Two Up Shiraz 2005

I really enjoyed this one. Black cherry, bit of earthiness and chalk to it. A little too sweet a finish but forgivable. Smooth and rich in color and aroma. Paired with a Mexican Lasagna but I'd love this one with a stew or chowder.
Rating:8/10
Price: $15-20

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That's right, I rated Din(n)er grill higher than Uncommon Ground.

Wine Cube 2004 Cabernet/Shiraz

Umm, this is a Target brand wine which comes in a box for 10 bones. That's a tremendous deal for a "physics-defying" (TJK, 2007) box which holds two bottles worth of wine. Kristim (Tim and Kristen) brought this for a casual night at my place last weekend and the gesture wasn't lost although I don't think anyone was expecting much. A nail-polish remover bouquet with a rancid pear but fresh peach taste. This one's a pass for all but the most budget conscious.
Price: 10ish
Rating: 6/10

NQN 2005 Picada 15 Cab Blend

This wine makes quite a few Friday and Saturday night appearances in my home due to mostly its high alcohol content and it's sale at the classy liquor store across the street. I never had this wine without a heavy dose of beer in me first until last time and I'll probably keep it that way in the future. There is some complexity to its flavor and it doesn't have too acetone a bouquet though there is enough to be noticeable. I don't hate it but wouldn't touch it if not for it's low 10 dollar price tag.
Price: $10
Rating: 6.5/10

Yangarra 2003 McLaren Vale Grenach Shiraz Mourvedre

I'm a big fan of this vineyard. It always rewards me with an earthy taste and texture, rich flavors and heavy feel. This one didn't disappoint in that regard but added a saccharine sweet flavor I abhor. I'm sorry I didn't review this one sooner because I can't come up with anything more to say about this one. It surprised me in how much I disliked it. Paired with a (too fatty) steak and baked potato.
Price: Sub 20
Rating: 7/10

Kanga Reserve Shiraz Grenache 2004

I outgrew Yellow Tail a long time ago and don't miss it but do miss the 6 dollar grocery store red. This one didn't make me change my mind. Light color, texture and flavor. High acidity and lacking any sweetness. Pass on this one unless you're really looking for a bargain and don't care about quality. I honestly can't remember what I had this with but I'm sure a Big Mac would have given me more pleasure.
Price: $7
Rating: 5/10

Boulder Creek Syrah 2004

Wow, I've really fallen behind on my reviews. I'll be slowly catching up over the next day or so and maybe cleaning up the order since I'll be reviewing the ones I've had more recently first. So, stay with me and maybe scroll down every now and then to see if I added any more.
On to Boulder Creek Syrah (2004) given as a gift from my family after their trip to Colorado for little sister's graduation which I unfortunately did not attend but will make up for by visiting her when she moves to New Jersey for her new job. Congratulations! Onto the review: Silky smooth in texture with very low acidity. A chocolate taste with a cherry finish. Unfortunately this wine is light in color and much lighter in flavor. Polished but lacking in that thing that makes Syrah fun to drink, this wine is like an 'ok' second date with someone you like spending some time with but never brings the fire that makes you want to take it exclusive. A Syrah for those who prefer Merlot. Paired with beef tacos.
Price: Low twenty-something
Rating: 7/10