WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SYRAH & SHIRAZ?

When it comes to Syrah and Shiraz they are the same fantastic grape variety but it is the country, region and climate style that determines the difference. Shiraz and Syrah are both red wines, so they have a lot in common. They're grown in the Rhone Valley (France), Australia and California. They can also be found in South Africa, Georgia and other countries around the world.

WHAT DOES SYRAH WINE TASTE LIKE?

BOLD. SAVOURY. RIPE.

Syrah is by definition a French grape through and through. It comes from the Rhone Valley (cooler climate) and has a higher alcohol content. It is also more expensive than Shiraz because it's harder to make and has a longer ageing process than its counterpart. 

Syrah is a full-bodied, dry wine, lighter in colour, moderate-to-high alcohol levels (13-15%) and firm tannins. Syrah has a range of flavours, from smoke, herbs, red and dark fruits, pepper, to dark floral notes such as violet. When aged in oak, the flavours of vanilla and spice come through. Syrah will be an elegant and savoury wine to enjoy.

WHAT DOES SHIRAZ WINE TASTE LIKE?

BOLD. FRUITY. SPICY.

Shiraz is an Australian wine (warmer climate) that originated in France. It's often considered a "generic" name for any red wine produced in Australia, but there are many different kinds of Shiraz around. In Australia it is still their most planted grape, but these days it's primarily produced in Argentina and Chile as well as South Africa (where it's called "blended shiraz"). 

Shiraz is dark red in colour, bold and full bodied. A much fruiter drink than Syrah. The colour has an opaque purple tone, and offers jammy aromas and flavours of blueberry, blackberry and big ripe tannins. Smoked meat notes of bacon along with black pepper are also characteristic. Alcohol levels tend to be higher (14–15.5%), as are degrees of oak use and oak ageing.

MORE REGIONS TO CONSIDER

Other regions label their bottles depending on the climate to indicate the style:

Cooler climates of Syrah - including New Zealand and Chile

These wines go well with game, duck, mushrooms and pastas with meat ragù. 

Warmer climates of Shiraz - including South Africa and parts of California

Riper and fruit-forward pairs great with burgers and barbecues. The richer and more full bodied with higher alcohol works with beef, lamb and other roasted meats.

UNCORKED CONCLUSION

I tend to select my preference based on what I am going to be eating. Bold wines deserve bold menus and vice versa. I especially like to opt for bold wines like Shiraz to accompany meat dishes, as it provides a delightful contrast to the richness, setting it apart from a Malbec. 

So, what's the difference between Shiraz and Syrah wine? Well, it depends on who you ask. If you ask us, we'll tell you that they are both delicious red wines made from the same grape variety suitable for different reasons - what do you think? Gordon