The first WAG1 wine gathering of 2026, which took place on Jan 21st, was a lively and uplifting start to the year, with plenty of laughter, music and excellent wine. Roger opened the afternoon by wishing everyone a Happy New Year and welcoming members back for what promises to be an exciting new chapter for the group.
Mac and Roger have now taken over the leadershipfrom Trevor and Sally and used the occasion to offer warm thanks for their hard work and dedication over the past ten years, wishing them many relaxed afternoons simply enjoying future tastings. Their appreciation was greeted with enthusiastic applause from the room.
To mark this “new era”, members were introduced to the WAG1 theme song, complete with lyric sheets on the tables and a rousing first play that had many people dancing in their seats. The catchy chorus will now replace Trevor’s famous bell as the gentle signal that a new presentation is about to begin.
Roger and Mac also outlined a refreshed meeting format and pricing, designed to keep things fun while gently improving the quality of wines in the glass. The group now enjoys a welcome glass of cava on arrival, followed by four wines that together take members on a relaxed journey through classic wine regions. The cava was cheerfully served by Sally Smith who also organised the raffle and supported Mac and Roger throughout the meeting.
This month’s line-up of wines featured a bright Albariño from Galicia, a cheerful Cinsault–Grenache from southern France, and two characterful Riojas, a Reserva and a Gran Reserva, all offering impressive value. By the end of the afternoon, it felt clear that the combination of familiar faces, new touches and “liquid happiness” has set WAG1 up for a very enjoyable year ahead.
