Emsworth's wine tasting extravaganza is a must

There is no doubt the best way to learn about wine and to experiment with different grapes and regions is to taste and this is a great opportunity to do just that.

It is organised by Emsworth's four independent wine merchants '“ Bush Vines, Hermitage Cellars, Portal, Dingwall and Norris, and VIN Wine. 

They are also being joined by Hambledon and Raimes Vineyards, two of  Hampshire's leading producers.

Liz Sagues, author of the recently published, highly acclaimed Celebration of English Wine will also be there to talk to tasters and sign copies.

While focussing on award-winning English wines, which will include among others, Sixteen Ridges and Albourne Estate, there will also be some fantastic wines from other regions around the world. There will be more than 40 wines to taste including organic, tying in with Organic September.

But it's not just wine, there will be an interesting range of British gins to taste.

On top of this, spirits from the English Whisky Company are included and to prove that you can have it all, you can experience a chocolate and wine matching experience with Montezuma's Chocolate.

If you are interested in learning even more there will also be a number of tutored wine tastings giving tasters the opportunity to hear the story behind the wines, the people who make them, and the places they come from under the guidance of one of our wine stars.

It promises to be a wonderful weekend of wine experiences.

Saturday, September 29

Midday:  Award-winning wines from Albourne Estate in West Sussex: presented by Bush Vines

1.30pm: Hambledon Vineyard: Some of England's finest fizz, from the Hampshire Downs

3pm: Chocolate and Wine: Pairing wine with Montezuma's Chocolate '“ Delicious!

Sunday, September 29

1pm: La Bri Estate, Franschhoek: meet winemaker Irene Waller and taste her range of wines

2.30pm: The Wines of Bulgaria; a rise in quality: presented by Jonathan Rogers, VIN Wine Merchants

The GRAPE Escape - Emsworth

Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 

Part of A Thought for Food Market, South Street Car Park

Tickets are £5 and include:

40 wines and spirits

A souvenir limited edition tasting glass

A chocolate and wine tasting experience with Montezuma's Chocolate

The opportunity to stock up on your favourite bottles many at Food Fortnight prices.

Opening Times:

Saturday 11.00am '“ 4.30pm

Sunday 11.30am '“ 4.00pm

Tutored Tasting Masterclasses '“ £5 limited to 20 per session.

Available in advance from The Brookfield Hotel '“ 01243 373363 '“ and at the entrance to The Grape Escape on the day if still available.