Casella - Malle Point Shiraz @@@@ (4 corks)

Retails: $5.99 (Total Wine)

As usual, Total Wine's "Wine of the Month" has not failed me. Almost always priced under $10, Total Wine's monthly selection is almost always stupendous, this is no exception.

I've never been a huge Shiraz fan. Frequently, they're too sweet or acidic for my tastes. This one is very well balanced. Very aromatic, hints of vanilla and cinnamon fill your nostrils. This Shiraz is full-bodied, slight smoke-y flavor with a nice bit of dryness in the finish. There's an interesting, warm, butterscotch flavor within the palette which is especially unusual. It's a smoldering, seductive quality about this wine that makes it difficult to not stop at one glass. Enjoy!