Fairview, Goats do Roam 2003; Yalumba Viognier 2003; Gaia Notios 2000; Pesquera 2002
We selected four wines from Matt Skinner's forthcoming 100-bottle High Street guide, The Juice. Invariably, some are not available in Ireland, but here are four which are:
Fairview, Goats do Roam 2003, Paarl, South Africa, 14%, €10.99. Matt Skinner says: "Legendary South African winemaker Charles Back's tongue is jammed right against the side of his cheek with this Rhône-style copycat. Overflowing with bright raspberry-cherry fruit and spice, this is a deliciously drinkable blend of Syrah, Mourvèdre and the not so Rhône-like Pinotage." Joe Breen says: We agree. An inviting mix of rule-breaking fun and flavour. Available: Swans on the Green, Naas, Co Kildare; Bottleshop, Sallins, Co Kildare, and other outlets.
Yalumba Viognier 2003, South Australia, abv 14.5%, €18.49. Matt Skinner says: "Yalumba is perhaps Australia's finest producer of this variety. Displaying intense aromas of apricot, orange rind and fresh-cut flowers, the palate is typically oily and rich, with great length of flavour, balanced beautifully by soft natural acidity. A cracker." Joe Breen says: Not much more to be said, except drink up. Available: Cheers, Delgany; Grape Escape, Lucan; Thomas Woodberries, Galway; Ardkeen Stores, Waterford, and other outlets.
Gaia Notios 2000, Santorini, Greece, 13%, €11.49. Matt Skinner says: "Greek wine is on the up and. if you're into soft, fruity reds then check out this stunner from the island of Santorini. Made from local variety Agiogitiko (don't try to say it, just drink it), this wine is bright, with plenty of dark-currant and plum-like fruit and a nice, spicy edge. Bound to become a new barbecue classic." Joe Breen says: Nice sunburnt fruit, but a bit too mild-mannered for my fiery barbecue cooking. Available: Oddbins
Pesquera 2002, Ribero del Duero, Spain, 13.5%, €20.49. Matt Skinner says: "Officially sporting one of the world's coolest wine labels. Pesquera is carved from 100 per cent tinto fino (Tempranillo) and - thanks to some fancy footwork in the winery - comes packing some serious, dark, plummy fruit and well-handled spicy oak. Nothing short of magic." Joe Breen says: Now we are getting serious. Beautifully restrained elegance and balance. Available: Oddbins