This is a new not-for-profit society, which Gary White set up because there wasn’t one in this area. Our sole aim is the enjoyment of wine. We present opportunities to find out about and appreciate wine in an informal, friendly environment. Wine lovers of all experience and backgrounds attend – from novices to devoted wine collectors. The first meeting was in June 2011.

We intend to show fine wines while keeping the costs as low as possible. There are a mixture of presenters, including brand and merchant representatives, wine lecturers and members. The ‘bring a bottle’ meetings are proving very popular. The society keeps a stock of ISO tasting glasses for use at meetings. The wines are scored, but we have yet to reach a consensus on the best scale.

Luna Nuova is an Italian Restaurant near Parsons Green tube station. We use the quiet basement room for tastings. Phone 020 7371 9774. Website lunanuova.comu Some people eat upstairs afterwards.