WSET rolls out English wine tasting for consumers

Published: 27 June, 2012

The WSET is launching an English wine-tasting club, the Pursuit of English Excellence, for consumers interested in finding out more about the category.

The move comes on the back of rising popularity of English wines, and a significant increase in UK sales in supermarkets and independents after the Queen's Diamond Jubilee weekend.

The tasting, which the WSET hopes will become and annual event, will be an informal exploration of 12 English wine producers for consumers and is timed ahead of the second patriotic event this year - the Olympics.

A two-hour class will be held on July 12 and will be hosted by English Wine Producers' marketing director Julia Trustram Eve, who will talk guests through a selection of English wines including Chapel Down, Hush Heath, Nyetimber and Ridgeview.

An exploration of the history and future of English wines, recent award wins (including a look at blind tastings where English wine has won over Champagne) and suggested food matching from local producers such as Paul A Young Fine Chocolates and Neal's Yard Dairy cheeses, will also feature, plus recommendations of what to drink during the Olympics.

Ian Harris, chief exective of the WSET, said: "Following on from the recent explosion of interest in this long-neglected category, we're really excited to offer a new class to consumers that will explore English wine for the first time."

The Pursuit of English Excellence will take place at the International Wine & Spirit Centre, 39-45 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 3XF on July 12, from 6.30pm-8.30pm. Tickets are priced at £20 each and can be purchased by emailing courses@wset.co.uk and including booking number EWPR1201.

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