Similarities in taste?

[TheEngineer]

BSK,

You've certainly found your areas of preference, which seems to be BIG wines. I like being beaten up by the occasional Petite Syrah as well and you can find good ones in Stags' Leap (aroudn $40) and in Concannon (around $10).

Like Newsie said, try some austrailian Shirazs, very ripe and accessible immediately. Also you can try a few southern French wines like Bandol or spanish wines from Bierzo or Jumilla and these areas will have big wines. Also perhaps a more modern Chateauneuf du pape would also fit the bill. Have fun and welcome again to our insanity!