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f, like us, you struggle to tell the difference between a Chenin Blanc and a Chardonnay how about combining a few days away with a wine tasting session?

Book yourself into the Hotel du Vin in Newcastle, and the resident sommelier will introduce you to various vinos from around the world. And while we can’t promise that you’ll immediately spot those ‘plummy notes’ and ‘buttery finish’, you’ll definitely have fun trying.

Held in the specially designed Laroche Tasting Room, the sessions involve five whites and five reds (so you’ll probably want to practice those spitting skills, too), and there are sessions catering for beginners, those of us who already know the difference between a bottle of Oyster Bay and a Blue Nun – and also the clever clogs who always stroke their chins pensively while reading the wine list.

It doesn’t really matter which one you go for (tasting sessions, that is); it’s fun, it’s interesting – and you can explore Newcastle while you’re here.

There are art galleries, historical sites and some pretty excellent restaurants nearby. Bottoms up…