Bistro Basaline at JN Wine
Tuesday November 4th 2025
The JN Tasting Room, Crossgar
6.45-8.45pm
Ticket cost: £65pp
Join us for a one-off event not to be missed!
During this year's en primeur week in Bordeaux, the JN team had the pleasure of reconnecting with the esteemed Despagne family, renowned producers from the heart of Entre-deux-Mers.
Long respected for their meticulous winemaking and forward-thinking approach, the Despagnes continue to elevate the reputation of this often-overlooked region. From their elegant entry-level Tour de Mirambeau Réserve wines to the complex Cuvée Passion duo and the post-modern charm of L'Onde Rouge, their portfolio blends precision, drinkability, and flair in equal measure. Premium cuvées such as Naujan even grace the lists of Michelin-starred restaurants across France.
But it was over a dinner at the family home that the true spirit of rural Bordeaux hospitality was revealed. Cooked by Basaline Despagne, whose refined, regionally inspired cuisine has quietly gained a devoted local following, this meal was the highlight of our trip. Paired perfectly with the estate's wines and served with warmth and conviviality by Basaline and her husband Éric Granger (who manages commercial affairs for the estate), it was an experience we knew we had to share.
And so, the idea for Bistro Basaline was born.
For one night only, Basaline will bring her culinary artistry to our Tasting Room in Crossgar.
Expect a menu inspired by the flavours of her Bordeaux kitchen - elegant, seasonal, and deeply rooted in the region's traditions - alongside a curated selection of Despagne wines.
This promises to be a truly special evening: warm, convivial, and full of the joy that only great food, wine, and company can bring.
Spaces are extremely limited.
Please register your interest early to reserve your place at this unique Supper Club experience.
Seasonal Selection Tasting - Session 1
Thursday November 6th 2025
Waterman House
5-23 Hill Street, Belfast, BT1 2LA
5.00-6.30pm
Ticket cost: £20pp
The first of two sessions of our Seasonal Selection Tasting at Waterman House, Belfast.
Come and sample a fantastic, hand-picked selection of wines ranging from reds, whites, Champagnes & sparklings, Ports and dessert wines - some feature in our Christmas 2025 brochure.
This is a great opportunity to discover wines from our ever-growing range crafted by artisan producers from around the world, and to assist in the planning of all your Christmas festivities!
We are delighted to be joined by Murray Barlow from Rustenberg, Jose Saez from Bodegas Alejandro Fernández Pesquera, Eric Granger from Vignobles Despagne, Aurélien Cantinolle from Château Chauvin and Kate Hart from Dr Loosen and Villa Wolf.
An evening not to be missed!
Christmas Wreath Making Workshop
Saturday November 22nd 2025
The JN Tasting Room, Crossgar
2.00pm
Ticket Cost: £45pp
Memory Makers, Emma and Hannah, launched in 2022 with an aim to provide luxury cookery and craft workshop experiences.
Their workshops are interactive and engaging, aimed at giving you the confidence to learn a new skill and an opportunity to take your bespoke creation home.
They will be joining us on the 22nd with their Christmas Wreaths workshop. All materials and guidance will be provided for you to make a Christmas wreath with real foliage. We will be serving JN Sparkling at the workshop and there may even be a few Christmas treats...!
This event sold out quickly last year, so book early to avoid disappointment!.
Wine 101 - An Introduction to Wine
Saturday January 17th 2026
The JN Tasting Room, Crossgar
1.00-4.30pm
Ticket cost: £60 pp
Want to start your new year in style?
Why not join us as we take a look behind the label and help you gain a better understanding of what is in your glass.
The JN retail team will be on hand to guide you through the curious and fascinating world of wine, one step at a time.
Whether you are just starting your wine adventure or keen to learn more about what makes your favourite tipple so special, this course is for you.
We will describe how wine is made, what makes particular grapes and places so special while tasting our way around the globe.
Artisanal small plates will accompany the wonderful wines to swirl, sip, savour and discuss.
Early booking recommended. A perfect gift!
