Shiraz / Syrah - Two Names One Grape
Shiraz and Syrah are two names for the same grape variety, but they often represent different styles of wine. While Syrah is the traditional name used in France and many other parts of the world, Shiraz is the name commonly used in Australia and South Africa. Despite the name difference, the grape variety itself is the same, known scientifically as Vitis vinifera.
The Origins and History of Shiraz/Syrah
The origin of the Syrah grape has been a subject of much debate. Some legends suggest it originated in Shiraz, Iran, but DNA profiling has revealed that Syrah is a native of the Rhône region in southeastern France. The first known cultivation of Syrah can be traced back to the Roman Empire. The grape thrived in the Rhône Valley, where it became the cornerstone of several renowned wines. Hermitage, Cornas, and Côte-Rôtie are among the most famous appellations in the Northern Rhône that produce Syrah-based wines.
The Oldest Shiraz Vines
The oldest Shiraz vines in the world are located in Australia. Specifically, the Langmeil Freedom Vineyard in the Barossa Valley, South Australia, is home to Shiraz vines planted in 1843. These vines, known as the "Freedom Vines," are over 180 years old and continue to produce highly sought-after wines. The Barossa Valley, with its ideal climate and soil conditions, has preserved these ancient vines, allowing them to become a living testament to the history and resilience of the Shiraz grape.
While Shiraz and Syrah are genetically identical, the stylistic differences are significant and largely driven by regional climate, soil, and winemaking techniques.
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Syrah: Typically associated with the wines of the Northern Rhône, Syrah tends to produce medium to full-bodied wines with high acidity and firm tannins. The flavor profile often includes dark fruits such as blackberry and plum, along with spicy, peppery notes, and earthy, sometimes smoky undertones. Syrah from cooler climates may exhibit more floral and mineral characteristics.
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Shiraz: In contrast, Shiraz from Australia, particularly the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, is often richer, riper, and more fruit-forward. These wines are typically full-bodied with softer tannins and lower acidity. The flavor profile includes lush dark fruits, chocolate, and hints of vanilla and oak from barrel aging. Warmer climates contribute to the rounder, more opulent style of Shiraz.
Countries Producing Shiraz/Syrah
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France: The Rhône Valley remains the epicenter of Syrah production, with appellations like Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas being renowned worldwide. In the Southern Rhône, Syrah is often blended with Grenache and Mourvèdre to create the famous GSM blends of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
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Australia: There is no other grape that is more synonymous to Australia than Shiraz. Shiraz is the cornerstone of Australia’s viticultural heritage. Widely planted and available across all Australian wine regions, Shiraz is capable of producing everything from affordable, BBQ reds to magnificent, age-worthy classics that are truly world-class. Shiraz vines thrive in Australia’s warm climate and various soil types and red wine drinkers love the packed rich fruit flavours, texture, and seamless balance. Shiraz is one of the original varieties planted in Australia, full-bodied with bold, upfront dark blackberry and plum fruit, most often made with oak (toasted American oak for vanilla characters or French oak for subtler cedar notes). Shiraz is grown in 60 out of 65 Australian wine regions and known as Syrah in many parts of the world. Australia adopted the name Shiraz in the mid 19th century and used today to differentiate its style from that of Europe and other Shiraz producers. The most prominent Shiraz producers come from the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale in South Australia.
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Australia also producers a sparkling shiraz which, whilst popular and enjoyed across the country its not known so much outside of Australia. The style boasts a velvety palate, sweet blackberries, blueberries, cherries and spice. Australia has been producing a sparkling Burgundy with shiraz fruit since 1881. Other red varieties are also used in fermentation however shiraz is the most popular.
- Other countries producing shiraz include, US, South Africa, Spain and Argentina all producing their own style and unique wines.
Food Pairing
Syrah/Shiraz wines are versatile and can complement a wide range of dishes. The bold flavors and robust structure make them an excellent match for grilled meats, stews, and hearty dishes. Syrah’s peppery notes and acidity pair well with lamb, beef, and game, while Shiraz’s fruit-forward profile complements barbecue, sausages, and rich, savory dishes. The wine’s tannins and acidity also make it a good pairing for aged cheeses and charcuterie.
Shiraz and Syrah, though genetically identical, offer a fascinating study in how terroir, climate, and winemaking can influence the character of a wine. From the ancient vineyards of the Rhône Valley to the historic Freedom Vines of Australia, this grape variety has carved out a significant place in the world of wine. Its ability to produce a range of styles, from the elegant and restrained to the bold and opulent, ensures that Shiraz/Syrah will continue to captivate wine enthusiasts around the globe.
