First Friday Wine Tasting for 2012

We are delighted to announce that our wine expert Karen Hardwick has won the award for the Best Wine Educator in the World sponsored by Riedel Crystal. Karen received her award from Jancis Robinson at the Wine Trade Oscars held at the Guildhall in London in early January which was attended by finalists from all over the world.

Chapters Hotel is delighted to have teamed up with www.thewineacademy.co.uk to offer the chance to learn about wine in a relaxed and informal way, in the fantastic setting of Chapters Hotel.

These evenings are aimed at people who enjoy wine and would like to learn more. The evenings consist of a tutored tasting of at least 7 wines conducted by Karen Hardwick, Director of The Wine Academy.

The evenings are relaxed and informal, we want to share our passion for wine and not bamboozle you with Jargon!

Watch the video for more information and check below for the next events:

DATES for 2012

Friday 3rd February – Germany & Alsace

Forget Blue Nun and Black Tower you won’t see any on our evening dedicated to the aromatic and delicious wines of Germany and Alsace. Elegant, complex and misunderstood (think Audrey Hepburn) in a glass.

Friday 2nd March – California

Having worked for Californian Winemaker Robert Mondavi, Karen knows her way around the Napa Valley like the back of her hand. Join us on a roadtrip full of the wines and stories of the Sunshine State.

Friday 13th April – Burgundy

With demand outstripping supply Burgundy is always expensive but it’s worth it. We invite you to share some very special bottles with us on this elegant, understated evening

Friday 4th May – New Zealand

From crisp Sauvignon to aromatic Pinot Gris and spicy Shiraz New Zealand has something to please everyone. With an exciting menu of fusion cooking to match this event will excite the most jaded of palates.

Friday 1st June – Champagne & Sparkling

One of our most popular evenings. Starting with a glass of Prosecco we learn how to put the fizz into Champagne and the difference between different styles of Sparkling Wine.

Friday 6th July– Chile & Argentina

South America is really setting the pace for well made and great value wines however did you know they also make wines to rival the best of France. From Malbec to Merlot, Cabernet to Carmenere we have a chance to try some of the best wines from this diverse region.

Announcement – Karen is now a judge for Italian and Spanish wines at the International Wines and Spirits Awards (IWSC Awards)……

Friday 3rd August – Spain & Portugal

Ever popular our Spain and Portugal evening involves a selection of mouthwatering tapas served throughout the evening with wines to match. From full bodied Rioja Reserva to crisp Albarino, luscious port and refreshing rose there is something to please everyone.

Friday 7th September – Northern Italy

We are always spoilt for choice when it comes to Italy so we have decided to run two events. On our first we will focus on the wines of Northern Italy including Barolo and Amarone with some seasonal game to match the wines.

Friday 5th October – Southern Italy

Our second Italy evening focuses on Southern Italy which is fast carving a reputation for interesting indigenous grape varieties. From Negroamaro to Nero D’Avola, Fiano to Greco de Tufu we have a treasure trove of exciting wines just waiting to be discovered.

Friday 2nd November – Australia

We love Australian in the U.K. and it’s not difficult to see why. Open a bottle of Barossa Shiraz or Hunter Valley Chardonnay and you are opening a bottle of sunshine. As well as our favourites we will explore wines from some lesser known areas of Australia such as Tasmania.

Friday 9th November – Champagne **                          Wine Tasting fee will be £38.50 per person

An evening of luxury and indulgence when we focus exclusively on Champagne. We explore different styles, vineyards and vintages with dinner to match. An exceptional evening with a selection of the finest prestige cuvees including Krug, Bollinger and Grand Cru Growers Champagnes. Not to be missed.

Friday 30th November – Bordeaux **                             Wine Tasting fee will be £38.50 per person

Something of an institution our December event sells out months in advance. On previous evenings we have opened Chateau Margaux and Chateau Lafite as well as luscious Sauternes and fruity St Emilion. Whatever we choose to open this year an exceptional evening and a fitting way to kick off the Christmas season is assured.

Wine tasting Evenings for 2012 are from £48.95 which includes

The actual course is from £19.00  & the 3 course specially selected Dinner from £29.95 per person*

Guests to arrive at 7pm

Special Feature Friday Night evenings

Sparkling Wine & Petit Fours in your room on arrival, The Feature evening menu for 2 people, accommodation and Full English Breakfast in the morning.

The prices for 2012 are

Executive Rooms £185.00

Double Rooms £175.00

Small Double Rooms £155.00