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Handmade Annual Tasting a huge success - 23/01/2009

The whole Bibendum team has been sleeping a lot of over the weekend as we recover from hosting our most successful Annual Tasting ever at the Saatchi Gallery in London on 21 January. A record number of trade visitors attended and all of the 11 main galleries were buzzing all day.

It was a phenomenal success given the difficulties currently gripping the world economy and, in particular, the UK wine trade. The brilliant attendance, from across all sectors of the trade and press, signalled a vote of confidence in Bibendum and sounded a note of optimism in the opportunities that may become clearer as 2009 progresses.

Handmade in every way

One of the most pleasing elements was the fantastic response to the invitations. Visitors were urged to create their own handmade piece of artwork, using any materials they wished, on the blank canvas sent out to them in November. We picked out a few above to show the phenomenal quality of work and imagination! Over 300 of them ended up being hung in the gallery and they gave the more established artists a real run for their money!

Buoyant winemakers and happy customers

They came from all four corners of the globe and went home with big smiles on their faces. Champagne De Castellane shone on its official UK trade launch and els Pyreneus once again wowed tasters. The Spirits room was bursting too with huge interest in The Chase Distillery and Ron Los Valientes. Elsewhere there was some excellent feedback:

"Congrats to a superb and veeeeery classy Annual Tasting! It was a strong statement from Bibendum and I am sure it was well received, especially when times are rough and leaders need to show commitment and courage." Lenz Moser, Laurenz V

"So I have finally made it to a Bibendum tasting - an amazing experience in all respects and a great atmosphere; the benchmark for the industry!" Hew Dalrymple, West Eleven Cocktails

We've also received some excellent feedback from customers. "A great canvas for a great display of Bibendum's wares; bags of innovation, quality, breadth and depth, thoroughly enjoyable. I lied to my colleagues about this particular tasting - it wasn't work at all."

And the official award for 'Best excuse for not coming': "I'll be busy filming Holby City, playing bloody Patsy Kensit's father!" Gary Whelan, Lion and Lobster, Brighton.

We're going to let him off for that one...just.