Michael Cox (1951-2014)

We heard today the very sad news that Michael Cox has died. We knew Michael in his last role, representing Wines of Chile in the UK, and also as the Master of the Worshipful Company of Vintners (he was a very generous host there). He was a brilliant promoter of Chilean wine, combining his remarkable depth of knowledge of the country's wineries and lengthy trade experience to great effect. He was hugely helpful when I first visited Chile in 2006, and even last year, when he was already suffering from cancer, he took enormous pains to make new suggestions for us. It wouldn't be exaggerated to say that we wouldn't have our broad portfolio of wines from Chile without Michael's input. Finally, he was an incredibly nice man - charming, humble, wearing his expertise so modestly, yet also witty and passionate when the cause demanded it. We will miss him, as will many others.