At the McKenna Collection: 1. Agnieszka Talay & Katie Lowe; 2. Martina Dunne & Anne Marie McGrath; 3. Caroline Byrne & Mark Morgan. (Pics. Brian McEvoy)
The McKenna Collection of wines from Chile was launched today by the Chilean Ambassador to Ireland, Cecilia McKenna at a celebration of Chilean wine and food at The Fire Restaurant in Dublin.
Ambassador McKenna is a direct descendant of Juan McKenna, after whom the wines are named. “I am delighted and honoured that my family name has been recognised in Ireland in such a manner. Chilean wine exports to Ireland are a very important part of the Chilean economy. Juan McKenna, along with others, helped us on our journey towards independence. This association is aptly remembered by the slogan on this wine – Chilean Wine Irish Heritage”.
McKenna left Ireland in 1771 to join the Spanish army. He trained as a military engineer and distinguished himself fighting against French forces. In 1776 he travelled across South America and through a series of fascinating adventure he befriended the founder of modern Chile, Bernardo O’Higgins. Together they fought off Spanish forces and in 1801 the new Chilean government appointed McKenna Commandant General of the new Chilean army.
Following a coup d’etat, and a subsequent duel on the streets of Buenos Aires, Juan McKenna from Co Tyrone died in 1814. He is remembered as a true hero, and a fighting Irishman, who brought freedom and stability to his adopted country.
Leading distributors Comans represents Undurraga, the producers of The McKenna Collection, on the Irish market.