We’re not known for our wines, but we are known to travel!
Some of the most expensive wines in the world are made by descendants of Irish emigrants, like Château Leoville Barton and Langoa Barton, owned by the Kildare-born Bartons.
In South America, Admiral Browne from Mayo established the Argentinean navy. Believe it or not, you’ll also that the find McKennas and O’Higgins were equally famous in neighbouring Chile.
Some wine regions have Irish names – Australia’s Clare Valley is named after Co. Clare. There’s a Rue McCarthy in Bordeaux.
And these are just historic connections. There’s a few Irish people currently making wine across the globe.
19 Crimes - wines named after convicts deported to Australia, usually for minor crimes. An app on the back brings each bottle to life. Red Blend tells the story of Fenian John Boyle O'Reilly.
McGuigan Black Label Merlot this winery’s ancestors hailed from Belfast and started making wine in Australia in the 1880s.
Yalumba Galway Shiraz - named in honour of South Australia’s Governor, Henry L. Galway, 1914 - 1920.
France
Mauvesin Barton – Lilian Barton makes superb rich red wine on her new estate.
Beaune Róisín Curley- this Mayo pharmacist creates alchemy of a different kind, with majestic wines in Burgundy each year.
South America
Santa Rita 120 Sauvignon Blanc- named after 120 Chilean patriots who fought for Chilean Independence under General Barnardo O’Higgins. They hid in the cellar of Santa Rita, and this super-popular range is named after them. (You’ll find a bust of Senor O’Higgins on the banks of the Garravogue river in Sligo town).
Pyros Malbec – if you like Malbec, treat yourself to this – it’s one of our top two Argentinean Malbecs. Savour, and contemplate on how we’ve spread ourselves over the world.
