Mentzendorff bless every new lifeboat

Mentzendorff & Co have been London based wine shippers since 1858 with their offices on the Thames. They have a strong history and association with the sea as all of their stock used to be shipped over and delivered along the Thames.  They are UK distributors of premium wine and spirit brands from Prestige Cuvée Champagne to Classic Vintage Ports.   www.mentzendorff.co.uk

Mentzendorff have kindly supported various RNLI fundraising activities since 2005 and provide Champagne Bollinger for all RNLI naming ceremonies.

As maritime tradition and superstition has evolved, various customs have stayed within the RNLI – naming ceremonies and dedications being one of them.  The RNLI bless every new lifeboat that comes into service, with champagne being smashed on the larger all weather lifeboats or poured over the inshore inflatable lifeboats.

Historically, blood, water or wines were offered to the Gods to protect the boat and her crew on the high seas, which remains one of the most dangerous environments.  The idea was to pacify the Gods and give the boat it's first contact with "liquid elements" so that it would be well prepared for what was to come.  Today, the tradition is a little different with champagne smashed or poured on the boat and drunk by all the crew.