Let’s face it: the world of wine can sometimes feel like a closed club. Complex jargon, intimidating price tags, and the nagging fear of mispronouncing Viognier in front of someone swirling a glass like they were born in Bordeaux. But not here. Not with us.
Welcome to the Wine Guild of the United Kingdom – a vibrant, inclusive, and ever-curious community where young people, seasoned professionals, and passionate newcomers come together to share one very important thing: a love for wine.
A Safe Space to Learn, Taste, and Ask the “Silly” Questions
The Wine Guild is, first and foremost, a welcoming community. Whether you’re just beginning your journey into wine or you’ve already memorised every Grand Cru of Burgundy, this is your space. Here, there’s no such thing as a stupid question. Don’t know the difference between tannins and tartrates? Confused about how to pronounce Gewürztraminer? Curious why people sniff the cork (spoiler: they probably shouldn’t)? Ask away.
This is a place where no one judges – where learning is celebrated, mistakes are embraced, and curiosity is the only requirement.
Who Will You Meet?
One of the most exciting things about being a member of the Guild is the eclectic mix of people you’ll encounter. You might find yourself sitting next to a winemaker from Sussex, a Master of Wine, a sommelier with stories from Michelin-starred floors, or someone who just tried their first rosé last week and is already in love.
We’re proud to say that our membership is a tapestry woven from many strands – from WSET diploma holders and vineyard owners to enthusiastic collectors and complete beginners. Everyone belongs, and everyone brings something to the table (usually a bottle).
Not Posh. Not Pricey. Just Good Wine and Great People.
Let’s clear something up – joining the Wine Guild doesn’t require a trust fund or a tuxedo. Membership is priced to be accessible, and our events are structured to suit all pockets. From masterclasses and vineyard visits to tastings and picnics, you’ll find most activities are surprisingly affordable. In fact, we host young members’ socials for just- £10 – a brilliant excuse to try something new, meet enthusiasts, and have a cracking evening without breaking the bank.
So, What Do We Actually Do?
We taste, we learn, we explore. Our calendar is packed with a range of wine-themed experiences:
- Masterclasses on everything from English sparkling to orange wines
- Winemaker dinners where food and wine come together in perfect harmony
- Vineyard tours and tastings, including day trips and European adventures
- Summer picnics in the vines, because wine always tastes better outdoors
- Visits to British wineries, often hosted by the winemakers themselves
- And yes, the occasional Beaujolais Nouveau bash, because why not?
https://wineguilduk.org/wine-guild-events/events-page/
In Partnership with the Académie du Vin Library
One of the Guild’s proudest recent collaborations is our partnership with the Académie du Vin Library, publishers of some of the most insightful and beautifully written wine books in the English-speaking world. Through this partnership, we regularly host exclusive events where the authors themselves lead a themed masterclass based on their latest book – accompanied, of course, by wines that bring their words to life in the glass.
Imagine sipping a glass of Barolo whilst the author discusses the mystique of Nebbiolo – it’s like a book club, only far more delicious.
Run by Young Women. Driven by Passion.
Another thing that sets the Guild apart is the remarkable women leading it. A full 90% of our management committee are young women – driven, creative, and passionate about shaping a wine culture that’s inclusive, forward-thinking, and full of energy. They bring fresh ideas, diverse perspectives, and a deep commitment to making the world of wine accessible and exciting for everyone.
A New Website and Real Perks
We’ve recently launched a new interactive website designed to be more than just a digital noticeboard. It’s a hub – connecting members, listing events, and offering access to exclusive discounts on wine-related products: think top-quality glassware, wine preservation tools, educational courses, and more. It’s all about helping you enjoy and understand wine that little bit better, with the right tools and knowledge at your fingertips.
The Intronisation Ceremony – A Tradition with a Twist
Every year, we welcome new members into the Guild in a very special way: the Intronisation Ceremony, presided over by none other than Lord Thurso. It’s a delightful blend of tradition, theatre, and celebration – a chance to honour our heritage while embracing a new generation of wine lovers. Yes, it’s a bit ceremonial. Yes, there may be robes. But it’s also a lot of fun – and there’s always something excellent in the glass.
So, if you’re passionate about wine (or even just interested), and you’re looking for a welcoming, low-pressure, knowledge-rich environment to explore it, the Wine Guild of the United Kingdom might just be your new happy place.
Bring your questions. Bring your curiosity. Bring a friend.
Because wine is better when it’s shared – and so is the journey of discovering it.
Join us. Learn with us. Raise a glass with us.
Cheers!
