This week I've mainly been drinking... This month we are crossing the Irish Sea to touch base with our Northern Irish and Isle of Man area manager Fiona Blake. She has been plying her trade with Alliance for 6 years and is extremely passionate about all things wine related.

What is the market like for wines in Northern Ireland and how do you think it differs from the rest of the UK?

This is a very price conscious marketplace, although I have noticed that people are starting to trade up in price and quality, possibly as a result of attending the numerous wine tastings in the region. I do have a great deal of success with Los Espinos, as the wine represents incredible value for quality.

You have a real passion for your wines what in particular excites you from our range at the moment?

I just love the Vida Organica Sparkling Chardonnay from Argentina. It has superb fruit, and makes a wonderful aperitif. Domaine A Stoney Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc from Tasmania is one of my real favourites for a special occasion. My old favourite, however is the delicious coconutty Luis Canas Rioja Blanco.

Having graduated with a geography degree what was the path that took you into the wine trade and ultimately join Alliance in 1998?

My thesis was on the physical geographical and cultural differences between Burgundy and Beaujolais. I then joined Gilbeys, and ended up with Gilbeys in Belfast who put me through my wine diploma, for which I was extremely grateful. Gilbeys, however were not a specialist wine merchant, so I was delighted to join Alliance, where I hope I have put my experience to good use!

Fun Question- Fantasy dinner party Three Famous Guests, One Venue, Three Courses, Three Wines. Name them and why?

My guests would be Michael Palin, as, like me, he has a passion for travel, and I could never tire of hearing of his stories. I also think he would love the venue. Jancis Robinson, who I imagine would fit in with any company, and be a great dinner guest. Joseph O’Connor, whose most recent book, “The Star of the Sea”, I have just finished, and I marvel at the way he can switch his novels from the most meticulously researched, to light hearted black comedy. The Venue would have to be in beautiful Donegal, probably Castlemurray House. I would choose Pommery Wintertime champagne made from Pinot Noir for those dark Donegal days, followed by Porcini Mushroom Risotto. Then, simply prepared fresh Lobster with garlic butter and seasonal greens, with Stella Bella Semillon Sauvignon. Lastly, a selection of Irish Cheeses with Angels Share Shiraz.