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Our Forthcoming Events

Exploring the World of Wine Together

A Varied and Inclusive Programme - The Society’s annual programme is designed to take wine lovers on a thrilling global adventure, whether you’re a seasoned expert or just beginning to explore the wonderful world of wine. We’ve got a diverse range of experiences that will deepen your knowledge and appreciation of wines from all corners of the globe. 

Occasionally, the Society hosts a select number of Premium nights each year, providing a rare opportunity for members to sample prestigious wines like Champagne and Port. These events attract interest from suppliers and members alike, keen to show and taste wines outside their usual budget and accessibility.

The crowning jewel of the Society’s calendar is its Christmas celebration. This highly anticipated event combines a festive buffet, an exceptional selection of wines handpicked by the committee, and an evening of lively dancing. It is a time for members to come together, toast the season, and revel in the camaraderie that defines the spirit of the Society.

Membership and Pricing - Membership to the Society is inclusive and accessible, with an annual fee of just £15. Members then can participate in individual tastings, each priced at £15.00. Occasionally, the Society hosts ticketed events, such as Premium nights or other exclusive gatherings, which may be priced higher. However, all pricing is confirmed in advance, ensuring transparency and clarity for members. It is worth noting that the prices listed are indicative and subject to final confirmation shortly before each event.
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Join Us - The Society offers a welcoming environment where you can learn, share, and enjoy. With its diverse programming and emphasis on community, the Society invites you to embark on a journey of discovery and delight. Cheers to new experiences and shared passions!
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See details of the 2025 - 2026 programme below:​

12 December 2025
Catered Buffet
​£ 25.00 - Now Sold Out!
DDWS Annual Christmas Party - This Event is now Sold Out!
Celebrate the End of the Year in Style!
Join us once again as we wrap up the year with the much-anticipated DDWS Annual Christmas Party! This festive event promises an evening of camaraderie, great food, and exceptional wines, all in a joyous and relaxed atmosphere.
Event Highlights:
•    Sparkling Wine Reception: The evening begins with a sparkling wine reception, accompanied by a selection of exquisite canapés to start the festivities off in style.
•    Background Music: Relax and unwind to a carefully curated programme of streamed background music, setting the perfect tone for the evening.
•    Wine-Related Quiz: Enjoy a light-hearted wine-themed quiz that promises entertainment and a dash of friendly competition.
•    Catered Buffet: Indulge in a fully catered, high-quality buffet featuring a variety of delicious options, paired with a fabulous selection of wines chosen by our committee.
•    Dancing: End the night on a high note with an hour or so of dancing to streamed music, selected by our members for an unforgettable conclusion to the celebration.
Important Details
•    Tickets: Availability is limited to 60 tickets, so be sure to secure your place early!
•    Wine Pairing: The wines served throughout the evening have been handpicked by our committee to complement the menu and enhance your experience.
We look forward to celebrating with you and making this year-end party one to remember. Cheers to a sparkling evening filled with laughter, music, and the best of wine!
09 January 2026
BYO
​£ 15.00
Vicky Rogers and Gauntleys of Nottingham: A Gateway to Fine Wines
Celebrating Tradition and Excellence in Wine Selection

​Gauntleys Fine Wines, a renowned Nottingham wine merchant established in 1880, has curated exceptional fine wines for discerning enthusiasts and connoisseurs. Known for its quality, expertise, and tradition, Gauntleys has become synonymous with the world of fine wines.

Vicky Rogers, an esteemed wine advocate, captivates audiences with her insights and engaging presentations. In January 2023, she showcased the exquisite wines of the Rhone Valley, leaving a lasting impression on attendees. This time, she invites them on another journey of discovery, presenting a selection of fine wines from the Loire Valley, celebrated for its diverse grape varieties and styles. Vicky’s presentation highlights the unique characteristics of Loire wines, demonstrating her dedication to sharing the stories and flavours of iconic wine regions.

Whether exploring the bold Rhone or the refined Loire, Gauntleys and Vicky Rogers celebrate the artistry and heritage of wine-making, creating memorable experiences for wine lovers in Nottingham and beyond.
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​https://www.gauntleys.com/uk/?

    We are looking forward to spending another evening with Vicky Rogers!  Members Tickets available in the Shop Now! 

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13th February 2026
BYO
£15.00
Welcome Back: Martin Flowers of Inknotts, Mansfield
A Journey Through Moldovan and Georgian Wines
We are delighted to welcome back Martin Flowers, the Midlands enterprise award-winning Wine Merchant, to DDWS.
Martin’s return promises another engaging and informative experience, as he unveils his latest discoveries from the winemaking regions of Moldova and Georgia.
A New Selection: Moldovan and Georgian Wines
During his visit, Martin will present an exciting update featuring wines from Moldova and Georgia—two regions celebrated for their distinctive styles and traditions. Georgian wines are especially noteworthy for their ancient winemaking heritage, particularly the use of qvevri for ageing white and amber wines. These traditional clay vessels lend unique characteristics to the wines, resulting in savoury flavours and firm tannins. Georgia is also home to indigenous grape varieties such as Saperavi, which are prized for their individuality and value.
Moldovan wines, on the other hand, are renowned for their bold flavours, rich fruit profiles, earthy notes, and balanced acidity. Produced in a wide array of styles using both local and international grape varieties, Moldovan wines are as diverse as they are expressive. The Codru region, for example, is celebrated for its fresh, vibrant white wines.
Martin’s return to DDWS promises more than just a wine tasting—it is an invitation to discover the captivating stories behind each bottle. 

https://inknotts.com/

13 March 2026
BYO
​£ 15.00
Introducing Tony Wellings: Antipodean Sommelier
A Journey Through New Zealand's Finest Wines
Tony Wellings, the passionate sommelier behind “The Antipodean Sommelier,” is committed to importing world-class New World wines. His philosophy is to discover wines that offer exceptional quality at an accessible price point, catering to both connoisseurs and casual drinkers. By focussing on New Zealand’s appellations, Tony ensures each bottle reflects the unique grape varieties and regions that thrive there.

New Zealand, known as the jewel of the Pacific, is renowned for its ability to cultivate grapes that produce wines bursting with character and vibrancy. The country’s diverse climate and geography allow winemakers to craft remarkable vintages. Tony has a particular fondness for New Zealand wines, not only for their quality but also for their ability to tell a story. Each sip reflects the region, the grape, and the winemakers’ dedication.

At his presentation, Tony will immerse guests in the landscapes and flavours of New Zealand. He’ll guide them through the notes and characteristics of each wine, explaining the growing conditions and winemaking techniques that contribute to their excellence. With his approachable style and deep understanding of wine, Tony ensures an educational and entertaining experience.

As Tony  often says, “There is magic in every bottle — a story waiting to be discovered.” His upcoming presentation promises to reveal the craftsmanship and artistry behind New Zealand’s finest wines, captivating both seasoned and novice wine enthusiasts.
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​https://www.taswines.co.uk/

10 April 2026
BYO
​£ TBC
Annual General Meeting & Members Night Invitation
Join us for an evening of business and enjoyment
We are delighted to announce that our Annual General Meeting will take place on April 10th. This special event promises a combination of formal proceedings and delightful camaraderie, making it an occasion to remember.
Highlights of the Evening
 The AGM will include:
  •  A comprehensive review of the year’s activities
  •  An update on our latest financial position
  •  A discussion on future membership fees
  •  An insight into next year’s programme
  • The important election of officers and committee members
And importantly:
  • Members Wine Presentation: In their latest challenge, club members Mike Ireland and Ian Millward present illuminating perspectives and a stunning array of wines to help participants decide. which is better--a single varietal wine or a blend of two or more? 
Single varietal wines are crafted entirely from a single grape variety, showcasing its purity and distinct characteristics. Examples include Pinot Noir’s velvety richness, Sauvignon Blanc’s crisp brightness, and Cabernet Sauvignon’s bold intensity.

Blended wines are a harmonious blend of multiple grape varieties, creating a balanced and complex flavour profile. Renowned blends like Bordeaux and Rhône-style wines feature combinations like Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot or Grenache with Syrah, enhancing the best attributes of each varietal.

Mike Ireland and Ian Millward will explore the complexities of both wine types during the challenge. They’ll discuss their unique attributes and potential drawbacks, and curate a selection of wines for attendees to taste, compare, and decide for themselves.
Let the battle commence! ​

08 May 2026
BYO
​£ 15.00
Watch this space!

12 June 2026
BYO
​£ 15.00
Edgmond Wines: Preet Sahota's Passion for South African Wines
A journey into boutique wine importing
Preet Sahota, a dedicated wine importer, has established himself in the boutique wine scene. Operating from his parents’ village shop in Edgmond, Shropshire, he continues to source exceptional wines for discerning audiences. His commitment to quality has earned him a reputation for sourcing wines that tell unique stories of craftsmanship and heritage.

Preet’s passion for South African winemaking is evident in his belief that their winemakers are producing the most exciting wines on the planet.  South Africa’s winemakers are at the forefront of viticulture, blending centuries-old techniques with modern practices to produce wines of unparalleled depth and distinction. From robust reds to crisp whites, the country’s vineyards benefit from unique terroirs, microclimates, and skilled artisans. 

Edgmond Wines is a trusted name for wine enthusiasts seeking distinctive flavours and provenance. Preet’s personal and meticulous approach ensures that each wine he offers has a story and quality that resonates with his customers.

Preet Sahota’s dedication to quality and respect for tradition exemplifies the best of boutique wine importing—a blend of local charm and international excellence. His return heralds exciting times for Edgmond Wines and its growing community of admirers.​
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https://www.edgmondwines.co.uk/about-us/

10 July 2026
BYO
​£ 15.00
The Story of Bat & Bottle: Ben and Emma Robson's Passion for Italian Wines
From a chance encounter to a thriving legacy
Bat & Bottle, a specialist in Italian wines, owes its unique story to the serendipitous meeting of its founders, Ben and Emma Robson, with a Benedictine monk at a kissing gate. That moment was pivotal, as it led them down a path of discovery and passion for the wines of Italy.
The monk introduced Ben and Emma to Felicita Pask-Hughes, an extraordinary Italian woman who had relocated to Britain after the Second World War. Felicita was no ordinary wine importer. With a discerning eye and fearless determination, she curated exceptional Italian wines at a time when the UK market was dominated by straw-wrapped bottles of Chianti. Among her notable imports were prestigious names such as Isole e Olena and Sassicaia, which are now celebrated worldwide.
By 1998, Felicita, aged 82, decided it was time to transition her business. She approached Ben with a firm decision: they must buy her enterprise. The Robsons embraced her vision and acquired the business, setting the foundation for what would become Bat & Bottle. This decision marked the beginning of a remarkable journey into the world of Italian wines.
Ben and Emma Robson are not just proprietors; they are storytellers and connoisseurs of Italian viniculture. Their deep-rooted knowledge and unwavering passion have turned Bat & Bottle into a haven for enthusiasts seeking authentic, high-quality Italian wines. Their selections are carefully curated, reflecting their commitment to quality and the cultural richness of Italy's vineyards.
Today, Bat & Bottle is more than a wine merchant; it is a testament to the Robsons' dedication and the legacy of Felicita Pask-Hughes. For those fortunate enough to explore their offerings, each bottle promises not just exceptional taste but also a connection to the history, craftsmanship, and soul of Italian wine culture. Ben and Emma’s expertise ensures that every visitor to Bat & Bottle enjoys a truly special treat.
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https://bat.wine/

​Derbyshire Dales Wine Society Meetings are held on the second Friday of each month in Darley Abbey Village Hall (DE22 1DS).
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