Domaine Aonghusa's Classy Syrah

Domaine Aonghusa Corbieres Noah 2007 Syrah, 14.5%, Karwig (€16.50), 

This is a spicy full bodied red, 100 per cent Syrah. The nose is redolent of black fruit and there are herby hints. The concentrated fruit continues through to the palate where strong tannins balance it up. A really well made Syrah. You won't be disappointed with this dark dark red one.

Languedoc: Chateau de Peyrepertuse

The Noah label (used for their Syrah wines) is based on a finger painting made by Noah Dalager Steensgaard from Århus Denmark when he was four. The wine-maker too is a relative novice, having started here in the Languedoc in 2001. He has learned fast.

And, yes, there is a strong Irish connection as you’ve guessed from the domaine name. But, with so many ancient forts in the rocky hilly area to choose from, why call your vineyard after the Aran Island stronghold?

That is what I thought. But Wexford man Pat Neville named it for his wife Catherine McGuinness (Ni Aonghusa). In any event, the name stands out on the shelf and the wine will stand out on your table. You can read the fascinating story of Pat and Catherine here