Tastes likeblackberry, blueberry, black pepper, smoked meat, olive
Alcohol13.5-15%
Serve at60-65°F (16-18°C)
GlassLarge red glass
Decant?Yes for young, bold bottles
What to payShiraz from $10; Northern Rhône Syrah $30+
Syrah and Shiraz are the same grape. The name usually tells you the style: “Shiraz” (mostly Australia) means ripe, jammy and generous; “Syrah” (France, cooler US regions) means savory, peppery and a bit wild.
Best food with Syrah / Shiraz
MeatLamb
Tempranillo (Rioja) · Red Bordeaux blend · Syrah / Shiraz
MeatBeef stew & braises
Syrah / Shiraz · Cabernet Sauvignon · Nebbiolo (Barolo)
How it tastes
Blackberry and blueberry fruit with black pepper, smoked meat, olive and violet. Barossa Shiraz adds chocolate and sweet spice; Northern Rhône Syrah is leaner, with bacon fat and pepper.
Food it loves
Smoky, charred and spiced meats. Barbecue ribs, grilled lamb with rosemary and pepper-crusted steak all bring out the grape’s savory side. Sweet barbecue sauce pairs best with riper Australian Shiraz.
Buying tips
- Under $15: Australian Shiraz, Côtes du Rhône (often Syrah-Grenache blends).
- Step up: Crozes-Hermitage, Saint-Joseph, Washington Syrah.
- Splurge: Côte-Rôtie and Hermitage.
Where it’s grown
Northern Rhône Barossa Valley McLaren Vale Washington State California
Tasted Syrah / Shiraz?
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Rate itIf you like Syrah / Shiraz, try…
Very full-bodied redPetite Sirah
blueberry · blackberry · black pepper · dark chocolate · plum
Full-bodied redMalbec
plum · blackberry · cocoa · violet · sweet tobacco
Medium-bodied redGrenache (Garnacha)
strawberry · raspberry · white pepper · orange peel · dried herbs
Bold, fruity redZinfandel
blackberry jam · raspberry · black pepper · cinnamon · dried fig