Whitewater Valley Wine Society

Tony Cloke: Spy Valley Wines, New Zealand
2026-04-08 19:45 - 22:00 (Europe/London) | The Raven Hotel, The Raven Hotel, Hook, RG27 9HS, United Kingdom
Last time Tony presented to us, we had a fantastic evening tasting Spy Valley Wines, from New Zealand. It was one of the best tastings that year. So we have no hesitation in welcoming him back to taste a new selection from this prestigious winery.
Based in the UK, Tony is European Sales Manager for Spy Valley Wines. He started out as Brand Manager several years ago when he worked for Bibendum Wine, their UK market partner.
Spy Valley Wines is one of the most highly regarded wineries in the Marlborough region of New Zealand. Spy Valley can trace its history back to the 1990s when Bryan and Jan Johnson established their 320 acre vineyard on land considered too hard, too dry and too unfertile for wine. But their passion won through and the family run estate flourished. Today, they export seven varietals to 35 countries across the world.
A key advantage of having an evening dedicated to one wine estate is that we will be able to taste most of the varietals produced on the estate.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Friday 27th March. Guest bookings open on Thursday 1st April. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £22 members / £27 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Svitlana Tsybak, CEO, Ukrainian Wine Company UK
2026-03-11 19:45 - 22:00
Late last year, member Alastair Dudley and I were priveleged to attend a tasting of Ukrainian wines, presented by Svitlana Tsybak, CEO of the Ukrainian Wine Company UK. It’s fair to say that the wines we tasted very much exceeded our expectations. We tasted several amazing whites and reds, with a mix of indigenous and international varieties.
It was clear that Svitlana’s passion and enthusiasm for wine is remarkable and her knowledge exceptional. She is very excited about bringing the wines of Ukraine to the Whitewater Valley Wine Society. Svitlana is keen to promote Ukraine’s culture, history and bravery through their wines, which she wants to share with the world.
So this month, you are all in for a real treat and you will be tasting some fantastic wines. from small and medium sized wineries. This is a tasting I think we will be talking about for a long time. You will also be supporting the winemakers of Ukraine at what is a difficult time for their country.
Book early to avoid disappointment.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Thursday 26th February. Guest bookings open on Thursday 4th March. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £22 members / £27 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Members' Choices, preceded by a brief AGM
2026-02-11 19:45 - 22:00
We have many wine enthusiasts within our Society and it’s always good to taste wines which are recommended by them. That’s why this month we will open the floor to eight of our members, who will each introduce a wine of their choice.
Our volunteers put lots effort into selecting their chosen wine. These evenings are hugely popular with our members, so you won’t want to miss it.
This tasting will be preceded by a brief AGM, lasting about 15 minutes.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Thursday 29th January. Guest bookings open on Thursday 5th February. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Claudia Hussain, Noble Green Wines: Volcanic Wines
2026-01-14 19:45 - 22:00
Tonight we welcome Claudia Hussain, who is presenting to us for the first time.
Claudia is an enthusiastic and lively ambassador for Noble Green Wines, who are an independent wine, craft beer and spirits merchant located in the Twickenham area. Regular members will know that I’m very keen to support our independent wine merchants. It’s through them that we’re able to buy and taste wines which typically offer more than those available through the supermarkets.
Claudia will present her pick of volcanic wines. These are wines from vineyards grown near active, dormant, or extinct volcanoes. Here, rich ash and lava from eruptions are present in the soil, so have an impact on the agricultural functions that surround them. Volcanic soils are quite porous, which means that the soil near the surface isn’t holding onto rainwater or humidity to hydrate the vines, so they develop deep roots in their search for moisture and nutrients.
This sounds like a fascinating evening. So book early to avoid disappointment.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Thursday 1st January. Guest bookings open on Thursday 8th January. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Christmas Raid on the Chair's Cellar
2025-12-10 19:45 - 22:00
Tonight we’ll be celebrating Christmas! And we’re going to do that in style by raiding the Chair’s Cellar!
Yes, Keith will be digging deep into his cellar to bring you some superb wines, which will hopefully get us in the mood for the upcoming Christmas celebrations.
Following a bubbly and a couple of classy whites, the main focus will be on the reds. Those of you that know Keith’s tastes well will expect a mature Bordeaux, along with some of his favourites from Portugal, Australia and Chile. There will also be a top red from California. And he’ll finish the evening by serving an aged vintage port.
Food wise, there will be the usual bread and cheese, supplemented with some mince pies and other festive nibbles. (But please eat first, we’re not serving a meal!)
Above all, the focus will be on enjoying the evening and chatting with your friends. Keith won’t be doing too much talking (really!)
If that doesn’t get you in the mood for Christmas, I’m not sure what will!
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 26th November. Guest bookings open on Thursday 4th December. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

James Booth, Director, New Generation Wines: New Zealand Pinot Noir (mostly!)
2025-11-12 19:45 - 22:00
This month we welcome James Booth, Director of New Generation Wines, who is presenting to us for the first time. New Generation was set up by James in 2006. His company imports and distributes wines to independent merchants across the UK and the London-focused on-trade, as well as supplying selected lines to multiple retailers. James creates its portfolio around wines which he believes have an edge; those that stand out from the crowd, challenge perceptions and which are made by inspirational people, forward thinkers and pioneers.
The focus of our evening will be New Zealand pinot noirs. James will also include one or two whites, wines which he regards as rather special and which he wants to show us.
It’s likely to be another sell out. So book your places soon.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Thursday 30th October. Guest bookings open on Thursday 6th November. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Alun Griffiths, Master of Wine: Languedoc/Roussillon
2025-10-08 19:45 - 22:00
It is with enormous pleasure that we welcome back Alun Griffiths to present our October tasting. Alun is a great friend of our Society and needs no introduction to many of our members. We know that his evenings with us are always informative, interesting and fun. For the benefit of our newer members who may not know Alun, he has been a Master of Wine since 1991. For many years, he was Wine Director at Berry Bros & Rudd, following which he was based in Hong Kong for several years.
Back in the UK, Alun lectures on wine and has been a panel judge at the International Wine Challenge and the Decanter Wine Awards Competition. He’s a regular member of the Decanter Magazine tasting panel. And he is non-Executive Chairman of Thorman Hunt, a family-run specialist wine shipper sourcing premium artisanal wine.
This time, Alun will be presenting the wines of Languedoc/Roussillon in France. He’ll be picking some of his favourite wines from a recent visit to the region.
It’s a privilege to be able to welcome Alun for what is sure to be a fantastic evening.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Thursday 25th September September. Guest bookings open on Thursday 2nd October. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Mark Bedford, Owner, Caviste: Madness, Devotion and Brilliance
2025-09-10 19:45 - 22:00
In September, we welcome back Mark Bedford, owner of our local wine merchant Caviste. Mark is well known to many of us and we always enjoy our evenings when he presents.
Mark will introduce the people and their stories behind 9 wines that Caviste has sold over the years. It takes commitment, skill, vision and a high degree of craziness and self-sacrifice to make many of the wines that we enjoy. We shall endeavour to identify both the terroir of the vineyard and the personality of the winemaker, while Mark amuses us with the stories behind the wines.
This promises to be another great evening at The Raven.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Thursday 28th August. Guest bookings open on Thursday 4th September. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Lucia Dovalova, Director, The Naughty Grape: From the Carpathians to Hook - A Slovak Wine Journey
2025-07-09 19:45 - 22:00
In April, member Alastair Dudley and I were invited to visit the Slovakian Embassy in London, where they were hosting a wine tasting of wines from Slovakia. It’s fair to say that the wines we tasted very much exceeded our expectations. We tasted stunning bubblies, amazing whites and reds, with a mix of indigenous and international varieties.
And then we met Lucia Dovalova, Director of The Naughty Grape, which retails wines from Slovakia in the UK. Her passion and enthusiasm for wine is remarkable and her knowledge exceptional. She is very excited about bringing the wines of Slovakia to the Whitewater Valley Wine Society.
So this month, you are all in for a real treat. Not only are the wines great, but the value is good as well. This is a tasting I think we will be talking about for a long time.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Thursday 26th June. Guest bookings open on Thursday 3rd July. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Marion Tardiveau, Sales Support, Thorman Hunt: Italy
2025-06-11 19:45 - 22:00
In June we welcome Marion Tardiveau, who is presenting to us for the first time. Marion is a Customer Services Representative at Thorman Hunt, a family-run specialist wine shipper sourcing premium artisanal wine for restaurants and hotels in London and the UK.,
After studying English and Mandarin for three years, her fascination with wine led her to study in France, where she achieved two diplomas and a degree in International Wine Business.
Marion moved to London 6 years ago. Italy is one of her favourite wine regions and it’s wines from that country that we will be tasting this evening.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Thursday 29th May. Guest bookings open on Thursday 5th June. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Preet Sahota: Boutique Wines of the Southern Hemisphere
2025-05-14 19:45 - 22:00
Preet Sahota is a presenter who needs no introduction to those who have been members for more than a couple of years. He has a reputation for bringing us lesser known wines from the new world, especially South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. We like the wines he shows us and they are well priced. So it comes as no surprise that Preet holds the record for the amount of wine ordered at our tastings.
So it will be great to see Preet again and I know that we will all enjoy the wines he shows us this month. I confidently predict we’re going to have a great evening and you will definitely like the wines!
Book early to avoid disappointment.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Thursday 1st May. Guest bookings open on Thursday 8th May. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Robert Markham, Fine Wine Manager, Gonzalez Byass UK: Fine Wines from across Europe
2025-04-09 19:45 - 22:00
This month we welcome Robert Markham, who is presenting to us for the first time. Robert is Fine Wine Manager for Gonzalez Byass UK, a position he has held for 10 years.
González Byass UK is a subsidiary of the historic González Byass business who distribute a considerable portfolio of wines and spirits. Whilst they were traditionally associated with Spain, nowadays they import a carefully selected handful of complementary brands from around the globe.
Robert’s speciality is fine wine brands from across Europe, including Domaine Zind-Humbrecht, Champagne Deutz, Quinta do Noval, Disznoko Tokaji and Domane Wachau. So for tonight’s tasting we’ll be going on a European tour, featuring fine wines from France, Hungary, Austria, Portugal and Spain.
I think we are in for a real treat!
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Thursday 27th March. Guest bookings open on Thursday 2nd April. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Andy Brown: Quinta de Pedra Alta, Portugal
2025-03-12 19:45 - 22:00
This month we welcome Andy Brown, who is presenting to us for the first time. He’s Commercial Director for Quinta de Pedra Alta, a winery with a long history based in the Douro Valley region of Portugal.
I’m always excited when we can do a whole evening tasting wines from a single portfolio as it means we can explore their whole range of wines. We’ll be starting with a couple of whites, before moving on to taste four of their reds. And as it’s the Douro, we must finish with a couple of ports. All the wines from Pedra Alta are blends, several made with grapes from vines which are more than 40 years old. So we can see how the winemaker influences the style and character of the wines through careful blending of different varietals.
Andy has been Commercial Director at Quinta de Pedra Alta for over 6 years, building on a career in the wine industry which goes back thirty years.
I’m sure this will be a popular evening. So book early!
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 26th February. Guest bookings open on Thursday 6th March. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Members' Choices, preceded by a brief AGM
2025-02-12 19:45 - 22:00
We have many wine enthusiasts within our Society and it’s always good to taste wines which are recommended by them. That’s why this month we will open the floor to eight of our members, who will each introduce a wine of their choice.
Our volunteers put lots effort into selecting their chosen wine. These evenings are hugely popular with our members, so you won’t want to miss it.
This tasting will be preceded by a brief AGM, lasting about 15 minutes.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Thursday 30th January. Guest bookings open on Thursday 6th February. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Richard Addison, Riebeek Valley Wine Company: Swartland, South Africa
2025-01-08 19:45 - 22:00
To start the new year, we welcome Richard Addison. He’s a specialist in wines from the Swartland Region of South Africa. Specifically, he’s Sales Manager for the Riebeek Valley Wine Company and he’s Sales Representative for Wine Fusion.
Swartland is a wine region about 30 miles north of Cape Town. It’s a relatively young wine region, which has risen in popularity in the last 10 to 15 years. It is attracting many upcoming winemakers who make world class wines that have put this region on the map.
Richard will put together a selection of wines from the Swartland region. This will include plenty of reds, including shiraz and Cape blends.
It should be a fun and fascinating evening to start the new year!
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Saturday 28th December. Guest bookings open on Thursday 2nd January. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Christmas Raid on the Chairs Cellar
2024-12-11 19:45 - 22:00
Tonight we’ll be celebrating Christmas! And we’re going to do that in style by raiding the Chair’s Cellar!
Yes, Keith will be digging deep into his cellar to bring you some superb wines, which will hopefully get us in the mood for the upcoming Christmas celebrations.
Following a bubbly and a couple of classy whites, the main focus will be on the reds. Those of you that know Keith’s tastes well will expect a mature Bordeaux, along with some of his favourites from Italy, South Africa and Chile. There will also be a top red from California (ask those that know Keith well to find out which winery will be featured!). And he’ll finish the evening by serving a 25 year old vintage port.
Food wise, there will be the usual bread and cheese, supplemented with some mince pies and other festive nibbles. (But please eat first, we’re not serving a meal!)
Above all, the focus will be on enjoying the evening and chatting with your friends. Keith won’t be doing too much talking (really!)
If that doesn’t get you in the mood for Christmas, I’m not sure what will!
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 27th November. Guest bookings open on Thursday 5th December. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

David Wright, Owner of David Alexander Wines: Germany
2024-11-13 07:45 - 22:00
In November we’ll be welcoming David Wright, owner of David Alexander Wines. They are an importer, wholesaler and retailer of wine. Founded in 1982, they originally traded in Maidenhead. Like many other retailers, they now trade online.
Whilst they offer mainstream wines (those that are popular and ubiquitous) they also like to find gems that are not on every high street. Wines that reflect the personality and character of the winemaker and their region. David is keen to entertain and educate those willing to explore the world of wine and he’s very keen to be able to present wines to our members.
One of David’s speciality areas is Germany and it’s the wines of that country which we’ll be tasting. There will be both whites and reds, and David will finish with a dessert wine.
We haven’t had a German wine evening for several years and I know we have several fans in our Society. We’ve given David a generous budget so expect to taste some fine wines from excellent producers.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 30th October. Guest bookings open on Thursday 7th November. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Fliss Syrad, WSET Diploma: New Zealand
2024-10-09 19:45 - 22:00
We welcome Fliss Syrad, who is presenting to us for the first time. Fliss had a successful career in corporate strategy, before moving into the wine business in 2012. She holds the prestigious WSET Diploma, and last year was awarded the Vintners Cup for coming top of all Diploma students worldwide. She has considerable experience of conducting wine tastings with groups of all sizes and backgrounds, and loves conveying her passion and knowledge in an informal and entertaining way.
Fliss has recently spent a lot of time in New Zealand, so that places her well to present some top wines of New Zealand to us this evening.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Saturday 28th September. Guest bookings open on Thursday 3rd October. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Janina Doyle, Brand Ambassador, Balfour Winery
2024-09-11 19:45 - 22:00
We start our autumn tastings by welcoming back Janina Doyle, one of our most popular previous speakers. Since Janina was last with us in 2019, she has moved on to Balfour Winery in Kent, where she is Brand Ambassador.
Balfour Winery is one of England’s leading wine producers, pioneers for both English traditional method sparkling wines, and a new wave of English white and red still wines. Making over 400,000 bottles of still and sparkling wines each year, Balfour is one of England’s most respected and renowned wineries, combining world-class winemaking with a spirit of innovation.
We’ll be tasting wines from across the Balfour portfolio, including some of their top rated premium products.
This promises to be a very exciting evening and early booking is recommended.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 28th August. Guest bookings open on Thursday 5th September. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Duncan Ross, Berkmann Wine Cellars: Argentina
2024-07-10 19:45 - 22:00
This month we’re delighted to welcome Duncan Ross, who is Sales Account Manager at Berkmann Wine Cellars. Berkmann is the UK’s largest family owned and family run wine importer. They’ve been trading since 1964 and specialise in independent producers.
Duncan will be presenting wines from Argentina, the largest wine producer in South America and the fifth largest in the world. Key wineries represented will be Pulenta Estate and Bodega Norton. We’ll start with two whites, then go on to taste six reds. And whilst you’d expect Malbec to feature, Duncan will also include a pinot noir, a cabernet sauvignon and some red blends, the latter becoming increasing popular with Argentine winemakers.
Book early, otherwise you might be disappointed!
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 26th June. Guest bookings open on Thursday 4th July. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Dan Farrell-Wright, Director, Wickhams Wine Merchant: Beaujolais/Burgundy Comparison
2024-06-12 19:45 - 22:00
This month we welcome back Dan Farrell-Wright, who last presented to us a few years back. Dan is a Director of Wickhams, an online wine merchant. He set up Wickhams late in 2020, specifically to sell the kind of wines he likes to drink himself and to provide excellent service to wine consumers across the UK. Within the first year they were shortlisted in the ‘Newcomer of the Year’ and ‘England & Wales Specialist’ categories at the Decanter Retail Awards. And more recently they took first place in the International Wine Challenge Awards ‘Specialist Merchant of the Year England’ category.
Dan will be presenting a selection of wines from Beaujolais and Burgundy. We’ll be starting with a bubbly, then a couple of whites including Chablis. The reds will then take priority as we compare wines from Burgundy Villages and Cru Beaujolais.

Jeremy Lithgow, Master of Wine: Greece
2024-05-08 19:45 - 22:00
It’s always a privilege to welcome a Master of Wine to our Society, especially so when they are presenting to us for the first time. The Master of Wine is globally recognised as the highest qualification and they number just a few hundred across the world. .
Jeremy has been working in the wine industry since 1995, starting his career in London wine retail. This was followed by five years in Australia, working vintage in the Yarra Valley before a period in Sydney with the country’s leading European wine importer. Jeremy then relocated to Melbourne to run a European wine store. Returning to England in 2007 he managed the Harrods Wine Department then moved to Burgundy specialist Charles Taylor Wines as Sales Director. He achieved the Master of Wine qualification in 2016. And since 2017 he has been Head of Wine for UK national distributor, wholesaler and retailer Amathus Drinks.
Tonight he’ll be presenting his choice of wines from Greece, one of the world’s oldest wine producing countries. Greek wines have been available in the Uk for as long as we can remember. However, it’s during the last 10 years that they become recognised as achieving top quality and they now shine alongside some of the world’s best known wine regions. The winemakers embrace the country’s indigenous varietals, each of which has a distinct character and qualilty. The Amathus portfolio of Greek wines brings us some the best available in the UK, including wines which now feature internationally known grape varieties.
We expect this evening to be extremely popular and early booking is recommended.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 24th April. Guest bookings open on Thursday 2nd May. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Richard and Eka: Taste of Georgia
2024-04-10 19:45 - 22:00
This month we’re delighted to welcome Richard and Eka, who together run Taste of Georgia. We’re very excited to be able to explore this Eastern European region and its wines which are the product of 8000 years of unbroken wine-making heritage. Nevertheless, it’s a region which may well be unfamiliar to some of our members. So it’s a great opportunity to come along and taste some wines from their portfolio.
Taste of Georgia is now in its sixth year and continues to expand its range in line with the growing interest in the both the wines of Georgia and in Georgia itself as an award winning tourist destination. As well as showing wines, they set out to improve awareness of Georgia, it’s culture and customs.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 27th March. Guest bookings open on Thursday 4th April. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Brian Davis, Association of Wine Educators: Southern Italy
2024-03-13 19:45 - 22:00
It’s been many years since we welcomed Brian Davis to our Society, so it will be great to have him back. Brian is a specialist wine educator who nurtured his passion for wines whilst entertaining clients in the chemical industry. He passed his WSET Diploma in 1999 and regularly runs wine tasting events across Surrey and Berkshire. He undertakes a wide range of corporate and private tastings, wine clubs ,cruise lecturing, workshops and hotel staff training. Brian has a relaxed style of lecturing, welcoming feedback and discussion with the emphasis on enjoyment and fun!
Some 25 years ago most of the grapes grown in Southern Italy and Sicily went north to make Vermouth until they realised that their indigenous grape varieties warranted their attention to make decent table wine.
Now these varieties make excellent wine at sensible prices compared to the likes of Piemonte and Chianti classics. Italy has approximately 1000 grape varieties and many of these are being rediscovered and available through specialist merchants.
For our tasting there will be usual suspects plus two grapes that may not be well known , one from Sicily and one from Puglia.
Italy is always popular with our members, so early booking is advised.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 28th February. Guest bookings open on Thursday 7th March. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Members' Choices, preceded by a brief AGM
2024-02-14 19:45 - 22:00
We have many wine enthusiasts within our Society and it’s always good to taste wines which are recommended by them. That’s why this month we will open the floor to eight of our members, who will each introduce a wine of their choice.
Our volunteers put lots effort into selecting their chosen wine. These evenings are hugely popular with our members, so you won’t want to miss it.
This tasting will be preceded by a brief AGM, lasting about 15 minutes.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 31st January. Guest bookings open on Thursday 8th February. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Nicholas Corfe: Managing Director, Go Brazil Wines
2024-01-10 19:45 - 22:00
We start 2024 by welcoming Nicholas Corfe, Managing Director of Go Brazil Wines.
The Portuguese first introduced vines to Brazil in the 16th century, Brazil’s commercial wine-making heritage can be traced back nearly 150 years, to the last quarter of the 19th century, when the first of many Italian emigrants arrived in the south of the country and started putting their existing wine-making skills to good use. The modern Brazilian wine industry still retains an Italian feel, not least because many of the descendants of those original settlers are involved in wine-making, and sometimes within wineries which still bear their family name. Since the turn of the 21st century, however, many new vineyards wineries have appeared. Brazil now enjoys a growing reputation for fine wines and these are consistently winning international awards.
Established in 2010, Go Brazil specialises in importing and distributing wines of Brazilian origin to the UK market and they are proud still to be the only UK company to do so. Nicholas’ pick of wines will show us the best of modern Brazilian wine-making and will incorporate a wide range of wine styles, producers and regions.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 27th December. Guest bookings open on Thursday 4th January. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Celebrating Christmas with Chateau Musar
2023-12-13 19:45 - 22:00
We’re going to make our Christmas tasting very special this year as we enjoy a whole evening enjoying the legendary wines of Chateau Musar.
Many of our members will need no introduction to the Lebanese wines of Chateau Musar. Others will probably have heard of Musar, but perhaps never have experienced its delight. But whether we are regular fans or newcomers, we should all be in awe of the challenge that this wine is to make and of its cult status amongst wine connoisseurs.
The Hochar family have overseen the production of Musar in Lebanon for several generations. Year in, year out, they consistently make this world famous wine, despite the political distractions, literally in their back yard.
The pleasure of marketing Chateau Musar throughout Europe is a task keenly undertaken by this month’s presenter, UK Managing Director Jane Sowter. She works tirelessly to help make sure that the Musar wines reach our shelves in the UK and frequently presents the wines to full houses throughout the UK.
Our tasting of the wines of Chateau Musar promises to be an interesting and rare experience. With the inclusion of some old and rare vintages no longer readily available, it’s a great way for our Society to celebrate Christmas!
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 29th November. Guest bookings open on Thursday 7th December. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Alun Griffiths, Master of Wine: The Loire Valley
2023-11-08 19:45 - 22:00
It is with enormous pleasure that we welcome back Alun Griffiths to present our November tasting. Alun is a great friend of our Society and needs no introduction to many of our members. We know that his evenings with us are always informative, interesting and fun. For the benefit of our newer members who may not know Alun, he has been a Master of Wine since 1991. For many years, he was Wine Director at Berry Bros & Rudd and more recently he was based in Hong Kong.
Alun is now once again UK based and is non-Executive Chairman of Thorman Hunt, a family-run specialist wine shipper sourcing premium artisanal wine for the finest restaurants, hotels and trade professionals in London and the UK.. This role gives him access to their extensive portfolio of wines and tonight he has chosen to present wines from the Loire Valley, building upon a recent visit to the region.
Alun also lectures on wine and has been a panel judge at the International Wine Challenge and the Decanter Wine Awards Competition. He’s also a regular member of the Decanter Magazine tasting panel.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 25th October. Guest bookings open on Thursday 2nd November. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Ethan Harvey, Manager, Caviste Newlyns: Premium Red Wines - Comparing the Hemispheres
2023-10-11 19:45 - 22:00
It’s with great pleasure that we welcome Ethan Harvey, Shop Manager at our local merchant Caviste, who will be presenting to us for the first time. Ethan has been Manager at Caviste for the last year and it’s fair to say that he’s become very popular with Caviste’s regular customers. Young and enthusiastic, Ethan has worked in wine retail for several years before taking on this key role at Caviste.
I’ve asked Ethan to focus on red wines and we’ve rolled out the budget so that he can feature some premium reds from the Caviste portfolio. His tasting will feature several red varietals, comparing wines from the Northern and Southern hemispheres.
This is sure to be a popular evening with our members, so please book early to avoid disappointment.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 27th September. Guest bookings open on Thursday 5th October. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!

Tony Cloke: Spy Valley Wines, New Zealand
2023-09-13 19:45 - 22:00
This month we welcome back Tony Cloke, who last presented to our Society five years ago. Based in the UK, Tony is European Sales Manager for Spy Valley Wines. He started out as Brand Manager several years ago when he worked for Bibendum Wine, their UK market partner.
Spy Valley Wines is one of the most highly regarded wineries in the Marlborough region of New Zealand. Spy Valley can trace its history back to the 1990s when Bryan and Jan Johnson established their 320 acre vineyard on land considered too hard, too dry and too unfertile for wine. But their passion won through and the family run estate flourished. Today, they export seven varietals to 35 countries across the world.
A key advantage of having an evening dedicated to one wine estate is that we will be able to taste most of the varietals produced on the estate.
How to book your places
Booking for members opens on Wednesday 30th August. Guest bookings open on Thursday 7th September. Please do not try to book or pay any money before these dates.
Firstly, please check with Clive that places are still available. You can book through Clive by e-mail to
wvws.bookings.clive@gmail.com
As soon as Clive has confirmed you have places reserved, please confirm your booking by making payment of £20 members / £24 guests to the Society account in the usual way.
Account Name: Whitewater WineSoc
Sort Code: 30-91-31
Account Number: 01158564
Please enter a contact phone number to the reference field, just in case we’re not sure who the payment has come from!
