Vinopolis

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Vinopolis is a London visitor attraction that presents the subject of wine and oenology through exhibits, including wine tasting. It is located at Bankside, to the east of Southwark Bridge and close to London Bridge on the south side of the River Thames. There is an attached restaurant, Cantina Vinopolis, and wine is also available for sale at the attached Majestic Wine Store. Vinopolis spans 2.5 acres and is devoted to the world of wine, including its history, development and taste.

Contents 1 History 2 Vinopolis today 3 Sources 4 External links

[edit] History

Vinopolis was developed by a wine merchant called Duncan Vaughan-Arbuckle who, after speaking with his clients, realised that there was considerable interest in the making and enjoyment of wines. He chose a site beneath the arches of a Victorian railway viaduct, which was built in 1866 by the South-eastern Railway Company who wanted to carry an extension line from London Bridge Station over the Thames to the north bank.

Vinopolis opened on July 23, 1999. It started as a four hour long guided tour through static wine displays with tastings, but the business has evolved over the years and today it runs as both a wine tour and a corporate events venue.

[edit] Vinopolis today

There are three self-guided tours packages available, which offer from five to fourteen wine tastings. The current chief executive of the business is Malcolm Ball, who is now in to his third year at Vinopolis.

Malcolm Ball has literally transformed the business, incorperating a new bar in the front lounge (Bar Blue)and a specialist 'beer' themed bar near the back of the venue (Brew Wharf) where diners can view the process of beer being made through glass panels.

[edit] Sources

• Vinopolis Wine Tasting Tour information from about.com
• Vinopolis history From vinopolis.co.uk

[edit] External links

• Vinopolis Homepage - official Vinopolis website.