Andezon 2008

• Area: France, Cotes du Rhone
• Grape: 90% Syrah, 10% Grenache
• Alcohol: 14%
• Rating: Black C Dilettante C-

Description: Coffee, spice with herbal notes and maybe a little black cherry. So weak on the palate, we weren't sure what was in there. The road tar finish dominates. Unimpressive and rather boring. Decanting for 20 minutes softens the harsh acidity but does little else. Wine Advocate gives this a much better review. We obviously disagree.

Quite different from the 2007.

Price: $11

Sorry, no photo.

Shannon Ridge Two Angles 2005

• Area: California, Oakville
• Grape: Petite Sirah
• Alcohol: 14.8%
• Rating: Black 88 Dilettante 87

Description: This wine delivers with a full frontal attack of toast, flowers, juicy blueberry, green apple and organic pasture.

Food: Nice with pork

Price: $18

Tintara Shiraz 2005

• Area: Australia, McLaren Vale
  
• Grape: Syrah
• Alcohol: 14%
• Rating: Black 87 Dilettante 88 Nwjr 90

Description: Smells of smoke, spice, oak and plums. Chocolaty smooth in the mouth, it's supported by flavors of vanilla, spice and fruit. On the finish it picks up speed with rich tannins and ends with a chocolate kiss. Nice. The winery recommends decanting this for at least an hour.

Price: $14