ALTRINCHAM’S inaugural Fizz Festival went off with a bang, with wine lovers pouring into town for the two-day celebration of bubbly.

More than 50 sparkling wines and champagne from around the world were on offer at the sold out event at Altrincham Town Hall on November 14 and 15.

As well as sampling bubbly, attendees could attend workshops with the experts, including BBC Food and Drink presenter Kate Goodman, who is also wine merchant and has a base at the Market House (Reserve Wines).

Janet Harrison, owner of Cracking Wine and founder of Fizz Festival, said: “The event was a great success and we've had a huge amount of positive feedback from people who came, as well as the wine producers at the festival - everyone has been asking when we are holding the next one.

“Altrincham Town hall is a fantastic venue and they were super-helpful in making it all happen - my thanks to them and of course all the fizz-fans who came out in terrible weather to try, buy and learn about their favourite tipple.

“We will definitely be back for another Fizz Festival in November 2016 but are already in discussions about a summer event - watch this space.”

There was also a Fizz Festival People’s Choice Award – with all visitors voting for their favourite from each supplier or producer.

Camel Valley Pinot Noir Rosé topped the polls with the award being given to Bowland Wines – a new online supplier of English Wines, based in Lancaster.

Second place went to Champagne Thienot with their NV Brut. Probably the youngest Champagne House in France, Thienot are currently celebrating their 30th year in business.

Matt Hutchinson, owner of Bowland Wines, said: “I’m thrilled an English fizz has won the vote – it is so important to get feedback from the public. Whilst industry awards are fantastic it is the consumer who matters at the end of the day.”

Upcoming events will be announced on crackingwine.co.uk.