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The Clerk of the Royal Cellars
The Clerk of the Royal Cellars is a part-time member of the Royal Household. They are usually an experienced senior wine merchant. The Clerk advises and supervises the purchasing and maintenance of the liquor for the Household, focusing on spirits and wines.
The Clerk will give advice on wine pairings for State banquets and other events. The Clerk of the Cellar also supervises the Yeoman of the Royal Cellars.
The current Clerk is Simon Berry, head of Britain’s oldest wine shop, Berry Bros & Rudd. In 2007 Her Majesty requested that Berry take over duties at Buckingham Palace.
Since 1698 Berry Bros & Rudd has traded in London. It has been a supplier to the Royal family since the reign of King George III. If you are wondering how long ago that would be, George III became King in 1760.
To assist with recommendations for the wines, there is also the Royal Household Wine Committee.
The Yeoman of the Royal Cellars
Along with a deputy and an assistant, the Yeoman is a staff member of the Master of the Household Department.
This position requires the holder to be responsible for the procurement of spirits, wines and beers for meals as well as for entertaining whether it be private or official in the Royal residences.
The Yeoman of the Royal Cellar keeps inventory and along with the Clerk of the Royal Cellars, makes certain an ample stock is at hand.
Robert Lange is the current Yeoman of the Royal Cellars. Lange received the Royal Victorian Medal (RVM) as part of the Queen’s 2014 New Years Honours List.
Featured Photo Credit: wallyg via photopin cc]]>
