On The Grapevine

Armchair buying gets easier and easier, as more wine merchants see the advantage of sparing customers back strain

Armchair buying gets easier and easier, as more wine merchants see the advantage of sparing customers back strain. Searsons of Monkstown, Co Dublin, u is now offering free delivery to any address in Ireland on a case of 12 or more bottles (which may be mixed). This initiative coincides with a new list demonstrating just how dynamic Searsons have become, with an exciting choice of inexpensive French vin de pays, some super Italians and an expanding New World section, as well as the classics. Tel: 01 280 0405, fax 01 280 4771. David Dennison Fine Wines in Waterford is also adding new gems to his already enticing list. Wines from Bodegas Balbas in Spain's Ribero del Duero and Peel Estate in Western Australia are among the tantalising newcomers. Waterford deliveries are free, as are deliveries anywhere in Ireland, for three cases or more; otherwise the charge is £5. Tel/fax: 051 583 777.