About the Book

The Wager by David Gramm is a riveting maritime saga which recounts the true story of the HMS Wager shipwreck off Patagonia in 1741 and the men who survived to tell the tale. The cover quite rightly promises mutiny and murder, to which you can add scurvy, starvation, and an incredible story of human endurance. Much of the source material comes from first hand accounts in the form of diaries, written by those on board, including 16-year-old midshipman John Byron, grandfather of the poet Lord Byron.

Wine Pairing:

We chose an inexpensive Bordeaux to accompany the story for several reasons. The first being the fact that Bordeaux was highly sought after in the 18th century in England, and a major export from the city's vibrant port. I like to think it may have been available on board ship, for the Captain and other officers, alongside the kegs of rum. However, during the War of the Spanish Succession, official trade between Bordeaux and England became tricky, so unofficial trade routes, involving privateers and auction houses were became popular. Another reason why its slightly chequered history seemed to match the times and tensions of the book. And finally, I don't believe there is anything finer than sipping a smooth, fruity, French red wine while reading a proper page turner. Let us know what you think!

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