Ireland and Spain have had many connections throughout history but one you might have overlooked is Spain’s contribution to Ireland’s most famous drink — whiskey.

In recent days the vineyards of Champagne and those of the Cote d’Or in Burgundy were both given United Nations World Heritage Status for the continuity and quality of their wines and ancient vineyards.

The key to successful present buying I believe is to find something that the recipient wants, but which it did not occur to them to buy for themselves.

* CORKSCREW Winter Wine Fair takes place tomorrow from 1pm to 6pm at the Westbury Hotel just around the corner from the shop on Chatham Street, Dublin 2. Tickets €25, from 01 674 5731 or www.thecorkscrew.ie.