The Community Kitchen
113 Queens RoadJoin cheese writer Patrick McGuigan and wine guru Helen Chesshire, who are kindly donating their time, for a festive cheese and booze session with a twist.
In our annual festive tasting, which raises money for the Community Kitchen, Patrick and Helen will reveal what makes an award-winning cheese and wine, and explain the secrets of how to be a judge. We'll be tasting plenty of award-winning cheeses and wines along the way, and guests will even have their chance to vote for their Supreme Champion of the evening.
Patrick and Helen have been hosting cheese and wine fundraisers for the Community Kitchen for 5 years, and they are always a highlight of the festive period. Expect good cheese, good wine and plenty of laughs. And make sure to book early. They always sell out!
Patrick McGuigan is a Brighton-based food journalist & cheese writer for a range of national titles. He is a senior judge at the World Cheese Awards, a member of the Guild des Fromagers, teaches Academy of Cheese training courses at the School of Fine Food in London and also runs the Online Cheese School.
Patrick's new book, One Cheese to Rule Them All (co-written with Carlos Yescas and published by Murdoch Books), lifts the lid on what it takes to be a judge at the World Cheese Awards, where nearly 5,000 cheeses are tasted in a day, while also acting as a guide to the world's 100 best cheeses.
Helen Chesshire is a wine and spirits expert with more than 20 years experience, working with some of the biggest names in the business. She is the brand ambassador for Bolney Wine Estate in West Sussex, which was established in 1972 and the team now produce award-winning still and sparkling wines.
Dietary information: The menu for this class does not contain meat but please note that some cheeses will be made with raw milk and/ or contain animal rennet. We are unable to substitute any cheeses for this event. Accompaniments can be adapted for gluten-free diets, but this must be specified when booking. Please note we cannot guarantee the kitchen is a fully gluten-free environment. For any other allergies or dietary requirements, please contact us to discuss before booking.
Fri, Dec 5, 2025 6:45 pm - 9:00 pm
The Community Kitchen
113 Queens Road
The Brighton & Hove Food Partnership's Community Kitchen is a cookery school where everyone can cook, learn new skills and enjoy food with others. We want everyone to experience the benefits of cooking and eating together. By paying for a cookery class, you help other people to attend cookery activities, regardless of finance, confidence or ability, and to make lasting changes to their lives.
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