(4 )

Shiraz

When the popularity and appeal of Syrah inspired Ravenswood to create a Vintners Blend from that varietal, Joel faced a challenge he didn't have with other California grapes: Its newness to the United States meant he'd have to rely on younger vines and less experienced winemakers. By contrast, however, he had connections to a place where Syrah has been successful for 100 years: Australia, where it's called Shiraz. Good drop, that: Sourced mainly from McClaren Vale and Barossa Valley — the most prestigious growing regions on the Red Continent — the Vintners Blend Shiraz is a slam dunk from Down Under. Dark, jammy, plummy and spicy, it exudes Syrah's trademark pepper, along with sweet ripe fruit and smoky meat. Our most in-your-face Vintners Blend to date, it gives new (read: Aussie) meaning to the motto "No Wimpy Wines." Lively raspberry, citrus tones give way to bright, juicy, pure fruit finish balanced by slightly dusty ripe tannins.

Napa Valley, United States

Ravenswood Winery

Napa Valley, United States