Ever wondered what’s the perfect crisp to go with your bottle of wine?
IF you don’t know your Bordeaux from your Beaujolais then raise a glass to Alex Stevenson.
He is the man who runs Reading’s leading independent wine education and events company.
Alex not only holds regular wine tastings and courses he also knows his way around a packet of crisps while helping to raise money for charity.
After many years winning rave reviews from wine experts and amateur drinkers in London, Alex moved to Reading to open the Thames Valley Wine School.
As well as tastings the school offers courses from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust which provides globally recognised education and qualifications in wines, spirits and sake, for professionals and enthusiasts.
“Our events are run by friendly wine tutors and are relaxed and informal with an emphasis on learning by tasting,” he explains.
“Whether you are new to wine and want to learn more, want to explore different countries or grape varieties, or simply want to enjoy good company and good times, we have a tasting for everyone.”
The School’s next event is a wine and crisps tasting on Tuesday, May 30, at The Corn Stores in Forbury Road.
“Sometimes you just don’t have anything in the fridge, can’t be bothered to cook, and for some reason can’t decide on a takeaway, but still fancy having some wine and something nice to eat with it, “says Alex.
“For times like this a bag of crisps and some wine work surprisingly well. We will taste some really special wines and match them with our favourite crisps while sticking to the principles of classic wine and food matches.”
In July, Alex is hosting a wine tasting session in conjunction with the charity, Chemogiftbags which provides Care Boxes containing practical products to help ease some of the common side effects of chemo treatment, such as nausea, metallic taste, muscle and bone pain, dry skin and brittle nails.
“This is a charity close to my heart as both my wife and mother have survived breast cancer.
“We hope wine lovers will come and join us for this tasting and help us to support as many people as possible in our community who have to cope with this terrible disease.
“Tickets for the evening on July 7 cost only £30 and include a wine tasting of six carefully selected wines and a two-hour event where you can learn more about wine in a relaxed atmosphere. All profits go to the charity.”
■ To learn more about the
Thames Valley Wine School and to discover what other courses are available, go to: https://www. localwineschool.com/thamesvalley/