Chester’s mesmerising dining scene has made it a mecca for fans of food and drink from across the country and beyond.
However, one area it excels in is offering those who enjoy fine wine an array of premier experiences. Many of the city’s bars and restaurants hold wine tastings which sometimes combine produce perfectly paired with wine, talks from experts and enthusiasts or a focus on a specific grape variety or vineyard.
Public and private tasting sessions are offered within Chester’s Roman Walls, so there are events suited to those arranging special gatherings for friends and family alongside those for visitors to the city keen to connect with others who share their interests. Read on to discover just some of the venues where you can enjoy wine tasting in Chester and its surrounds.
Vin Santo
A wine bar and shop selling select labels, Vin Santo is situated on Watergate Street deep inside a 13th century crypt. The cellar bar is renowned for its eclectic wine list and fine selection of spirits which it serves with small plates as top-notch nibbles. However, it also hosts a multitude of public tasting events that can be booked in advance. Cheese and wine tastings take place throughout the year alongside more specialist occasions, focusing on wines from different countries or to celebrate specific seasons. Private tastings are also available on request.
Pickles
Based in Handbridge, Pickles is a wine bar and merchants that was formerly known as Chester Beer & Wine. Above its cosy and welcoming bar, the venue hosts special wine tastings aimed at guests with varying knowledge of wine from experts to absolute beginners. Fully inclusive, each event includes a cheese platter for sharing. Additionally, the whole venue can be booked for larger gatherings and special celebrations.
Veeno
A Northgate Street bar, Veeno has earned a reputation for its collection, which includes some of the finest Italian wines Chester has to offer. Veeno also offers tasting vouchers that entitle their bearers to three glasses of wine from select labels served with cheeses, charcuterie and antipasti delights like homemade bruschetta funghi & asparagi. Furthermore, those seeking more of meal can order salads and artisan pizza prior to their experience.
The Forge
Located inside the impeccable Indigo Hotel on Grosvenor Park Road, The Forge is a fine dining highlight of the city that celebrates sustainability and locally sourced produce. On set dates throughout the year, the restaurant’s expert sommelier, Richard Smith (owner of the Wine School of Cheshire) hosts premium tasting events designed for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike. Tasting dinners with wine pairings, they offer carefully curated experiences and excellent company that include a five-course meal designed by the Forge’s head chef.
Paysan
Situated on Bridge Street Row in Chester’s historic shopping site, Paysan is an attractive wine bar with a relaxed atmosphere. In terms of wine, the venue has more than 100 bottles to select from that are constantly changing to introduce guests to unique experiences. The venue offers dedicated wine tasting opportunities but the expertise of its staff of connoisseurs is always available for diners who seek advice on pairings. With a creative kitchen that caters for a range of diets, Paysan serves a selection of simple meat and cheese boards and sides like fries with garlic dip.
Tanners Wines
Located on Christleton Road, Tanners Wines sells award-winning wines from across the globe. The wine merchants offer the possibility for wine aficionados to join its programme of tastings or book a private event to share with friends or family members. Tastings can take place at its premises or travel to an address of your choice and can be tailored to specific requirements.
Champagneplusfromage
Offering an escape to France on Watergate Street, Champagneplusfromage specialises in Champagne, cheese, bread and charcuterie. An evening wine bar in the heart of the city, the venue also hosts multiple tastings. Its 45-minute events are designed to let guests enjoy carefully curated pairing between Champagne and cheeses and often highlight specific growers and producers.
Whether you enjoy red, white, rose or sparkling, if you have a passion for wine and would like to learn more about your favourite tipple, consider one of these exemplary options when you’re next in Chester.