Wolf Blass House of the Dragon Fire & Blood Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2021

As any loyal fan knows, a new series based on George R. R. Martin’s ‘Game of Thrones’ books is hitting screens shortly. ‘Day of the Dragon’ is the prequel to the massively popular fantasy series and Wolf Blass has combined with the team to offer this commemorative wine (one thought, George, finish the books! Please!). Now, you might have thought it would be called Dornish Red or Arbor Red, both regularly enjoyed in the series/books, and the most famous wines made in Westeros, though one would not recommend sharing a bottle with the late and definitely unlamented King Joffrey. Anyway, you won’t miss it. The striking labels stand out like Brienne of Tarth standing next to Tyrion Lannister.

The blend is 52% Cabernet Sauvignon and 48% Shiraz, the great Aussie blend. Matured in a mix of French and American oak, the fruit is sourced from throughout South Australia, notably Wrattonbully, Barossa, Coonawarra, Langhorne Creek and McLaren Vale. The wine is vibrant purple in colour with mocha, plummy notes, coffee grinds and florals. Bright and fresh, with good acidity, the finish is as long as winter on the wrong side of the Wall. Fine tannins too with some raspberry and liquorice on the palate. Will drink well for at least the next five to six years, at which time we’ll probably still be waiting for the next book.