Jacques Szmulovski, of the Bailliage of Geneva in Switzerland, is the Chaîne’s longest-standing member.

Inducted in February 1959 by Jean Valby at Visconti Castle in Locarno, Jacques, now aged 94, still attends every single event organised by his Bailliage.

Jacques’ professional career began as an apprentice at a distillery in Bern in 1944. He moved out of the drinks business in 1947 and spent four years with Intramed, a company producing surgical devices. In 1952 he returned to the drinks business when he was hired as a sales representative for French wines and spirits by the distillery that trained him. In 1983 he founded his own high-end alcoholic beverage import company, featuring 60 vintage Scotch whiskies and valuable wines.

Jacques admits to being aware of his age, but he remains active with golf and tennis, which he has played for 50 years. Having spent his working life travelling around Switzerland meeting clients and forming genuine friendships, he is still proud to have his driving licence.

In 60 years of membership Jacques says nothing has changed for him. “The spirit of the Chaîne is still there, imbued with chivalry. Beyond the excellent food and drink, friendship is still at the heart of it all.”

Fondest Chaîne memories: “The first Chaîne gathering in Lyon, followed by a tour of Burgundy, the memory of which I still cherish. In addition, being inducted as a Grand Officier Commandeur, Chevalier d’Honneur and Haut Commandeur.”

Sabrina Lavaux (Vice-Chargée de Presse) and Nadim Arfan (Bailli)
Bailliage of Geneva

Ed. This article was first published in the 2020 edition of the Revue internationale de la Chaîne