at Tallow Chandlers’ Hall. A permanent home at last! Our Charter of Incorporation on display in the Distillers’ Room.
THE WSET DISTILLERS’ ROOM The Distillers’ room in the WSET building was officially opened th on 13 October 2006 following the final fitting out. This very attractive room is used by members of the Livery for meetings, receptions and lectures.
WSET “Distilling Knowledge, a Professional Guide to Spirits and Liqueurs” is the latest publication from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust and is available from www.wset.co.uk for £17.50. Written by spirits expert Dave Broom with contributions from the WSET and IP Bartenders, it is required reading for the WSET Professional Spirits Certificate qualification and provides all the knowledge needed to pass the spirits unit of the WSET Diploma.
Artist Colin Failes with a print of the mural that covers one wall in the WSET Distillers’ Room.
A view of the Distillers’ Room, which features the great brands of the sponsors of the room.
The front cover of Dave Broom’s new book. Ian Harris, WSET CEO, commented: “The book came to fruition after a consultation with wine and spirits leaders revealed a need for greater emphasis on spirits in our qualifications. Hence the WSET Professional Spirits Certificate qualification was born and, since no text existed that met the course requirement succinctly, Distilling Knowledge was commissioned. Written in a concise and entertaining style, this will be of interest to enthusiastic amateurs as well as the professional working in the field of spirits, whether in production, distribution or retail.”
The book clearly explains the details of spirits production and describes the various categories and styles of spirits, as well as offering advice on how best to enjoy the wide variety of spirits being produced currently. OUR STRATEGIC PLAN One of our objectives was for the membership of our Company to be drawn from the spirits industry and associated trades. In fact some 80% of the Livery are covered within this category although a significant proportion are now retired. We are therefore anxious to recruit CEOs and other executives from our industry as well as achieving a balance of liverymen from all levels of companies, looking in particular for those under 45. If any liverymen can assist this key objective through the introduction of fellow members of our industry to become a member of our Company, please do not hesitate to encourage them to join us and propose their membership. The committee is also encouraging liverymen to attend the City Briefing course run by the Corporation of London at the Guildhall to bring a greater awareness of City life and the part played by livery companies. Details available from the Clerk or on the Corporation’s website.
The following have undertaken to organise and manage next year’s matches. Terry Barr Robert Brooks Simon Leschallas Keith Garrard Vintners Prince Arthur Cup Brewers Annual Golf Day
See below for contact numbers. Results for 2006 As previously reported the match against the Vintners was drawn, although it should be noted that we loaned the Vintners a player (Chris Nadin) who shamelessly helped gain them a win. Hence a moral victory for us! The Distillers’ Golf Day and winner of the Budge Brooks Shield was Past Master Bob Howell who narrowly edged Ross Gibbons into second place with his last put. Against the Brewers unfortunately we lost heavily, halving only one match.
GOLFING SECTION Budge Brooks After more than thirty years as our "Mr Golf", Budge Brooks has decided to hand over his responsibilities. Members of the Livery will wish to join all the golfers in thanking Budge for his enormous efforts through the years.
Golfing Dates for 2007 Weds 28 March v Vintners: Royal Wimbledon GC Manager Terry Barr Tel: 020 8542 9472 Email: terence.barr@fiorbrands.co.uk Thurs 17 May Prince Arthur Cup: Walton Heath GC Captain Robert Brooks Tel: 07785 393432 Email: bertie_brooks@hotmail.com Fri 15th June Distillers’ Golf Day: West Kent GC Manager Keith Garrard Tel 01795 421173 Email: keith.garrard@onetel.com Tues 7th Aug Match v Brewers: Denham GC Manager Simon Leschallas Tel 020 7840 6000 Email: simon@mentzendorff.co.uk The golf matches are all day, comprising of a morning round followed by an excellent luncheon and if you feel in the mood a few casual holes in the afternoon. It is our intention to expand the golfing section and organise more matches to be announced in due course. All those members wishing to join the Golfing Society should contact either Keith Garrard or the relevant match managers/captains (see above for details). INTER-LIVERY SHOOT For the past 13 years an Inter-Livery clay pigeon shooting competition has been organised in May at Holland & Holland’s Shooting Grounds, Northwood. For the last two years, under the leadership of Liveryman Tony Pugh, the Distillers have fielded a team. It is an excellent day, with over fifty different Livery Teams and some 380 guns participating – some Liveries put up three or four teams! A total of £5,300 was raised in 2006 to be distributed by the winners of the different disciplines to the charities of their choice. Whilst the Distillers team, consisting of Tony Pugh, Alex Parker, Richard Watling and Charles Maxwell, has yet to threaten the
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At last year’s Banquet Budge, with guest, contemplates fairways driven straight and true. Let there be no doubt, in the livery golfing world Distillers' golf was synonymous with Budge and the respect in which he is held by all reflected his enthusiasm, warmth, organising abilities and persuasive powers as he encouraged and cajoled players to represent our cause. Whilst taking part was always important, team members were ever mindful that that they were playing for his team, as much as for the Distillers. Members new and old were always welcomed into the golfing fold. Whilst Budge's day to day involvement will be sadly missed, we are pleased to report that he has accepted the position of Society President. This is the first appointment to this position and one in which we very much hope Budge will keep in touch with golf and golfers, not least when he presents his Budge Brooks Shield that will continue to be competed for on our annual Distillers’ Golf Day.
leader board, we have developed a needle challenge between ourselves and the Vintners. We are pleased to report that in the last two years the Distillers have triumphed, although this year only by a single point! The date for 2007 has already been set as Wednesday 23 May. It will start as normal with breakfast at 7.45am followed by shooting, which is normally finished by approximately 1:00pm. There then follows an excellent buffet lunch. It is a great day, so why not see if we can enter two teams for next year. Contact Tony Pugh at jopugh@dsl.pipex.com or any of the other members of the team. THE DISTILLATE If anyone has any news or stories for use in the Distillate, please contact the Editor, Robert Hobson. T: 020 8467 8656, Email robert.hobson@btopenworld.com
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All enquiries to: The Clerk The Worshipful Company of Distillers 71 Lincoln’s Inn Fields London WC2A 3JF Tel: 020 7405 7091 Email: CHughes@bcmw.co.uk
The Distillate
The Worshipful Company of Distillers
Winter 2006
The Master and Wardens together with the Learned Clerk and Beadle after the April Court Dinner. From left to right: Roy Warman (Beadle), Charles Maxwell (Renter Warden), Keith Garrard (Upper Warden), David Grant (Master), Derek Plant (Middle Warden) and Christopher Hughes (Learned Clerk).
THE NEW MASTER, Mr Keith Garrard Keith Garrard is due to be installed Master on 15 2006, taking over from retiring Master David Grant.
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November A MESSAGE FROM KEITH I welcome this early opportunity of paying tribute to David Grant, who has been tireless in his efforts to promote and enhance the Company during the past year. In particular the refurbished Distillers’ Room and the continuing international success of the Professional Certificate in Spirits course are testament to his perseverance in raising the necessary funding. In addition, in pursuit of his objective that the Company is more inclusive, he has arranged several and varied social events that have been much enjoyed by all. For my part I will also be encouraging greater involvement and enjoyment in our Company and am convinced that this will flow naturally from our liverymen and their wives and partners getting to know each other better. What I hope will be considered an exciting new venture is a Ladies lunch (not for Livery Ladies!) that will be hosted by Ailsa in the Gassiot Room at Vintners’ Hall, on the same date as, but separate from, our February Lunch. Numbers will be restricted but I do hope the opportunity will be taken for our wives and partners to have a convivial few hours together. For liverymen we will be making use of our splendid Distillers’ Room for a couple of informal events as detailed elsewhere in this newsletter and I will be arranging a tour of Lords Cricket Ground (nothing selfish here!) followed by a cocktail party in the Pavilion for liverymen and guests. All of these will be intent on fostering friendships and sociability. I will be hoping that our diligent Appeals Committee will get the support they deserve as they set about replacing the £50,000 we donated to the ever successful Wine and Spirit Education Trust. In addition I plan to continue the success of recent Past Masters in promoting our Company within the City of London and elsewhere at every opportunity.
Our new Master Keith Garrard (left) with Past Master Tim Morrison Keith joined Roger Grayson in the early 1960’s and found himself offering wholesale discounts to retailers in London and the Home Counties on DCL and other brands as well as selling a full range of French and Spanish wines. Keith had been educated at the Chatham House Grammar School, Ramsgate, where apart from being head boy he had represented the school at cricket, rugby and hockey, as well as captaining the Kent Young Amateur’s cricket team. He captained several club sides at cricket as well as scoring hundreds for the MCC. Sport for Keith has always been and remains a passion. He took the Livery in 1975 and at about the same time joined Hedges and Butler, the wine arm of the Bass Group, as a buyer, being variously responsible for the fillings for Hirondelle on the one hand, and the sourcing of the finest Clarets and Burgundies on the other. Whilst fully acknowledging his greater affinity with wine, he does recognise that spirits have played a considerable part in his business life. Not least because of his company involvement with major spirit brands including Bacardi and Remy Martin, but in particular Grants whisky which was for many years the preferred pouring brand in all group outlets! Keith ended his buying career as the Group Wine and Spirit Purchasing Director when in 1992 he was asked to take responsibility for Chateau Lascombes, the 2eme Grand Cru Classe property in Margaux, this being the last remnant of earlier Bass diversification into the wine trade. Eight years later, during which time he acknowledges he had one of the best jobs in the company, if not the trade, his final act before retiring was to pick a bunch of grapes as the wonderful 2000 vintage got under way. In retirement Keith has been our Distillers’ Trustee on the WSET Board and as Chairman has been instrumental in helping the Trust go from strength to strength. This included securing their own splendid premises in Bermondsey Street, introducing the Professional Certificate in Spirits Course and seeing exam numbers grow internationally to an all time high. He is married to Ailsa, who is much looking forward to the excitement of the coming year and has two married sons, with golf handicaps that put his to shame, plus five grandchildren aged under seven, most of whom are developing the family frown!
Keith conducting the Distillers’ Court choir during our visit to Kentucky in 2005. CITY BRIEFINGS: Dates for your diary These “briefings” will be held throughout 2007 on 13 February, rd th th 23 May, 10 October and 13 November. They are aimed at freemen and liverymen to give a short introduction to the work of the Corporation, especially in relation to the Livery companies. They start at 5:00pm and finish at
th
7:00pm followed by a light buffet. Stewards of the Company are particularly encouraged to attend a course prior to joining the Court. For further information please contact the Clerk. THE SCOTTISH VISITATION, 7 to 9 June 2006 In the very best traditions some took the high road, whilst others preferred planes and trains, as thirty-four members of the Court, Livery, and accompanying wives/partners arrived amid scenic splendour at Pittodrie House, a fine building set in the Highlands of Aberdeenshire. After sampling some local products guests were piped in to dinner, where after the Robbie Burns Selkirk Grace the Master, David Grant, displayed previously unknown thespian tendencies as he addressed the Haggis in its entirety, in emotional tones.
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The Master clocking in for work at the Glenfiddich Distillery.
Following coffee and an impressive audio visual presentation we broke out into small groups for an extensive tour, and if not all the secrets and mysteries of distillation were revealed then our knowledgeable guides ensured we learnt most of them. It could, indeed, be said that we were shown everything, worts and all! We were impressed to find many of the pipes had been repainted in Distillers’ blue. The Master had been responsible for the colour scheme in the dining room, which again matched our ties, this time the yellow! Lunch was a splendidly informal and relaxed meal, where local Speyside salmon, produced in four different ways, and a range of superb Scottish cheeses, were accompanied by the best of wines. During the meal Immediate Past Master Christopher Hayman presented the Master with two engraved gold decanter labels for Glenfiddich and Balvenie in recognition of his efforts in arranging this Scottish trip, and also for being such an instrumental part in the organising last years much enjoyed trip to Kentucky.
The Master addressing the Haggis. Following dinner the assembled company repaired in best country house party tradition to the drawing room where we were splendidly entertained to Scottish folk music and singing with Clasach (Scottish Harp) accompaniment. As ever all good things come to an end, and in our case this was when we were invited to sing along ourselves! It has to be conceded that our efforts were rather more enthusiastic than the renditions were melodious, with the exception of soloist Pauleen Morton who raised the standard considerably when comparing her love to a “red, red rose”. But not to be outdone, Douglas then joined the Master in an adroit and enthusiastic display of sword/broom dancing which concluded the evening and was heartily appreciated by all. The next morning dawned bright and sunny, with the Highlands being at their very best as we made our way by coach and cars to the Master’s spiritual home, the Glenfiddich Distillery where welcoming bagpipes were again to the fore. The Master had forewarned us that the Glenfiddich crowd (himself included) are pretty good at enjoying themselves and ensuring that their guests do too, and this certainly proved to be the case!
The hospitality team at the Glenfiddich Distillery who entertained us so royally. And so to Edinburgh after a scenic drive through the sun drenched Highlands where an informal supper was enjoyed to the distant strains of bagpipes in Princes Street below. The Court met in the afternoon and then ninety-eight members of the Court and Livery, together with guests assembled for a reception at the New Club, where we were joined by our Ladies who, led by the Mistress, adjourned for their own dinner at the local Fishers restaurant. The excellent Livery Dinner was accompanied by fine wines and spirits, the highlight undoubtedly being the Balvenie single barrel 15 year old, which was generously supplied by the Master. We were then entertained to eloquent and amusing speeches by Assistant Brian Morrison, who proposed the Guests. Sandy Gordon replied with a number of revealing anecdotes about the
Master. Finally the Master responded and was in the best of form being amongst so many friends and former colleagues. After which the Scottish mist descended!
During our visit we also enjoyed the camaraderie and banter that was exchanged between our guide and his colleagues.
Liveryman, wine writer and international wine competition judge Dave Hughes (right) with his brother Peter enjoying a fine glass of wine. VISIT TO THE ROYAL HOSPITAL and PHYSIC GARDEN, CHELSEA Royal Hospital In early July the Master organised a new event for members of the Livery that was both interesting and educational. After suitable lunch time refreshment in a local bistro, some forty members of the Livery, together with wives, partners and guests, gathered at the main gate of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea.
The Great Hall where pensioners enjoy their meals. What an amazing canteen.
The Physic Garden Just a short walk away and we were in the Physic Garden, founded by the Apothecaries at about the same time as we were th granted our Livery in the 17 century. Here plants with medical properties from all over the world were assembled, many thriving in the walled microclimates of the gardens. Today the plants, shrubs and trees are growing in beds according to the diseases or complaints for which they are known to provide direct or indirect treatment. The assembled company were impressed by the knowledge that grazing cows, having been seen to haemorrhage after chewing on a particular decaying leaf, resulted in the development of a most effective anti coagulant drug. The brief visit came to an end all too soon, with many vowing to return and the Master being thanked for his inspired initiative, which had resulted in many being at a livery event for the first time and, having enjoyed it so much, vowed to come to more.
Aerial view of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea Our 75 year-old guide, one of the Pensioners, regaled in his full dress red smock coat kept us amused with his erudite commentary, topical quips and wealth of knowledge and good humour during our tour. We were to learn that to apply to become a Chelsea Pensioner you had to have served a minimum of 22 years in the Army and be over 65 years of age. On hearing this it was noted that Geoffrey Churton (Colonel) and Andrew Paviour (Brigadier) were paying particular attention. However it was explained that Pensioners were welcomed from the ranks, had to be widowers and upon entering the Royal Hospital had to forego their Army pension for the rest of their days. In exchange for this they had their own nine-foot square cabin, full board and lodging, with first class food, and the best of medical attention. They also had access to the wonderfully ornate chapel and other Christopher Wren designed buildings, as well as to the spacious and well laid out gardens. These sweep down to the Thames and are used to host the annual Chelsea Flower Show, an event that clearly provides much excitement and pride for the Pensioners themselves.
Statue of Sir Hans Sloane in the Chelsea Physic Garden. HMS MONTROSE HMS Montrose returned to UK in late April 2006, having been away from home for just over six months, a trip that included a most successful Distillers visit on the return leg. The Ship's Company took some well earned leave, then carried out a maintenance package before setting off into UK South Coast waters to carry out duties as a training platform for the next generation of Commanding and Warfare Officers. She also managed a weekend visit to Portsmouth, but other than that has been based in Devonport. The Ship is conducted Operational Sea Training until late October and then visited Hamburg and Dundee as part of her Area Capability Training (Anti-Submarine Warfare) package. The Ship will then return to Devonport for another maintenance
package before Christmas leave and will depart for her seven month NATO deployment early in January. The Ship continues to forge the strong links with the Distillers and the Commanding Officer (Cdr Tony Watt RN) and Marine Engineer Officer (Lt Cdr Paddy Parvin RN) will be attending the th Installation Dinner on Wednesday 15 November 2006.
The Master replied thanking Alderman David Lewis for his eloquent words and welcomed his guests, namely Edward Demery CVO Master of the Vintners’ Company, Christopher Cash Master of the Armourers’ and Brasiers Company, Anthony Steinthal Master of the Curriers’ Company, Colonel Stephen Henwood TD London and Scottish Regiment and Tim Piper Master of the Tallow Chandlers’ Company. The Rt. Hon Lord Robertson KT, GCMG, PC thanked the guests and in particular the London and Scottish Regiment for their support and fine display on the bagpipes. Born on the Isle of Islay Lord Robertson explained his long connection with the Scotch whisky industry.
HMS Montrose returns to Devonport. LIVERY & LADIES BANQUET On Monday 2 October 2006 liverymen and their guests were greeted at the entrance to the Mansion House by the sound of the pipers of the London Scottish Regiment. At the reception the Master and his wife Laragh welcomed the guests and Livery members. The glamorous ladies captivated the excellence of the evening in their resplendent colourful evening gowns. A quartet played at the reception before liverymen and their guests were ushered into the grand Egyptian Hall for dinner. Honorary Assistant Chris Parker with family.
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Immediate Past Master Christopher Hayman and Karin able to enjoy the evening this year!
The Master oversees the Loving Cup ceremony to the dulcet tones of the Bagpipes in his right ear!
Past Master Nigel Churton with guests.
Assistant Simon Leschallas holds the lid of the Loving Cup for Mrs Rhona Cash, wife of the Master of the Armourers’ and Brasiers. In an entertaining speech Alderman and Sheriff David Lewis proposed the health of the Master and the Worshipful Company of Distillers.
Distiller and Liveryman Richard Watling has recently retired as Chairman of the Keepers of the Quaich after five years in office. Distillery Inspection Continuing the ancient practice laid down in our charter of 1638, the Master and Wardens, accompanied by the Beadle, inspected the three distilleries still operating in London in September. The group is seen here in front of Greenwich Distillers, owned by Tate and Lyle, which produces grain neutral spirit for the drinks trade. The other two inspected were Thames Distillers, makers of specialised organic gins and vodkas, and Beefeater in Kennington. All three distilleries were found to be operating to an appropriate standard and have been certified accordingly. Ailsa Garrard with Mr Christopher Walker. Learned Clerk Do you know why our Clerk, Christopher Hughes, is frequently referred to as the Learned Clerk? Well, all Clerks who are practising solicitors are entitled to this prefix to their title. Similarly all members of the armed forces who are appointed Clerks of livery companies are referred to as the Gallant Clerk. Our new Website: www.distillers.org.uk The design of the Company’s website has been completed and we are now online. There is a great deal of information about our history, treasures and the City of London that will be invaluable to our guests, those considering membership and liverymen. The site lists forthcoming events and activities and it is hoped you will obtain great benefit from having a website. The strategy committee has taken great care preparing the various pages. However you may have some ideas or point out other items that could be included and we would be most grateful for you contacting the editor with your views. Call Robert Hobson at robert.hobson@btopenworld.com MEMBERS SURVEY RESULTS In order to increase the Company’s activities to cater for all liverymen, we carried out a survey to ascertain member’s hobbies and pastimes. The result was extremely helpful and it is the intention of the Company to organise events that reflect those interests at affordable prices. We hope that you will attend these new functions that will be another method of meeting more fellow liverymen and their wives/partners. Out of interest we list the more popular classifications, expressed as a percentage of numbers responding to the survey. No great surprises which came first! Wine tasting Classical Music Golf Theatre Opera Rugby Cricket Shooting Antiques Art Galleries National Trust Historic Buildings Horse Racing Visiting Gardens 57% 46% 42% 40% 40% 38% 33% 32% 32% 31% 31% 31% 31% 30%
LIVERY NEWS Admissions to the Freedom and Livery Since the last edition of the Distillate, the following have been admitted to the Company: Mr Ian Barrett Curle and Mr Peter Grant Gordon were • approved for the Freedom and Livery. • Mr Philip Edward Mills was granted the Freedom by redemption • Mr Stuart Gunn was granted the Livery by redemption. Nigel Strofton Having reported in the last Distillate on one world champion, namely the Duke of Argyll and his World Elephant Polo championship success, we have another world champion to record. Earlier in the year Past Master Nigel Strofton played hockey for the England over 60’s team in the World Cup knockout tournament held in Leverkusen, Germany. England won the first round and then beat Germany in the semi-finals. In an exciting final against Australia, England won a hard fought contest 2-0.
Past Master Nigel Strofton (right) holds the Over 60’s Hockey World Cup after England’s win. Vanessa Wright Liveryman Vanessa Wright has become the first woman to chair the Wine and Spirit Trades’ Benevolent Society. Vanessa took th up the post on 6 June 2006. Richard Watling
FORTHCOMING EVENTS AND DATES
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Installation Court meeting Vintners’ Hall Carol Service and supper
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dinner,
Court lunch preceded by a tour of Vintners’ Hall and Scholarship presentation Absinthe tasting in Distillers’ Room, WSET followed by finger buffet Court meeting and dinner, Vintners’ Hall Debate on topical trade affairs in the Distillers’ Room, WSET followed by informal reception Court visit to Bordeaux Tour of Lord's Cricket Ground with cocktail reception in Pavilion Court meeting and lunch (Court only) at Tallow Chandlers’ Hall. A permanent home at last! Our Charter of Incorporation on display in the Distillers’ Room.
THE WSET DISTILLERS’ ROOM The Distillers’ room in the WSET building was officially opened th on 13 October 2006 following the final fitting out. This very attractive room is used by members of the Livery for meetings, receptions and lectures.
WSET “Distilling Knowledge, a Professional Guide to Spirits and Liqueurs” is the latest publication from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust and is available from www.wset.co.uk for £17.50. Written by spirits expert Dave Broom with contributions from the WSET and IP Bartenders, it is required reading for the WSET Professional Spirits Certificate qualification and provides all the knowledge needed to pass the spirits unit of the WSET Diploma.
Artist Colin Failes with a print of the mural that covers one wall in the WSET Distillers’ Room.
A view of the Distillers’ Room, which features the great brands of the sponsors of the room.
The front cover of Dave Broom’s new book. Ian Harris, WSET CEO, commented: “The book came to fruition after a consultation with wine and spirits leaders revealed a need for greater emphasis on spirits in our qualifications. Hence the WSET Professional Spirits Certificate qualification was born and, since no text existed that met the course requirement succinctly, Distilling Knowledge was commissioned. Written in a concise and entertaining style, this will be of interest to enthusiastic amateurs as well as the professional working in the field of spirits, whether in production, distribution or retail.”
The book clearly explains the details of spirits production and describes the various categories and styles of spirits, as well as offering advice on how best to enjoy the wide variety of spirits being produced currently. OUR STRATEGIC PLAN One of our objectives was for the membership of our Company to be drawn from the spirits industry and associated trades. In fact some 80% of the Livery are covered within this category although a significant proportion are now retired. We are therefore anxious to recruit CEOs and other executives from our industry as well as achieving a balance of liverymen from all levels of companies, looking in particular for those under 45. If any liverymen can assist this key objective through the introduction of fellow members of our industry to become a member of our Company, please do not hesitate to encourage them to join us and propose their membership. The committee is also encouraging liverymen to attend the City Briefing course run by the Corporation of London at the Guildhall to bring a greater awareness of City life and the part played by livery companies. Details available from the Clerk or on the Corporation’s website.
The following have undertaken to organise and manage next year’s matches. Terry Barr Robert Brooks Simon Leschallas Keith Garrard Vintners Prince Arthur Cup Brewers Annual Golf Day
See below for contact numbers. Results for 2006 As previously reported the match against the Vintners was drawn, although it should be noted that we loaned the Vintners a player (Chris Nadin) who shamelessly helped gain them a win. Hence a moral victory for us! The Distillers’ Golf Day and winner of the Budge Brooks Shield was Past Master Bob Howell who narrowly edged Ross Gibbons into second place with his last put. Against the Brewers unfortunately we lost heavily, halving only one match.
GOLFING SECTION Budge Brooks After more than thirty years as our "Mr Golf", Budge Brooks has decided to hand over his responsibilities. Members of the Livery will wish to join all the golfers in thanking Budge for his enormous efforts through the years.
Golfing Dates for 2007 Weds 28 March v Vintners: Royal Wimbledon GC Manager Terry Barr Tel: 020 8542 9472 Email: terence.barr@fiorbrands.co.uk Thurs 17 May Prince Arthur Cup: Walton Heath GC Captain Robert Brooks Tel: 07785 393432 Email: bertie_brooks@hotmail.com Fri 15th June Distillers’ Golf Day: West Kent GC Manager Keith Garrard Tel 01795 421173 Email: keith.garrard@onetel.com Tues 7th Aug Match v Brewers: Denham GC Manager Simon Leschallas Tel 020 7840 6000 Email: simon@mentzendorff.co.uk The golf matches are all day, comprising of a morning round followed by an excellent luncheon and if you feel in the mood a few casual holes in the afternoon. It is our intention to expand the golfing section and organise more matches to be announced in due course. All those members wishing to join the Golfing Society should contact either Keith Garrard or the relevant match managers/captains (see above for details). INTER-LIVERY SHOOT For the past 13 years an Inter-Livery clay pigeon shooting competition has been organised in May at Holland & Holland’s Shooting Grounds, Northwood. For the last two years, under the leadership of Liveryman Tony Pugh, the Distillers have fielded a team. It is an excellent day, with over fifty different Livery Teams and some 380 guns participating – some Liveries put up three or four teams! A total of £5,300 was raised in 2006 to be distributed by the winners of the different disciplines to the charities of their choice. Whilst the Distillers team, consisting of Tony Pugh, Alex Parker, Richard Watling and Charles Maxwell, has yet to threaten the
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At last year’s Banquet Budge, with guest, contemplates fairways driven straight and true. Let there be no doubt, in the livery golfing world Distillers' golf was synonymous with Budge and the respect in which he is held by all reflected his enthusiasm, warmth, organising abilities and persuasive powers as he encouraged and cajoled players to represent our cause. Whilst taking part was always important, team members were ever mindful that that they were playing for his team, as much as for the Distillers. Members new and old were always welcomed into the golfing fold. Whilst Budge's day to day involvement will be sadly missed, we are pleased to report that he has accepted the position of Society President. This is the first appointment to this position and one in which we very much hope Budge will keep in touch with golf and golfers, not least when he presents his Budge Brooks Shield that will continue to be competed for on our annual Distillers’ Golf Day.
leader board, we have developed a needle challenge between ourselves and the Vintners. We are pleased to report that in the last two years the Distillers have triumphed, although this year only by a single point! The date for 2007 has already been set as Wednesday 23 May. It will start as normal with breakfast at 7.45am followed by shooting, which is normally finished by approximately 1:00pm. There then follows an excellent buffet lunch. It is a great day, so why not see if we can enter two teams for next year. Contact Tony Pugh at jopugh@dsl.pipex.com or any of the other members of the team. THE DISTILLATE If anyone has any news or stories for use in the Distillate, please contact the Editor, Robert Hobson. T: 020 8467 8656, Email robert.hobson@btopenworld.com
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All enquiries to: The Clerk The Worshipful Company of Distillers 71 Lincoln’s Inn Fields London WC2A 3JF Tel: 020 7405 7091 Email: CHughes@bcmw.co.uk
