The Distillate - Winter 2007
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The Distillate
The Worshipful Company of Distillers
Winter 2007
The Old Guard: Simon Leschallas (Renter Warden), Charles Maxwell (Middle), Keith Garrard (Master) and Derek Plant (Upper) shortly after being “intronised” in Saint Emilion. It wasn’t as painful as it sounds! A MESSAGE FROM THE NEW MASTER: Derek Plant Derek Plant will be installed as our new Master on 14th November 2007. He expressed this appreciation to the outgoing Master, Keith Garrard. “I am very pleased to have this opportunity of paying tribute to Keith Garrard one of our Masters who has truly involved himself in the activities of the Company. Keith has recognised the many steps forward that recent Past Masters have encouraged us to make. It was David Grant who made the analogy that being Master of a great livery Company was like being Master of a large tanker; you cannot stop it and to turn around takes time; more time than any of us have during our stewardship. But turned it has, thanks to a number of recent Masters who have succeeded in encouraging greater involvement of our livery and their families in our activities; and that is what I shall aim to do during my year of office. I want to encourage members of the livery to become part of the workings of our Company. It is not, as it seemed to me many years ago, a rather select dining club; it is the living embodiment of our Industry. It is mainly composed of members of our Industry in one form or another. It is truly involved in education, as Ian Harris will bear witness, and we should all try to maintain this very successful change; the tanker really has turned!” Derek Plant is from an island off the West Coast of Scotland. In 1964 he entered British Transport Hotels, the hotel division of the old British Rail, as a trainee. In his early career he was general manager of a number of hotels within the group before becoming Divisional General Manager of the City hotels group in 1979. Shortly after he was appointed a main board Director, responsible for the operations of 33 hotels throughout England and Scotland. In 1990, in partnership with fellow liveryman John Tee, he founded Compass Hotels of which Derek is an executive director. He is married to Tina and lives in Bourn, Cambridgeshire and Sete in Southern France.
CHARLES MAXWELL: Upper 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 before leaving in 1992 to set up businesses in distilling and wines. By 1997 he was distilling and bottling spirits through Thames Distillers, who two years later became the world’s first organic gin distiller. SIMON LESCHALLAS: Middle Warden Simon was born in 1955 and educated at Eton. Following a gap year were he visited New Zealand, Australia and USA, he skipped University and joined Blue Circle Cement Group as a management trainee salesman. After four years at Blue Circle, where he looked after Cheshire and latterly the East End of London, helping to build the north side of the Thames Barrier, he saw the light and entered the Drinks Industry. Simon joined Mentzendorff in December 1978 and has been there ever since! He was made a director in 1985 and now has the title of Director, Bollinger Champagne. He became a liveryman 1982. DAVID SILLS: Renter Warden
APRIL DINNER
th At the dinner on 25 April at Vintners’ Hall, Mr Douglas Morton gave an entertaining speech thanking the Master for his hospitality and proposing the health of the guests.
They included His Excellency Senor Rafael Moreno the Chilean Ambassador, Mr Peter Dowling Master of the Innholders, Dr Peter Messent Master of the Cooks, Mr Tim Turner Master of the Brewers, Mr Ivor Robins Master of the Fruiterers, Sir Anthony Howard KCB, QC Master of the Glass Sellers and Mr Paul Waterson Visitor of the Incorporation of Maltmen in Glasgow. The Master’s friend and fellow cricket enthusiast Mr. Peter Williams, otherwise known as “Slim”, replied on behalf of the guests telling some amusing stories about the Master with whom he had worked at Hedges & Butler. The Master thanked the assembled company for attending a successful evening and reported that the Worshipful Company of Distillers was in very good heart. The Distillers’ Room located at the WSET had proved most useful holding many smaller livery functions. The Master thanked the speakers and invited the livery and their guests to join him in a stirrup cup.
THE COURT VISIT TO BORDEAUX The party arrived on Sunday 3rd June and almost at once the festivities began, with a welcoming glass of champagne. Charles Minoprio gave a splendid account of why Bordeaux should be English. He held the audience entranced with his amusing and knowledgeable account of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II. After graduating in Law from University College, London in 1965, taking Solicitors’ finals and completing two year’s articles with Monier-Williams & Keeling in Vintners’ Place, David went on to the Great Adventure Part 6 for two years as an instructor with the Royal Saudi Air Force in Dhahran. In 1970 he returned to Vintners’ Place as a partner. Since then he has for over 35 years dealt with the legal problems of the wine trade – particularly in relation to protection of appellations d’origine for both wines and spirits, including Cognac, Calvados and Brandy de Jerez. Less well-known is the wide number of UK wine importers and traders he looks after as commercial and personal clients as well as being Secretary of the Champagne Agents Association. So he is very much a lawyer associated with the drinks trade, hence his membership of the livery. VISIT TO JEWEL HOUSE
th On the evening of 11 April a group of members of the Distillers livery congregated at the Tower of London to be taken on a tour of the Jewel House and shown the remarkable collection of crowns, sceptres, and swords inlaid with precious stones.
Thereafter an excellent dinner and great company all made for a wonderful first evening. Monday 4th June, the Medoc: Chateau Mouton Rothschild was the first port of call. The tour included seeing the main cellar, the fermentation vats and to a tasting where the head wine maker, Monsieur Dominique Garcia, talked to the party. The group then left for lunch at Chateau d’Angludet. In the reception hall Allan Sichel delivered a warm welcoming speech mentioning that a Sichel had been Master of the Worshipful Company of Distillers (1980). There had been permanent wine making on that site since the th 17 century and the Sichel family have owned the estate since the 1920’s. Allan and his wife Grace together with Charlie and their mother Diana entertained the party to lunch accompanied by the most delicious wines.
We all loved this photo. The Master being directed by a Chateau d’Angludet vineyard worker after our coach had got hopelessly lost in the vineyards; after lunch!
When the tour was completed members made their way to a Bistro on Tower Hill for supper.
Tuesday 5th June, Jarnac: Some members of the party decided not to make the coach to Jarnac and chose a guided tour of Bordeaux looking at historical architecture and learning about this magnificent seaport, famous for shipping vast quantities of claret all over world. trip the old the
Evening, Gala Dinner at Chateau Lascombes: Chateau Lascombes was home to the Master before he retired from business. The champagne reception on the lawns bathed in the evening sunshine was the perfect start to the evening.
Those who took the coach discovered the small French-owned business of Delamain who are dedicated to quality, having perfected the art of crafting magnificent cognac using centuries of experience. Part-owner Charles Braastad hosted our visit explaining the present company founded in his name dates from 1824 and occupies a tiny niche market producing only 30,000 cases of cognac each year. The youngest cognac marketed is a mere 30 years old.
th Wednesday 6 June, St Emilion:
Chateau Lascombes looking more like a scene from Harry Potter. Fantastic. The four course dinner proved to be a gastronomic delight accompanied by fine wines that include Chevalier de Lascombes 2003.
The many charms and character of the town of Saint Emilion included a tour of the underground church and monuments followed by welcome refreshment in the lower square. The party walked up the cobbled streets to the headquarters of La Jurade, the distinguished body that have promoted the wines of Saint Emilion for longer than we Distillers have been in existence. The Master and his Wardens were then intronised into this most respected organisation.
One of the Editor’s favourite photos. A steely-eyed Allan Cheesman contemplates the Chateau Lascombes 1979. After dinner members of the court were asked to taste a Chateau Lascombes and guess the year. The answer 1979 and the winner was Anne Maxwell, wife of the Middle Warden. The Master and Wardens being intronised by the Grand Master of La Jurade, Saint Emilion All then adjourned to Chateau Ripeau where the party were hosted to lunch by the elegant owner Francoise de Wilde and her colleague Eric d'Aramon. Thursday 7th June, Château Coutet:
th Chateau Coutet originated in the 13 century and is owned today by the Bally family. Phillippe Bally greeted the party who first visited the gardens and premises before an explanation of how the Château’s wine is made. Then came the wine tasting of Chartreuse de Coutet (the Chateau’s second wine) in the garden before lunch.
The speeches were short and whimsical and concluded with a superb “Tour de Force” by the Father of the Court Geoffrey Churton. He clearly demonstrated that age does not impair the ability to hold a room spellbound. HMS MONTROSE At the end of July 2007 HMS Montrose returned to Devonport after a successful seven-month NATO deployment in the Mediterranean. On 13th September Court Assistant David Sills visited HMS Montrose in Devonport to present the annual Distillers’ Trophy and cheque to the winning mess. He received a very warm welcome and submitted his report. “They were all very kind and hospitable, despite (or perhaps because of) my admitting to having been in the Junior Service. The Commanding Officer, Andy Hogben, is very genial and was himself only a week into his post - so the crew were all on their toes.
No prizes in guessing this was the party at the Chateau in good form after an excellent lunch and superb wines
The new Commanding Officer, Andy Hogben
I reported at 11:15am as arranged. A quick scamper through the ship; a cup of coffee with the CO and then met Ian Hassle (our Liaison Officer), who according to the CO is a "Stoker”. Down to the Leading Hands Mess for the presentation; a brief word about how gratifying as a newly formed Mess to win at the first attempt; and more gratifying to push the Wardroom into 3rd place; and perhaps still more gratifying to pip the POs' Mess into 2nd place. They seemed quite pleased to receive the trophy, accepted by Leading Seaman Gary Phillips, a proper sailor who knew about knots and stuff. It was obviously a keenly fought contest, taken rather seriously. Then a drink on the bridge and down to lunch with the CO, together with Ian and Gary Phillips. All very pleasant. Both Ian and Andy stressed how keen they are to push the affiliation indeed all their affiliations - so Snapper (Assistant David Raines) can expect a stream of offers for cruises, trips round the bay, etc. We might even get them to train their 4½ inch siege gun on the Apothecaries, but perhaps that carries a grudge too far!”
evening sunshine and imagining the great players who have graced this wonderfully unique ground.
HISTORY: Nicholson’s Gin and the MCC The recent visit to Lord’s cricket ground identified the connection between Nicholson’s Gin and the MCC. Following this visit the Master contacted Past Master Richard (Dickie) Nicholson to learn the following: Dickie’s Great Grandfather William Nicholson was born in Upper Holloway in 1824 and played cricket for the Harrow XI between 1841 and 1845 and for the Gentlemen against the Players from 1846 to 1858. He was a free scoring batsman and very competent wicket keeper. William Nicholson was a great benefactor to the MCC but perhaps it was “his generosity with his ample purse for which he was best remembered” as he provided the funding of some £21,000 that enabled the MCC to buy the freehold of the present ground in 1866, and to enable the construction in 1889/90 of the present world famous pavilion. He was elected as President of the MCC in 1879, at a time when few commoners were given cricket’s highest honour, and given the source of his wealth, in the early days the Pavilion gloried in the nickname of the “gin palace”. Prior to his involvement the MCC colours were light blue, as per our Distillers’ Livery, but the club took the red and gold colours, that remain world famous to this day from the colours of the Nicholson’s Gin label of the time as a gesture of thanks to William Nicholson for safeguarding the future of the MCC. He th died in London in 1909, a few weeks before his 85 birthday and it is recognised that few members have ever served MCC with such loyalty and generosity.
David Sills makes the presentation of the Distillers’ Trophy to Leading Seaman Gary Phillips of the Leading Hands Mess David Sills gleaned nuggets of indispensable information during his visit including the steward who served lunch has been redesignated "Logistician - Catering Services Delivery" under some management consultant inspired interference with the RN system. No wonder he was nervous! Also it is claimed when the turbine after-burners are switched to full power to over-ride the electric motors, the ship’s fuel consumption rises to 3 feet per gallon! No wonder they use the turbines sparingly although the speed is amazing! LORD’S VISIT The Master arranged an evening at Lord’s cricket ground with considerable help from liveryman and fellow MCC member Michael Campbell. Some forty-four liverymen and guests, ranging in cricketing savvy from students of Wisden to those who don't know a googly from a gulley, assembled in the Pavilion Writing Room looking out over the immaculate hallowed turf that was being prepared for the following week's test match against India. After traditional cricketing tea and biscuits (but alas no egg sarnies!) we were taken to the ultra modern Media Centre from where we enjoyed the best view in the ground, looking straight down the wicket, as we learnt of the history of Lord’s. We discovered that the famous MCC colours of red and orange had their origins in the colours of the label of Nicholson’s Gin, but more later. The group visited the museum with the Ashes Urn the highlight, the Real Tennis Court, where nobody was prepared to take their GCSE in the rules of the game, the home team dressing room where the England opening bat Alastair Cook was brushing up on Australian culture by watching Neighbours and the famous Long Room with its many paintings and memories. The cocktail party, which followed in the Pavilion, was enhanced by being able to spill out on to the Pavilion forecourt in the
Until recently ladies have not been allowed into the Lord’s Pavilion except on special occasions. However Lady Thatcher was addressing the fund raising Lady Taverners in the Long Room at Lord’s: “We ladies are very happy to have been allowed into the Long Room,” she said. “But what my husband would make of it is probably unrepeatable. This pavilion was made after a donation from a Mr Nicholson, who made his fortune as a distiller of gin. So when Dennis raises his glass he likes to feel that he’s doing his bit.”
THE MANSION HOUSE LIVERY AND LADIES BANQUET
th On Friday 28 September liverymen and their guests attended the Livery and Ladies Banquet at the Mansion House. Greeting the guests at the champagne reception to a selection of music was the Aris Quintet, students of the Guildhall School of Music.
GOLFING SECTION: Results of 2007 Golf Matches Golf Match v The Vintners The first match was played on 27th March at Royal Wimbledon and ended in victory for the Vintners. If sheer weight of numbers counted then the Distillers should have won the match easily. There were eleven Distillers to the Vintners seven. The Master of the Vintners, Edward Demery, brought in his son Rupert and the eminent barrister and Wimbledon member Nigel Wilkinson to bolster his side. The Match Manager Terry Barr generously - if mistakenly - lent them one of our finest players, Michael Campbell, to complete their team and of course he proceeded to win his match. The Prince Arthur Cup th The Prince Arthur Cup was played on 17 May and is a Livery competition held at Walton Heath over two rounds of foursome golf. It is one of the biggest amateur golf tournaments in the golfing calendar and 54 Livery companies enter a team of four players. Starting out in torrential rain, the morning rounds were only average and the Distillers were a long way down the field at the half way stage. After some excellent burgundy at lunchtime the afternoon rounds saw a dramatic improvement in everyone's swing and with the sun coming out the result was a very creditable 7th overall. Very well done to the team of Captain Robert Brooks, James Espey, Michael Campbell and Michael Morgan.
Leaving the magnificent Saloon and Drawing Room members and their guests made their way into the grand Egyptian Hall for dinner. Following a superb four-course meal with a fine selection of wine, port and malt whisky members stood and sang the national anthem. In an entertaining speech Past Master Nigel Churton MBE welcomed the Lord Mayor Alderman John Stuttard and his wife Lesley, thanking him for allowing the Company to use his home for the Dinner.
The Master with the Lord Mayor Alderman John Stuttard Mr Churton spoke of the Lord Mayor’s considerable achievements in the City of London and proposed the toast to the Lord Mayor, the City of London Corporation and the Sheriffs. The Lord Mayor replied welcoming the Distillers and their Ladies to the Egyptian Room, which he said can be very lonely without company. Mentioning the Company’s close affiliation with the London Scottish Regiment and HMS Montrose, the Lord Mayor proposed the health of the Worshipful Company of Distillers.
Golf Day th Sixteen liverymen played at West Kent on 15 June and this year’s winner of the Budge Brooks Shield was John Barnes with a total score of 34 points (best back nine). Graham Franklin was in second place with Ian Harris third. The Master’s team with a total score of 122 points won the team prize. He also won the prize for nearest the pin on the 8th hole. Past Master David Grant was awarded the consolation prize for “the most improved golfer!” Golf Match v The Brewers On 7th August at Denham, under a clear blue sky, we produced some inspired golf, which meant that the match was won. Lunch in the timber-framed clubhouse surrounded by stuffed heads of wild animals was exceptional, accompanied by some very fine wine. Scottish Golf Day th On 9 October encouraged by the initiative of Assistant Brian Morrison and his supportive sub committee of Past Master Tim Morrison and Assistant Kenny Mackay, a first ever Distillers Golf Day was held in Scotland at the splendid Prestwick GC, one time venue for the Open A fine lunch in the traditional surrounds of the elegant clubhouse was followed by a competitive 18 holes of team medal golf on the magnificent sun drenched links. The Master, two Past Masters and eight liverymen were joined by two candidates and two potential candidates and with the best two scores from each team counting the result saw the team of Tim Morrison, Bob Howell and Mike Keiller taking the honours. We were joined by a further two candidates for dinner, that had been advertised as being in a “room in a pub”. However the location turned out to be in a near Michelin starred restaurant where we enjoyed a most excellent meal. Kenny Mackay generously presented a “mystery” prize, namely a magnum of top quality Marc de Burgoyne, which was awarded to the Master for……………..the shortest drive of the day! The magnum was then decanted and passed around the table to be shared by all.
The Master and his Lady together with guest of honour Christopher Walker and his wife Janet The Master Mr Keith Garrard outlined the Lord Mayor’s busy year highlighting his trips to countries all over the world. The Master’s principal guest was Mr Christopher Walker who opened the batting for Middlesex. Christopher is an Orthopaedic Consultant and a member of the Worshipful Company of Apothecaries. Mr Walker responded by mentioning the competition that existed between his company, the Apothecaries and the Distillers some 380 years ago. He had been a friend of the Master for over 45 years and their common interest was cricket and fine wines. In the past the Master had consulted Christopher about his knees, resulting in an operation. In the theatre the Master made one last request “what is the test match score?” South Africa 230 for 5 wickets before the anaesthetic took over.
The Master thanked all concerned participating in a great day out.
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Officers for 2007/08 At the June Court meeting the following were elected into office to be installed at the November Dinner: Mr Derek Plant as Master Mr Charles Maxwell as Upper Warden Mr Simon Leschallas as Middle Warden Mr David Sills as Renter Warden Marriage The Immediate Past Master’s daughter, Susannah Grant, who was elected Steward in April, married Andres Peres de Herrasti in May in Chinchon (the traditional centre for the distillation of Spanish Anis). Some 400 guests enjoyed the open-air party and danced the night away, literally, until the couple left at 6.45 am. The guard of honour was formed by members of the order of the Real Maestranza de Caballeria de Granada, whose uniform Andres wore; it was founded in 1686, contemporaneous with our Company, and still headed by the king. The couple will continue living in London where Andres works for an international wine company.
Liverymen participating were the Master, Michael Beamish, Billy Dunn, Graham Franklin, Ian Harris, Bob Howell, Mike Keiller, Kenny Mackay, Brian Morrison, Tim Morrison and Rupert Patrick. Golfing Dates for 2008 If you would like to play in the next year’s events please contact the match managers as follows: 26th March: Match v Vintners at Royal Wimbledon GC Terry Barr T: 020 8542 9472 or email: terence.barr@yahoo.co.uk 15th May: Prince Arthur Cup at Walton Heath GC Robert Brooks T: 07785 393432 or email: bertie_brooks@hotmail.com 20th June: Distillers Golf Day at West Kent GC Graham Franklin T: 07802 761548 or email: ggfranklin3@aol.com 5th Aug: Match v Brewers at Denham GC Simon Leschallas T: 01985 851049 or email: simon@mentzendorff.co.uk October (date tba) Scottish Golf Day at Prestwick GC Keith Garrard T: 01795 421173 or email: keith.garrard@onetel.com These golf matches comprise a morning round followed by an excellent luncheon accompanied by fine wine. If you feel in the mood after lunch there is an optional afternoon round. The golf committee are expanding the section by organising more matches and offering membership to all those interested in playing. All those wishing to join the Golfing Society should contact Keith Garrard.
Forthcoming Events and Dates 14th Nov Installation Court meeting and Dinner at Vintners’ Hall 19th Dec Carol Service at St Lawrence Jewry and supper at Innholders’ Hall 2008 th 7 Feb Court Lunch and Scholarship presentation Ladies Luncheon, both at Vintners’ Hall th 18 Feb Tequila Lecture at WSET th 10 Apr Visit to Paris and Luncheon 23rd Apr Court meeting and Dinner at Vintners’ Hall May Visit to the Clockmakers Museum at Guildhall and Supper st 1 Jun Court visit to the Languedoc. 26th Jun Court Meeting and Lunch (Court only) at Tallow Chandlers’ Hall. th 19 Nov Installation Court meeting and Dinner at Vintners’ Hall Our Website: www.distillers.org.uk Our web site is proving most useful enabling members of the livery to check the dates of future events. Liveryman’s guests are able to research our history and discover all about this ancient city livery company and the important roll we play in the city today.
LIVERY NEWS Admissions to the Freedom and Livery At the April Court meeting the Master appointed Mr David Lindsay, Miss Susannah Grant and Mr Alex Parker to the office of Steward, with Mr Jonathan Driver also being appointed at the June meeting. The Freedom was granted to Mr Abhishek Banik, Mr Simon Clarke and Mr Barry Johnstone, all being the Company’s scholars. In addition Mr Robert Rishworth received his freedom by redemption and to Mr George Maxwell by patrimony. The livery was granted to Mr Stuart Kaye and Mr Philip Mills by redemption. Finally at the June Court meeting the Honorary Freedom of the Company was granted to HE the Ambassador of Chile, Senor Rafael Moreno.
The Distillate
The editor Robert Hobson is retiring with effect from the end of the year and will be replaced by Anthony Westnedge OBE. If anyone has any news or stories for use in the Distillate, please contact Anthony. T: 020 8467 8656, email: anthonywestnedge@enta.com
THE OUTGOING MASTER’S REPORT: Keith Garrard
th 5 Sep Beefeater Distillery Inspection Lunch Nursing Yeomanry Guildhall th 19 Sep Glass Sellers dinner 22nd Sep Cask Group Lunch th 28 Sep Livery and Ladies Banquet at Mansion House nd 2 Oct Vintage festival and lunch th 8 Oct Keepers of the Quaich Dinner at Blair Athol Castle 9th Oct Scottish Golf Day at Prestwick GC th 11 Oct WSET Annual Lecture 18th Oct Framework Knitters Banquet th 25 Oct Vintners Livery Banquet 30th Oct Lord Mayor’s Appeal st 1 Nov Lady Mayoress reception at Mansion House 5th Nov Poppy Day Appeal at St Paul’s th 9 Nov Mistress Badge Ceremony at WSET
Many will have come to appreciate my keenness for sport, and I can think of no better year to have been your Master as it has kept my mind off other things. At the time of my installation we held the Ashes and the Rugby World Cup. At the time of writing the one is long since gone and the other appears to be going south as well, albeit after a remarkably encouraging defence. However the year has brought many exciting compensations through Livery life in general and our own Company in particular. The most pleasing comments I have received from many other Masters and guests have related to the friendliness of our liverymen and the fact that such a large percentage of us are related to our Trade in one way or another. A much-envied situation, one we should not take for granted and one for which we can all be proud. The year has flown by, but has been much enjoyed by Ailsa and myself. We have thoroughly appreciated the encouragement, help and support we have received from so many and the involvement of willing “volunteers” at different events has ensured their success and the enjoyment of participants. I just hope you have had as much pleasure from them as we have! The Livery is in good shape. I have chaired or attended most of our committee meetings, the majority of which are held in our Distillers’ Room at the WSET. I must thank all members for their enthusiasm, dedication and hard work. There is always so much going on behind the scenes as we strive to improve and better the Livery. Without exception the meetings are fun and rewarding and there is always the wine bar downstairs afterwards! All Livery Companies have affinities with trades close to their own and I have much enjoyed the friendship and hospitality of our friends and colleagues in the Cask Group. I have also been pleased to develop friendships within other Companies and have learnt much from the experience. I thank you again for all your much-appreciated support, and wish Master-elect Derek Plant every success in the coming year. Events Attended
th 27 Apr Heriot-Watt Lecture, Edinburgh th 9 May Cooks Company Dinner, Innholders’ Hall Funeral and eulogy for Budge Brooks 3rd June Court Trip to Bordeaux 15th Jun Distillers Golf Day at West Kent GC followed by Livery weekend at Ironbridge 25th Jun Sheriffs Common Hall and lunch. th 26 Jun Court Meeting at Tallow Chandlers’ Hall th 28 Jun Lunch at Chilean Ambassador’s residence nd 2 July Cricket at Sutton Valence School. rd 3 July Masters & Clerks Dinner at Innholders’ Hall 9th July Sheriffs and Recorders Fund at Old Bailey th 12 July Lord’s Tour and Cocktail Party 18th July Garden Party at Buckingham Palace nd 2 Aug Lunch at Butchers’ Hall 8th Aug Golf Match v Brewers
THE LATE BUDGE BROOKS
th Past Master Budge Brooks died peacefully on 13 May and the Master, Keith Garrard, was honoured by Budge’s family to nd present the eulogy at his funeral on 22 May. We thought other liverymen would be interested in learning more of a great man through reproducing his tribute.
Budge with Past Master Nigel Churton and Pat Vallas “Budge was a wonderful friend and colleague, a caring and loving Husband, Father and Grandfather. Why was it that anyone with such distinguished names as William Ian Baverstock Brooks should be known as Budge? Apparently when he was a toddler he used to sit on his potty and refuse to budge. The nickname was created that was to stay with him for life and, of course, there was never any doubt as to who was being referred to. There has only ever been one “Budge”. Born on Thames Ditton Island opposite the Swan Hotel, Budge lived all his life in this area. He was away at sea during the war when at the age of 25 he had his own command of a minesweeper. He married Pat shortly after getting his demob papers and settled back into local life. He was one of those responsible for regenerating the London wine trade in post war years. They were not easy times as stock was strictly rationed and much time had to be spent over extended lunches in the Wine Trade Club negotiating the changing of Bristol Cream with whatever whisky might be available. He would never of course be lunching alone, and a feature of the trade in those days was the way competitors became the closest of friends. Customers were also friends and Budge built up a huge network of people who were indebted to him for introducing them to the joys of wine. Budge was invited to a very special lunch in the Guildhall to celebrate his 50 years in the Trade. Budge threw himself into the affairs of the City of London and was elected to the Court of Common Council in 1967, representing the Ward of Cripplegate, which extended to 37 years.
During this period he was to become a respected and active member of many sub committees covering areas of Finance, the City Police, Spitalfields and Billingsgate Markets, and the Barbican Management and Residents. He was also on the Board of Governors of the City of London Freeman’s School and outside of Corporation affairs had the honour to be President of the Rotary Club of London nearly 50 years ago. Budge was a member of Thames Ditton Tennis Club and good enough to play for Surrey for a number of years. He captained Esher Rugby Club with great enthusiasm, but with little knowledge of the rules, which became apparent when he briefly tried his hand at refereeing. He was a member of the Esher Rugby Club Golfing Society, a big supporter of the Playgoers Golfing Society and a long-term member of Burhill Golf Club where he was elected Captain in 1972. Within the Worshipful Company of Distillers he was well known and respected organising the company’s golf days for over 30 years. The Distillers Golf Day attendees have competed for the Budge Brooks Shield for the past 25 years in a sternly contested stableford competition. Budge became a member of the Worshipful Company of Distillers in 1958 and in 1982 he was a popular and much respected Master. He encouraged progress and embraced change and he was supportive of younger members of the Court. During his last months he would never burden friends with his illness always responding to enquiries about his state of health by emphasising that he was “all right”. Budge will be sorely missed, but he will be fondly remembered by all of those who were privileged to have known him. THE LATE JOHN BECKERLEG John was with James Burrough from 1979 as International Sales Director and then moved into Allied Domecq's head office as Commercial Risk manager in 1997. He was also a member of the Keepers of the Quaich and aged 53 at the time of his unexpected death. John joined Beefeater Gin in the late 1970's and survived the take over by both Whitbread and Allied. He left the company last year shortly after the Pernod Ricard purchase and had just become a non-executive of Hayman, Barwell & Jones at the time of his death. John was instrumental in the growth of Beefeater in Spain - now about a million cases. He lived in Madrid for a while before returning to the UK where he worked on a range of business projects for Allied. John's leaves a wife, Cathy and a son and daughter.
WSET UPDATE
The academic year 2006/07 ended with a record 21,420 students having taking a WSET qualification in one of the 41 countries where WSET courses are available. For the first time in the 38-year history of the WSET, the number of international candidates exceeded the number of those who study in the UK. Our suite of qualifications now numbers six, with the launch of the International Higher Certificate following on closely from the Foundation Certificate in Wine and the Professional Certificate in Spirits. Since it was launched in 2004, nearly 1,000 students have completed the WSET Professional Certificate in Spirits and until now the courses were run during the day, the preferred option for people working in the industry. However to cater for the enthusiast and especially members of the Worshipful Company of Distillers who are based near London and want to learn more about spirits from the organisation, which is the biggest educator in the field of wines and spirits in the world, we will be running an EVENING COURSE in January/February 2008. The cost of the course, including all samples (you will have the chance to taste over 50 samples across all the spirits categories) is normally £335, but members of the Worshipful Company of Distillers will receive a 10% discount, bringing the cost down to £301.50. This special rate extends to friends, family, and colleagues of livery members. Just mention "Distillers" when making your booking. On the successful completion of the course, you will have learned a great deal about the fascinating world of spirits and possess a certificate to prove it! The course starts at 6.30pm on the evening of Wednesday 9th January with a programme as follows: 9 Jan 16th Jan rd 23 Jan 30th Jan th 6 Feb 13th Feb th 20 Feb 27th Feb
th
Market overview/distillation methods/ tasting technique Brandy Scotch whisky Other whiskey and rum Vodka & tequila Gin and flavoured spirits Liqueurs and fruit spirits, plus revision session Examination
All enquiries to the Clerk
The Worshipful Company of Distillers
71 Lincoln’s Inn Fields London WC2A 3JF Tel: 020 7405 7091 We couldn’t resist inserting this photo taken close to Vintners Hall. Anyone spot the funny side?
The Distillate
The Worshipful Company of Distillers
Winter 2007
The Old Guard: Simon Leschallas (Renter Warden), Charles Maxwell (Middle), Keith Garrard (Master) and Derek Plant (Upper) shortly after being “intronised” in Saint Emilion. It wasn’t as painful as it sounds! A MESSAGE FROM THE NEW MASTER: Derek Plant Derek Plant will be installed as our new Master on 14th November 2007. He expressed this appreciation to the outgoing Master, Keith Garrard. “I am very pleased to have this opportunity of paying tribute to Keith Garrard one of our Masters who has truly involved himself in the activities of the Company. Keith has recognised the many steps forward that recent Past Masters have encouraged us to make. It was David Grant who made the analogy that being Master of a great livery Company was like being Master of a large tanker; you cannot stop it and to turn around takes time; more time than any of us have during our stewardship. But turned it has, thanks to a number of recent Masters who have succeeded in encouraging greater involvement of our livery and their families in our activities; and that is what I shall aim to do during my year of office. I want to encourage members of the livery to become part of the workings of our Company. It is not, as it seemed to me many years ago, a rather select dining club; it is the living embodiment of our Industry. It is mainly composed of members of our Industry in one form or another. It is truly involved in education, as Ian Harris will bear witness, and we should all try to maintain this very successful change; the tanker really has turned!” Derek Plant is from an island off the West Coast of Scotland. In 1964 he entered British Transport Hotels, the hotel division of the old British Rail, as a trainee. In his early career he was general manager of a number of hotels within the group before becoming Divisional General Manager of the City hotels group in 1979. Shortly after he was appointed a main board Director, responsible for the operations of 33 hotels throughout England and Scotland. In 1990, in partnership with fellow liveryman John Tee, he founded Compass Hotels of which Derek is an executive director. He is married to Tina and lives in Bourn, Cambridgeshire and Sete in Southern France.
CHARLES MAXWELL: Upper 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 before leaving in 1992 to set up businesses in distilling and wines. By 1997 he was distilling and bottling spirits through Thames Distillers, who two years later became the world’s first organic gin distiller. SIMON LESCHALLAS: Middle Warden Simon was born in 1955 and educated at Eton. Following a gap year were he visited New Zealand, Australia and USA, he skipped University and joined Blue Circle Cement Group as a management trainee salesman. After four years at Blue Circle, where he looked after Cheshire and latterly the East End of London, helping to build the north side of the Thames Barrier, he saw the light and entered the Drinks Industry. Simon joined Mentzendorff in December 1978 and has been there ever since! He was made a director in 1985 and now has the title of Director, Bollinger Champagne. He became a liveryman 1982. DAVID SILLS: Renter Warden
APRIL DINNER
th At the dinner on 25 April at Vintners’ Hall, Mr Douglas Morton gave an entertaining speech thanking the Master for his hospitality and proposing the health of the guests.
They included His Excellency Senor Rafael Moreno the Chilean Ambassador, Mr Peter Dowling Master of the Innholders, Dr Peter Messent Master of the Cooks, Mr Tim Turner Master of the Brewers, Mr Ivor Robins Master of the Fruiterers, Sir Anthony Howard KCB, QC Master of the Glass Sellers and Mr Paul Waterson Visitor of the Incorporation of Maltmen in Glasgow. The Master’s friend and fellow cricket enthusiast Mr. Peter Williams, otherwise known as “Slim”, replied on behalf of the guests telling some amusing stories about the Master with whom he had worked at Hedges & Butler. The Master thanked the assembled company for attending a successful evening and reported that the Worshipful Company of Distillers was in very good heart. The Distillers’ Room located at the WSET had proved most useful holding many smaller livery functions. The Master thanked the speakers and invited the livery and their guests to join him in a stirrup cup.
THE COURT VISIT TO BORDEAUX The party arrived on Sunday 3rd June and almost at once the festivities began, with a welcoming glass of champagne. Charles Minoprio gave a splendid account of why Bordeaux should be English. He held the audience entranced with his amusing and knowledgeable account of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry II. After graduating in Law from University College, London in 1965, taking Solicitors’ finals and completing two year’s articles with Monier-Williams & Keeling in Vintners’ Place, David went on to the Great Adventure Part 6 for two years as an instructor with the Royal Saudi Air Force in Dhahran. In 1970 he returned to Vintners’ Place as a partner. Since then he has for over 35 years dealt with the legal problems of the wine trade – particularly in relation to protection of appellations d’origine for both wines and spirits, including Cognac, Calvados and Brandy de Jerez. Less well-known is the wide number of UK wine importers and traders he looks after as commercial and personal clients as well as being Secretary of the Champagne Agents Association. So he is very much a lawyer associated with the drinks trade, hence his membership of the livery. VISIT TO JEWEL HOUSE
th On the evening of 11 April a group of members of the Distillers livery congregated at the Tower of London to be taken on a tour of the Jewel House and shown the remarkable collection of crowns, sceptres, and swords inlaid with precious stones.
Thereafter an excellent dinner and great company all made for a wonderful first evening. Monday 4th June, the Medoc: Chateau Mouton Rothschild was the first port of call. The tour included seeing the main cellar, the fermentation vats and to a tasting where the head wine maker, Monsieur Dominique Garcia, talked to the party. The group then left for lunch at Chateau d’Angludet. In the reception hall Allan Sichel delivered a warm welcoming speech mentioning that a Sichel had been Master of the Worshipful Company of Distillers (1980). There had been permanent wine making on that site since the th 17 century and the Sichel family have owned the estate since the 1920’s. Allan and his wife Grace together with Charlie and their mother Diana entertained the party to lunch accompanied by the most delicious wines.
We all loved this photo. The Master being directed by a Chateau d’Angludet vineyard worker after our coach had got hopelessly lost in the vineyards; after lunch!
When the tour was completed members made their way to a Bistro on Tower Hill for supper.
Tuesday 5th June, Jarnac: Some members of the party decided not to make the coach to Jarnac and chose a guided tour of Bordeaux looking at historical architecture and learning about this magnificent seaport, famous for shipping vast quantities of claret all over world. trip the old the
Evening, Gala Dinner at Chateau Lascombes: Chateau Lascombes was home to the Master before he retired from business. The champagne reception on the lawns bathed in the evening sunshine was the perfect start to the evening.
Those who took the coach discovered the small French-owned business of Delamain who are dedicated to quality, having perfected the art of crafting magnificent cognac using centuries of experience. Part-owner Charles Braastad hosted our visit explaining the present company founded in his name dates from 1824 and occupies a tiny niche market producing only 30,000 cases of cognac each year. The youngest cognac marketed is a mere 30 years old.
th Wednesday 6 June, St Emilion:
Chateau Lascombes looking more like a scene from Harry Potter. Fantastic. The four course dinner proved to be a gastronomic delight accompanied by fine wines that include Chevalier de Lascombes 2003.
The many charms and character of the town of Saint Emilion included a tour of the underground church and monuments followed by welcome refreshment in the lower square. The party walked up the cobbled streets to the headquarters of La Jurade, the distinguished body that have promoted the wines of Saint Emilion for longer than we Distillers have been in existence. The Master and his Wardens were then intronised into this most respected organisation.
One of the Editor’s favourite photos. A steely-eyed Allan Cheesman contemplates the Chateau Lascombes 1979. After dinner members of the court were asked to taste a Chateau Lascombes and guess the year. The answer 1979 and the winner was Anne Maxwell, wife of the Middle Warden. The Master and Wardens being intronised by the Grand Master of La Jurade, Saint Emilion All then adjourned to Chateau Ripeau where the party were hosted to lunch by the elegant owner Francoise de Wilde and her colleague Eric d'Aramon. Thursday 7th June, Château Coutet:
th Chateau Coutet originated in the 13 century and is owned today by the Bally family. Phillippe Bally greeted the party who first visited the gardens and premises before an explanation of how the Château’s wine is made. Then came the wine tasting of Chartreuse de Coutet (the Chateau’s second wine) in the garden before lunch.
The speeches were short and whimsical and concluded with a superb “Tour de Force” by the Father of the Court Geoffrey Churton. He clearly demonstrated that age does not impair the ability to hold a room spellbound. HMS MONTROSE At the end of July 2007 HMS Montrose returned to Devonport after a successful seven-month NATO deployment in the Mediterranean. On 13th September Court Assistant David Sills visited HMS Montrose in Devonport to present the annual Distillers’ Trophy and cheque to the winning mess. He received a very warm welcome and submitted his report. “They were all very kind and hospitable, despite (or perhaps because of) my admitting to having been in the Junior Service. The Commanding Officer, Andy Hogben, is very genial and was himself only a week into his post - so the crew were all on their toes.
No prizes in guessing this was the party at the Chateau in good form after an excellent lunch and superb wines
The new Commanding Officer, Andy Hogben
I reported at 11:15am as arranged. A quick scamper through the ship; a cup of coffee with the CO and then met Ian Hassle (our Liaison Officer), who according to the CO is a "Stoker”. Down to the Leading Hands Mess for the presentation; a brief word about how gratifying as a newly formed Mess to win at the first attempt; and more gratifying to push the Wardroom into 3rd place; and perhaps still more gratifying to pip the POs' Mess into 2nd place. They seemed quite pleased to receive the trophy, accepted by Leading Seaman Gary Phillips, a proper sailor who knew about knots and stuff. It was obviously a keenly fought contest, taken rather seriously. Then a drink on the bridge and down to lunch with the CO, together with Ian and Gary Phillips. All very pleasant. Both Ian and Andy stressed how keen they are to push the affiliation indeed all their affiliations - so Snapper (Assistant David Raines) can expect a stream of offers for cruises, trips round the bay, etc. We might even get them to train their 4½ inch siege gun on the Apothecaries, but perhaps that carries a grudge too far!”
evening sunshine and imagining the great players who have graced this wonderfully unique ground.
HISTORY: Nicholson’s Gin and the MCC The recent visit to Lord’s cricket ground identified the connection between Nicholson’s Gin and the MCC. Following this visit the Master contacted Past Master Richard (Dickie) Nicholson to learn the following: Dickie’s Great Grandfather William Nicholson was born in Upper Holloway in 1824 and played cricket for the Harrow XI between 1841 and 1845 and for the Gentlemen against the Players from 1846 to 1858. He was a free scoring batsman and very competent wicket keeper. William Nicholson was a great benefactor to the MCC but perhaps it was “his generosity with his ample purse for which he was best remembered” as he provided the funding of some £21,000 that enabled the MCC to buy the freehold of the present ground in 1866, and to enable the construction in 1889/90 of the present world famous pavilion. He was elected as President of the MCC in 1879, at a time when few commoners were given cricket’s highest honour, and given the source of his wealth, in the early days the Pavilion gloried in the nickname of the “gin palace”. Prior to his involvement the MCC colours were light blue, as per our Distillers’ Livery, but the club took the red and gold colours, that remain world famous to this day from the colours of the Nicholson’s Gin label of the time as a gesture of thanks to William Nicholson for safeguarding the future of the MCC. He th died in London in 1909, a few weeks before his 85 birthday and it is recognised that few members have ever served MCC with such loyalty and generosity.
David Sills makes the presentation of the Distillers’ Trophy to Leading Seaman Gary Phillips of the Leading Hands Mess David Sills gleaned nuggets of indispensable information during his visit including the steward who served lunch has been redesignated "Logistician - Catering Services Delivery" under some management consultant inspired interference with the RN system. No wonder he was nervous! Also it is claimed when the turbine after-burners are switched to full power to over-ride the electric motors, the ship’s fuel consumption rises to 3 feet per gallon! No wonder they use the turbines sparingly although the speed is amazing! LORD’S VISIT The Master arranged an evening at Lord’s cricket ground with considerable help from liveryman and fellow MCC member Michael Campbell. Some forty-four liverymen and guests, ranging in cricketing savvy from students of Wisden to those who don't know a googly from a gulley, assembled in the Pavilion Writing Room looking out over the immaculate hallowed turf that was being prepared for the following week's test match against India. After traditional cricketing tea and biscuits (but alas no egg sarnies!) we were taken to the ultra modern Media Centre from where we enjoyed the best view in the ground, looking straight down the wicket, as we learnt of the history of Lord’s. We discovered that the famous MCC colours of red and orange had their origins in the colours of the label of Nicholson’s Gin, but more later. The group visited the museum with the Ashes Urn the highlight, the Real Tennis Court, where nobody was prepared to take their GCSE in the rules of the game, the home team dressing room where the England opening bat Alastair Cook was brushing up on Australian culture by watching Neighbours and the famous Long Room with its many paintings and memories. The cocktail party, which followed in the Pavilion, was enhanced by being able to spill out on to the Pavilion forecourt in the
Until recently ladies have not been allowed into the Lord’s Pavilion except on special occasions. However Lady Thatcher was addressing the fund raising Lady Taverners in the Long Room at Lord’s: “We ladies are very happy to have been allowed into the Long Room,” she said. “But what my husband would make of it is probably unrepeatable. This pavilion was made after a donation from a Mr Nicholson, who made his fortune as a distiller of gin. So when Dennis raises his glass he likes to feel that he’s doing his bit.”
THE MANSION HOUSE LIVERY AND LADIES BANQUET
th On Friday 28 September liverymen and their guests attended the Livery and Ladies Banquet at the Mansion House. Greeting the guests at the champagne reception to a selection of music was the Aris Quintet, students of the Guildhall School of Music.
GOLFING SECTION: Results of 2007 Golf Matches Golf Match v The Vintners The first match was played on 27th March at Royal Wimbledon and ended in victory for the Vintners. If sheer weight of numbers counted then the Distillers should have won the match easily. There were eleven Distillers to the Vintners seven. The Master of the Vintners, Edward Demery, brought in his son Rupert and the eminent barrister and Wimbledon member Nigel Wilkinson to bolster his side. The Match Manager Terry Barr generously - if mistakenly - lent them one of our finest players, Michael Campbell, to complete their team and of course he proceeded to win his match. The Prince Arthur Cup th The Prince Arthur Cup was played on 17 May and is a Livery competition held at Walton Heath over two rounds of foursome golf. It is one of the biggest amateur golf tournaments in the golfing calendar and 54 Livery companies enter a team of four players. Starting out in torrential rain, the morning rounds were only average and the Distillers were a long way down the field at the half way stage. After some excellent burgundy at lunchtime the afternoon rounds saw a dramatic improvement in everyone's swing and with the sun coming out the result was a very creditable 7th overall. Very well done to the team of Captain Robert Brooks, James Espey, Michael Campbell and Michael Morgan.
Leaving the magnificent Saloon and Drawing Room members and their guests made their way into the grand Egyptian Hall for dinner. Following a superb four-course meal with a fine selection of wine, port and malt whisky members stood and sang the national anthem. In an entertaining speech Past Master Nigel Churton MBE welcomed the Lord Mayor Alderman John Stuttard and his wife Lesley, thanking him for allowing the Company to use his home for the Dinner.
The Master with the Lord Mayor Alderman John Stuttard Mr Churton spoke of the Lord Mayor’s considerable achievements in the City of London and proposed the toast to the Lord Mayor, the City of London Corporation and the Sheriffs. The Lord Mayor replied welcoming the Distillers and their Ladies to the Egyptian Room, which he said can be very lonely without company. Mentioning the Company’s close affiliation with the London Scottish Regiment and HMS Montrose, the Lord Mayor proposed the health of the Worshipful Company of Distillers.
Golf Day th Sixteen liverymen played at West Kent on 15 June and this year’s winner of the Budge Brooks Shield was John Barnes with a total score of 34 points (best back nine). Graham Franklin was in second place with Ian Harris third. The Master’s team with a total score of 122 points won the team prize. He also won the prize for nearest the pin on the 8th hole. Past Master David Grant was awarded the consolation prize for “the most improved golfer!” Golf Match v The Brewers On 7th August at Denham, under a clear blue sky, we produced some inspired golf, which meant that the match was won. Lunch in the timber-framed clubhouse surrounded by stuffed heads of wild animals was exceptional, accompanied by some very fine wine. Scottish Golf Day th On 9 October encouraged by the initiative of Assistant Brian Morrison and his supportive sub committee of Past Master Tim Morrison and Assistant Kenny Mackay, a first ever Distillers Golf Day was held in Scotland at the splendid Prestwick GC, one time venue for the Open A fine lunch in the traditional surrounds of the elegant clubhouse was followed by a competitive 18 holes of team medal golf on the magnificent sun drenched links. The Master, two Past Masters and eight liverymen were joined by two candidates and two potential candidates and with the best two scores from each team counting the result saw the team of Tim Morrison, Bob Howell and Mike Keiller taking the honours. We were joined by a further two candidates for dinner, that had been advertised as being in a “room in a pub”. However the location turned out to be in a near Michelin starred restaurant where we enjoyed a most excellent meal. Kenny Mackay generously presented a “mystery” prize, namely a magnum of top quality Marc de Burgoyne, which was awarded to the Master for……………..the shortest drive of the day! The magnum was then decanted and passed around the table to be shared by all.
The Master and his Lady together with guest of honour Christopher Walker and his wife Janet The Master Mr Keith Garrard outlined the Lord Mayor’s busy year highlighting his trips to countries all over the world. The Master’s principal guest was Mr Christopher Walker who opened the batting for Middlesex. Christopher is an Orthopaedic Consultant and a member of the Worshipful Company of Apothecaries. Mr Walker responded by mentioning the competition that existed between his company, the Apothecaries and the Distillers some 380 years ago. He had been a friend of the Master for over 45 years and their common interest was cricket and fine wines. In the past the Master had consulted Christopher about his knees, resulting in an operation. In the theatre the Master made one last request “what is the test match score?” South Africa 230 for 5 wickets before the anaesthetic took over.
The Master thanked all concerned participating in a great day out.
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Officers for 2007/08 At the June Court meeting the following were elected into office to be installed at the November Dinner: Mr Derek Plant as Master Mr Charles Maxwell as Upper Warden Mr Simon Leschallas as Middle Warden Mr David Sills as Renter Warden Marriage The Immediate Past Master’s daughter, Susannah Grant, who was elected Steward in April, married Andres Peres de Herrasti in May in Chinchon (the traditional centre for the distillation of Spanish Anis). Some 400 guests enjoyed the open-air party and danced the night away, literally, until the couple left at 6.45 am. The guard of honour was formed by members of the order of the Real Maestranza de Caballeria de Granada, whose uniform Andres wore; it was founded in 1686, contemporaneous with our Company, and still headed by the king. The couple will continue living in London where Andres works for an international wine company.
Liverymen participating were the Master, Michael Beamish, Billy Dunn, Graham Franklin, Ian Harris, Bob Howell, Mike Keiller, Kenny Mackay, Brian Morrison, Tim Morrison and Rupert Patrick. Golfing Dates for 2008 If you would like to play in the next year’s events please contact the match managers as follows: 26th March: Match v Vintners at Royal Wimbledon GC Terry Barr T: 020 8542 9472 or email: terence.barr@yahoo.co.uk 15th May: Prince Arthur Cup at Walton Heath GC Robert Brooks T: 07785 393432 or email: bertie_brooks@hotmail.com 20th June: Distillers Golf Day at West Kent GC Graham Franklin T: 07802 761548 or email: ggfranklin3@aol.com 5th Aug: Match v Brewers at Denham GC Simon Leschallas T: 01985 851049 or email: simon@mentzendorff.co.uk October (date tba) Scottish Golf Day at Prestwick GC Keith Garrard T: 01795 421173 or email: keith.garrard@onetel.com These golf matches comprise a morning round followed by an excellent luncheon accompanied by fine wine. If you feel in the mood after lunch there is an optional afternoon round. The golf committee are expanding the section by organising more matches and offering membership to all those interested in playing. All those wishing to join the Golfing Society should contact Keith Garrard.
Forthcoming Events and Dates 14th Nov Installation Court meeting and Dinner at Vintners’ Hall 19th Dec Carol Service at St Lawrence Jewry and supper at Innholders’ Hall 2008 th 7 Feb Court Lunch and Scholarship presentation Ladies Luncheon, both at Vintners’ Hall th 18 Feb Tequila Lecture at WSET th 10 Apr Visit to Paris and Luncheon 23rd Apr Court meeting and Dinner at Vintners’ Hall May Visit to the Clockmakers Museum at Guildhall and Supper st 1 Jun Court visit to the Languedoc. 26th Jun Court Meeting and Lunch (Court only) at Tallow Chandlers’ Hall. th 19 Nov Installation Court meeting and Dinner at Vintners’ Hall Our Website: www.distillers.org.uk Our web site is proving most useful enabling members of the livery to check the dates of future events. Liveryman’s guests are able to research our history and discover all about this ancient city livery company and the important roll we play in the city today.
LIVERY NEWS Admissions to the Freedom and Livery At the April Court meeting the Master appointed Mr David Lindsay, Miss Susannah Grant and Mr Alex Parker to the office of Steward, with Mr Jonathan Driver also being appointed at the June meeting. The Freedom was granted to Mr Abhishek Banik, Mr Simon Clarke and Mr Barry Johnstone, all being the Company’s scholars. In addition Mr Robert Rishworth received his freedom by redemption and to Mr George Maxwell by patrimony. The livery was granted to Mr Stuart Kaye and Mr Philip Mills by redemption. Finally at the June Court meeting the Honorary Freedom of the Company was granted to HE the Ambassador of Chile, Senor Rafael Moreno.
The Distillate
The editor Robert Hobson is retiring with effect from the end of the year and will be replaced by Anthony Westnedge OBE. If anyone has any news or stories for use in the Distillate, please contact Anthony. T: 020 8467 8656, email: anthonywestnedge@enta.com
THE OUTGOING MASTER’S REPORT: Keith Garrard
th 5 Sep Beefeater Distillery Inspection Lunch Nursing Yeomanry Guildhall th 19 Sep Glass Sellers dinner 22nd Sep Cask Group Lunch th 28 Sep Livery and Ladies Banquet at Mansion House nd 2 Oct Vintage festival and lunch th 8 Oct Keepers of the Quaich Dinner at Blair Athol Castle 9th Oct Scottish Golf Day at Prestwick GC th 11 Oct WSET Annual Lecture 18th Oct Framework Knitters Banquet th 25 Oct Vintners Livery Banquet 30th Oct Lord Mayor’s Appeal st 1 Nov Lady Mayoress reception at Mansion House 5th Nov Poppy Day Appeal at St Paul’s th 9 Nov Mistress Badge Ceremony at WSET
Many will have come to appreciate my keenness for sport, and I can think of no better year to have been your Master as it has kept my mind off other things. At the time of my installation we held the Ashes and the Rugby World Cup. At the time of writing the one is long since gone and the other appears to be going south as well, albeit after a remarkably encouraging defence. However the year has brought many exciting compensations through Livery life in general and our own Company in particular. The most pleasing comments I have received from many other Masters and guests have related to the friendliness of our liverymen and the fact that such a large percentage of us are related to our Trade in one way or another. A much-envied situation, one we should not take for granted and one for which we can all be proud. The year has flown by, but has been much enjoyed by Ailsa and myself. We have thoroughly appreciated the encouragement, help and support we have received from so many and the involvement of willing “volunteers” at different events has ensured their success and the enjoyment of participants. I just hope you have had as much pleasure from them as we have! The Livery is in good shape. I have chaired or attended most of our committee meetings, the majority of which are held in our Distillers’ Room at the WSET. I must thank all members for their enthusiasm, dedication and hard work. There is always so much going on behind the scenes as we strive to improve and better the Livery. Without exception the meetings are fun and rewarding and there is always the wine bar downstairs afterwards! All Livery Companies have affinities with trades close to their own and I have much enjoyed the friendship and hospitality of our friends and colleagues in the Cask Group. I have also been pleased to develop friendships within other Companies and have learnt much from the experience. I thank you again for all your much-appreciated support, and wish Master-elect Derek Plant every success in the coming year. Events Attended
th 27 Apr Heriot-Watt Lecture, Edinburgh th 9 May Cooks Company Dinner, Innholders’ Hall Funeral and eulogy for Budge Brooks 3rd June Court Trip to Bordeaux 15th Jun Distillers Golf Day at West Kent GC followed by Livery weekend at Ironbridge 25th Jun Sheriffs Common Hall and lunch. th 26 Jun Court Meeting at Tallow Chandlers’ Hall th 28 Jun Lunch at Chilean Ambassador’s residence nd 2 July Cricket at Sutton Valence School. rd 3 July Masters & Clerks Dinner at Innholders’ Hall 9th July Sheriffs and Recorders Fund at Old Bailey th 12 July Lord’s Tour and Cocktail Party 18th July Garden Party at Buckingham Palace nd 2 Aug Lunch at Butchers’ Hall 8th Aug Golf Match v Brewers
THE LATE BUDGE BROOKS
th Past Master Budge Brooks died peacefully on 13 May and the Master, Keith Garrard, was honoured by Budge’s family to nd present the eulogy at his funeral on 22 May. We thought other liverymen would be interested in learning more of a great man through reproducing his tribute.
Budge with Past Master Nigel Churton and Pat Vallas “Budge was a wonderful friend and colleague, a caring and loving Husband, Father and Grandfather. Why was it that anyone with such distinguished names as William Ian Baverstock Brooks should be known as Budge? Apparently when he was a toddler he used to sit on his potty and refuse to budge. The nickname was created that was to stay with him for life and, of course, there was never any doubt as to who was being referred to. There has only ever been one “Budge”. Born on Thames Ditton Island opposite the Swan Hotel, Budge lived all his life in this area. He was away at sea during the war when at the age of 25 he had his own command of a minesweeper. He married Pat shortly after getting his demob papers and settled back into local life. He was one of those responsible for regenerating the London wine trade in post war years. They were not easy times as stock was strictly rationed and much time had to be spent over extended lunches in the Wine Trade Club negotiating the changing of Bristol Cream with whatever whisky might be available. He would never of course be lunching alone, and a feature of the trade in those days was the way competitors became the closest of friends. Customers were also friends and Budge built up a huge network of people who were indebted to him for introducing them to the joys of wine. Budge was invited to a very special lunch in the Guildhall to celebrate his 50 years in the Trade. Budge threw himself into the affairs of the City of London and was elected to the Court of Common Council in 1967, representing the Ward of Cripplegate, which extended to 37 years.
During this period he was to become a respected and active member of many sub committees covering areas of Finance, the City Police, Spitalfields and Billingsgate Markets, and the Barbican Management and Residents. He was also on the Board of Governors of the City of London Freeman’s School and outside of Corporation affairs had the honour to be President of the Rotary Club of London nearly 50 years ago. Budge was a member of Thames Ditton Tennis Club and good enough to play for Surrey for a number of years. He captained Esher Rugby Club with great enthusiasm, but with little knowledge of the rules, which became apparent when he briefly tried his hand at refereeing. He was a member of the Esher Rugby Club Golfing Society, a big supporter of the Playgoers Golfing Society and a long-term member of Burhill Golf Club where he was elected Captain in 1972. Within the Worshipful Company of Distillers he was well known and respected organising the company’s golf days for over 30 years. The Distillers Golf Day attendees have competed for the Budge Brooks Shield for the past 25 years in a sternly contested stableford competition. Budge became a member of the Worshipful Company of Distillers in 1958 and in 1982 he was a popular and much respected Master. He encouraged progress and embraced change and he was supportive of younger members of the Court. During his last months he would never burden friends with his illness always responding to enquiries about his state of health by emphasising that he was “all right”. Budge will be sorely missed, but he will be fondly remembered by all of those who were privileged to have known him. THE LATE JOHN BECKERLEG John was with James Burrough from 1979 as International Sales Director and then moved into Allied Domecq's head office as Commercial Risk manager in 1997. He was also a member of the Keepers of the Quaich and aged 53 at the time of his unexpected death. John joined Beefeater Gin in the late 1970's and survived the take over by both Whitbread and Allied. He left the company last year shortly after the Pernod Ricard purchase and had just become a non-executive of Hayman, Barwell & Jones at the time of his death. John was instrumental in the growth of Beefeater in Spain - now about a million cases. He lived in Madrid for a while before returning to the UK where he worked on a range of business projects for Allied. John's leaves a wife, Cathy and a son and daughter.
WSET UPDATE
The academic year 2006/07 ended with a record 21,420 students having taking a WSET qualification in one of the 41 countries where WSET courses are available. For the first time in the 38-year history of the WSET, the number of international candidates exceeded the number of those who study in the UK. Our suite of qualifications now numbers six, with the launch of the International Higher Certificate following on closely from the Foundation Certificate in Wine and the Professional Certificate in Spirits. Since it was launched in 2004, nearly 1,000 students have completed the WSET Professional Certificate in Spirits and until now the courses were run during the day, the preferred option for people working in the industry. However to cater for the enthusiast and especially members of the Worshipful Company of Distillers who are based near London and want to learn more about spirits from the organisation, which is the biggest educator in the field of wines and spirits in the world, we will be running an EVENING COURSE in January/February 2008. The cost of the course, including all samples (you will have the chance to taste over 50 samples across all the spirits categories) is normally £335, but members of the Worshipful Company of Distillers will receive a 10% discount, bringing the cost down to £301.50. This special rate extends to friends, family, and colleagues of livery members. Just mention "Distillers" when making your booking. On the successful completion of the course, you will have learned a great deal about the fascinating world of spirits and possess a certificate to prove it! The course starts at 6.30pm on the evening of Wednesday 9th January with a programme as follows: 9 Jan 16th Jan rd 23 Jan 30th Jan th 6 Feb 13th Feb th 20 Feb 27th Feb
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Market overview/distillation methods/ tasting technique Brandy Scotch whisky Other whiskey and rum Vodka & tequila Gin and flavoured spirits Liqueurs and fruit spirits, plus revision session Examination
All enquiries to the Clerk
The Worshipful Company of Distillers
71 Lincoln’s Inn Fields London WC2A 3JF Tel: 020 7405 7091 We couldn’t resist inserting this photo taken close to Vintners Hall. Anyone spot the funny side?
