Wyalla Cove Shiraz 2003

Bought at Aldi in Maplewood, Missouri for $5. Drank at room temperature.

Z: For $5 this was a great shiraz. It wasn't as complex as some of the other shiraz wines we have tried, but it hit the basics really well. It had a nice berry flavor, a nice hit of spice, and a little warmness in its tannins. The alcohol was also not as overwhelming as one may find in cheap wines. For a wine to open with pizza night, you can't beat this one.

K: Really, really good.

Rocky Gully Shiraz 2005

Bought at Whole Foods Market in Brentwood, Missouri for around $18. The wine is an actual mix of 95% shiraz, and 5% viognier (a white grape known for its floral quialities). Drank at room temperature about 20 minutes after the bottle was opened.

Z: I didn't really like it. It was more of a merlot type taste than the spicy bite of shiraz. I also thought that the viognier would add a bit more sweetness not commonly found in a shiraz. The alcohol was also a bit strong in comparison to the tastes.

K: Didn't like it either.