Check out Joyce’s new and exclusive wine range from Spain and Portugal selected by Masters of Wine student Antonia Dominguez from Antonia’s Wines.
Antonia Dominguez was born in Jerez, Spain, famed for its sherry production, and was raised in Ireland. She is a holder of the WSET Level 4 diploma in wines and spirits and is currently a student on the prestigious Masters of Wine programme, the only MW student in Ireland. Her expertise stretches far beyond Spanish wines, extending to all notable wine regions of the world. Under her meticulous and quality-orientated selection process, she sources stand-out wines at a range of price points and styles, representing wineries from both undiscovered and classic regions. Her selection is based on offering unique and expressive wines with personality, and on bringing Irish consumers as close as possible to an authentic wine experience.
Cabernet sauvignon/merlot reds are typically associated with Bordeaux blends, being the mainstays of this region. These are two grape varieties that complement each other well: the cabernet gives structure in the form of tannin and moderate acidity, as well as a dark fruit and herbaceous flavour profile; the merlot contributes a velvety body and some ripe plum notes to boost the fruit.
Somontano, meaning ‘beneath the mountain’, lies at the foot of the Pyrenees, in unique, cool-climate, terroir ideal for winemaking. This Enate Cabernet Merlot blend sees six months ageing in French and American oak barriques, just enough time to give the wine a touch of complexity and roundness. Overall, this is a smooth, concentrated, wine in which ripe bramble fruit takes centre stage, complemented by hints of black pepper, vanilla, and toast.
A versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of cuisines, including grilled or roasted poultry and game, mushroom risottos, and tomato-based pastas, as well as caprese salads with balsamic vinaigrettes and charcuterie.
