Lusca Cabernet-Merlot Irish Wine 2016, Lusk, Dublin; €49.50, 13pc, Celtic Whiskey Shop, terroirs.ie
David Llewellyn’s delicate charmer is in a Loire Cabernet Franc style, with papery aromas and raspberry, redcurrant and cherry sherbet notes that balance the fresh acidity and carry through on the surprising length. Pair with spiced beef broth.
Cancedda O’Connell ‘G.n.Guerra’ Vino Rosso 2018, Sardinia; €29, 14pc, Neighbourhood Wine,
thenudewineco.ie
From Dubliner Mick O’Connell, who wrote his Masters of Wine thesis on Sardinian wine, this is deceptively pale with smoky, sultry warmth, subtle clove spice fleshing out ripe raspberry and red cherry, bright acidity and crunchy tannins on the palate. Pair with chicken liver pate.