Syrah / Shiraz

Syrah, widely known as Shiraz in Australia and many New World contexts, is one of the world's great red grape varieties. It produces wines ranging from peppery, savoury and elegant to rich, ripe and full-bodied. Syrah and Shiraz are two names for the same grape; Syrah often signals Rhône-style savoury elegance, while Shiraz is strongly associated with Australia and riper New World styles.

The Northern Rhône is the historic benchmark for Syrah, with appellations such as Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage. Australia made Shiraz globally famous, while South Africa, California, Washington, Chile and other regions also produce distinctive styles.

What does Syrah taste like?

Syrah often shows blackberry, black cherry, plum, violet, black pepper, smoked meat, olive, herbs and liquorice. Cooler-climate examples are more peppery and savoury, while warmer Shiraz styles can be riper, richer and more chocolatey.

Tannins are usually moderate to firm, the colour is deep, and the body ranges from medium to full. Oak ageing may add vanilla, toast, clove, mocha and extra polish.

Syrah or Shiraz: what is the difference?

Syrah is historically associated with France's Rhône Valley, especially the Northern Rhône. There it is the sole red grape in famous appellations such as Hermitage, Cornas, Saint-Joseph and Côte-Rôtie.

Under the name Shiraz, the grape became a signature of Australia, particularly Barossa, McLaren Vale and the Hunter Valley. Today it is also important in South Africa, the United States, Chile and many Mediterranean climates.

Which Syrah and Shiraz styles are there?

Northern Rhône-style Syrah is typically savoury, peppery, structured and often age-worthy, with dark fruit, olive, smoke and spice. It can be powerful yet precise.

Shiraz-labelled wines often suggest a riper, fuller style with plush fruit, spice and generous body, though many modern examples are fresher and more balanced. The grape also appears in GSM blends, rosé wines and sparkling red styles in Australia.


What food pairs with Syrah and Shiraz?

Syrah pairs well with lamb, beef, duck, venison, grilled sausages, barbecue, pepper steak, mushroom dishes, lentils, black olives and hard cheeses.

Peppery, savoury styles suit herb-roasted meats and game, while richer Shiraz works with smoky barbecue, braised beef, ribs and spiced dishes. The wine's dark fruit and tannin need flavourful food.

Buy Syrah and Shiraz online

Syrah and Shiraz offer depth, spice and impressive versatility. Whether you prefer elegant Rhône-style reds or generous New World bottles, this grape delivers character and intensity.

Browse our Syrah and Shiraz wines for dark-fruited, peppery and full-bodied reds suited to grilled meats, hearty cooking and memorable evenings.




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