Steven’s Out and About
To many, I might seem like the life and soul of the party, but in reality, I’m quite shy. Outside the familiar setting of events and friends’ parties, the thought of going to bars or clubs fills me with anxiety and dread. Like many, I want to meet new people, try new things, and expand my social horizons. After the passing of my former partner, I’ve struggled more than I care to admit—even to those closest to me.
Saturday nights are usually spent writing or watching a box set, feeling safe in my own space. But this year, I resolved to change that. The question was: how?
2Shades agony aunt Heidi Gammon suggested that instead of heading to the buzzy clubs and bars of Soho and Vauxhall, I should try something different. My tastes have always been eclectic, so I took her up on the challenge.
It wasn’t long before I found the perfect option—one that ticked all the boxes: a wine tasting with dinner. Of course, I couldn’t go alone, so I brought along 2Shades beauty editor Clare Mc Sweeney and her beloved teddy bear coat (don’t worry, no teddy bears were harmed in the making of it!).
The wine tasting was hosted at one of London’s most talked-about galleries—Firepit. Located on the Greenwich Peninsula, right by the banks of the Thames, Firepit is an experimental and forward-thinking artist collective, making it the perfect setting for an evening of culture, conversation, and, of course, fine wine.
Held on the last Saturday of each month, the wine-tasting masterclass is hosted by former restaurateur and sommelier “Charlie” Young, a man renowned for his deep knowledge and infectious passion for wine. Charlie’s reputation precedes him—his expertise is matched only by his ability to make learning about wine both engaging and thoroughly enjoyable.
Doors open at 5:30 PM, giving guests a half-hour to settle in, mingle, and explore the gallery’s latest exhibitions before the tasting officially begins at 6:00 PM. The setting itself—Firepit, a cutting-edge artist collective on the Greenwich Peninsula—adds an extra layer of creativity and intrigue to the evening.
Now, if you’ve ever attended a wine tasting where the host droned on endlessly, more focused on their own cleverness than on making the experience enjoyable, you might be wary. I’ve been there. In fact, I once attended a tasting where even my endlessly patient and sophisticated friend finally snapped, exclaiming, “FOR F—’S SAKE, JUST POUR IT!”
Thankfully, Charlie’s approach was the complete opposite. He made a point of ensuring the evening was lighthearted, interactive, and fun—without ever compromising on substance. He didn’t just educate; he entertained. And judging by the lively atmosphere in the room, he had a gift for bringing together a wonderfully diverse and genuinely lovely group of people.
The tasting featured six carefully selected wines, each with its own story and character. Gallery owner Marcus Jake was also on hand, standing by with a bucket for those who wished to spit or discard their samples—though, let’s be honest, few took him up on that offer. His primary role for the evening? Acting as Charlie’s glamorous assistant, which, in reality, mostly involved keeping everyone’s glasses generously topped up.
The wine tasting flies by in just over an hour, but the evening doesn’t end there. Charlie stays on for the dinner portion, offering expert advice on wine pairings and sharing fascinating insights in his signature engaging style.
Dinner is served in the gallery itself, creating a relaxed and sociable atmosphere. Guests—many of whom started the evening as strangers—naturally connect over a two-course meal, exchanging thoughts on the wines, the artwork, and life in general. The sense of camaraderie is undeniable, making it feel more like an intimate dinner party than a formal event.
For those who prefer just the wine tasting experience, tickets are available separately, with no obligation to stay for dinner. However, gallery curator Matthew warmly encourages guests to linger, explore the artwork, and enjoy another drink at their leisure.
“We want people to experience the gallery, to feel at home in the space,” Marcus explains. “That’s why we keep ticket prices as low as possible. The wine tastings and dinners have been a real success, bringing people together in a way that feels effortless and enjoyable.”
And a success it certainly was. 2Shades will definitely be back.
Date and time
Saturday, April 26 · 6 – 10:30pm GMT+1. Doors at 6pm
Regional French Wine Masterclass with optional two-course dinner
An informal and exciting wine masterclass featuring six premium wines from the Loire Valley, Madiran in the Southwest, the Rhone Valley and Provence. Presented by Vinoteca founder Charlie Young
There are two tickets:
Masterclass £16.50 per person, 6:00pm to 7:15pm
Two-course dinner £16.50 per person, 7:30pm to 10:30pm
Communal two-course dinner, with glasses or bottles of the wines featured in the Masterclass from £6 per glass
Regional French Wine Masterclass with Charlie Young
Anjou Blanc ‘Large Soif!’ 2020 – Terra Vita Vinum, Anjou, Loire (white)
Chinon Clos de la Bonneliere 2020 – Chateau de la Bonneliere, Chinon, Loire (red)
Pacherenc du Vic Bilh Sec 2021 – Domaine Laplace, Madiran, South West
Madiran ‘Aydie l’Origine’ 2021 – Domaine Laplace, Madiran, South West
Côtes du Rhone Vieilles Vignes 2018 – Famille Gras, Rhone South
Coteaux de Béziers Chardonnay Prestige 2022 – Chateau Preignes Le Neuf, Provence
Two-Course Dinner
Main course
Cider-braised roast ham hock with Jersey potatoes and spring peas
Dessert
Hot cross bun bread & butter pudding
Vegetarian/vegan options available on request
All masterclass wines available to buy by-the-glass or bottle
A Note from Firepit.
We have a challenge 25 policy. So please bring ID that proves you are over 18, if you are lucky enough to look under 25!
Masterclass starts at 6:00pm, you are welcome to come earlier and enjoy the gallery space.
2Shades Magazine 