Welcome back to Fantasy Friday on the Rocks—my weekly escape into the worlds we love, one cocktail at a time. If you’ve ever wanted to sip something that feels like a character—sharp, deep, maybe a little emotionally repressed—this is your series.
Each Friday, I create a drink inspired by a beloved romantasy character, weaving their personality into every sip. And this week, we're raising a glass to the ultimate broody Fae warrior with a drink as complex (and slow to open up) as he is.
The Brooding Buzzard
Meet Rowan Whitethorn: brooding and bold. This sangria blends red wine, brandy, pomegranate, and winter fruits with thyme for a drink as dark and smooth as he is.
It doesn’t shout—it broods, waiting to be noticed. And once it opens up? No turning back.
Why “The Brooding Buzzard”?
If you’ve read Throne of Glass, you already know. Rowan is the ultimate cold-glare-across-the-room male who softens into something absolutely swoon-worthy. He’s gruff, grounded, and just a little bit sharp—so naturally, I gave him a drink that tastes like slow-burning loyalty and long walks in the snow.
The Brooding Buzzard Sangria Recipe
Ingredients:
1 bottle Cabernet Sauvignon (St. Huberts The Stag is the perfect wine for Terrasen!)
½ cup brandy
2–4 oz pomegranate juice (to taste)
Blackberries and blueberries (add plums if they're in season!)
1 thinly sliced pear
A few sprigs of fresh thyme
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher.
Stir gently to mix—don’t bruise the fruit too much.
Let it chill in the fridge for at least 1–2 hours to let the flavors meld.
Serve over ice with a blackberry and thyme sprig for garnish.
Best enjoyed with: A reread of Heir of Fire, a snow-covered forest backdrop, and the subtle hum of territorial growling in the distance.
Want to drink your way through the fantasy realm?
Fantasy Friday on the Rocks brings you a new romantasy-inspired cocktail every week. Whether you’re sipping with the Thirteen or toasting to the Night Court, you’ll find something delicious (and a little dramatic) here.
Got a favorite character? Tell me who deserves their own drink next. I’m always taking recommendations… preferably in the form of fan art and feral screaming. 🍷