Gateshead Wine Fair is returning to St Mary's Heritage Centre on the banks of the Tyne for its third edition, offering visitors the chance to taste around 60 international wines. The event takes place on October 11 from 12noon until 4pm, with tickets priced at £25 now on sale.
Two independent shops host the fair
The fair is jointly hosted by two independent Gateshead wine shops and bars: Victor Indigo November (VIN) in Wellington Street, part of the town's Railway Quarter at the end of the High Level Bridge, and The Rare Drop in Low Fell. VIN specialises in French wines, while The Rare Drop stocks a worldwide selection. This year, each will contribute 30 varieties to the tasting lineup.
Among VIN's French offerings will be wine from Domaine des Carlines from Jura, as well as bottles from Chai St Olive, an urban winery in Lyon established in 2020 that sources grapes from a small area around its base, and Clos Cibonne, a 17th-century estate in Provence where vineyards owned by André Roux helped halt the decline of the ancient Tibouren grape.
Global selection and event details
The Rare Drop will bring 30 wines from the rest of the world, mainly Italian, Portuguese and Spanish varieties, with additional bottles from Moldova, Greece, Austria, Chile and Hungary. The four-hour event takes place in the converted church overlooking the river, where attendees can mingle with fellow enthusiasts.
A spokesperson said: "Expect a vibrant mix of cult bottles, hidden gems and fresh discoveries - all available to taste in a relaxed, walkaround setting." Ticket holders can taste as much as they like, and discounts will be available on the day for those wanting to buy or order bottles to take home. Charcuterie boxes will also be on sale.
