Chardonnay Unlocked

Remember when nobody would admit to liking Chardonnay? This tasting was Encountr's answer — six expressions across four continents, in a room designed for lingering, not rushing.

Sold out, but designed to be brought to life with new guests in mind.

There was a stretch of years when ordering Chardonnay felt like admitting something. 'ABC' — Anything But Chardonnay — became a running joke among wine drinkers who'd only ever tasted the cheap, over-oaked version. On 27 May 2026, Encountr set out to correct the record.

Six expressions of the grape were poured that evening in full, generous measures — not the thimble pours of a typical trade tasting — beginning with a Champagne welcome and running through Louis Jadot's Burgundian precision, into the brighter, bolder expressions of Errazuriz, Zuccardi, Villa Maria and Résonance.

Each bottle was chosen with our partner winemakers specifically to challenge what guests thought they knew about this versatile grape.

The evening was hosted in Vinoly's private dining room in the heart of Marylebone, with canapés from Executive Chef Rob Weston, whose CV runs through some of the UK's most celebrated Michelin-starred kitchens.

This sitting sold out — but Chardonnay Unlocked returns, co-hosted with our partner venues across London with more grapes to feature at Vinoly through the year.

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An exceptional setting for an exceptional evening.

Hosted at Vinoly in the heart of Marylebone, you’ll be welcomed into an intimate private dining space—warm, refined and designed for connection.

A culinary experience to match the wines.

The evening is complemented by fine cheese, charcuterie boards and snacks.

Thoughtfully curated, effortlessly enjoyed.

With a focus on quality, atmosphere and genuine enjoyment, this is a wine experience designed to be savoured amongst friends, new and old.

Come curious. Leave inspired.

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About Unlocked:

Great wine is only the beginning. Encountr curates wine-led experiences designed around discovery, connection and shared experiences. From intimate tastings to exceptional dining, every gathering is carefully curated to bring remarkable people together. The Unlocked series gives guests access to private rooms, exclusive venues and experiences that are often  difficult to access independently. By bringing together small groups of like-minded people, we create opportunities to discover exceptional wines, forge new connections and experience a side of wine culture that many never get the chance to explore.