Northern Ireland wine buffs can turn top palates into top prizes, as details of the second ChildLine Fine Wine Challenge were unveiled today.
The annual interactive wine-tasting quiz – organised by NSPCC and supported by JNwine – is calling for corporate entrants to tease their taste buds and win exclusive prizes including a holiday to Morocco and an exclusive case of Ridge Monte Bello 2010 fine wine with each bottle personally signed by the winemaker. Also up for grabs are tickets to top class sporting events, sold out concerts and the Chelsea Flower Show preview which attracts many well known celebrities.
The event takes place on 19 October at Riddel Hall, Stranmillis, where teams will be invited to pay to bend the rules in their pursuit of the ChildLine Fine Wine Challenge trophy, with professional wine experts providing hints, tips and cheat notes in return for charitable donations. Guests will also enjoy a champagne reception and supper accompanied by an excellent array of independent and unusual wines, expertly sourced by James Nicholson.
Last year the inaugural event raised more than £11,500, which went directly towards helping ChildLine in Northern Ireland continue to offer advice and invaluable support to children and young people.
Wine Merchant James Nicholson said Northern Ireland businesses have a chance to enjoy a unique evening and get behind NSPCC’s ChildLine service:
“Smart businesses in Northern Ireland know their wines and are committed to making a difference. The Fine Wine Challenge is the only competition of its kind to take place here. It’s a fresh way for companies to have a lot of fun, sample some top quality wines and raise money for a very worthy cause. Our team of experts has handpicked a selection of interesting wines that will make this a night to remember, so please join us as we help to raise funds for ChildLine.”
The ChildLine Fine Wine Challenge is supported by a wide range of organisations from across Northern Ireland, all of whom will be put through their paces by host Tim McGarry during the entertaining and interactive quiz.
Dearbhla McGrath, NSPCC development manager, said: “This is the second time Northern Ireland wine fans can use their taste buds to win fantastic prizes. Most importantly, the support of local business people will help the NSPCC raise the funds it needs to ensure that every child who plucks up the courage to contact ChildLine gets to speak to one of our counsellors.”
“Last year’s event was a major highlight for us and for all the guests who helped make it such a success. There has been phenomenal demand from local companies to make this a regular occasion and it’s pleasing to announce the second competition and make it an annual event. We wish the best of luck to all competing for the ChildLine Fine Wine Challenge trophy!”
The ChildLine Fine Wine Challenge takes place on 19 October at Riddel Hall, 185 Stranmillis Road Belfast from 6.15pm. To purchase a table or individual tickets, please contact Dearbhla McGrath on 020 3222 4279 or by emailing northernirelandappeals@nspcc.org.uk. Tables are limited and booking early is advised.