Map of Ireland
Ireland - Country Overview (Wine Context)
- Location: Northwestern Europe, occupying most of the island of Ireland in the North Atlantic, west of Great Britain.
- Capital: Dublin.
- Area: 70,273 square kilometres (27,133 square miles).
- Population (2025 est.): About 5.3 million people.
Wine and Viticulture Overview
- Wine climate: Cool maritime climate with high rainfall and mild winters.
- Viticulture status: Very limited grape wine production; vineyards are small-scale and experimental.
- Main growing areas: Southern and southeastern Ireland, including counties Cork and Waterford.
- Typical grape varieties: Cold-hardy hybrids such as Rondo, Solaris, and Regent.
- Wine styles: Fruit wines dominate; small quantities of experimental grape wines and ciders.
- Industry notes: Commercial grape wine production remains niche due to climate constraints.
Map of Ireland
Wine in Ireland
Ireland is located in Northwestern Europe on the western edge of the Atlantic, separated from Great Britain by the Irish Sea. Due to its cool, wet maritime climate and limited sunshine, traditional grape viticulture has historically been minimal.
Modern wine activity in Ireland is small-scale and experimental, focused mainly in sheltered southern and eastern areas where conditions are slightly milder. Vineyards rely on cold-hardy grape varieties and careful site selection. Alongside limited grape wine production, Ireland has a long-standing tradition of fruit wines, made from apples, berries, and other locally grown fruit.
Wine production remains artisanal and primarily for domestic consumption. Grape wines are typically light-bodied and fresh, while fruit wines range from dry to sweet styles, reflecting adaptation to Ireland's climatic conditions rather than large-scale commercial output.