About The Cork Club
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Our Story
The Cork Club began as a local wine tasting evening in Battersea - and at heart, it still is. We host relaxed, monthly tastings, creating space for real connection in a city that can sometimes feel disconnected.
Since those early evenings, The Cork Club has grown into something bigger. Today, we bring our signature style of curated, engaging tastings to corporate events, private parties, and weddings. Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration or a team social, we’ll handpick fantastic wines to match the moment - and deliver an experience your guests won’t forget.
Polly Halstead
Founder / Event Coordinator
I ran the Edinburgh University Wine Society (2018-2020) and fell in love with bringing people together over wine. When Covid cut that short and I moved to London, wine took a back seat for a while - but I always knew I’d come back to it.
The Cork Club started simply: a way to recreate that same relaxed, welcoming atmosphere for young Londoners who wanted more than just another night at the pub. What began as small monthly tastings in Battersea has grown into a buzzing community of 20-35 year olds sharing bottles, laughs, and new friendships.
Now, alongside our social tastings, we also run private and corporate events - with the same ethos at heart: no lectures, no pretension, just great wine and even better company.
Favourite grape variety: Pinot Noir
Tom Liddington (DipWSET)
Wine Advisor / Speaker
During the Covid lockdown, I made the decision to pursue a career I was genuinely passionate about.
With only a basic knowledge of wine at the time, I threw myself into learning - completing all levels of the WSET and earning my Diploma in May 2024.
I now work as a wine educator and love being part of The Cork Club, where I get to share my knowledge in a relaxed, social setting - and help others discover the joy of wine, one tasting at a time.
Favourite grape variety: Chardonnay