Dubbed Wines of Westeros, the bottles boast elegant designs that symbolise the most prominent dynasties in the fantasy series, and the Sydney-based advertising agency responsible for them are hoping they'll prove irresistible to "Thronees". And all tastes and preferences are accounted for, as the Arryn, Greyjoy, White Walker, Wildling and Stark bottles are sauvignon blancs, the Baratheon and Lannister clan bottles are pinot noirs, the Dothraki is a merlot, the Tyrells are represented as a chardonnay, the Martells as a cabernet sauvignon, and both House Targaryen and the Night's Watch are shiraz wines. They'll cost about A$20 ($21) and you can pre-order from www.thewinesofwesteros.com
Julicher Estate '99 Rows' Te Muna Martinborough Pinot Noir 2012, $32
1/2 This pinot boasts a bouquet garni of gorgeous dried herb aromas, layers of lovely floral and wild berry notes followed by really juicy, succulent plum and cherry characters on the palate. There's even a hint of damp tree bark and tea leaf in there. It's one of those wines that gives something new with every sniff and sip. It's a cracker - great drinking now but I think it has loads of potential if given a squeak more time in the cellar. Their winemaker, Outi Jakovirta, is from Helsinki and has been making wine for Julicher since 2005. She's clearly a real talent. www.julicher.co.nz
Parrotdog Devilbird Belgian Golden Strong Ale 330ml, $5.10
At 8.4 per cent, this is a hefty stonefruit- and spice-packed piece of work. With biscuit and toffee notes, a sliver of sourness and even a hint of pepper on the palate, it's got that "put hairs on your chest" character on the finish. Smooth but deceptively strong. www.beercellar.co. nz
Wise Owl Swooping Sauvignon Blanc 2013, $11
It's hardly expensive so my expectations weren't huge, but I was disappointed with this wine because I'd tried their blended white recently and it was really tasty. There are passable floral aromas and a hint of something herbaceous, but it's thin and watery on the palate. Available at supermarkets.
Hihi Wines Captain Nimmo 2009, $22
1/2 This sweet treat has been made in a vintage port style from pinotage grapes and it oozes rich plum, spice, cocoa and blackcurrant notes. So delicious and just perfect in a tiny glass with some strong cheese, or with anything chocolate. www.hihiwines.com
Main Divide Tehau Reserve Waipara Valley Pinot Noir 2012, $33
Glossy, dark and gorgeous in the glass, this pinot has a lifted, comforting, almost medicinal aroma. Combine this with smoke, spice and vanilla and you've got something pretty sexy. On the palate it is juicy with a core of exceptionally concentrated cherry and berry fruit. Smooth, yet vibrant to drink. www.maindivide.com
