NSPCC City Fine Wine Challenge

Test your knowledge and sample the delights of the vineyard at this year’s City Fine Wine Challenge in aid of the National Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC). 

In its 17th year and with event support from headline sponsors Diligenta, the interactive wine-tasting event gives companies a great opportunity to come together, network with staff and clients, whilst learning about exotic fine wines. 

Being held this year on Thursday 15 November, the event is a twist on the traditional quiz night in that it is focused solely on fine wines and involves a full tasting of eight fine wines throughout the evening, with teams competing against each other to win first place. 

Lea & Sandeman have supported the City Fine Wine Challenge for the last seven years, and will be once again donating all eight of the wines for the quiz, along with champagne for the reception. Bottles will also be available to purchase throughout the event with profits going to the NSPCC.

Guests will start the evening with a champagne drinks reception and canapés, and later will be able to indulge in a light supper including seasonal platters which will be replenished throughout the evening.

The event is being held at The Royal Institute of British Architects, London, and through ticket sales and auction on the night the charity is aiming to reach over £130,000. Over the last 16 years the City Fine Wine Challenge has made a massive £1.2million for the NSPCC and its ChildLine services. 

Guests will also hear from a special guest speaker, due to be confirmed shortly; last year Investment banker David Tait, (Head of FX Trading, Credit Suisse) talked about his inspirational story about sexual abuse which he experienced in his own childhood. David was sexually abused as a child but didn’t tell anyone until he was an adult. He has since gone on to climb Everest five times in support of the NSPCC and raised over £650,000. 

Helena Gibney, Development Manager for special events at the NSPCC, said: “The NSPCC has held the exclusive City Fine Wine Challenge for the last 16 years and over that time has raised a massive £1.2million to support its vital NSPCC services. The NSPCC has a vision to end all child cruelty, and we simply wouldn’t be able to continue to run our services to support children and young people affected by abuse without the support of these special events. 

“Our services are so often a lifeline for children and young people, so a huge thanks goes to all our volunteers and sponsors who dedicate their time to make this event happen year on year. Please get in touch if you’d like more information about this year’s City Fine Wine Challenge - its set to be a really wonderful evening for everyone.” 

Patrick Sandeman, co-founder of Lea & Sandeman (and member of the renowned Sandeman Port family), who have supported the event for the last seven years, commented: “Seven years ago we selected the NSPCC as our focus charity, with particular support for the annual City Fine Wine Challenge. This has developed into a fabulously fun and high profile event, at which all of our staff are keen to be involved, and one which we wish to continue for the foreseeable future.” 

Gold and Silver tickets include champagne reception for all guests, light supper and entry in to the wine quiz and auction, with gold tables receiving additional sponsorship opportunities for companies and clients. And for this year only, if you buy two silver tables, one will be upgraded to gold. Already tables have been secured by Friends Life (pensions, investments & insurance) and FNZ (wealth management) and Aviva. 

Live auction with prizes already secured include dinner for six prepared in your home by Daniel Kent head chef at Le Café Anglais, and paintings donated from the Broad Gallery. 

For more information about this event contact the NSPCC’s Special Events team via email specialevents@nspcc.org.uk or telephone: 020 7825 7044.

Ticket prices for a gold table of ten are £5,000 with the silver table of ten priced at £4,000, there is also an early bird discount of £500 if booked before the end of July.