May in Ireland is somewhat rainy, a bit chilly but oh, and I’m not kidding, spectacularly beautiful! We had barely stepped out of Dublin on previous visits. This trip we were adventurous and criss-crossed the country exploring some amazing countryside, cities and villages thanks to our daughter who was undaunted driving on the left and circling a million roundabouts backwards!

Yes, it’s Guiness country and we were acclimating ourselves to drinking the locals beer, lager, and ale. We honestly were not expecting to score wines of any great calibur.

Thanks to a longtime business acquaintance and friend in Dublin who shared his source for wines, we detoured on our way out of Dublin stopping in Loughlinstown at a place called Whelehans Wines.

There may be other wine shops in Ireland. We did not seek them out or even notice a one on our travels. I dare say they would have a very hard time measuring up to the inventory we found at Whelehans.

As we walked into the store we were greeted by the smell of freshly baked bread, brewing coffee and I think what may have been the aroma of fresh quiche from the oven. I’ll explain why in a bit.

John would have loved to spend the entire day there. With store manager, Shane Golden, John was introduced to Whelehan’s exceptional collection of wines and particularly their broad range of vintage bottles. Shane’s knowledge of wines is immense and his gift is his ability to know when to offer it.

Together they selected a number of bottles for us to take on our travels that we found to be great choices.

The store is just as diverse as its bottle selection. A variety of themed wine tastings are offered as well as WSET course certification classes. Fridays and Saturdays they uncork bottles and offer complimentary tastings.

Whelehans Wines shares its space with a French deli and cafe called ICIAR. Julien Comte, a Parisian who simply loves Ireland brought his talents to Dublin. He bakes and serves French delights. I’m not at all sure how this pairing of French foods and wines found a home together but it is truly a perfect match!

The picture below is of Whelehans owner, wine guru David Whelehan and ICIAR’s Julien Comte!

Along with our wine, we were able to procure some french cheeses, a baguette, a boule and a picnic lunch. Then off we went to begin what would be the very best trip across Ireland! Thank you Shane Golden, Whelehans Wines and the fun staff in the deli!

Salud!

Wine store photos courtesy of Shane Golden and Whelehans Wines

Of note:

Shane Golden publishes a wine column called “The Wine Press” and……Shane’s uncle, Pat Golden has a restaurant and retail venture on the Ring of Kerry that is most definitely worthy of a drop in if you find yourself out that way and you should. The scenery is incredible!