In Memoriam: Harry Gill
BY NEAL MARTIN |
“Aw right, mate.”
“Aw right, ’arry. How the hell are you calling me down here?”
“What d’ya mean?”
“I’m under the English Channel.”
“What d’ya mean you’re under the Channel?”
“I’m driving to Burgundy to taste the ‘19s. Eurotunnel must have a 4G connection.”
“Whatever. Now, listen to me...”
That was my last conversation with Harry Gill, who died from COVID-19 on February 8, 2021.
The news reported 1,052 COVID-related deaths that day.
Harry was a constant figure on London’s tasting circuit and Bordeaux en primeur week. A visit to his restaurant in Swiss Cottage was a rite of passage for anyone connected with the wine industry or interested in wine. His passing deserves a tribute because I am not the only person to declare that a valuable chunk of my vinous education took place at The Arches.
