The Wine Guild of the United Kingdom Celebratory Winter Banquet & Ceremony

The Wine Guild of the United Kingdom invites members, guests and friends to its Celebratory Winter Banquet & Ceremony on Friday 27 November 2026 at the Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill—a landmark black-tie occasion blending tradition, pageantry and exceptional gastronomy. This year’s banquet will be particularly momentous, as Hugh Johnson OBE, the world’s best-selling wine writer and one of the most influential figures in modern wine culture, is formally awarded the FICB Diploma of Honour.

For those discovering the Guild for the first time, this is a rare opportunity to witness its most important annual ceremony; for existing members, it is a highlight of the Guild calendar and a celebration of fellowship, achievement and shared passion.
Guests will be welcomed with a reception featuring Hattingley Valley Classic Reserve NV and an array of hot and cold canapés, before moving into the ceremonial hall for the Guild’s traditional Intronisation Ceremony. New members will be officially inducted, receiving their regalia and medal from Viscount Thurso, Chancellor of the Wine Guild, while the Guild’s Council—resplendent in velvet robes and ceremonial hats—presides over the proceedings. Immediately afterwards, the International President of the FICB, Marc Lesk, will present the Diploma of Honour to Hugh Johnson, marking a defining moment for the Guild and an unforgettable experience for all present.

The Gala Dinner that follows is a gastronomic showcase created by Executive Chef Ben Wheeler, with each course paired with exceptional wines—many from leading English producers. The menu includes an amuse-bouche of smoked fish terrine with caviar, served with Artelium The White Mosaic 2023; a soufflé au fromage paired with Greyfriars Sauvignon Blanc 2025; and a showpiece Classic Beef Wellington accompanied by Bluebell Vineyard Estates Classic Cuvée 2013 and a forthcoming red wine pairing. Dessert brings poached quince with hazelnut crèmeux and pear sorbet, followed by a Baron Bigod cheese course served with Cockburn’s 2019 LBV. Throughout the evening, winemakers will introduce their wines, offering guests rare insight into the craftsmanship behind each pairing.

This Winter Banquet is the Guild’s signature annual event—an evening of ceremony, fine wine, exceptional food and warm fellowship—and places are strictly limited. Tickets are £189 for non-members and £159 for members, reflecting the calibre of the wines, the prestige of the occasion and the unique opportunity to be part of a defining moment in the Guild’s history. For anyone with a passion for wine, whether newly curious or deeply experienced, this is an unmissable night of celebration at the highest level.