You say "Shiraz,"I say "Syrah" - it's the same grape none-the-less. In France it is known and grown as Syrah, and responsible for some of the Northern Rhone's big, bold red wines. However, in Australia and South Africa it goes by "Shiraz." This is a red wine that is easy to love, generally carries a reasonable price tag for some well-to-do wines and is very food-friendly.
1. D'Arenberg Shiraz/Viognier McLaren Vale The Laughing Magpie 2004 (Aus) $9
A stunning red wine, especially for the price! This is a terrific shiraz to have on hand for an evening meal, an after work party or as a hostess gift. Delightful from red berry and mocha start to the seamless finish!
2. Yalumba "Y" Series Shiraz + Viognier 2006 (Australia) $10
The Yalumba "Y" Series 2006 Shiraz + Viognier (93% Shiraz, 7% Viognier) boasts ripe fruit with intense flavor, aroma and mouthfeel. Lots of zest - pepper and spice in this wine will adequately carry hearty flavored dishes like meats, pastas, heavy stews and the like.3. Yellow Tail Shiraz 2007(Australia) $7
The '07 Yellow Tail Shiraz is a good value wine option, offering the feature flavors of black cherry, along with a hint of mocha. This is a medium-bodied wine, with well structured tannins and a distinct finish.4. Columbia Crest Two Vines Shiraz 2006 (WA) $7
This Shiraz has plenty of plum and cherry on the palate. Good acidity and peppery spice make this a fine value wine. This wine is typically pretty easy to find and always a crowd-pleaser.5. Rosemount Shiraz 2004 (Australia) $9
The Rosemount Estate Shiraz is a classic Australian Shiraz with a dominant flavor profile of black cherries, plums and chocolate. This wine has been oaked in American oak, lending a soft vanilla flavoring to the medium-bodied wine.6. Penfolds Rawson's Retreat Shiraz Cabernet blend 2007 (Australia) $8
Ripe red berries dominate the palate of this medium-bodied red wine. The tannins are easy going with a good supporting structure thanks to the Cab portion of the blend. A fun wine find for barbecues and grilled meat.7. Fetzer Valley Oaks Shiraz (California) $10
The Fetzer Valley Oaks Shiraz is a medium-bodied red with plenty of peppery aromas and blackberry flavors to satisfy both the nose and the palate. A delightful addition to a variety of foods, ranging from marinated steaks to lamb.