The wine group's three favorite American Syrahs and Australian Shirazes from the tasting.

2003 Eberle Steinbeck Vineyard Syrah ($20)
Spicy, herbal aromas give this a Rhône Valley character.

2002 Sarah's Vineyard Besson Vineyard Syrah ($25)
Poised and polished, with deep black fruit flavors.

2004 Winner's Tank Shiraz ($17)
From Langhorne Creek in Australia, this is super-ripe but focused.