Shiraz & Syrah

Shiraz and Syrah are the same grape varietal, but the name often reflects style and origin. “Syrah” is commonly used in France’s Rhône Valley, where the wines are elegant, savoury and peppery. “Shiraz” is the term favoured in Australia, where the style is typically richer, riper and more full-bodied. Both names highlight the grape’s versatility.

Flavours range from blackberry, plum and black cherry to notes of pepper, spice, liquorice and dark chocolate 🍫. Cool-climate styles, such as Syrah from New Zealand or Victoria, often show savoury and floral elements, while warmer-climate Shiraz, like Barossa Valley, delivers bold fruit and rich intensity.

Syrah originates in France’s Rhône Valley 🇫🇷, where it produces famous wines like Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie. Australia 🇦🇺 has made Shiraz its signature grape, with Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale and Hunter Valley producing world-class examples. New Zealand 🇳🇿 has also gained recognition for elegant, cool-climate Syrah, particularly from Hawke’s Bay.

Shiraz & Syrah are incredibly versatile with food. Bold Australian Shiraz pairs beautifully with grilled meats, barbecues and slow-cooked stews 🍖. Cooler-climate Syrah complements lamb, duck and mushroom-based dishes. Their structure and spice also make them a great match for hard cheeses.

Yes — Shiraz and Syrah are among the best red wines for cellaring. Premium examples from Barossa and Rhône can age for decades, developing complex flavours of leather, spice and dried fruit. Even mid-range Shiraz often benefits from a few years in the cellar. At TradingGrapes, we feature Shiraz & Syrah from Australia and New Zealand that range from ready-to-drink to cellar-worthy.

Australian Shiraz is generally fuller-bodied, with ripe dark fruit and chocolatey richness, while French Syrah from the Rhône tends to be more savoury, with pepper, olive and floral notes. New Zealand Syrah sits somewhere in between, often elegant and perfumed with a cool-climate edge. Each style has its own unique appeal.

Yes — decanting young Shiraz/Syrah helps soften tannins and allows aromas to open up. Bold, structured wines in particular benefit from at least 30–60 minutes in a decanter. Older bottles may also need gentle decanting to separate any sediment.

Shiraz and Syrah typically range from 13% to 15% ABV, depending on region and climate. Warmer-climate Shiraz (like Barossa) often has higher alcohol and a richer body, while cooler-climate Syrah (like from New Zealand or northern Rhône) tends to be more restrained and elegant.

Yes, Shiraz/Syrah is approachable and popular worldwide. Its fruit-forward style, combined with spice and structure, makes it appealing to both new wine drinkers and seasoned collectors. Lighter styles are easy to enjoy, while fuller-bodied versions offer depth for those seeking something more complex.

Shiraz/Syrah is best served slightly below room temperature, around 16–18°C. This helps preserve freshness while allowing the fruit and spice flavours to shine. Using a large-bowled red wine glass allows the wine to breathe and express its full character.