Founded in 1792, the Cambridge University Wine Society is one of the oldest student societies still active at the University of Cambridge, and among the oldest wine societies in the world. Today, it is a non-profit, student-led organization with active members from the university’s undergraduate, postgraduate, and alumni communities.
The Society is committed to educating students in the appreciation of fine wine and to maintaining this longstanding cultural tradition within Cambridge academic life. Through producer-guided tastings and dinners, members are given the opportunity to explore a wide range of wines and engage directly with the people behind them, cultivating a deeper understanding of wine as a craft and cultural expression.
Whether you’re an experienced taster or a complete beginner who wants to learn more about wine, we welcome everyone. CUWS is a great way to taste a wide variety of wines, discover new favourites, and understand the styles you like!
Tastings are held during term time and include a broad range of wines from a single producer. All tastings are designed to be educational and guided by expert presenters who are often directly involved in winemaking and/or vineyard management. In addition to tastings, our events include black-tie wine dinners, as well as our summer Garden Party at the end of the academic year.
Stay in touch
Become a member
Membership is open to all members of the University, and the general public at the discretion of the CUWS executive committee.
Join now
Membership benefits include:
- Priority booking for all CUWS events
- A range of discounts with our partners upon presentation of a valid CUWS membership card:
– 10% discount at Cambridge Wine Merchants for wines purchased in-store
– 10% discount at Thirsty Cambridge for wines purchased in-store
– 10% discount at Noel Young Wines for wines purchased in-store
– 10% discount at Grape Britannia for wines purchased in-store
– 10% dining discount at the Market House restaurant in Cambridge
– 5% discount on fine wines and a 10% discount on wines purchased at King Street Cellar