The Wine Gang, the unique collaboration between five of the UK’s wine critics including Tim Atkin MW of the Observer, Anthony Rose of The Independent and Olly Smith off Saturday Kitchen – is to hold its first consumer wine fair in the run-up to the festive season. The Wine Gang Christmas Fair, showcasing some of the best wines the Gang has reviewed, takes place in a lively and fun atmosphere on 7th November at Vinopolis on London’s Southbank.
The Wine Gang was formed to empower wine drinkers to buy smarter and drink better, so each month’s online report gives independent assessments of at least 200 wines. At the Christmas Wine Fair, there will over 500 wines to taste, from more than 70 different retailers, many of whom will be making special offers to visitors on the day. Other highlights will include a series of free ‘Wine Walks’ conducted by the Gang, where visitors will be guided around some of their personal favourites and perfect wines for Christmas entertaining. The Fair will also see the announcement of the inaugural Wine Gongs – the Gang’s awards for the best wines of the year.
There are two sessions on the 7th November, one running from 11:00am – 2:00pm, with tickets priced at £20, and one running from 3:00pm – 6:00pm, with tickets priced at £22.50. Members of the Wine Gang can book these tickets with a substantial £7.50 discount, bringing the prices down to just £12.50 and £15.00 respectively.
Tickets for the fair can be booked via the Vinopolis web site or by telephoning Vinopolis on 0207 940 3000. Those who wish to join The Wine Gang first and enjoy the £7.50 per ticket discount can do so at www.thewinegang.com. As members, they will be able to access a direct link to book their discounted tickets.
Joanna Simon, one of the five members of The Wine Gang, said: “Since the Gang formed in 2008 we have uncovered hundreds of wine gems for our members. If there’s one time in the calendar when we all want to have a bottle of something special in the rack, it’s Christmas. So, our first Christmas Fair will give wine lovers some great ideas on what to buy this festive season, all in a fun and friendly atmosphere.”
