Whether it’s called Syrah or Shiraz, the latter its Australian name, it’s made from the classic wine grape Syrah. This delicious blend, 76 percent Syrah, 18 percent Petite Sirah, 4 percent Grenache and 2 percent Mourvedre, offers novice wine drinkers a great chance to learn to appreciate Rhone wines at a value price. Bright with aromas and flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and plum, it’s nicely balanced with classic notes of leather, earth, and spice. Easy drinking alone, it’s also a solid choice for lamb, steak, a cheeseburger or pizza. It’s available at BevMo! for only $11.99 or at www.estanciawinery.com.
You can reach New Times’ Cuisine columnist at khardesty@newtimesslo.com
This article appears in Sep 25 – Oct 2, 2008.