Australian wine, with Shiraz as the signature grape, has experienced a decline in sales over the past couple of years. The Carlei , Heathcote Shiraz, Green Vineyards 2003 from Victoria opened our tasting. Unlike many Australian shirazes it was (a) from a cool climate, (b) older, and (c) 13.9% Joseph, “Offerus” 2006 (about $28). MORE >>

Shiraz and Chardonnay account for half of the vineyard acres planted in Australia. Rossignol-Trapet, Bourgogne rouge, 2006. For a quick taste of how the other half drinks, check out a piece that I wrote for Forbes.com. And if you’re feeling summery, surf on over to the James Beard blog for five of my summer wine picks. MORE >>

All six were reds and either 100% Shiraz or a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. Yalumba The Scribbler 2008 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Shiraz showing aromas of oak, raw wood and ripe cherries while on the palate hints of violets, black pepper and a spicy intensity. Table MORE >>

Almost all that I had ever tasted were the Shiraz from Australia. found that the Syrah's produced here in the US were smoother and not as bold as the full bodied Shiraz I had become accustomed to. Syrah has always been one to those wines I could take or leave it. From that day on I was a fan. MORE >>

This has been one fantastic year of enlightenment for me when it comes to all things wine. Believe I may do a year end article on the subject. If I do, I will have to include the German grape, Dornfelder as one of the highlights. Dornfelder is a cross between Helfensteiner and Heroldrebe grapes. It is the 3rd most planted red wine grape in Germany. MORE >>