Syrah, known as Shiraz in the Southern Hemisphere, is a deeply expressive grape with a dramatic personality. Its Northern Rhône expressions like Hermitage and Cornas are dense, peppery, and full of black olive, smoke, and gamey notes. These wines are often austere in youth but develop incredible complexity with age.
In contrast, Australia’s Barossa Valley Shiraz is plush, fruit-forward, and unashamedly bold—brimming with ripe blackberries, chocolate, and baking spice. South Africa’s Syrah is a harmonious blend of Old World structure and New World fruit, often with a savory, smoky edge. Syrah’s versatility extends to blends, particularly in Rhône-style GSM (Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre) combinations.
It’s a grape that tells a story of place and style, and its natural affinity for grilled meats, barbecue, and rustic fare makes it a food-pairing powerhouse.