Rehearsals are under way for an event which will see 10 veteran members of the wine trade personalities stripping off at Vinopolis in London's Borough Market.
And it’s all in aid of the cancer research institute Everyman, Europe’s only dedicated male cancer research centre.
Ticket holders are being told to expect a guest appearance by former French rugby international and acclaimed wine producer Gerard Bertrand, who is set to be auctioned off to the highest bidder.
‘I’m not sure what exactly I’ve signed up for but thank goodness I love surprises,’ he said.
‘All I can say is that if the ladies want to see a bit more of me, they will have to pay the price. And why wouldn’t you? After all, it’s for a very good cause.’
This is the second outing for many of those taking part. The first edition – in 2005 – featured Tim Atkin MW and Michael Palij MW among others.
Set to join them in this year’s eagerly anticipated line-up are Andrew Shaw (Waitrose), Michael Cox (Wines of Chile), Gearoid Devaney (Sommelier, Sarment), Barry Dick (Sainsbury’s), Anthony Rose (The Independent), Rupert Ellwood (ex-Vinopolis, soon to join Waitrose), wine writer Charles Metcalfe and Decanter magazine editor Guy Woodward.
The evening, which will include a silent auction, will begin at 7pm on Thursday 8 July and is being co-organised by Christelle Guibert, Decanter tastings director.
For a full list of auction prizes and to book tickets, visit the Semillons website: http://www.semillons.co.uk
Written by Decanter staff
