Wine Tastings at Beyond The Cork
My name is Simon Benstead. Wine has always fascinated me. What started as a hobby has grown into a genuine passion, and today I'm fortunate enough to spend my time discovering exceptional wines, hosting wine experiences, and helping people enjoy wine with confidence.
I'm currently studying for the WSET (Wine, Spirit and Education Trust) Level 4 Diploma in Wines, one of the wine industry's most respected qualifications. It allows me to explore the world of wine in incredible depth—from the influence of climate and soils to the people, places, and traditions behind every bottle.
Alongside my studies, I've gained valuable experience working with one of the UK's largest wine retailers, giving me a real insight into what people enjoy drinking, where the best value can be found, and, just as importantly, which wines really stand out.
But Beyond the Cork isn't about selling hundreds of wines. It's about discovering the ones worth sharing.
I spend a great deal of my time visiting vineyards, attending tastings, and searching for exceptional wines that genuinely impress me. Most don't make the cut. If I don't believe in a wine, it doesn't appear at one of my tastings or in the Beyond the Cork shop. Every bottle has earned its place.
My wine tastings are where those discoveries come to life. They're relaxed, informal, and designed to help you uncover new wine experiences, whether you're completely new to wine or have a growing interest. We'll taste some wonderful wines, hear the stories behind them, have a few laughs, and, hopefully, you'll leave having found a new favourite bottle.
The Beyond the Cork online shop is a natural extension of those tastings. Rather than offering hundreds of wines, it features a carefully selected collection of bottles I've personally chosen and am proud to recommend. Many of the wines you'll discover at a tasting can be ordered through the shop, giving you the confidence to buy wines you've already enjoyed rather than taking a chance on something unfamiliar.
Whether you're looking for a memorable tasting experience, a special bottle for dinner, wine for your wedding, a thoughtful gift, or simply your next favourite wine, I'd love to help you discover something special.
I hope to welcome you to one of our tastings soon.
