Imagine this scenario; it’s 20 years in the future and you’re perusing the wine list at a fancy restaurant. All of a sudden, the recognisable names of Bordeaux, Burgundy and Rioja are not in sight. Instead, wine offerings from England, Poland, Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, Japan and Canada, and perhaps even Ireland, might grace the menu.
Though this may appear like an outlandish projection, the reality is that these nations are indeed home to burgeoning, and in certain cases, thriving viticulture industries that have the potential to expand exponentially over the next two decades. All it requires is an additional degree or two to make wine production possible in these cooler climates.
For a substantial period now, international journalists have jestingly queried if Ireland is a wine producer. As it turns out, Ireland has already established a host of boutique vineyards, with more slated to start operations. Wine mogul, David Llewelyn, was the pioneer of the Irish winemaking scene, where his Lusca wine became famous, and he is not the only producer anymore. David Dennison’s vineyard is one such boutique, which can be explored at vikingirishdrinks.com.
Further transformations are projected to be driven by climate shifts. It’s likely that Australian wines may originate from the chillier regions such as Tasmania. Traditional regions such as the Barossa Valley might shift from cabernet sauvignon or shiraz to varietals including nero d’avola, touriga nacional, tempranillo, assyrtiko or fiano, which are presently cultivated in Spain, Greece, Portugal and Southern Italy. They will additionally have to tackle increasing incidences of frost, hail, wildfires and water scarcity.
Several noteworthy wines include the Tesco Finest Steep Slopes Riesling 2022, Mosel, which at 11%, costs €12 (€9 with Club Card) and offers a cooler climate, delicate fragrances followed by exciting pear and green apple notes, finishing dry. It is best paired with crab, sushi, or enjoyed solo.
The Torres Ancestral Blanco 2022, Penedès, at 12.5% and costing €20, is crafted from the reintroduced ancient Forcada grape, grown at high altitudes. Possessing fruity herby scents, the palate reveals vibrant peach and pear flavours. It pairs perfectly with chicken or rich fish dishes. These wines are available at Redmonds, D6; TheNudeWineco.ie; Bradley’s, Cork; Jus De Vin, Portmarnock.
Lastly, the Nyetimber Classic Cuvée Multi Vintage from England is another delightful option.
Reinterpreting from the first text, the Lusca Irish Sparkling Wine Brut Zero Blanc de Noirs, retailing at €70, is an optimal choice for celebrating any victory or accomplishment associated with Ireland. It features a soft rose hue, fine effervescence, and is redolent with the bouquet of redcurrant and raspberries. Undertones of a brioche note culminate in a refreshingly crisp, dry finale. Renowned stockists include Celtic Whiskey, D2; Mitchell & Son; and Terroirs, D4.
Another choice to note embodies a touch of unique flair. Priced at a 12% ranging between €57.99 and €69.99, its fiery red apple essence is subtly accompanied by undertones of delicate brioche and toasted almond. Its finale is dry, serving as an elegant companion to any meal. Retailers include Worldwide Wines in Waterford, Baggot Street Wines, The Corkscrew in D2, 64 Wine located in Glasthule, and Jus de Vine in Portmarnock.