There are wine bars with wine tastings and there are wine bars. East London is now leading the pack if you are looking for a natural wine, that’s to say a wine, produced without a whole load of additives.

I am a wine enthusiast. I have drunk my fair share of wine and been to many a wine tasting, and suffered for it, but I have learnt my lesson, and while there is actually no scientific proof about the hangover side of things, I have always felt better the next day.  So where are the hidden gems and what makes these wine tastings so special? 

Passione Vino, Weino Bib, Renegade Wine Bar, The Winemakers Club, Forza Wine, and The People's Wine Bar are my top picks for anyone who wants to indulge in some of the best wines in London. Each of these wine bars has its unique personality and charm, and they all offer a different wine experience.

Credit @John Carey

At Passione Vino it’s all about the Italian within. All the wines are sourced from independent Italian artisan winemakers (and trying saying that after a couple of glasses). This is little Italy in the centre of London. The food is worth a mention too - it’s very good. Sharing boards, pasta, cheese apparently inspired by someone's Venetian grandmother. Booking is a given, this is a very popular spot.

If you're looking for a wine bar with a bit of quirkiness, then Weino Bib is the place for you. The eclectic decor and mismatched furniture make it feel like you're in someone's living room, and the wine selection is equally as unique as they specialise in bag-in-box wine. They have a rotating selection of wines, and the staff is always happy to recommend something new and exciting.

Renegade Wine Bar is perfect for those who want to try some unusual wines produced by hand in Walthamstow. Yes, you heard it here first, Walthamstow. Clearly they don’t grow the grapes, but this is a company leading the charge on new wine styles and winemaking. They make around 12-14 wines a year, producing around 60,000 bottles. In fact if you are keen you can actually apply to become the face of one of their wine labels. You do have to be a Londoner, but that’s it. It’s all about celebrating us, the drinkers.

For those who want a bit of history with their wine, The Winemakers Club is a must-visit. Located in a Victorian archway underneath Holborn viaduct, this wine bar is perfect for a winter evening.The candles twinkle, and the staff are keen to engage and share their extensive knowledge of the wines.  They offer a wide selection of wines from all over the world, and again small producers are key.

Discover The Indytute's best selling East London Wine Walk >