A blind-tasting session is set to take place at the parliamentary procurement unit later this summer.

THE HOUSES OF the Oireachtas [Irish Parliament] Commission is set to splash out €400,000 to keep Leinster House stocked with its own brand of mid-range red and white wine.

The bespoke-labelled booze has proven to be a big hit in the Dáil [House of Commons] bar since it was launched at the end of 2013, accounting for 17% of all drinks revenue at the venue last year.

A total of 4,851 glasses and 1,063 bottles were sold in the bar, as well as two whole cases at a cost of €180 each. Employees at Leinster House also availed of a staff discount to purchase 50 bottles at €12 each.