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The BFT 2026: A New Home, A Bigger Buzz

The BFT 2026 proved once again that the show continues to evolve alongside the market for fortified wines – and this year it did so with real energy. Our move to a new venue made an immediate impact, and judging by the feedback, you enjoyed it just as much as we did. From the moment the doors opened, there was a buzz in the room that carried right through to the end of the day – exactly the atmosphere we wanted to create.

Despite being a slightly more compact space, the show retained its traditional breadth and diversity. Visitors were able to explore 11 different styles of fortified wines from around the world:

  • Madeira,
  • Marsala,
  • McLaren Vale,
  • Montilla Moriles,
  • Port,
  • Riverina,
  • Rutherglen,
  • Sardinia,
  • Setúbal,
  • Sherry, and
  • South Australia.

50 producers showcased an impressive 309 wines, giving buyers and trade visitors plenty to discover, taste and discuss. The ambience and setting of the room combined to create a noticeably busier and more focused environment – something many of our visitors and producers commented on positively during the day. We will be looking to build on this for 2027.

Quality Over Quantity

260323 THE BFT 2026 0671With almost 300 visitors coming through the door, the headline visitor number matched 2024, but the dynamics were very different with the new format and venue. Slightly fewer tables and a more intimate room, allowed visitors and producers more focused opportunities to taste wines and discuss requirements. The weather and the balcony were a real hit, particularly for those looking for an iconic backdrop to set the scene for their social media content!

Moving the show to Monday has proved to be a successful change and it is an approach we will continue in 2027. We were delighted to see so many meaningful conversations taking place, relationships being created and strengthened and genuine excitement around the room.

Highlight Sessions: A New Approach

This year’s Highlight Sessions marked a deliberate shift in format. By making them more informal and interactive, we aimed to encourage discussion rather than presentation – and the response suggests that approach worked. The sessions felt lively, accessible and genuinely engaging, offering something a little different from the main tasting floor. The format will return in 2027 and if you would like to discuss an idea for a session, please do get in touch.

Looking Back – and Ahead

Photographs from the day are now available on the website, providing a great visual record of what was a hugely positive event.

260323 THE BFT 2026 0292We are pleased to confirm that the BFT will return to the same venue on Monday 15 March 2027. Exhibitor registration will begin in October, with 2026 producers given a priority booking window.

Visitor registration will open in January – if you are not already on our email list you can subscribe here.

We look forward to seeing you on 15th March 2027 at the IET Savoy Place!

Thank You.