Not long ago, the Irish wine scene was dominated by a few household names, Chilean Merlot, Australian Shiraz, and the ever-dependable Pinot Grigio. But in recent years, a quiet revolution has unfolded. Ireland’s taste in wine has matured, expanded, and become more curious than ever before.
As our palates evolve, so does our desire to discover unique, boutique bottles from around the globe—and find wine that reflects quality, value, and personal taste. Whether you’re a long-time wine lover or just beginning your journey, here’s how Irish preferences have shifted and where to find the best wine in Ireland today.
Then: Safe and Simple
Go back just 10 to 15 years, and most Irish wine purchases were made in supermarkets. We stuck to well-known regions France, Italy, Australia and opted for easy-drinking, low-risk options. There’s nothing wrong with a trusty Rioja or Sauvignon Blanc, but our choices were often based more on price and convenience than flavour exploration.
Wines were often bought for occasions, not for casual enjoyment. A bottle was something to bring to dinner or pop open at Christmas, not necessarily a staple for winding down on a Wednesday evening.
Now: Curious, Confident, and Global
Fast forward to today, and the Irish wine drinker has become far more adventurous and informed. Thanks to travel, social media, and a rise in boutique wine subscriptions (like Box of Wine), there’s a real appetite for discovery.
We’re seeing strong interest in:
- Organic and sustainable wines
- Lesser-known regions like Spain’s Bierzo or Portugal’s Alentejo
- New grape varieties, such as Garnacha, Grillo, or Zweigelt
- Food-friendly wines suited to modern Irish cuisine
People now want wine that tells a story. And more importantly, they want it to match their personal taste, not just a label or price tag.
The Shift to At-Home Wine Culture
Another major driver of this evolution? The rise of at-home wine culture. Especially since the pandemic, Irish consumers have embraced wine as a regular part of their weekly lives, not just special occasions.
Instead of relying on retail shelves with limited options, more people now seek:
- Tailored wine subscriptions
- Next-day delivery of boutique bottles
- Educational resources to help them understand and enjoy wine more deeply
We’ve seen this shift firsthand. Our subscribers want more than just a box, they want a curated experience, personalised to their taste and designed for real life in Ireland.
What the Irish Are Drinking Now
The top trends in Irish wine preferences include:
1. Rosé All Year Round
No longer just a summer sipper, rosé is now enjoyed year-round for its balance, elegance, and versatility. Dry rosés, in particular, are gaining fans across all age groups.
2. Spanish Reds and Italian Whites
Spain and Italy have become favourites, not just for their bold flavours but for incredible value. Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Montepulciano are Irish staples now.
3. Low-Alcohol and Natural Wines
With more focus on wellness, the demand for low-alcohol and low-intervention wines is rising. These are often small-batch and harder to find in shops, making curated subscriptions more attractive.
4. Sparkling for Everyday
Gone are the days when bubbly was only for weddings. Irish wine lovers are now popping open Cava, Crémant, and Pet-Nat on weeknights. Because why not?
So Where Can You Find the Best Wine in Ireland?
Let’s face it, finding great wine used to mean navigating crowded aisles or relying on staff who may not share your taste. Now, there’s a better way.
At Box of Wine, we specialise in helping you discover the best wine in Ireland, without leaving your home. Here’s how:
- Tailored wine selections: Each box is hand-picked to match your unique taste preferences.
- Next-day delivery across Ireland, so you’re never without a great bottle.
- No supermarket wines: Only boutique, quality-driven bottles from small producers.
- Educational tasting notes to help you learn and develop your palate over time.
It’s wine discovery made easy, personal, and fun.
Final Sip: The Future of Wine in Ireland
The Irish wine drinker has come a long way, from playing it safe with supermarket brands to embracing bold reds, crisp whites, and even sparkling bottles on a Tuesday.
The journey is far from over. As our palates continue to evolve, so too will our willingness to explore, try new styles, and elevate our wine experience at home.
Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or just starting out, the best wine in Ireland isn’t on a shelf—it’s the one that speaks to you. And at Box of Wine, we’re here to help you find it, one bottle at a time.