November's Rugbeian Society Business Forum offered an insightful and entertaining evening of stories and insights from two distinguished Rugbeian speakers, Ben Howkins (M 56-60) and John Gimlette (Sh 76-81). We enjoyed a wonderful Q&A session with our guests, hosted by Adrian Fox (M 75-79). Followed by drinks, networking opportunities, and the chance to purchase their latest written works. 

Ben Howkins: Sherry’s Renaissance
Wine expert and author Ben Howkins captivated the audience with insights from his book, Sherry: Maligned, Misunderstood, and Marvellous. He championed sherry’s revival, emphasizing its status as one of the world’s great yet undervalued wines. Howkins traced the history of sherry, offering insights into its cultural significance, investment potential, and versatility as a premium wine, with serving tips and pairing recommendations. Reflecting on six decades in the wine trade, Howkins recounted how the industry has evolved from an elite, British-centric market to a global culture driven by innovation and democratized by figures like Robert Parker and the invention of his points system. He also shared engaging anecdotes from his 20 years on the Royal Wine Committee, selecting wines for the Queen, and encouraged attendees to rediscover sherry’s rich heritage and unique appeal.

John Gimlette: Tales of Adventure
Celebrated travel writer John Gimlette (Sh 76-81) shared stories of adventure inspired by his days at Rugby School. Recalling his first trip to Hong Kong with a school friend and his 8,000-mile journey home via the Siberian railway, Gimlette traced the origins of his passion for travel. He credited Rugby School's Dewar Travel Scholarship with sparking his career, which has taken him from hitchhiking with cigarette smugglers in Paraguay to exploring the remote landscapes of Madagascar, later inspiring the title of one of his books, The Gardens of Mars. His vivid tales of joy, terror, and discovery kept the audience enthralled!

The evening provided a perfect blend of inspiration and entertainment, offering fresh perspectives on the worlds of wine and travel. Thank you to our speakers and all who attended for making the event such a success!