As a child, I could never bring myself to enjoy Irish stew, despite my mother preparing it in the traditional way. The strong taste of mutton combined with a high fat content just didn’t appeal to me. However, with time and a shift towards using lamb instead of mutton, I’ve grown quite fond of it, whether it’s in a curry, cooked Spanish-style with beans, or as part of a basic Irish stew.
Mark Moriarty’s version of this iconic Irish dish caught my eye as did his Dingle pies. I might even try making one of them over the weekend. To stick to theme, a pint of stout pairs greatly with these dishes, as does the selected red ale here. Galway Bay Brewery is known for its array of hearty imperial stouts and porters that can handle the rich flavours of Irish stew.
For those who lean towards wine, the locally cherished La Tremenda, made from Monastrell grape, or the La Suerte de Arrayán would beautifully complement lamb stews. WineSpark.com offers the Suerte de Arrayán, providing excellent value in selling wine to subscription members at cost price.
However, I understand many will stick to a classic roast leg of lamb to honour our national day. In this case, you can enjoy a serving of Rioja Reserva, one of our adored wines, or perhaps pop open a bottle of your finest Bordeaux. For those looking for something new, the featured Capezzana would pair wonderfully with roast dishes of any sort.
Focusing on the Galway Bay Brewery’s Bay Ale Red Ale, it’s a 4.4%, available for €2.50-€3 per 330ml can. Its light hoppy character punctuated by well-rounded caramel and malty fruit flavours that culminate in a dry finish can complement multiple dishes, including Irish stew. You can purchase it online or in reputable off-licences.
Alternatively, the La Tremenda Monastrell 2021 from Enrique Mendoza, Valencia, costing 13.5% and priced at €19.95, is an option. It offers lush, ripened dark fruits along with a hint of savoury black olive and a soft, smooth conclusion. This wine is excellent with lamb stews and bean casseroles, and is available in multiple stores including the Blackrock Cellar, Martin’s in D3, Redmond’s in Ranelagh, Neighbourhood Wines and McHugh’s in D5.
Introducing the Arrayán 2018 from Mentrida, available at an alluring discount, now €20.92, reduced from €32. This captivating red features a blend of rich, velvety strawberry flavours and a subtle, robust strength. Its blend is simultaneously rich, smooth and refined, making it a must-try for wine enthusiasts. Find it on WineSpark.com.
On the other hand, we have the 2019 Villa di Capezzana Carmignano from Tuscany, priced at €42. It’s a decadently smooth wine, boasting flavours of black cherries and cassis, laced with an exotic dash of spice. It proves to be a superb pairing with roasted lamb, all varieties of red meat, or even veggie dishes featuring red peppers or mushrooms. This exquisite experience awaits at several locations including Wineonline.ie, Red Island Wines in Skerries, 64 Wine in Glasthule, The Malt House in Trim, and Clontarf Wines.