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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]]>
