Good Cheap Wines

Don’t be fooled by the cheap price, as a gold medal winner in the 2007 California State Fair Wine Competition, the 2005 Smoking Loon Syrah definitely deserves a try. This mouth-filling, well rounded wine goes great with any type of barbeque, especially spicy dishes like Teriyaki Chicken.

Winery: Smoking Loon
Vintage: 2005
Type: Syrah
Region: California, USA
Ratings: THE WINE NEWS: 90 points
Price: $8.99

The 2002 Vina Robles Estate Syrah has an earthy nose supported by intense black fruits, with a dash of white pepper and vanilla. Spicy flavors of boysenberry, currants, and candied fruits are sure not to disapoint. Pairs perfectly with grilled meats, portabella mushrooms, and strong cheeses.

Winery: Vina Robles Winery Estate
Vintage: 2002
Type: Syrah
Region: Paso Robles, California
Ratings: SILVER MEDAL, 2006 Florida State Fair International Wine and Grape Competition
Price: $17.99

The full-bodied 2003 Alexander Valley Vineyards Syrah opens with beautiful aromas of ripe black cherry, boysenberry and black pepper. The same dark fruit flavors fill the palate and follow through to a long finish. An excellent accompaniment to red meats such as roasted lamb and steak.

Winery: Alexander Valley Vineyards
Vintage: 2003
Type: Syrah
Region: Sonoma County, California
Ratings: SILVER MEDAL, 2006 California State Fair Wine Competition
Price: $19.99

Don’t let the screwtop scare you, this Pillar Box red has gotten some amzing reviews. 53% Shiraz, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot. But drink it now, it’s not for the cellar.

Winery: Pillar Box
Vintage: 2005
Type: Syrah/Shiraz
Region: Padthaway, Australia
Ratings: CLUB BEV: 92 points, WINE ADVOCATE: 91 points
Price: $9.99

The ‘02 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Shiraz is very fruity, youthful and packed with brambly berry flavors; this racy, snappy effort shows surprising depth and weight.

Winery: Columbia Crest Winery
Vintage: 2002
Type: Shiraz
Region: Columbia Valley, WA, USA
Ratings: Best Buy: 90 points
Price: $9.99