Syrah / Shiraz
/sɪˈrɑː/ (Syrah, common English) /siˈʁa/ (Syrah, French) /ʃɪˈræz/ (Shiraz, English)
grape-variety, red-wine, old-world, new-world, rhone, australia, wine-style, blending, ampelography, tannin, black-fruit, peppery, labeling, terroir, food-pairing•Last updated January 9, 2026
Syrah / Shiraz is a dark-skinned Vitis vinifera grape variety that produces deeply colored, full-bodied red wines with firm tannins, moderate to high acidity, and flavors of black fruits, peppery spice, floral notes, and often meaty or smoky nuances. "Syrah" and "Shiraz" refer to the same grape; the choice of name usually reflects regional and stylistic differences (generally more savory, Rhône-style wines labeled Syrah vs. riper, richer New World expressions labeled Shiraz), not a genetic distinction.
Examples
- A northern Rhône Hermitage made from 100% Syrah, showing blackcurrant, violet, black olive, and black pepper with firm tannins and significant aging potential.
- An Australian Barossa Valley Shiraz labeled by variety, typically very dark, full-bodied, and plush, with ripe blackberry, plum, chocolate, and sweet spice from new oak.