A low-fi movie about two middle-aged men on a week-long roadtrip through California's wine country, Sideways never had the glam factor.

But this little gem from director Alexander Payne proved the surprise hit of autumn 2004. Adapted by Payne and Jim Taylor, from a novel by Rex Pickett, it was the first film to scoop the Best Screenplay award at all five major ceremonies, the Golden Globes and Oscars included.

And it wasn't just Payne who enjoyed a vintage year. Sales of American wine soared following the film's release, probably fuelling the same middle-class dinner parties where Sideways word-of-mouth promotion took place.

So it is fitting that a special screening at Clapham Picture House next week will be accompanied by a tasting session dedicated to the wines of California's Central Coast.

Make like Miles (Paul Giamatti) and Jack (Thomas Haden Church) and sample four white wines and four reds, each explained by an expert sommelier and accompanied by a selection of meats and cheeses to scoff while you quaff. Will you have a glass of Miles' beloved Pinot Noir or dare you risk a much-maligned Merlot?

The former variety enjoyed a 16 per cent increase in sales thanks to his recommendation, while sales of the latter dropped by two per cent. And that despite the fact Merlot forms the basis of Miles's cherished bottle of 1961 Château Cheval Blanc, which we see him drinking at a fast-food restaurant. Who said he has to be consistent?

At next week's tasting, there will be a complimentary glass of any of the wines, as well as the chance to buy a bottle or three, all to a jazz accompaniment.

Sideways' original tagline read: "In search of wine. In search of women. In search of themselves." Clapham Picture House cannot promise such ephiphanies but enjoy those grapes and the film that brought them to our attention.

An Evening of Wine, Clapham Picture House, Venn Street, July 10, 7pm, £20/£18, call 0871 704 2055, visit picturehouses.co.uk