It still conjures up images of the sort of sweet 'n' nasty box wines you see in the airport - but English wine is now good enough to take seriously. Over the past decade or so, vine growers in Kent, Sussex, Berkshire and beyond have discovered that they can squeeze out surprisingly attractive wines. It was fascinating to taste the wares of half a dozen producers, recently showcased at the British Embassy - and yes, there were some goodies. Ridgeview and Chapel Down are names to look out for, but the superb sparkler Nyetimber (already in some top Irish dining rooms) still towers above them all. Retailing at around £28, it's not cheap - but neither does it taste remotely cheap. If you think you might lust after it, Kevin Parsons in Cork is your man, tel 021-373237.