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The BFT 2025 – Looking To The Future

A lot has gone on in the background since we wrapped up the Big Fortified Tasting in April this year, and we’re delighted to share some news with you.

But first, our thanks to everyone who supported us with partially used bottles after the show. Our charity event raised nearly £450 for Médecins Sans Frontières.

The BFT is a celebration of the beauty and joy of fortified wines. The format of the show has been consistent over the time we have been custodians so we have decided that it is the time to change a few things to evolve and maintain our relevance for the producers who support us and reinvigorate the visitors who look for opportunities to share our delight in these wines.

As we update things, we have set ourselves two objectives. To ensure all those who wish to attend are able to do so and to spark the energy levels and excitement for all things fortified, the shared interest that brings us all together.

Going forward, you will see some differences, starting with:

  1. A different day – Monday, not Thursday. Monday because it’s quieter for the on-trade and independent wine shops can close more easily.
  2. Earlier in the year – 23rd March 2026. That’s the Monday after Prowein. Earlier in the year to avoid Easter school holidays and tastings fatigue. (We plan to be even earlier in 2027, before Vinexpo.)
  3. A new venue – we’re moving to the IET, a more modern building with much better light, but only 10 minutes away. It’s a little smaller, but we love it!
  4. Short, snappy workshops – to replace classroom style masterclasses. We want more interaction and engagement. Small (12+) invited audiences who feel encouraged to ask questions and learn what’s new or relevant. 30 minutes to focus on a short message, new releases, a key message or an activity. Lead people through a mixing class or demonstrate the importance of serving temperatures. Be creative and imaginative!
  5. Two feature tables – one to highlight the margin available from fortified wine by the glass, the other to shine a spotlight on a particular style of wine.
  6. Wine of the Day competition – with visitors voting for their favourite and a prize for the winner.

So mark the date in your diary – Monday 23rd March – and we’ll be in touch towards the end of the year with details about how to register to attend the BFT in 2026. Expect all the wines and styles from the fortified world, presented in a format that we are evolving to help you source, select, serve and sell fortified wines to your customers in 2026 and beyond!