SHIRAZ
Bold Flavor, Sunny Spirit, Aussie Icon
Shiraz is the Australian expression of the Syrah grape—richer, riper, and more exuberant. While genetically identical to Syrah, Shiraz has carved out its own personality in the sun-soaked vineyards of Australia, especially in regions like Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale. Known for lush fruit, velvety tannins, and generous spice, Shiraz is a crowd-pleasing red that pairs power with polish.
Key Characteristics
Shiraz is typically full-bodied with bold fruit, moderate to firm tannins, and warm spice notes. The profile leans toward blackberry and plum, with accents of black pepper, licorice, and chocolate. In warmer regions, it often takes on a plush, jammy style; cooler zones yield more restraint and peppery lift.
Style
Still, red
Body
Full
Acidity
Medium
Primary Grapes
Shiraz
(Syrah)
Typical Flavors
Blackberry, blueberry, plum, licorice, chocolate, black pepper, eucalyptus
Origin & History
Shiraz arrived in Australia in the early 19th century and quickly became the country’s flagship red grape. Though originally called Hermitage, it adopted the name Shiraz and developed a bold, fruit-driven style that captivated global markets. Iconic producers like Penfolds helped put Australian Shiraz on the map, and today it’s grown in nearly every major wine region across the country.
How It’s Made
Shiraz is often fermented in stainless steel or concrete and aged in American or French oak barrels, which contribute vanilla, spice, and texture. Winemaking styles range from modern, plush expressions to more traditional, structured wines—especially when blended with grapes like Grenache or Mourvèdre (as in GSM blends).
Notable Regions
While Shiraz is grown across Australia, these regions offer especially distinct styles:
Barossa Valley
Rich, dense, and ripe with dark fruit, chocolate, and spice
McLaren Vale
Lush and velvety with black fruit, licorice, and savory undertones
Hunter Valley
Elegant and earthy with restrained fruit and gamey complexity
Victoria
Heathcote, Grampians
Balanced, mineral-driven styles with spice and depth
Western Australia
Margaret River
Refined and structured with fresh acidity and herbal nuance
Food Pairings
Shiraz’s bold profile pairs beautifully with grilled, smoky, and richly spiced foods.
Red Meat
Grilled steak, lamb shanks, brisket
Barbecue
Smoked ribs, pulled pork, spicy sausages
Cheeses
Sharp cheddar, aged Gouda, smoked cheeses
Other
Chili, roasted vegetables, mushroom burgers
How to Serve It
Glassware
Generous red wine glass to emphasize aroma and smooth tannins
Temperature
60–65°F (16–18°C)
Storage
Store on its side in a cool, dark place; many Shiraz wines can age 5–15 years, especially from top-tier producers
Fun Fact
Australia’s oldest surviving Shiraz vines date back to the 1840s and are still producing grapes today; making them some of the oldest in the world.
Recommended Producers
These houses exemplify the diversity and craftsmanship of Australian Shiraz, from bold Barossa expressions to refined single-vineyard styles.
Elderton
A Barossa Valley classic, known for producing rich, full-bodied Shiraz with depth, warmth, and regional character.
Henschke
One of Australia’s most esteemed family estates, blending tradition and finesse in expressive Rhône-style wines like Henry’s Seven.
Shinas Estate
A boutique producer crafting powerful, fruit-forward Shiraz with bold personality and crowd-pleasing intensity.
Tournon
A project by Michel Chapoutier in Victoria, delivering elegant, terroir-driven Shiraz with French influence and Australian soul.
Recommended Pours
Elderton - Shiraz Barossa Valley 2017 — A rich and full-bodied Barossa Shiraz with layers of dark plum, chocolate, and spice.
Henschke Henry's Seven, 2019 — A vibrant Rhône-style blend led by Shiraz, offering dark berries, pepper, and floral lift with refined structure.
Shinas Estate - Guilty Shiraz 2016 — A bold and opulent Shiraz with jammy black fruit, vanilla, and a lush, velvety finish.
Tournon - Shiraz "Ladies Lane Vineyard" 2017 — A single-vineyard Victorian Shiraz showing elegance and depth, with blackberry, pepper, and earthy complexity.