As climate change increases temperatures in Europe, many northern countries find themselves able to ripen grapes and produce wine. The UK, Netherlands and Scandinavian countries all produce wine, as does Ireland. But did you know Poland has a burgeoning wine business?
Under communism, no wine was produced in Poland. The very first sales took place in 2009. Since then the wine business has expanded rapidly. There are now more than 700 growers and 500 wineries, mostly very small. Production is mainly white wine, but there are red and dessert wines and a booming market in sparkling wine. Some are made from Vitis Vinifera, the standard wine grape, other from hybrids, grapes designed to thrive in cooler or wetter climates. Wine tourism is flourishing with locals and foreigners alike enjoying tours, tastings, food and accommodation. There is also a vibrant wine fair scene with more than 40 events annually.
At a recent tasting in Dublin, I tasted some great wines, worth seeking out. The two people behind the event were the entrepreneurial Maja Ignaczewska and Maggie Domaradzka. The pair now import and distribute a range of Polish wines here; see Polishwinefest.com for details.
“We tried Polish wine and were amazed,” says Domaradzka. “What started as a small gig grew into a festival, and now Polish Wine Fest is Ireland’s sole importer and wholesale distributor of Polish wines, and the organiser of the largest Polish wine festival outside of Poland.”
They have been pleased with the reaction from both Irish and Polish people. “Irish people were genuinely curious and open-minded. Once they tasted the wine, they were positively surprised at the quality. As for the Polish community, most had no idea Poland even had a wine industry, let alone one worth celebrating. It flips their expectations completely. Selling them is still a real challenge. It’s a process – one that takes time, storytelling, investment of time, energy and money.”
Today three Polish wines, along with a less expensive wine from Aldi. Other stockists include Mitchell & Son, Glasthule and Hatch Street; The Corkscrew; Wine Pair.
Specially Selected French Rosorange Rosé 2024, France
12.5%, €11.99
A unique and very tasty mix of rosé and orange wine. Fresh orange peel and peaches with a mouth-watering tangy dry finish.
From Aldi
Kamil Barczentewicz Pinot Blanc Beton 2023, Poland
12%, €29
Lightly floral aromas, fresh green apples, pears and lemon zest, finishing dry. A very stylish wine. Enjoy as an aperitif, or with lighter fish dishes.
From The Fumbally Café; Searsons, Monkstown
Turnau Solaris 2023, Poland
12.5%, €38-€44
Medium-bodied with appetising refreshing textured green and subtle tropical fruits.
From Blackrock Cellar; Barossa Wines, Sandymount
Kojder Johanniter 2021, Organic, Poland
12.5%, €49
Vivid and fresh with racy pear fruits and a crisp dry finish.
From Rustic Boowa, Tralee
