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The Worshipful Company of Distillers
IN THIS ISSUE
A very different year.
Our charitable work
exceeds all expectations.
Interview with The Chairman The annual review of
of Brown Forman – Garvin Brown the Master’s Year
December 2020
Distillate2020v5.indd 1 20/11/2020 16:36
DIARY OF DATES
Please see our website for further details
www.distillers.org.uk or contact the Assistant Clerk,
December 2020 Mrs Kim Lyons, klyons@lbmw.com, telephone 020 7960 7173.
Further dates will be added and notified via email.
CONTENTS Officers Informal Events will be notified during the year.
Events may be cancelled due to the current Covid-19 crisis.
A Very Different Year������������������������������������������������ 3 The Master
The Master's Charity Bike Ride�������������������������������� 5
Mr Jonathan Driver 2021
A Dram’s a Dram������������������������������������������������������ 7
February Luncheon�������������������������������������������������� 8 Upper Warden Thursday, 11th February 2021
Consort’s Lunch������������������������������������������������������ 10 Mr Chris Porter Court Meeting and Livery Luncheon: Painters’ Hall
Distillers’ Charity Highlights����������������������������������� 10 Middle Warden
Thursday, 22nd April 2021
The Drinks Trust����������������������������������������������������� 10 Mr Chris Searle
Alcohol Education Trust����������������������������������������� 11 Court Meeting and Livery Dinner: Skinners’ Hall
Renter Warden
New Education Programme for the Livery������������� 11 Wednesday, 23rd June 2021
Lorne Mackillop MW
The Barking & Dagenham Future Youth Zone������� 11 Court Meeting and Luncheon (Court & Stewards
Winner of the WCD MSc scholarship��������������������� 12 Immediate Past Master
Mr Kenny MacKay only): Innholders Hall
WSET���������������������������������������������������������������������� 12
Badges for Past Masters and Mistresses���������������� 13 Father of the Court Wednesday, 12th May 2021
The Past Masters' Committee�������������������������������� 13 Mr Charles Minoprio Inter-Livery Shoot: Holland & Holland
Industry Committee Report����������������������������������� 13 Clerk
The Distillate Interview with Garvin Brown������������ 14 Saturday, 22nd May 2021
Mr Edward Macey-Dare City Livery Yacht Club - Inter-Livery Sailing Regatta
The Scottish Committee���������������������������������������� 16
Website redesign��������������������������������������������������� 16 Assistant Clerk
Marketing Committee Report ������������������������������� 16 Mrs Kim Lyons Thursday, 9th September 2021
Spirit & Wine Committee��������������������������������������� 16 The Beadle Court Meeting and Scottish Livery Dinner: Signet
The Gin Guild �������������������������������������������������������� 16 Mr John Cash MBE Library
Jenever induction��������������������������������������������������� 17 Friday, 12th November 2021
Pickering’s Gin�������������������������������������������������������� 17
Our thanks go to all our Pre-Lord Mayor’s Show Dinner: Saddlers’ Hall
Hayman’s Gin Distillery ����������������������������������������� 18
A View from the City���������������������������������������������� 19 contributors and the editorial team
Thursday, 18th November 2021
Keepers of the Quaich ������������������������������������������ 20 at Paragraph Publishing, Steward Installation Court Meeting and Livery Dinner:
Lee Bolton Monier-Williams ���������������������������������� 20 Damian Riley-Smith, Bethany Vintners’ Hall
Pollinating London Together���������������������������������� 21 Whymark, Tim A Court, and our
Queen’s Birthday Honours������������������������������������� 22 Learned Clerk, Ed Macey- Dare, Tuesday, 14th December 2021
825 NAS����������������������������������������������������������������� 22 Carol Service, St Lawrence Jewry followed by
for producing this year’s edition.
HMS Montrose������������������������������������������������������� 22 Supper in the Members’ Dining Room: Guildhall
Affiliates Day���������������������������������������������������������� 22 We hope you enjoy it which was
603 (City of Edinburgh) Squadron������������������������� 23 produced under difficult conditions.
2022
A (London Scottish) Company������������������������������� 23 We are continually striving to
The Car Club Spirit������������������������������������������������� 24 improve the magazine and would Thursday, 10th February 2022
The origins of the Distillers' golf���������������������������� 25 warmly welcome your feedback. Court Meeting and Livery Luncheon:
Ewan Lacey and Saturday TV breakfast����������������� 26 Apothecaries’ Hall
Heart and Memormy of the industry��������������������� 26
Please don’t hesitate to contact me
Installation Ceremony�������������������������������������������� 27 at finchpj@btinternet.com if you have Thursday, 28th April 2022
Meet your new Master������������������������������������������� 27 any comments. Court Meeting and Livery Dinner: Grocers’ Hall
Distillers' Song: "Good Heart!"����������������������������� 28 Paul Finch
List of Appointments���������������������������������������������� 28 Wednesday, 22nd June 2022
The Editor
Court Meeting and Luncheon (Court & Stewards
only): Barber Surgeons’ Hall
Golf Secretary: Graham Franklin: ggfranklin3@aol.com
Car Club Secretary: Nick Carr: carrnicholas@yahoo.co.uk
Inter Livery Shoot: Alex Parker awparker@londonandscottish.co.uk
Please contact individuals above if you wished to be placed on
their email circulation lists.
Cover image:
Upper Warden Middle Warden Renter Warden The Master and Mistress Kenny and Kathy MacKay
Chris Porter. Chris Searle Lorne Mackillop MW
Lorne Mackillop MW Renter Warden
After graduating from London Master of Wine. He served as a Dundee, he works in a commercial He joined the Livery in November
University in 1977, Lorne joined the Councillor of the Institute of Masters role responsible for the exports to 2010 and, until recently, chaired the
wine trade, having worked during of Wine in 1986 and also became the North America, Scandinavia, parts Industry Committee (now renamed
university vacations for André Simon Institute’s representative trustee on of Europe, Australasia, and other the Industry and Membership
Wines in Belgravia. Starting at the the WSET from 1989-1993. diverse territories, along with the Committee), before passing the
bottom rung of the Company, he Lorne remained in the restaurant UK Duty-Free market. He also has a reins to Trevor Stirling. He is looking
rose to become Branch Manager of and wine trade with City Restaurants non-commercial role as the Master forward to serving the Livery in his
the Knightsbridge Branch, and then Plc and First Fine Wine (London) Blender (palate) of the Angus Dundee new role as Renter Warden, assisting
the Mayfair branch. He joined the Plc until May 1993, when he joined group, and the selector of single casks the new Master in these very
Malmaison Wine Club in 1983 and, in Angus Dundee Distillers Plc - where behind the “Mackillop’s Choice”, an challenging times.
1984, became the world’s youngest he remains to this day. At Angus Independent Bottler brand. Editor
2 www.distillers.org.uk
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The Distillate 2019 | THE MASTER
A Very Different Year
I will remember my installation prior to the Calcutta Cup.
ceremony and dinner for the rest of We managed to reach London
my life. A mixture of apprehension, in time for the February Court
terror, elation, relief, gratitude and meeting and lunch in Girdlers' Hall,
expectation. Elation and relief that which is another stand-out memory
one had got through it without too for both of us. Again, the Mistress
much embarrassment; gratitude for and I were struck by the sheer
the genuinely warm welcome from goodwill and camaraderie within
the Livery; and a great expectation our Livery and from outside.
for the year ahead. And then the world changed.
The carol service was a great The spread in Asia of the coming
highlight, as always and we were coronavirus pandemic began
delighted that our minister from my to cause concern and the first
home-town church in Auchterarder tangible effect on us was the
was able to attend and was made terrible decision to have to cancel
so welcome by all of you. Not the Court trip to Japan. This had
knowing what to expect, she was been years in the planning, and I
immediately struck by the warmth had hoped it would be a highlight
of welcome from the Livery. of the year, but cancellation was the
That sense of expectation only option.
continued in 2020 and the year A very busy week in the City in
started at the same rate, with 14 early March with four events and a
events leading up to the February wonderful visit to Plymouth saw us
lunch. Highlights among them drive back to Scotland exhausted,
included: opening the Alkmaar but elated - and sadly, apart from
Whisky Festival 10th anniversary the bike ride, we have not been
in the Netherlands, before flying back to London.
out of Amsterdam just ahead of The gloom of the early weeks
Hurricane Ciara; and making it to of lockdown had to be tempered
Edinburgh for the Informal Scottish by a sense of perspective, in the
Livery Lunch at 603 Squadron, knowledge that many others were
TOP RIGHT:
The Master.
BOTTOM:
Master and
Mistress with
family.
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THE MASTER | The Distillate 2020
much worse off. What has happened military affiliations, industry,
since is a major testament to what the auction, the reorganisation
the Distillers are all about. It was team, spirits and wine, marketing,
clear that Livery life as we knew it finance or the bike ride team, the
would have to change - and change level of commitment demonstrated
it did. by our groups and committees
Our charity appeal and Whisky is something I am hugely
Auction in aid of the Drinks Trust grateful for.
raised in excess of £100,000 and Last but not least, thanks also to
I am deeply appreciative of the the Clerk’s office, Ed and Kim and
whole task force team for their also to our development director
efforts on this front. Clive for their excellent support.
I am completely in awe of A very different year, but one
the commitment of those in our where I have been honoured to
Livery who have worked this year serve as your Master. Thank you.
in a very different way. Whether Kenny MacKay
it be charity, vocational training, Master 2019 - 2020
4 www.distillers.org.uk
Distillate2020v5.indd 4 20/11/2020 16:36
THE MASTER | The Distillate 2020 The Distillate 2020 | THE MASTER
The Master's Charity Bike Ride raises £40,000
The Distillers' 500 bike run was frequently being rewritten.
like nothing I have ever done before. Four other Liverymen - the
The idea hatched somewhere in the Learned Clerk Ed Macey-Dare,
late afternoon following the 2019 David Wilson, Alan Montague-
June Court lunch (says it all!!) was Dennis and James Higgins - together
simple: we will ride 500 miles from with prospective Liverymen Scott
Scotland to London for Charity. Allen and Simon Swift, joined me
Having never enjoyed endurance - and what a group they were! We
sports, the idea was to do something were also superbly supported in the
challenging to help keep my weight back-up team with Jonathan Driver
off during my Master's year and also and the Mistress, who excelled at
to try and inspire those younger every food stop and ensured we
than me with the Livery Charity were perfectly fuelled for the task.
vision of giving back. To say the ride was “memorable”
Initially, the plan was to leave would be a massive understatement;
my home in Auchterarder on my indeed, one of the riders described
60th birthday in April, but Covid-19 it as a “life changing experience” As
got in the way and we eventually I write, the memories continue to
settled on arriving in London on bring a smile to my face.
22nd September – to coincide with The excitement of the arrival
the Lord Mayor's City Giving Day. by train of the team from London
Apart from the training miles, and a socially distanced supper at
there was the small matter of the Gleneagles - where the pre ride pep
logistics and organisation for a talk was conducted by text - and
week-long event of this nature. the sheer relief of getting started
Again, I am hugely in James Higgins on day one from home with friends
and David Raines’ debt for a superb and neighbours waving us off, were
organisational plan. A huge task early highlights.
- and with frequent changes in The Forth Road Bridge crossing
Covid-19 restrictions, plans were and then dodging the buses in
FACING PAGE,
FROM TOP: The
Master, Peter
MacKay, Lucy
Coomber. The
February Lunch
THIS PAGE FROM
TOP: The Master
at the Forth road
bridge. Bottom
Distillers doing
what Distillers do!
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THE MASTER | The Distillate 2020
Princess Street in the shadow of Despite the differing riding Leeming (and a morning outing with arriving at King's College, where
Edinburgh Castle with the Learned abilities and experience, all the RAF Cycle team) and cycling we were welcomed by the Domus
Clerk was not for the feint hearted committed to the cause, enjoying through Doncaster Town Centre - Bursar Philip Isaac in beautiful
and, once through the City we were the incredible experience together all navigated slightly better than by early evening sunshine, was surreal
on our way - a magical ride through in incredible scenery. the Back Up bus! - are all memories would be an understatement and
the borders in what I swear must Because of the outstanding as vivid today as they were in the next morning, as we stood
have been the clearest day ever. weather, our arrivals in the late real time. eating the best bacon baguettes
Having crossed into England we afternoon invariably led to a We all remarked what a beautiful ever for breakfast, overlooking the
were able to switch from our groups seat outside and the collective country we are privileged to live in, Cam in the King’s College garden,
of two into a larger group and, as we satisfaction and enjoyment of none more so than the Fens which there was a palpable sense of
all stopped for coffee on the south what went on to become known as we skirted around on our way to emotion within the group.
bank of the Tweed for the first time, “recovery lagers”. Cambridge, carefully navigating A fitting start to the last day – and
I was aware of what a great “Esprit A misty early morning crossing around a herd of cattle on the what a day it was!!! The weather
de Corps” already existed in the the Tyne Bridge, The Angel of The cycle path. was even warmer and the miles
group. North, Mason's Gin Distillery, RAF To say that the experience of flew by until lunch when, almost
unbelievably, we were ready for
the final stretch to Mansion House
- with Grant Gordon, our Charity
chairman, joining us to provide
support and willing us on to
the end.
Riding into the City had a different
feel, with the euphoria of knowing
that we were going to complete the
task and I am sure some of us shed a
wee tear as we rode up to Innholders
to be met by friends and family.
After the celebrations, there was
one last ride to Mansion House and
the presentation of our cheque for
£20k to the Lord Mayor for onward
donation to Future Youth Zone
in Dagenham.
If I thought that would end the
highlights, I was wrong - for we then
moved on to St Lawrence Jewry for
a short Service of Thanksgiving,
led by our Chaplain Rev Canon
David Parrott. This was incredibly
moving, giving thanks for our
safe arrival and the work of
the Distillers' Charity and our
beneficiaries. Gavin Evans gave
an inspirational insight into
Future Youth's work and we
were all able to give our own
thanks to God for what had
been achieved.
A final dinner - in socially
distanced groups - was a lovely
finish for the group.
THIS PAGE, A total of £40k is our best
FROM TOP: Kings estimate of what we raised, with
College. A light £20k going to the riders' personal
lunch. chosen charities. I am sure all the
riders would like to join me in
thanking the Livery, our friends,
families and business associates
for their incredible donations
making this all possible. I would
also pay huge tribute and thanks to
all the support groups from within
the Livery for their sterling work
– and, in particular, the Mistress,
Kathy for her great support and
encouragement for this and
everything else this year.
Kenny MacKay
Master 2019 - 2020
6 www.distillers.org.uk
Distillate2020v5.indd 6 20/11/2020 16:36
The Distillate 2020 | THE MASTER
Two Celtic Bards
A Dram’s a Dram
by Kenny MacKay
Is there that wonders why today, Then also here and in guid cheer
We gaither here for a’ that, The Military and a’ that
A glass o wine and food sae fine, Oor Navy, Army, Air Force friends
Wi Uisge Bheatha and a’ that, Oor nation’s guard an a’ that
An’ a’ that an’ a’that, An a’ that an a’ that
Repleat we’ll be wi’ a’ that, Hae oor respect for a’ that.
Distillers reputation lies The young professionals in the room
in being guid at a’ that. We thee salute for a’ that
In London toon wi’ coloured goon The educators gathered tae
The Liveries meet an a’ that. And students keen as a’ that
Process, compete and meet and greet. Who learnt their trade and how it’s made
And wine and dine an’ a’ that. And won awards an a’ that
An’ a’ that an’ a’ that. An’ a’ that an’ a’ that
A richt guid time an’ a’ that We wish you well in a’ that
But ne’er forget the guid they’ve done A better industry than this
For centuries an’ a’ that. You couldnae pick frae a’ that
So let’s remember Charity There are some thanks I need to make.
The Common Guid an’ a’ that Tae Girdlers Hall an’ a’ that.
For those wi’ less than us today Their clerk, their beadle, caterers too.
Ne’er dare forget for a’ that Hae done us proud wi’ a’ that
An’ a’ that an’ a’ that For a’ that and a’ that
We’ll ne’er flinch at a’ that Fur bellies foo and a’ that
and gie tae others less well off We gae oor thanks unto the Lord
Distillers will for a’ that. His hand provides us a’ that
Theirs ither Masters here today An’ now today were on oor way
Oor Cask group friends and a’ that. And that’s the end o’ a’ that
The Brewers, Coopers and their clerks. But first wi’ intro frae oor clerk
Are welcome here for a’ that. Some Auld Lang Syne an’ a’ that
For a’ that and a’ that. An’ a’ that an’ a’ that
Their beer and casks an a’ that. A weel kent song for a’ that.
Sae complimentary tae oor trade It’s sung tae celebrate guid friends.
Sae grateful we for a’ that. Aroond the world an’ a’ that.
And then these vessels in oor hands And so let’s stand and hold a hand,
Glass sellers craft and a’ that. O Mine and sing for a’ that,
Decanters, bottles large and sma’. And gae oor thanks tae Robert Burns,
Oor spirit needs to store that. Oor National Bard for a’ that,
For a’ that and a’ that An’ a’ that an’ a’ that,
Where would we be without that His influence an’ a’ that,
Wi’ simple glasses raised aloft On whisky sales o’er a’ the world,
Slainthe Mhath and a’ that A Dram’s a dram for a’ that.
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FELLOWSHIP & CONVIVIALITY | The Distillate 2020
February Luncheon
On a typical February day, learned and gallant Clerks. He
the luncheon was held in also welcomed 10 new Liverymen,
the beautiful Girdlers’ Hall, a new Corporate Freeman, Rita
following a Court meeting that Greenwood of William Grant &
morning. The attendees to the Sons and congratulated Dan Szor,
luncheon were greeted by Pipe David Gates and Ewan Lacey on
Sgt Andrew Parsons of the London their elevation as Stewards. He also
Scottish Regiment. This Scottish welcomed the Master’s personal
flavour continued with the ‘Selkirk guests, including the speaker
Grace’ from our honorary chaplain Lawson Doe. During his speech,
and the piping in of the haggis Mr Doe showed himself to be the
– with the Clerk bringing up the authority on the ‘Bard’ for which he
rear, rotating aloft a couple of is well known.
empty bottles of J&B Scotch! – The Master awarded prizes to
followed by a unique rendering WSET winners Laurence Walker
of the traditional address by our and James Crewe; and to our
Master. The Scottish theme and successful golfers Bob Howell, and
remembrance to the ‘Bard’ Robert Bruce Hyde, and our ‘golfer of the
Burns continued throughout. year’ Nathan Last.
Proposing a toast to our The Master then regaled the
guests, Liveryman Commodore assembled throng in his own
Jock Alexander OBE introduced poetic style ‘And All That’, a
Masters from the Brewers, Glass very entertaining rendition. He
Sellers, Coopers and Upholders' also shared the fact that he had
Companies, together with their been provided with a new belt,
THIS PAGE
CLOCKWISE FROM
TOP: Golfer of
the Year Nathan
Last. Sue and
Chris Searle.
Commodore Jock
Alexander OBE.
James Crew and
Laurence Walker.
Auld Lang Syne.
8 www.distillers.org.uk
Distillate2020v5.indd 8 20/11/2020 16:36
The Distillate 2020 | FELLOWSHIP & CONVIVIALITY
very relevant as we were dining
at the Girdlers, but that it had to
have an extra hole put in it and
wondered why?
A toast to the Queen was
followed by the singing of the
National Anthem, a prelude to the
premier of the Clerk’s composition,
‘Good Heart’, a new Distillers'
Song. This was delivered from the
balcony by honorary Assistant
Ian Harris (bass/baritone)
accompanied by the Clerk himself
on the piano – our very own Hinge
and Bracket! Our excellent soloist
delivered each verse (telling the
story of the Company’s history in
clipped tones) and encouraged
the assembled throng to join in
the chorus, which was proudly
done. The luncheon concluded
with a rousing rendition of ‘Auld
Lang Syne’.
Following the luncheon,
everyone retired for a restorative
Stirrup Cup with the Master, where
they were joined by the consorts
of Liverymen who had dined at a
separate luncheon at Vintners’ Hall
with the Mistress.
Michael Walpole
Hon. Steward
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OUR CHARITABLE WORK & EDUCATION | The Distillate 2020
Consort’s Lunch at Vintners' Hall
This year we were lucky to have Covid-19 situation. in Scotland, I could make some
had our Consorts' February Lunch Because we had 24 consorts more!!! A massive thank you to Kim
at Vintners' Hall. present, we were permitted to for organising the event so well,
Major Steve Marcham kindly met have lunch in the spectacular and to Steve Marcham in being so
us with a glass of bubbly and gave Court Room which is rarely used generous with his time and with
us a really interesting tour of this for this type of event - so this the venue.
most beautiful hall. The tapestries made it extra special. Searcys After the event, as is tradition,
of 1466 depicting St Martin and provided a delicious lunch and we headed over to Girdlers' Hall
St Dunstan and the hearse cloth the atmosphere was beautifully to meet up with those attending
given in 1539 by John Hussee were relaxed, allowing us to pick up with the Livery Luncheon and a
definitely my favourites. They were old friends and meet some new really nice moment afterwards
both incredible. ones. This, to me as a consort, is was meeting Andy Parsons, the
Amongst the many great stories the Distillers at its best. Piper from London Scottish. My
about “Vintners” Steve also My clever Mum had helped grandfather served in the London
explained the tradition of Swan make small tweed bags filled with Scottish Regiment based here and
Upping - although sadly, as in lavender as a wee keepsake for their affiliate in Calcutta, India. A
many other cases, his invitation all our guests. If you missed out, wonderful day.
to witness this in person would I am sure during this extended Kathy MacKay
not materialise because of the and very ‘dry’ period of lockdown Mistress 2019 -2020
Highlights of an extraordinary year in the life
of the Distillers’ Charity
In the wake of the pandemic, Against this backdrop the charitable bike-ride culminated Livery members, was a living
inequality is once again on the Distillers’ Charity has responded with the Master and his successful demonstration of the collective
rise with increases in poverty with speed, passion and solidarity team being welcomed in person commitment of members towards
already evidenced. Those at supporting the common good by the Lord Mayor at Mansion giving back.
the bottom of the pyramid are and helping those in need. We House to present a cheque for The Charity Committee is
suffering particularly hard from the were able to deliver £205,000 in £20,000 to the Lord Mayor’s grateful to everyone who has
pressures that lockdown has had grants during the period, a four-fold Appeal. This year’s exceptional supported this work helping in
on families, including children’s increase on the previous year. None fundraising efforts raised so many different ways to make a
loss of education and the effects of this would have been possible £136,000 in unbudgeted difference. Thank you.
on people’s mental health and without a huge team effort led income which, supplemented Grant Gordon,
general wellbeing. by the Master. The Distillers’ 500 by the annual donations from Chairman, Charity Committee
FACING PAGE
BOTTOM LEFT:
Dr Dawn Maskell
Heriot Watt. Left
Emergency
Charity Auction
supporting
HELP YOUR TRADE Gerry Avis IBD. Ian
Harris MBE-WSET
In association with the Whisky Auction
The Drinks Trust
Since March 2020 and the Fund, of £250 to 1,950 beneficiaries support initially though a £50,000 north of the border who have lost
beginning of the lockdown period, who face hardship and loss grant towards the Drinks Trust their income as a result of Covid-19;
the Drinks Trust has focused on of earnings, with 29 being the Emergency Fund in Spring 2020. 180 grants to existing Drinks Trust
delivering support to those in the average age of the beneficiaries. That was followed in June by raising beneficiaries; and the delivery of 65
hospitality industries who have • Launched a second emergency more than £60,000 in the emergency sleep and insomnia treatments.
suffered, targeting the members of grant initiative in October, online auction, kindly assisted by The strength of commitment
our trade who are most vulnerable. directed particularly towards Whisky Auction. by the Distillers’ Charity has thus
Assisted by a big outpouring of those who have been made The Distillers’ Charity's combined played a key role in enabling
support from the industry, with redundant in the last four months, grant of more than £110,000 to the Drinks Trust to deliver vital
more £1.75 million in corporate which will target delivering in the Drinks Trust this year has support to help people in our
donations and other fundraising, excess of 1,000 further grants. supported: 140 Covid-19 relief grants industry during this time of
the Drinks Trust has to date in 2020: The Distillers’ Charity, supported of £250 each; an onward grant to exceptional need.
• Provided a one-off financial grant, by the generosity and great effort the Ben in Scotland of £20,000 to Upper Warden Chris Porter
via the Drinks Trust Emergency of Livery members, increased its deliver emergency grants to people Charity Committee
10 www.distillers.org.uk
Distillate2020v5.indd 10 20/11/2020 16:36The Distillate 2020 | OUR CHARITABLE WORK & EDUCATION
Alcohol Education Trust FUTURE
The AET’s work is with children life films, discussion prompt The Barking & Dagenham Future Youth Zone
with additional learning needs or cards and fact sheets, as well as Future – Youth Zone for young a founder patron, has helped
at higher risk of alcohol related offered workshops that could people in Barking and Dagenham provide and the resulting impact.
harms. The most vulnerable be used on a one to one basis has been busier and needed more Some of the activities that support
children in society are shown to or for small groups outside of than ever during the coronavirus from funders has helped provide
be more likely to face addiction school settings. pandemic. The centre remained open to young people, and particularly
or problematic drinking as they For children aged 16 and above, but with strict Covid-19 measures during these extraordinar y
get older. This includes children the AET works with young people in place, and Future increased its times, include:
who grow up in care, have faced directly and has held awareness presence in the community by • 176 monthly visits made, on
adverse child experiences (ACE) sessions for police and fire visiting the young and vulnerable average, by Future volunteers to
or live in the highest areas cadets, Youth Commission people it supports. people with additional needs.
of deprivation. members, sixth form colleges, CEO Gavin Evans said: “The • Becoming a food distribution
Through the support of Prince’s Trust students and Young interaction between local young centre for other trusted partners
the Distillers’ Charity the AET have Farmers. It is known that those people, their parents and families has to support the wider community
been able to support these young who the children know and trust grown and become more important during the Covid-19 crisis.
people throughout the pandemic are more effective, if trained, to than ever since the initial lockdown. • D elivering nearly 300 food
in settings such as children’s influence their behaviour, hence Future’s activities and visits by our packages and medication supplies
homes, schools, special schools adopting a “train the trainer” volunteers into the community have to vulnerable residents.
and PRUs. AET developed a approach. Training is supplied led to an even wider mix of people • A performance by a Future Zone
toolkit, including a DVD of true- to staff to ensure they know how now interacting and engaging with dance troop at the Lord Mayor’s
best to implement the resources to each other via Future’s work.” Appeal.
support young people and prevent Gavin Evans also highlighted Gavin Evans
alcohol related harm. the importance of the support CEO Barking &
In spite of the pandemic, AET that the Distillers' Company, as Dagenham Future Youth Zone
has delivered help to more settings
around the country than ever
before. It has:
•
Supported a total of 10,000
vulnerable youngsters;
•
Distributed 282 packs of
resources to 212 different
settings; and
• Built a significant momentum
and platform for AET Scotland.
Helena Conibear
CEO, Alcohol Education Trust
A new and exciting education programme for the Livery
The hospitality industry crisis of the means for individuals to develop We are very fortunate to have common language. We want to attract
Covid-19 has brought the historic role themselves through training and world-class qualification partners talent residing in all communities and
of the Worshipful Company into sharp education. In every respect, therefore, to work with, namely: the ICBD at so are aiming to make our awards and
relief in 2020, in many ways. Alongside the newly formed Vocational Training Heriot-Watt University, with its MSc offerings particularly attractive to
heroic fundraising initiatives, and Education Committee (VTEC) that in Brewing and Distilling; the IBD in minority groups who may not have
significant work has been quietly I chair has had an exceptionally busy London, which now has three tiers of applied before.
running to boost the Livery’s efforts 2020, building a raft of new ideas to courses - the highest level being the How are we doing this? Well, for
to help trade colleagues by giving meet this challenge. Our aim in this first Certified Master Distiller; and the starters, the Distillers' Charity is
work is to inspire existing and new WSET, which excels in the appreciation upping our funding by a factor of three
generations of distillers and industry and understanding of wine and spirits, in the first year of our new plans. To
aspirants to achieve the highest now with a highly regarded level three show we mean business, we have also
standards of distilling practice and in spirits - and more to come. established a new team to drive things
management in four ways: We are upping our game with all forward, composed of seven experts
• B ursaries for those starting of them – more bursaries, better in fields ranging from communications
or progressing a career in scholarships and, most importantly, and marketing, to City and industry
distilled spirits. much more engagement. We want affairs, to mentoring. And that is
• Scholarships and prizes to help the every one of our students to have a where you come in (we hope!). The
rising stars to go on to further study contact or mentor in the Livery, so response from volunteers within the
and reward top achievement. that we can bring our much-vaunted Livery to assist these endeavours has
• M entoring to build trusting - but very real - experience, energy been impressive and heartening. You
relationships and accelerate and passion for spirits to encourage will enjoy any input you can give, and
progress through contacts and and support their progress. By we know that the students will really
opportunities. popular request we are designing benefit. If you have not already got in
• Getting involved in worthwhile a new module to bring to life the touch, please contact the development
City and Livery initiatives, such as “business of spirits”, teaching the director Clive Bairsto.
becoming a governor of a school fundamentals of marketing spirits Richard Watling
with Livery connections. and bringing teams together with a Past Master
www.distillers.org.uk 11
Distillate2020v5.indd 11 20/11/2020 16:36OUR CHARITABLE WORK & EDUCATION | The Distillate 2020
Alejandro Aspuro winner of the WCD MSc scholarship at ICBD Heriot-Watt University
Alejandro's spirit career began as an
educator and consultant of agave
spirits – working with local producers,
imparting masterclasses on mezcal
throughout Mexico, the USA and
Europe, curating spirit menus and
private collections, and co-founding
a company dedicated to spirits
education. Guided by curiosity and
a need for explanations, he came to
Scotland to do a diploma in spirits
with the Institute of Brewing and
Distilling and returned a couple years
later to do an MSc in Brewing and
Distilling at Heriot-Watt University
(HWU). Drawing from his experience
in agave spirits and the studies at
HWU, he is currently developing
projects which revolve around natural
fermentations, non-saccharomyces
yeasts and parallel fermentations.
Editor
Digital solutions boost WSET numbers
Following the biggest graduation so students don’t need to leave the initiatives in Canada, USA, Sweden, this generosity thank all who have
ceremony in WSET’s history in comfort of their own homes to Australia and Hong Kong. As a result, responded to the call.
January, the world of wine and spirit achieve a WSET qualification. many hundreds of people have taken a The ‘Raising Scottish Spirits’
education collapsed as Covid-19 As well as being a lifeline during WSET spirits course where otherwise initiative will enable up to 90 Scottish
spread across the globe. From lockdown, this will also open up huge they would not have been able to hospitality staff who have either lost
mid-March, 90 per cent of WSET’s opportunities for markets like USA and have gained an accredited WSET their jobs or are suffering due to the
classroom-based courses and once the world returns to normality. qualification which will help them to current crisis to take an online WSET
examinations were cancelled in all This new digital solution to taking gain employment as the hospitality level two award in spirits, increasing
four corners of the world, and the a WSET qualification also gave us sector continues to struggle during their industry knowledge and skills
response was to switch the focus to the opportunity to help many people the pandemic. for when they re-join the workforce.
digital options: a new and improved who were in danger of losing their Hot off the press, the latest And, even hotter off the press,
online classroom; the introduction jobs because of the impact on the Covid-19 restrictions have prompted WSET is planning a similar initiative
of examinations using ‘remote global hospitality industry, caused a new WSET charitable initiative, for the hospitality sector in Liverpool.
invigilation’; and finally, e-books. All by Covid-19. ‘Raising Scottish Spirits’, which In the year ending 31 July 2020,
these initiatives had been planned We kicked off the first charitable has been generously supported by the overall number of WSET students
for introduction by the end of 2020, initiative in May, thanks to funding many members of the Worshipful declined – for the first time in 18 years
but the pandemic meant that they by Pernod Ricard UK, aimed at the Company of Distillers and their – but only by 11 per cent. This could
had to be fast-tracked – and so WSET London hospitality sector; this businesses. WSET and the recipients have been much worse without the
now has an end-to-end digital solution initiative snow-balled into similar across Scotland who will benefit from dedication of the great team at WSET.
But, for spirits, there is a much
better picture. The number of people
who took a WSET spirits course last
year has actually increased compared
to the previous year, showing
continual growth in the number
of students taking WSET’s spirits
qualifications. The development of
the first spirits-only WSET course was
originally funded by the Worshipful
Company of Distillers back in 2003,
so you should all feel very proud of
how WSET (of which WCD was one
of the ‘founding fathers’ back in 1969)
is using the power of education to
make a tangible difference to people’s
lives, and to the industry in which
we work.
Ian Harris MBE
CEO, WSET
12 www.distillers.org.uk
Distillate2020v5.indd 12 20/11/2020 16:36The Distillate 2020 | INDUSTRY & COMMUNICATIONS
New Livery Badges for
Past Masters and Mistresses
Following a Court decision size and weight, to allow it to be
earlier this year, the Company has worn as either a chain pendant
launched newly designed personal or as a brooch, in order to give
Livery badges for Past Masters maximum flexibility.
and Past Mistresses. These two Past Master David Raines
badges have been designed and
overseen by Her Majesty’s crown
jeweller in the central London
workshop of our corporate
associate member, Mappin and
Webb. They have been cast in
London hallmarked sterling
silver with a raised Distillers’
coat of arms – each badge being
personalised with the name of the
Past Master or Past Mistress and
their dates in office. Whilst the
Past Master’s personal badge will
be worn as a neck decoration in
lieu of the current Liveryman’s
badge (with Past Master's ribbon),
the Past Mistress’ badge is a
completely new concept. It has
been specifically designed, in both
The Past Masters' Committee
I suspect that very few Liverymen as a Warden and aspire ultimately to recommend distinguished people
are aware of the Past Masters’ to be our Master. from both outside and inside the
Committee (PMC), and even those The committee consists of the Company for honorary membership. In
who are often wonder who we Father of the Court, Charles Minoprio, recent years those have included Lord
are and what we actually do – and up to seven other Past Masters Robertson of Port Ellen, Lord McFall of
especially as we are the only who have already led the Company Alcluith and Alderman Vincent Keaveny
committee that repor ts in recent years and are therefore from outside the Company, and from
directly to the Court. ideally suited to provide continuity inside, Nicholas Cook, director general
That said, we are very much an from a broad corporate memory. This of the Gin Guild and Ian Harris, CEO
integral part of the Company proves invaluable with our other roles of the Wine and Spirit Educational
management structure but with a of advising on any matters referred to Trust (WSET). We are certainly
degree of independence to carry out us by the Court, providing a sounding not a closed shop and are always
our primary role of identifying those board for the Company to give feedback open to suggestions and welcome
who might be willing recruits to to the Court and making suggestions proposals for consideration at our
become Stewards initially (three each to the Court for further discussion on six-monthly meetings.
year), and from thence as possible matters relevant to the Company. Past Master DNV Churton
candidates to join the Court, progress One of these matters is the need ‘Chairman, Past Masters’ Committee
Industry Committee Report
The Covid-19 pandemic has Membership Committee. The main namely Steward Trevor Stirling -
driven many good initiatives of late. purpose for this is to have a much who took over from me in October.
It has certainly meant that the WCD tighter focus on recruitment of Trevor is very well connected and
has had to take a long hard look at members from the spirits industry respected in the spirits industry,
its modus operandi. Perhaps the (both individual and corporate) and having worked as a management
catalyst for this was the fact that, from within the City of London. Also, consultant with McKinsey, Diageo
over recent years, the Industry once members have joined, the new – Guinness Ireland - and, more
Committee rapidly evolved into a task of the committee is to ensure recently, as a senior analyst at
committee whose work mirrored it delivers the needs, wants and Bernstein Research. Trevor’s
and duplicated that of the M&W expectations of new and existing experience will help ensure we
Committee, often with the same Liverymen and feeds back to the achieve our ambitions with vitality
people on both. M&W Committee, which will become and purpose. Welcome, Trevor!
Therefore, the recent management the executive branch of the Livery. Lorne Mackillop
review of the WCD has resulted in The newly repurposed committee Outgoing Chairman, Industry and
renaming us as the Industry and also has a new chair at the helm, Membership Committee
www.distillers.org.uk 13
Distillate2020v5.indd 13 20/11/2020 16:37INTERVIEW | The Distillate 2020
The Distillate Interview with
Garvin Brown
The Chairman of the Board of Directors – Brown-Forman Corporation
What were your feelings on joining human capital to an even larger working together.
the Court of the Livery? global audience. Digging more into the detail,
obviously COVID-19 continues to be
Joining the Livery, and the now 2020 is your company's 150th hugely negative for the hospitality
the Court, has been a wonderful anniversary, and of course has industr y, which represents
way to dovetail work with my been a tumultuous year otherwise. approximately 20% of our business
adopted home. I can’t imagine How has it affected your business? globally. Above all, it is a human
how I would have otherwise been tragedy for our friends and partners
G. Garvin Brown IV is the able to meet such a broad range There is nothing inevitable about in this part of our industry, making
Chairman of Brown-Forman Corp. of people from our Industry, and a company’s ability to survive, charitable efforts like the Livery’s
(NYSE: BFB), founded by his from all parts of the country. It’s thrive and remain independent work with the trade even more
great, great grandfather George also showing itself to be a help to for 150 years. Yes, Brown-Forman valuable. More strategically, the
Garvin Brown in 1870, distillers of Brown-Forman’s local operations, has been fortunate to find itself in pandemic has also accelerated
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey. where conversations have begun a compelling industry and to have a number of macro consumer
Garvin began his employment with the Livery on the topic of grown up in the world’s largest and trends that were already underway
at Brown-Forman in 1996 in field vocational training. most dynamic economy, but the - trends like premiumization,
sales in New York. Since that On a more personal level, as a company has also made deliberate and the shift to eCommerce
time, he has held corporate Canadian-American who's made choices about brands, people, and convenience.
roles in Louisville, Kentucky the United Kingdom home, the investment and governance. When In the 14 years that I’ve been on
and operating roles in Europe. Livery helps embed me more into those decisions are held together our Board, I’m pleased to say that
He joined the Board in 2006 as the fabric of life here. Even some with good judgment, the result is we’ve made real progress at getting
a Director and has served as its of my cousins from Kentucky and what we call our “culture.” And while our portfolio ready for these trends.
Chairman since 2007. Garvin was Tennessee have begun to enjoy none of us could have foreseen what We’ve disposed of non-core, lower
raised in Montreal, Canada, and having a London Livery event on sort of year 2020 would be, it has growth, lower margin businesses,
is a graduate of McGill University, their calendar, letting them make actually given our teams a truly such as: Lenox China, Hartmann
the University of British Columbia connections across the ocean with unique opportunity to demonstrate luggage, most of our wine brands,
and London Business School. greater ease. Over the coming the strength of that culture, bringing Southern Comfort, Early Times and
He resides in London, England years, I certainly hope that I can it to life with resilience and agility Canadian Mist. And simultaneously,
with his wife, Steffanie, and their help the Livery - and the City of – pivoting to different parts of the we’ve innovated at the Jack Daniel’s
two children. London - leverage its heritage and portfolio and adapting new ways of family of brands, launching line
14 www.distillers.org.uk
Distillate2020v5.indd 14 20/11/2020 16:37The Distillate 2020 | INTERVIEW
extensions like Tennessee Honey
and Tennessee Apple (attracting new
consumers to the brand and to the
global whiskey category, a benefit
for all those who prize aged spirits);
and focused more creative energy
behind our ready-to-drink offerings
in Australia, Germany, the U.K.,
Mexico, the United States and other
markets. At the super-premium end,
we’ve invested behind Woodford
Reserve - which is now more than a
million cases and into its 10th year
of 20% growth - repositioned Casa
Herradura to great effect, reinvented
our founding brand, Old Forester
(under the leadership of my brother
and fellow board member, Campbell
P. Brown) and acquired new super
premium brands like Slane Irish
Whiskey and the BenRiach portfolio
of single malts.
help us achieve our 2030 ambitions
Could you elaborate on your for representation among women FACING PAGE FROM TOP: 5th & 6th generation Brown
Diversity & Inclusion work, the and people of colour in the U.S. family with employees and CEO Lawson Whiting at the Jack
part of your culture that seems to More recently, given the movement Daniels Distillery. Garvin Brown with photo of his
be getting more focus lately? for racial justice and equality, we great great grandfather George Garvin Brown.
have adopted new commitments
At B-F, our stated ambition comes under the umbrella of "Be Better and
from a phrase that my great-great Do Better". This phrase is not unique
grandfather wrote for Old Forester, to Brown-Forman, but does ladder up
that there would be “Nothing Better to our ambition of "Nothing Better In
in the Market.” Today, the phrase the Market". It lays out commitments
is an ambition meaning that we and actions on how we can get
are always working to make our better as individuals, leaders, as a
company better, which translates to Louisville company and as a global
having the best people and the best company, through our brands and in
culture. Diversity and Inclusion are our industry. It also emphasises the
key factors in working towards this. role we need to play as a corporate
The business case is obvious. citizen in our neighbourhood in
Diverse perspectives lead to more Louisville, Kentucky, the location
creativity and better solutions, of our headquarters.
brand building and teamwork. It
also helps us be more in touch with To wrap up, any surprising trends
diverse consumers, attract and that you are witnessing in the
retain diverse talent and be reflective drinks trade?
of a diverse society. It gives us a
competitive advantage when we get Three letters: R,T, and D ("ready-to-
this right. drink"). Hard seltzer has taken this
We focused more on the trend and put it on a rocket ship.
importance of diversity in the There’s even a global shortage of
early 2000s, which coincided with aluminium cans. For us, it was nearly
the international expansion and 30 years ago that we launched Jack
globalization of Brown-Forman. In Daniel’s Country Cocktails in the
2007, we hired Ralph de Chabert as U.S. Since that time we have been
our Chief Diversity Officer, helping building RTDs in many markets
put us on a course that examined around the world, with Jack Daniel’s
every aspect of our organization - our RTDs at now over 10 million cases,
culture, our strategy, our employee a material number.
benefits and policies, our hiring Our other large RTD business is
practices and, most importantly, our tequila-based New Mix RTDs
ourselves - and what we needed to in Mexico, which is over 7 million
do to change and grow. cases. This business is also doing
Just over a year ago the company well in this environment. And we
published "Many Spirits One Brown- just acquired a small but exciting
Forman", a comprehensive ten-year brand in New Zealand called Part
strategy for achieving ambitious Time Rangers, with plans to expand
quantitative goals around race and it to Australia which is one of the
gender. It lays out key priorities to largest RTD markets in the world.
www.distillers.org.uk 15
Distillate2020v5.indd 15 20/11/2020 16:37INDUSTRY & COMMUNICATIONS | The Distillate 2020
Spirit & Wine Committee Website redesign
“Lost for words" The redesign of the website channel to reach our business
It is not often that I am lost for condition awaiting use hopefully over commenced prior to the onset of the community.
words, but the past year has been the next 12 months, when we will virus, but the perceived impact of We have 193 out of 273 registered
a bit of a non-event for the S&W all be able to get together again and this led to a more fundamental review users, but only 80 completed the
Committee - with functions cancelled, enjoy vinous andspirituous delights. about how we should communicate member profile and are on the “Find
stocks remaining unused and little We are also in discussion about and engage with our members. a member” section, so we continue to
happening in the industry regarding forming a Distillers' Wine Club using Improved navigation, a search encourage all members to complete
tastings etc. We do, however, remain the good offices of Davy's – it’s early facility, a newsroom area for reporting both areas.
in good spirits! days, yet but watch this space! current activities and a downloadable We increased our data base
We have recently tasted samples Past Master Allan Cheesman photo gallery are new features, and membership by promoting sign-ups
from our stocks of wines and can Chairman of the Spirits & we revitalised other areas with with a free prize draw and a Master's
confirm that all are in excellent Wine Committee modernising copy. Cask bottle was won by both John
Behind the members' login, we Barnes and Edward Bates.
are offering members a number We continue to carry industry news
of promotional offers from our provided by JustDrinks.com and www.
companies with clear connections to thedrinksreport.com and, with more
our Livery. content being generated in our virtual
The website links to our new social world, please continue to check in
media platforms, YouTube, Facebook, regularly. Any feedback is gratefully
Twitter and Instagram, and we received!
launched our own branded LinkedIn Middle Warden Chris Searle
The Gin Guild
It’s been a challenging year for all of
us. Several of our Gin Guild members
started to produce hand sanitisers
during the original lockdown, which
The Scottish Committee of course was welcomed by the
government and country.
Congratulations to Liveryman Learmonth Terrace, Edinburgh. That A virtual Ginposium was held during
Richard Forsyth, chairman of Forsyth's the relationship is so strong today is the Summer, the speakers recorded
Coppersmiths, who was made an largely due to Ken’s relationship with their talks from home and David Smith
OBE for services to the distillation serving officers and, in particular, with led a panel of tasters to try a number
and oil and gas industries, and also Squadron Leader (and Liveryman) of new gins. The Ginposium worked
the community in Speyside Scottish Jerry Riley. So, our thanks Ken and all very successfully, and a post event
Highlands, in the recent Queen’s good wishes for the future with your Zoom meeting was held in the evening.
Birthday Honours List. distilling interests. Members can continue to view the
Ken Robertson, an Honorary It is hoped that next year’s Ginposium via the website. A second
Steward, will step down from the Livery dinner will take place at virtual Ginposium is planned for this
committee at our December meeting. the Signet Library on Thursday November. this combined action. We will continue
Ken was part of the original committee 9th September. Scottish Golf The Gin Guild has also developed to protect our gin category, protect
when it was formed in 2014 and became Day will be held at Bruntsfield a new relationship with Trading consumers and protect our members
the liaison link between the Livery Links Golfing Society course the Standards in both Buckinghamshire and trade.
and the RAF’s 603 Squadron, which following day. and Surrey, being the body which Please see our website for
now occupies the former Sandeman Past Master Brian Morrison has primary authority to prevent more details of events and news:
(Vat 69 Whisky) family mansion on Chairman, Scottish Committee non-compliant products from using www.theginguild.com
the gin category name. Two gins have Nicholas Cook
already been withdrawn as a result of Director General – The Gin Guild
Marketing Committee Report
What an amazing year this has We now have a new team of people and to a wider audience, especially We have an exciting programme for
been in so many respects. Covid-19 to steer the agenda: Chris Searle, as so many events of the Livery year 2021, so watch this space. Now a plea.
has provided our team with extra Andrew Cox, Aaron Jeewood, Clive had to be cancelled. YouTube is the A huge amount of work went into the
challenges, but it has also given us a Bairsto, Donna Bowers from Domabo second most popular media platform development of our new website and
wonderful opportunity to think more marketing and Kim Lyons, without in the world, with more than 1.9 billion it is still the best place to find out what
creatively about how we engage with whose energy none of our work would users (let’s get a bit of that, please!). is going on in the Livery. We also have
our Liverymen and raise our game. happen. Thank you for all your hard Our first video was the Master’s a members' login section where you
We now have new terms of reference, work and contributions. bike ride, followed by the Master’s can register your contact details, so
which means that we work with the With a new website and four social interview. By the time you read this, other Liverymen can get in contact
other committees cross-functionally media platforms – Facebook, LinkedIn, will we have broadcasted a video with you. Please sign up and use this
to help them with their messaging. Instagram and Twitter – in place, it about the Master Elect. That just facility; it makes the Livery go-round,
This is working very well, especially was decided that we should include leaves our Christmas cocktail video. if you know what I mean.
with the Charity Committee and a fifth platform: a Livery YouTube YouTube has been a steep learning Paul Finch
the new Vocational Training and channel, primarily to deliver more curve for all of us, but we are getting Chairman, Marketing Committee
Education project. engaging messaging to our Liverymen there!
16 www.distillers.org.uk
Distillate2020v5.indd 16 20/11/2020 16:37You can also read
