FAQs
- Saturday 8th May 2027
- The RNLI College, Poole
- 10am to 1pm · 2pm to 5pm
- £27 per session
The day
What is a County Wine Festival?
County Wine Festivals are a celebration of great wine, bringing together wine lovers, wine makers, producers, importers and merchants for an unforgettable experience of tasting and discovery.
Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply looking to discover something new, our Festivals are full of opportunities to taste a fantastic selection of wines, meet the people behind the bottles and find some new favourites.
When and where is the County Wine Festival?
Our latest County Wine Festival takes place in Poole on Saturday 8th May 2027 at the amazing RNLI College.
What can I expect at the Festival?
Expect a fantastic selection of wines from a range of winemakers and wine importers, with the opportunity to taste wines from different regions, countries and styles.
You'll be able to:
- Taste a wide variety of wines
- Discover new wines and producers
- Meet the people behind the wines
- Chat with fellow wine lovers
- Learn more about different grapes, regions and styles
- Purchase some of your favourite wines to enjoy at home
Are wine tastings included in the ticket price?
Yes. Your Festival ticket includes access to the wine tastings available from our exhibitors.
We encourage you to take your time, explore the different wines and taste responsibly throughout your visit.
Do I need to be a wine expert to attend?
Absolutely not! County Wine Festivals are designed for everyone, from knowledgeable wine enthusiasts to people who simply enjoy a good glass of wine.
You don't need to know your Pinot Noir from your Sauvignon Blanc. Come along, ask questions, try something different and discover what you enjoy.
How does the wine tasting work?
The Festival is a walk-around tasting, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Each session lasts 3 hours. 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. Visit the exhibitors that catch your eye, chat with the producers and importers, and sample their wines. It's a great way to discover wines you may not have come across before.
How many wines will I be able to taste?
There will be a wide selection of wines available to taste from our exhibitors.
The exact number will depend on the final line-up, but there will be plenty of opportunities to explore different styles, regions and varieties throughout the festival.
Can I buy wine at the Festival?
Many of our exhibitors will have wines available to purchase, giving you the opportunity to take home some of your favourites.
Individual exhibitors will be able to provide details of their wines, prices and purchasing arrangements.
Is the Festival suitable for beginners?
Yes. County Wine Festivals are aimed at everyone: complete beginners, people who want to try out some different grapes and styles, and dedicated wine lovers.
If you're new to wine tasting, it's a great opportunity to try different types in a relaxed environment and speak directly to people who know their wines.
Practicalities
Is there a minimum age?
As alcohol will be served at the event, all attendees must be aged 18 or over.
Valid ID may be requested on entry.
Can I bring children or babies?
Unfortunately, under-18s, including babies and small children, will not be permitted to attend the Festival.
Can I attend if I don't drink alcohol?
The Festival is centred around wine tasting, so wine will naturally be the main attraction. However, water will be available throughout the event, together with samples of local speciality food from artisan producers.
How should I prepare for the Festival?
There's no special preparation required, just come ready to discover some great wines!
We recommend:
- Eating before or during your visit
- Drinking plenty of water
- Taking your time between tastings
- Using the spittoons provided
- Planning how you'll get home before you arrive
Most importantly, enjoy yourself and taste responsibly.
Are there spittoons and water available?
Yes. Spittoons and water will be available throughout the tasting area.
You don't have to swallow every wine you taste. Using the spittoons is a great way to sample a wider selection while helping you to taste responsibly.
Is the venue accessible for disabled visitors?
Yes, all areas of the venue can be reached by lifts.
Tickets and travel
Can I change or transfer my ticket?
If you can no longer attend, please contact us as soon as possible by emailing office@countywinefestivals.co.uk as we may be able to change your session. Alternatively, feel free to pass your ticket onto another family member, friend or colleague.
Can I get a refund on my ticket?
Unfortunately, we do not offer refunds on tickets. If you can no longer attend, please feel free to pass your ticket onto another family member, friend or colleague.
How do I get to the County Wine Festival?
Full travel and parking information including details of public transport and parking options is available on this website.
Where possible, we encourage visitors to use public transport or arrange a designated driver.
What happens if the event is cancelled?
In the unlikely event that the Festival needs to be cancelled, we will contact ticket holders directly and provide information about the options available.
I have another question. Who can I contact?
If you can't find the answer to your question here, please get in touch with the County Wine Festivals team using the form on our contact us page.