In a harmonious blend of rock and wine, Iron Maiden introduces its latest creation, Darkest Red, inspired by the band’s 2021 song “Darkest Hour.” Presented at the esteemed ProWein event, this Douro DOC still red wine emerges from the historic cellars of Van Zeller Wine Collection, capturing the essence of Portugal’s renowned winemaking heritage.
Head of sales at Ehrmanns Wine, Paul Daniell, revealed the fortuitous alignment of events leading to the wine’s inception. The band’s interest in Ehrmanns’ Portuguese wines coincided with frontman Bruce Dickinson’s involvement in the Wine Future conference in Coimbra, Portugal, catalyzing the development of this distinctive Portuguese table wine.
“This project has been in motion for a year,” Daniell disclosed. “Opting for Douro DOC was a deliberate choice, as the region is experiencing a surge in popularity, reflecting the buzz surrounding Portuguese wines. We wanted to break away from convention, offering consumers a disruptive wine in a disruptive category.”
Keith Lay, head of marketing, emphasized the unexpected nature of the collaboration, citing Iron Maiden’s choice to venture into the realm of wine, akin to Kylie Minogue’s association with rosé. The decision to craft a red wine, Lay explained, was deliberate, aiming to challenge perceptions while staying true to the band’s ethos.
Engaging the band in the selection process, particularly Dickinson, mirrored their previous collaboration on the Trooper beer brand with Stockport brewery Robinsons. Daniell commended Dickinson’s unwavering commitment to excellence, underscoring the band’s dedication to quality.
The blend, featuring indigenous Douro red grapes like Touriga Nacional and Tinta Roriz, underwent maturation in old Port barrels for 6-9 months, resulting in a nuanced flavor profile with a moderate 13.5% ABV. Despite its heavy metal origins, Darkest Red exudes a refreshing quality, boasting a vibrant black fruit character and deep color, reminiscent of its evocative name.
In addition to its contents, the wine’s packaging stands as a testament to Iron Maiden’s iconic imagery, featuring the band’s legendary mascot, Eddie, in a captivating design inspired by their ongoing global tour, The Future Past.
With an eye-catching appearance and an affordable price point of approximately £12, Darkest Red aims to captivate both Iron Maiden enthusiasts and wine aficionados alike, positioning itself as a collector’s item and a standout option in the off-trade market.
As Iron Maiden approaches its half-century milestone, Ehrmanns Wine anticipates the wine’s appeal to span across generations, tapping into the enduring popularity of the band and its beloved mascot, Eddie, among fans old and new.
Through Darkest Red, Iron Maiden continues to extend its legacy beyond music, weaving a symphony of flavors that resonates with fans and wine enthusiasts worldwide.
