ASK ALAIN

purveyor of fine wines

ACHIEVEMENTS AND ACCOLADES

Lecturing on Wine for the past 20 years; amongst them for Wine Board
The Best Sommelier in Ireland in 1996 & 1997
Sopexa World’s Best Sommelier Competition finished 4th for Ireland in 1997
The Sopexa Award for Best Sommelier of French Wines and Spirits
The Jameson Best Wine List in 2000
Sommelier of the Year in Ireland in 2001
Woodford Bourne Most Stylish Sommelier of the Year 2003
The Ruinart Best Sommelier in Ireland 2004
Semi- Final Certified for Ireland “Best Sommelier in the World”
Adare Manor, Adare, Co. Limerick as restaurant manager.
“Sheen Falls Lodge”, Kenmare, Co. Kerry. Started as Restaurant

Manager and moved on to become Chef Sommelier
Taught in the Shannon College of Catering and Management
Lecturing for the Wine Board
Competition in Athens, Greece, 2004

How many different wines do you stock?

About 1000 different wines.
What is your favourite wine in the shop?

I am not a creature of habits. I am constantly evolving and I am very curious. The classics are always a pleasure to re-visit... I love them all!
Do you buy wine from private individuals?

We import about 15% of our stock. We also buy from certified importers. We have an approved quality record.
Do you organise events?

We often travel for wine presentations, wine classes of all levels and seminars. This knowledge is shared at wine tasting events we hold here in Kenmare and world-wide.
What is the oldest bottle of wine you stock?

A 1958 Rivesaltes from the French Catalan region.
What are your opening hours?

From 8.30am until 6pm - 7 days a week in the summer and 6 days a week in the winter.