A crowdfunding platform to raise funds for the publication of Gerard Basset’s memoirs, who died earlier this week, has gone live, giving members of the trade the chance to pre-order a copy and pledge their support.
Gerard Basset OBE died on Wednesday after a long battle with cancer. Tributes have since poured in for Basset, who was one the most decorated wine professionals of his time, perhaps ever, having achieved the letters OBE, MS, MW, MBA, OIV, MSc after his name during the course of his career.
He remains the first, and only, individual to hold the Master of Wine qualification simultaneously with the Master Sommelier and MBA Wine Business qualifications.
His impressive professional qualifications aside, Basset was a hugely respected and well-liked members of the trade, known for his generosity of spirit, kind nature and dedication to supporting the next generation of sommeliers.
While undergoing treatment Basset wrote his memoirs, which will detail the “life and wines of the world’s favourite sommelier”, his 30-year career in the hospitality industry and rise to the very top of his field.
Tasting Victory is due to be published by Unbound – a website that employs crowd funding to bring books to the market.
Yesterday, the platform to pledge support to its publication went live offering various rewards in recognition of the level of support given.
To make a donation, which includes a copy of the book when published, click here.
The rewards for those who pledge their support are as follows:-
All supporters get their name printed in every edition of the book.
Hardback
A first edition hardback.
From £25
+ shipping costs
Read With A Friend
Two first edition hardbacks (shipped together).
From £40
+ shipping costs
Bronze Supporter
A first edition hardback with your name in the back among the list of supporters in the Bronze Supporters’ section
From £100
+ shipping costs
Silver Supporter
Three hardbacks and your name in the back of the book in the Silver Supporters’ section
From £250
+ shipping costs
Gold Supporter
Your name listed on a special Gold Supporter page at the front of the book (only 10 available), plus five first edition hardbacks.
From £1,500
+ shipping costs
Platinum Supporter
A thank you printed on its own dedicated page at the front of the book, plus twenty first edition hardbacks.
From £5,000
+ shipping costs
