Home » HOTEL NEWS » Seaham Hall Spa Hotel Partners With Italian Winery For Offering A Sensational Culinary Experience, Boosting Tourism In County Durham, England!

Published on
October 19, 2025

November will mark the beginning of the Seaham Hall Spa Hotel and its cooperation with one of Italy’s most acclaimed winemakers, Gaja, under the guidance of the daring Durham Chamber of Trade. The city of Seaham, County Durham, will certainly be the epicenter for the oenological and gastronomic art. This only goes to show the growth of Durham, and motivated marketing like this will only bolster tourism to the County Durham coast. This thrilling venture, An Evening with Gaja, is focused on fine-dining lovers and is open to all admirers of The UK.

Seaham Hall, known for its luxurious offerings, will host the exclusive event on November 7, offering guests an unforgettable evening that blends the very best of Italian winemaking with the skills of exceptional chefs. The event will feature a four-course dining experience, with each dish carefully paired with Gaja wines, renowned for their quality and craftsmanship. Hosted by Gaja Winery’s ambassador, Francesca Cioce, guests will have the opportunity to experience first-hand the art of pairing wines with exquisite dishes.

Why Seaham Hall’s Partnership with Gaja Winery Is a Tourist Magnet

Seaham Hall Spa Hotel’s exclusive collaboration with Gaja Winery marks a significant milestone for both the hotel and the surrounding region, particularly for tourism in County Durham. The five-star hotel, located on the stunning Durham coast, is well-positioned to offer a unique experience that combines fine dining, world-class wines, and the charm of the North East.

The event will not only showcase the art of Italian winemaking but will also highlight the region’s rising status in the UK’s gastronomic scene. The chance to sample wines from one of Italy’s top wineries, coupled with a locally inspired menu, is a drawcard for tourists looking for a refined and intimate experience.

Ross Grieve, the managing director of Seaham Hall, expressed his excitement for the event. He remarked that they were delighted to be hosting an exclusive dining experience in partnership with Gaja. Grieve went on to add that the evening would offer guests a blend of culinary creativity and world-class winemaking, truly celebrating flavour, quality and sophistication.

The hotel’s reputation for luxury and world-class service ensures that events like these will continue to attract discerning tourists who are looking for high-end, unforgettable experiences. This event is a clear example of how Seaham Hall Spa Hotel is positioning itself as a key player in elevating the tourism experience in County Durham.

The Menu: An Italian-Inspired Feast with a Local Twist

The evening’s menu has been curated to highlight both the premium wines of Gaja Winery and the rich, diverse flavours of locally sourced ingredients. Guests will enjoy dishes such as Isle of Uig halibut, perfectly paired with mussels, dill, and parmesan polenta. The flavours continue with braised Old Spot pig cheek with sage, followed by a dish of roast duck served with endives, glazed beets, and red wine sauce. To end the evening on a sweet note, the menu will feature Dominican chocolate, Agen prunes, and Gaja Grappa Sperss.

This combination of Italian wines and local cuisine reflects the growing trend of food tourism, which has been drawing more visitors to the region looking to indulge in exclusive, high-end food and drink experiences.

Gaja Winery: A Taste of Italy’s Finest Wines

Founded in 1859, Gaja Winery is recognised internationally for its innovative approach to winemaking, particularly for its wines made from the Nebbiolo grape. With its roots in the Piemonte region of north-western Italy, Gaja has built a stellar reputation for producing world-class red wines that are prized by collectors and wine lovers alike.

The partnership with Seaham Hall brings this prestigious winery directly to the heart of County Durham, offering a rare opportunity for guests to taste wines that are typically available only in select locations across the globe. Gaja Winery’s selection of wines promises to elevate the evening’s dining experience, offering guests a taste of Italy’s finest vineyards.

The Event’s Appeal: How It Will Boost County Durham’s Tourism

Tourism in County Durham has been steadily growing, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-class accommodations like Seaham Hall Spa Hotel attracting visitors from all over the country. Events like An Evening with Gaja are pivotal in promoting the region as a hub for fine dining and luxury travel.

Not only does this event offer guests a chance to experience the best in Italian wines, but it also contributes to the wider tourism ecosystem. Tourists coming for the event may extend their stay to explore other local attractions, such as the Durham Cathedral, the historic town of Durham, and the nearby coastal areas of Seaham. The event’s exclusivity and high calibre make it a perfect opportunity for Seaham Hall to position itself as a top destination for luxury tourism.

List of Italian Wineries Present at the Event

Alongside Gaja, other prestigious Italian wineries will be part of the event. These include:

Gaja Winery (Piemonte region)Marchesi Antinori (Tuscany region)Castello di Ama (Chianti Classico region)Fontodi (Chianti Classico region)

These wineries are known for their high-quality wines, further cementing the event’s appeal to wine connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.

An Unforgettable Evening for Enthusiasts of Gastronomy and Viniculture

Anyone who appreciates fine food and wine will find the An Evening with Gaja event at Seaham Hall one to remember. It’s more than an event; it’s an introduction to the Italian winemaking process, all while taking in the beautiful scenery along the coast of County Durham. Meticulously enhancing their reputation as an upscale destination for luxury tourism, Seaham Hall Spa Hotel offers an extensive selection of fine wines and food to pair with their dishes.

Image Credit: Seaham Hall Spa Hotel

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