Bottle of wine (wrapped) from Fallon & Byrne

Although it’s slightly more expensive than some shops, Fallon & Byrne have a wide range of wines from the super-pricey to the affordable.

There’s a good selection of French, particularly with Bordeaux and Burgundy, though both command relatively high prices. However, there are some more affordable regional French wines from outside the more recognised regions.

There’s also decent shelf space devoted to Spain, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Chile, Argentina and the USA.

But one area, nestled in the corner near the fridge, is devoted to some stuff you don’t normally see. German Pinot Noirs (Spatburgunders), Austrian Gruner Vetliners and two I spotted this evening: Kosher Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay from Israel - a rarity on these shores, no doubt.

I picked up a Chateau du Cèdre - €18.95 - from Cahors (an area that lives in the shadow of Bordeaux, figuratively and geographically). The French-accented Fallon & Byrner congratulated me on such a choice, apparently the best value wine in the shop - flattery will get you everywhere.

I bought it to compare to a few other wines from Cahors I have in the ‘cellar’ - a bumper Cahors post coming over the next couple of weeks - watch this space.