Oddbins Update

Odd? Maybe not, but certainly an adventurous mix of unusual, lesser known wines and popular mainstream sellers - that's my view of the Oddbins range, formed at a recent press tasting in the Shelbourne, where some 140 wines were opened for sampling: a mere drop in the ocean of a list offering nine or 10 times more. The two countries that made most impact, for interest and value, were Greece and Argentina; the table that most prompted malingering was the one lined with sparkling wines and champagnes. No news of imminent additions to Oddbins's four Dublin shops, but it surely won't be long . . . In the meantime, besides delivering free to Dubliners who order over £50 worth, they're delivering to Cork and Galway on a specific date each month. For details tel 012783844.