Jennifer Docherty MW joins Summergate

Drinks distributor Summergate Fine Wines & Spirits has announced the appointment of Jennifer Docherty MW as its head of brand portfolio management.

“I am thrilled to be joining the team at Summergate. I look forward to selecting premium products that I believe consumers and businesses alike will love, and helping producers achieve their distribution and brand building goals in mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau,” she said.

In her role, Docherty will work closely with drinks brands to help them build their product presence in the market.

“Summergate is particularly strong in the on-trade sector, so I look forward to continuing existing and developing new relationships with hotels and restaurants.” she added.

Docherty has been in the drinks industry for over 12 years, including having been the wine buyer for Liberty Wines in the UK. She became a Master of Wine in 2015, making her the first ethnically Chinese and Mandarin speaking MW. 

Docherty grew up in a traditional Chinese household in Canada, and has lived in New York and London. She currently resides in Hong Kong.

“On a personal note, I’m excited to remain based in Asia so I can contribute to the continued growth of this young and dynamic market,” she said.

It’s the first time in Summergate’s 20-year-old history the company has employed a MW, and CEO Craig Aldous said hiring Docherty is a “coup” for the business.

“We work with some of China’s top sommeliers, F&B directors and wine buyers, and we have a discerning customer base, which is why it’s quite the coup for us to have a Head of Brand Portfolio Management of Jennifer’s calibre,” Aldous said.

“She is highly qualified and experienced, and I have no doubt she will help us to continually enhance the quality of our offering, and be pivotal in our on-going success,” he added.

Summergate appointed Sabrina Hosford as its general manager for Hong Kong and Macau earlier this year.