UK celebration planned for Bob McLean

Friends and colleagues of Bob McLean, who did so much to champion Australian wine overseas, are invited to a UK celebration of his life next month.

McLean, who died in April, entered the wine trade via Pol Roger before working at Petaluma, revitalising St Hallett and encouraging his fellow Australian producers to bring their wines to the UK. His love of the finer things in life led to his affectionate nickname “Sir Lunchalot”.

In characteristic style, McLean wrote his own farewell message on the Barossa Dirt website.

The celebration of his life will take place on Monday 6 July from 12 noon until 3pm at a Fullers pub – a brewer alleged to have been a regular beneficiary of McLean’s custom – The Vintry in Abchurch Yard, London EC4N 7BA, close to Cannon Street station.

A book of celebration will be available there for friends and colleagues to record their memories of a great character and driving force for the wine trade. This will then be passed on to his family, along with any photos or stories supplied via email.

In order to help with planning the event, those wishing to attend are asked to email Craig Smith, director of Australian Wine Agencies. Any photos or stories for the book should also be sent to this address.