How to get the most out of the Real Wine Fair
Here are most of the practical questions you might need an answer for (see FAQ) – with a few additional pointers.
Do I need to bring cash?
The fair is cashless. The street food vendors and Real Wine Shop accept cards.
Will there be book signings?
Yes, please check at reception. For details, please check socials. There will be books in the shop, but also signings in the reception area at certain times. The authors will bring card readers to take payment as well.
I hear there are wine workshops/masterclasses?
Details of subjects, speakers and times are in the catalogue, although may be subject to change.
- Each workshop will last 45-60 minutes and free for all.
- The workshops are located in the room adjacent to the reception area.
- No need to book, but please arrive by designated start time.
- If attending, please bring your wine glass, in case a tasting breaks out!
Are all the wines in show available to buy in the shop?
There will be a selection of wine to buy from most growers, but not the whole range of wines at the fair.
How can I buy the wines outside the period of the fair?
Please contact the respective wine merchants whose growers are attending the fair. You will find links to their web sites at the beginning of the catalogue.
What is Real Wine Month?
Throughout May, dozens of restaurants, bars, small independent wine shops will be promoting organic, biodynamic and natural wines. Please check the Real Wine Fair website and our social media for details.
I’m new to big tastings! Any tips?
The Real Wine Fair tasting comprises 180+ artisan producers and nearly 1000 wines. It is a lot to take in!
- Tip 1: Plan! Look at the e-catalogue, make a note of which growers you would like to meet, or wine regions you would like to explore. And if you come to a table that is particularly crowded, go to another that is less busy and return to that one later.
- Tip 2: Pace yourself. You can’t try everything! The earlier you can arrive, the less rushed you will be. Do a bit of tasting, then have a coffee or some food, or sit down. Even professional tasters get tired. Take on water regularly. And remember to spit!!
- Tip 3: Engage. The fair provides a unique opportunity to ask the growers questions to learn more about their craft.
- Tip 4: Please do ask the organisers for help and guidance. We will be floating around the two tasting galleries, smiling on the reception desk, and buzzing around the Real Wine Shop.
- Tip 5: Try to remember which wines you have tried. This year, there will only be an e-catalogue, so do bring a notebook and pen. You can also take pictures of the bottles and also there will be individual pages on the respective tables with indicative prices.
- Tip 6: Enjoy yourself! The Real Wine Fair is all about fun and not about pretention!
The Useful Stuff
Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?
Due to the nature of The Fair, all attendees must be aged 18 years +. Please bring proof of age with you. Babes in arms are permitted, but we are unable to accommodate any other minors.
What does my ticket cover?
Each ticket includes admittance to The Fair for one person, E-Catalogue, all wine tasting samples and entry to seminars & masterclasses.
Will printed catalogues be available?
In order to reduce the environmental impact of the next Real Wine Fair, this year’s event catalogue will be produced in digital format only, downloadable both in advance and on the day. Printed copies will no longer be available so if you prefer a more analogue format to keep notes, we’d kindly recommend you bring a notepad and pen. Many thanks for your understanding.
Is there food at the event?
Yes! We have an array of artisan food exhibitors with delicious morsels for you to tuck into.
How can I pay on the door if I haven’t already purchased tickets in advance?
Tickets can be purchased on the door for an increased fee of £30 each. Doors open at 10am and the event closes at 6pm daily.
Do you send out paper tickets?
No. Tickets are sent to you through an Eventbrite confirmation email.
Do I need to print out my tickets for the event?
There’s no need to print paper copies of your ticket. We’ll ask to see the QR codes from the PDFs sent by Eventbrite and we’ll scan these upon entry to the fair.
Is there parking nearby?
Car parking is available at London Thomas More Square, a 10 minute walk from Tobacco Dock. Pre-book your space by clicking here.
I haven’t received my confirmation email, what should I do?
Please contact us at info@therealwinefair.com and we can re-send the confirmation email to you. If you still don’t receive the email, it may be in your junk or spam folder.
I would like to come to the Real Wine Fair on Monday but am not a member of the wine trade, can I still come?
We are afraid that the Monday of the Fair is reserved solely for members of the wine trade and press. Regrettably guests who are not members of the wine trade will not be able to gain entry on this day.
Will be a cloakroom facilities available?
Yes, cloakroom facilities will be available for all attendees, for a small fee.
Is there wheelchair access?
There is a lift to access the venue on Wapping Lane. If you require any help in gaining access to the venue or need information regarding its facilities, please mail the organisers.
Will dogs (pets) be allowed at the venue?
Regrettably, due to the venue’s own policy, dogs (pets) will not be allowed.
Will children be allowed?
Due to the alcohol-related nature of the event, children/minors will not be permitted* (*babies in arms, only).
What is the refund policy?
Unfortunately, we are unable to issue refunds. However, if for any reason your plans change we recommend you pass it onto a wine loving friend!
How can I contact the organiser with questions?
Any questions? Drop us an email at info@therealwinefair.com.
The Real Wine Fair reserves the right to carry out photography and/or video recording at their events for publicity purposes and to reproduce images and footage on our website. By entering into this Agreement, you agree that The Real Wine Fair and any party authorised by The Real Wine Fair may use such images in perpetuity and in any format whatsoever. You further agree that copyright in these materials is owned by The Real Wine Fair.
**Tickets be purchased HERE, and more info can be found on the Real Wine Fair website.