Syrah / Shiraz

Syrah & shiraz red wine is a true international varietal and one rendered in an array of styles and flavours. Styles ranging from fresher, medium to full-bodied reds in the Rhône (where the grape originates) to quite rich, ripe and jammy versions Down Under, where it is commonly known as shiraz. As for aromas and flavours, cooler-climate regions tend to render violet florals, pepper, liquorice, earthy, savoury olive fruit, whereas warmer conditions push the profile further into sweeter, black cherry fruit with plum, clove, baking spice, dark chocolate and coffee. Furthermore, shiraz is a term that can be used as a stylistic reference for such riper, more opulent styles, and is therefore common in South African winemaking, for example. Syrah & shiraz red wine features prominently in France as a blending agent and is found in most appellations across Languedoc, southern Rhône and Roussillon. Appellations in the Northern Rhône such as Saint Joseph, Cornas and Côte-Rôtie can only be 100% syrah. Whichever, when paired with a roast leg of lamb, duck, venison or grilled steak, you just cannot beat a decent drop from this supremely delicious grape.