Wine | Business Post

Cathal McBride: Time and tradition are an essential part of the magic of Champagne

Champagne comes from centuries-old traditions and practices that have made it the kingpin of sparkling wines

Cathal McBride on finding sweet substitutes for sauvignon blanc

With economic challenges assailing the wine industry, a marked scarcity of sauvignon blanc has become apparent – so check out these alternatives instead

Cathal McBride: It’s tempting to stick to your favourite summer wine choices, but here’s how you can be more adventurous

Seafoods, salads and lighter fare in warmer weather give us the opportunity to try out interesting alternatives to our usual wines

Strawberries and wine: Cathal McBride on how to enjoy this classic match for long summer days

Wimbledon brings to mind the pairing of strawberries and champagne, but as the days become warmer and the evenings lengthen, there are many other wines that go deliciously with the fruit

From glassware to decanting: Cathal McBride on the factors that can affect your enjoyment of wine

The glass you drink from, the temperature wine is served at, how it was stored and whether or not it was decanted all need to be considered

Cathal McBride on wine: How malbec became one of Argentina’s most celebrated grapes

The popular variety’s particular triumph is in showcasing the distinct characteristics of terroir impact on wine – altitude, soil and climate

Cathal McBride on wine: Why you should choose a lighter variety to go with your Easter lamb

Spring lamb is at its peak now and, for a perfect pairing, think lighter-style Burgundy pinot noir or a fruity Beaujolais

Cathal McBride on wine: It’s time for petit verdot to step into the spotlight

Thick-skinned and late-ripening, petit verdot most likely originated in Bordeaux and is extensively used in blends to enrich cabernet and merlot

Cathal McBride on wine: California is known for full-bodied reds, but it also offers superb pinot noirs and chardonnays

Almost one in every ten wine bottles comes from the US and almost 90 per cent of those are Californian

Cathal McBride on wine: Put a pep in your step with syrah/shiraz

Whether it’s named syrah or shiraz, the peppery aroma of this grape makes for a satisfying wine drinking experience

Wine: The truth about sulphites

This naturally occurring compound can also be added to wine to prevent fermentation or used as a preservative. But is it responsible for causing headaches?

Wine: A good sommelier can give you a taste for the finer things in life

A wine expert has the power not only to hugely enhance your enjoyment of a meal but also to open a world of knowledge, and Paul Fogerty at Ashford Castle has a particular treat lined up for lucky wine-lovers

Wine: Sparkling all through the season

We’ve done the hard work with our Christmas preparations, but now is the time to think about relaxing with a glass of bubbly, port or even rum

Wine: A feast of festive favourites

From breakfast Champagne to a fine Burgundy, Christmas is a time to treat yourself

Wine: Big cheeses of the wine-pairing world

Choosing the best cheese to go with wine doesn’t need to be a dilemma with the high quality of Irish products on offer

Wine: A seasonal selection to savour

You can’t please everyone, but a good stock of red and white wines will keep most Christmas callers happy

Wine: Catalunya warmth on winter days

The limestone, chalky and granitic sandy soils of Montsant in Catalunya produce wines with earthy purpose and finesse

Wine: Sweet-natured grape forgives pride and prejudice

To celebrate International Merlot Day, we explore the merits of a wine which deserves a more generous reputation

Wine: Romanian wines with plenty of bite

The Balkan nation, synonymous with literature’s most famous vampire, is also famed for its long-established winemaking culture

Wine: Breathe in autumn’s full flavours

The change of season gives us time to slow down and appreciate rich and earthy tastes