Meet José: From Wine Novice to Passionate Specialist

At Whelehans Wines, we believe wine is more than just a drink - it’s a story, a journey, and often, a surprise. No one embodies this more than our colleague José. We sat down with him to learn more about his unexpected path into the world of wine.

Q: So José, how did your wine journey begin?

José: "Honestly, it was completely unexpected. When I moved to Ireland, I was in desperate need of work. I stumbled across a job ad for an assistant position in a local wine shop. I didn’t know the first thing about wine - but I got the job."

Q: And how did things progress from there?

José: "Pretty quickly, actually. Once I started, I realised how fascinating wine could be. I decided to take the WSET Level 2 Award and ended up scoring a 100% distinction. That’s when I got the bug, as they say."

Q: What drew you in so deeply?

José: "I discovered that every wine has a story. It’s like art - each bottle is a product of passion, craftsmanship, and a unique place in the world. There's always more to it than what you see - or taste - at first. The more you learn about a wine, the more you appreciate it."

Q: And we heard you’ve just completed your WSET Level 3 - congratulations!

José: "Cheers - Yes, I did. It was challenging, but incredibly rewarding. WSET Level 3 really deepens your understanding - tasting becomes more analytical, and you start to see the whole picture: the climate, the soil, the winemaker’s decisions. It changes the way you experience wine."

Q: Do you have a favourite kind of wine or region?

José: "I have a real soft spot for Rioja. The balance of fruit, oak, and structure in a good Rioja is hard to beat. I love how the region blends tradition with subtle innovation, and how Tempranillo can express itself so elegantly over time. It’s a region I keep coming back to."

Q: Final thoughts for anyone new to wine?

José: "Don’t be intimidated by it. Start with curiosity, follow your taste, and enjoy the stories in every bottle. There’s always something new to discover".

JOSE'S WINE OF THE MOMENT 

La Rioja Alta S.A., Vina Ardanza "Reserva" 2019

A Fresh, Fruity, Balanced Reserva wine - Ideal for Long Aging

Bright and vivid cherry red, medium-high intensity, garnet rim. Aromas of redcurrant, plum, and cherry, complemented by balsamic and spicy notes of black pepper, licorice, vanilla, clove, and nutmeg. Fresh and balanced on the palate, with sweet, elegant tannins and a long, lively finish, reflecting the wine’s distinctive balsamic and spicy character.