The Surprise Find at Costco
Every once in a while, Costco rolls out a wine that feels like a little wink to those of us who comb the aisles for gems. Water Wheel Shiraz is exactly that. I saw the $16.79 price tag and immediately knew two things:
- This was going to be a value play.
- Once it's gone, it's gone—because Costco rotates wines faster than a baseball manager swaps pitchers on a hot July day.
There’s something charming about a bottle like this popping up out of nowhere. It’s not hyped, not flashy, not trying to be the next cult favorite. It’s just good, honest wine from a region—Bendigo in Victoria—that’s known for dishes-out muscular, fruit-forward Shiraz with a sense of place.
Cracking It Open After a Lakeside Day
That evening felt perfect for a hearty red. I’d spent a few hours in Holland earlier, strolling the shops and enjoying that crisp fall air that makes you think of roasted dinners and slow evenings. Back home, I grilled a simple ribeye—no fancy marinades, just salt, pepper, and heat. That’s usually my go-to when I want to see what a wine is made of.
As soon as the Shiraz hit the glass, the color jumped out: deep brick red, like something pulled from an old sailing ship’s hull. Aromas followed quickly—plum, blackberry, and this faint dusty-oak vibe that reminded me of walking into a well-kept old barn.
How It Tastes (In Real Words)
The tasting notes on the shelf talk about “ripe fruit” and “good tannin-acid balance,” but here’s the thing: this wine is easy to enjoy.
Here’s what it actually tastes like:
- Lush plum and berry upfront
- Dusty oak that gives it depth without being heavy
- Ripe, round mid-palate—nothing thin or sharp
- A little chalky tannin on the finish, like a light grip
- Soft vanilla sweetness that adds a nice final touch
If you like big, bold reds but don’t want something syrupy or overly sweet, this hits the pocket perfectly. And while it’s rich, it’s not a palate destroyer. You could still taste your food afterward—always a win.
Why This Wine Works So Well
For under $17, the structure is the standout. Many wines at this price lean too far one way: either too jammy, too acidic, or overly oaked. Water Wheel manages something closer to balance, like watching a tight rugby scrum hold its ground against a heavier team.
Shiraz from this region typically leans ripe and generous, but this bottle shows restraint. Maybe that’s why it feels familiar and comforting without being boring.
Pairing It Along the Lakeshore
This is the kind of red you want after:
- A long day on Lake Michigan
- A slow-roasted dinner from Grand Haven Butcher Block
- Fall football Sundays
- Steak night at home
- Even ribs from Dr. Rolf’s in Muskegon
It has enough body to stand up to richer dishes without overpowering simpler meals.
Would I Buy It Again?
No hesitation—yes.
At this price point? Grab a few. And if you’re like me and appreciate good value for your cellar, grab a case because Costco moves inventory like a hockey forward on a breakaway—fast and without warning.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t a mind-bender or a rare find. It’s a smart buy. A reliable bottle. Something that reminds you that wine doesn’t need to be complicated to be good.
And honestly, that’s refreshing.
