It is with great sadness that we announce Jacquie’s death after a private battle with cancer.

Jacquie joined Berkmann Wine Cellars in 1982 at the age of 31 to develop its private client business, which soon evolved into a wine club called Le Nez Rouge. Members of the club included celebrities such as film director Richard Attenborough, author Len Deighton, music producer George Martin and comedian Spike Milligan, who all enjoyed the various tastings, dinners and other events organised by Jacquie.

With the wine club generating low sales, however, the determined salesperson in Jacquie spoke to company owner Joseph Berkmann claiming “in half an hour I can sell ten cases of wine to a restaurant instead of one bottle to a private client.”

It was from this point that Jacquie helped build Berkmann Wine Cellars’ independent on- and off-trade business into what it is today.

Over 35 years at Berkmann Wine Cellars, Jacquie occupied several successive roles, most recently the position of London sales director, and was also a member of the board.

Jacquie, who died peacefully at her home on 19 June, was described by her employer as a “true doyenne of the wine trade”, gaining widespread respect in the wine and restaurant industries. “Jacquie was gentle, diplomatic, kind and much liked by all,” said Joseph Berkmann. “She was forever a close member of our family, and exceedingly loyal to me through many difficult moments. She’ll be sorely missed.”