When Steve Coogan’s comedy character Alan Partridge ordered a bottle of Blue Nun in a restaurant, then criticized the waiter for not pouring just a soupcon to taste, my laughter was tinged with a little embarrassment. 

You see, it occurred to me that I probably know just as much, or little as the hapless TV character. So when I was invited to attend my first wine tasting by Edoardo Amadi of Newbury-based Try Wines Expertise, I accepted the opportunity to expand my knowledge of the vine. 

I arrived to see the familiar faces of some local businesspeople and net-workers, all hoping to learn a little more about the three whites (one sparkling) and three reds chosen for the evening. Edoardo welcomed us all and proceeded to talk about the grapes that make each wine, how certain growers operate and where certain wines are produced. He explained why a wine tastes sharp to some, bitter to others, and why some “get” a nose of liquorices, whilst others apples or pears.

The passion and knowledge with which he expounds, sweep you along on a journey through the vineyards of Piemonte in the north of Italy, down through Toscana, Umbria and Capania, to the isle of Sicillia. 

Encouraging questions from his guests throughout, Edoardo answers knowledgeably; which wines are best served with which dishes, how chilled some should be, and which are best enjoyed simply on their own. 

As the interaction between us novices steadily grew, I realized how a wine tasting is a great leveler and would make an excellent base for business development, corporate entertainment or a networking event. 

I’ve since discovered that over 5000 business functions were held over a wine tasting last year, with more expected during 2007. 

For an informal, entertaining and informative get together with your customers, prospects and fellow net-workers, call Try Wines Expertise on 01635 529136. Oh, and don’t forget to ask for Edoardo.