Derbyshire Dales Wine Society - About Us
A Community of Wine Enthusiasts in Derby
Our History
The Derbyshire Dales Wine Society traces its origins back to 1977 when it was founded by a group of wine enthusiasts working for a company situated in the Amber Valley area of mid Derbyshire. Initially known as the Richard Lees Wine Appreciation Society, the group's early focus revolved around tasting and exchanging notes about home-made fruit wines. However, significant changes occurred in May 1992 when key members left the company. The group reconstituted itself as the Derbyshire Dales Wine Society, relocating to the Compton-Inglefield Hall in Turnditch before eventually settling in Darley Abbey, Derby. By then, the Society had shifted its interest firmly towards exploring and tasting commercial wines from across the globe.
Who We Are Today
Today, the Derbyshire Dales Wine Society remains a vibrant community of passionate wine lovers residing in and around the city of Derby. We hold monthly meetings on the 2nd Friday of each month in Darley Abbey Village Hall. These gatherings provide members with the opportunity to delve into a curated selection of wines, often from a specific region, presented by an expert such as a wine importer, merchant, or representative of a particular producer.
Wine Tastings
Our wine tasting sessions are a cornerstone of the Society's activities. Each meeting begins with a sparkling wine reception, offering attendees a chance to mingle and connect. Following this, members are seated for the tasting, which typically includes around six wines. The atmosphere is informal yet engaging, fostering lively debates and discussions about the wines being sampled. Attendees often bring their own picnic to complement the tasting experience. In some instances, a cold buffet supper is lovingly prepared by our "catering corps."
Varied and Inclusive Programming
The Society's annual programme is crafted to explore wines from diverse regions around the world, ranging from well-known production areas to more obscure locales. In addition to our regular meetings, we host a small number of Premium nights each year where members have the chance to sample exclusive wines, including Champagne and Port. Our Christmas celebration is a highlight of the year, featuring a special buffet, wines selected by the committee, and a lively evening of dancing.
Member-Led Events
Twice a year, we hand over the reins to our members, allowing them to present their favourite wines. This unique element of our programme underscores our commitment to inclusivity and the shared experience of wine discovery.
Community and Connections
Our gatherings are informal and friendly, providing the perfect environment to chat, compare tasting notes, and deepen our shared appreciation for wine. The Derbyshire Dales Wine Society is not just about wine; it's about community, conversation, and creating lasting memories.
Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, the Derbyshire Dales Wine Society welcomes you to join our journey of exploration and enjoyment.
New members are welcome - please see the membership page for further information and the contact page for how to get in touch. Note that, for practical reasons, we have a cap on membership numbers and attendances and at times there may be a waiting list. For this reason, we encourage anyone interested to contact us in advance.