Syrah

Silver Lake 2003 (about $11): This Yakima Valley Syrah has less emphasis on the fruit, which allows some really nice, dense chocolate and coffee flavors to come through. A great candidate for an everyday red wine at an unbeatable price.

Barnard Griffin 2004 (label pictured at left; about $17): Here’s a wine with a nice balance of fruit, spice and the smoky, earthy finish of many European Syrahs. The tannins are delicate and allow for a great pairing with pork, lamb or barbequed meats and vegetables. Another fine effort from winemaker Rob Griffin, who always seems to do consistently good work.