East Coker Wine Circle
East Coker Wine Circle, founded in 1977, is one of the largest and most successful wine circles in Somerset and welcomes new members interested in the rewarding art of wine making.
The objects of the Circle are: To promote, encourage, organise and experiment in winemaking; to organise competitions for members, to encourage and afford opportunities for members to participate in competitions organised by this and other circles affiliated to the South Western Federation of Winemakers and the Somerset Association of Amateur Winemakers; to provide members with information, advice and assistance on matters connected with winemaking; and to arrange tours, lectures, discussions, social and other meetings.
Each year the committee of 11 plans an interesting, informative and entertaining programme. As not all members make wine the selection of speakers covers a wide variety of topics.
The circle also has a well supported social programme which includes an annual summer event, New Year theme party, visits to English vineyards and breweries, visits to sample the food and wines at local hostelries and trips to Europe.
A twice yearly visit to a local theatre also features in the social calendar as well as supporting county and regional events. Members are treated to a minimum of two commercial wine tastings a year. An annual membership fee of £7 and income from social events covers the cost of running the circle.
The Circle also publishes its own monthly wine magazine, “Tipple Talk”, keeping members up to date with what is going on within the circle, the county association and south western federation as well as articles on commercial wine, country wine recipes, members’ experiences and competitions.
Meetings are held at East Coker Hall on the first Wednesday evening of the month.
For the dedicated winemaker there is also a forum, meeting in members’ homes to discuss in more detail winemaking techniques and problems. Contact: 01935 862816
Website: www.eastcokerwinecircle.co.uk