Five petite sirahs under $30 perfect to pair with cigars

A cigar-smoking woman I know says petite sirah is her favorite varietal. It’s not surprising. Cigars and petite sirahs both have a wild side.

A petite sirah is like a wild mustang that’s hard to tame. At its best, it’s rustic with bold black fruit, edgy tannins and a tap dance of spice.

For all the cigar-smoking, petite sirah-loving enthusiasts, here are five budget bottlings that are smokin’.

Foppiano Vineyards, 2014 Lot 96 Petite Sirah, $15. A snappy blend of red and black fruit with bright acidity. Notes of blackberry, cherry and black pepper. What gives this petite sirah the edge is its sassy spice.

Parducci Reserve True Grit, 2013 Petite Sirah, $30. A rustic petite sirah, weighted to black fruit. Notes of blackberry, pepper and caramel. Firm tannins. Bold.

Bogle, 2014 California Petite Sirah, $11. A jammy petite sirah with aromas and flavors of blackberry, blueberry and white pepper. Approachable. Solid.

Michael David Winery, 2013 Petite Petit, $18. A spirited, full-throttle petite sirah, with generous black fruit and a current of spice. Notes of blackberry, white pepper and a hint of vanilla. Rustic.

Terra d’Oro, 2014 Amador County Petite Sirah, $18. A meaty petite sirah, with jammy fruit and black pepper spice. What makes it a standout is its intensity. Striking.