Got a couple of interesting wine offer emails over the weekend. And two stood out, as they were priced to TRY.

The first is a Petit Sirah from California. Petit Sirah is a varietal I had initially understood to be a blending grape – one that could provide color, strength & structure to a blend (often with Zinfandel). But I have been seeing more and more of it as its own varietal and some research has indicated that there is a BIG following of Petit Sirah lovers (ie. PS I love you – The PS being for Petit Sirah). Petit Sirah is also known as Durif (a French varietal and said to be a cross between Peloursin & Syrah).

As to the deal, it is priced at $8.67 for the 2005 Guenoc Lake County Petite Sirah, which as the email advertisement states “was judged California’s Best Petite Sirah at the 2007 California State Fair” for whatever that is worth. At under $9 I say it is worth a try, and if you like it, stock up!

The second deal is for a blend. The 2006 Pillar Box Red is a blend of 50% Shiraz, 42% Cab & 8% Merlot and packs a whopping 15% alcohol. HOLD THE PRESSES. The email advertises the wine for $8.49 but the website has it listed for $10. Either way it is not a bad deal and probably worth a try. It apparently received a 91 from Wine Advocate, but at 15% alcohol, you can expect a fruit bomb of a wine. Not that there is anything wrong with that – there is a time and place for everything, but…

And as always, try wines, make note of the ones you like & DRINK THOSE. Don’t let anyone tell you what YOU should like.

Happy Wine wheelin’ & dealin’

WTG