Maybe it's because of Britain's cold climate, or perhaps because the British are reluctant to show ignorance on any subject (especially one in which the French are expert!); but compared to the habits of other European countries, like France, Italy and Spain, who enjoy wine on a daily basis from an early age, the British public have taken a long time to accept the health and leisurely benefits of the oldest drink known to mankind. In fact, for a long time we Brits left the development of wine-tasting palettes to the upper classes and James Bond!

However, in recent years, due in part to the greater availability and lower prices offered by many New World and American brands like Blossom Hill and Hardy's, wine has seen a boom in popularity in Britain, an influx of variety into the market (a perfect example being the surge in the variety of rosés available), and has for many become an indispensable part of cultural life - particularly in London.

The rise in the popularity of wine-culture has seen many excellent wine bars and specialist wine restaurants appearing throughout the capital - and has also meant that older wine bars have been given much-deserved attention. Some of the best places for wine around London include Bedford & Strand, Cellar Gascon, the Cork & Bottle, Corks Wine Bar, The Forge and Zakudia.

As well as a plethora of top-quality wine bars, this newfound love for the grape has also seen a surge in wine-orientated activities becoming available around London, from courses on wine-tasting at the London Wine Academy, to the very popular self-guided tours of Vinopolis. A favourite among wine-lovers of all palettes, these tours show you all the key regions in the wine-making world, from old European favourites like Bordeaux and Burgundy, through the exciting new flavours of New World wines like South African and Chilean, to the less famous, but evermore popular producers including China and Thailand. As well as some excellent samples, Vinopolis's resident expert Tom Forrest is on hand to lend his expertise and experience.

Like Vinopolis, which is situated just off the River Thames, many of the wine bars and wine-based entertainment centres are in close proximity to the best restaurants and hotels in London. So if you fancy a chance to test your palette alongside exquisite food, or if you don't fancy walking or taxiing home (or if you don't think you'll be able to manage it!) then you can be sure to find somewhere to rest your weary head and sleep off any excess!

So if you're thinking of coming to London, make sure to explore Britain's growing obsession with all things Vino! Just remember to enjoy responsibly!

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