The mighty Shiraz is more than the most widely grown and most beloved wine in Australia, it has also unquestionably had the most impact on the international wine scene and put Australia on the map for wine makers and lovers everywhere.
Originally brought to Australia by James Busby in the 1800s, the shiraz grape, also known as ‘Syrah’ in many parts of the world, found a new home in many of Australia’s great wine growing regions, but nowhere more so than South Australia’s Barossa and McLaren Vale. The state’s Mediterranean climate produces some of the boldest and richest styles of Shiraz you can find, thanks in part to the area’s warm dry summers and cold, wet winters; and in part to the deep soils and geological diversity.
These Shirazes are typically fruit-forward and peppery, with notes of blackberry, tobacco, leather and plum being common, although this varies when branching out into cooler regions, where more savoury flavours; and spicy, floral aromas prevail.
Wines this bold are usually best served with food, and it's no secret that Shiraz pairs perfectly with meat, from steak to barbeque pork to hearty stews, but looking a little further afield, either a strong cheddar or a plate of umami-rich miso eggplant will also elevate a glass of shiraz to new heights.
If you’ve never taken the time to explore what Australia’s most popular red has to offer, then let us give you a head start with a bundle of wines showcasing six different Shiraz growing regions.
Barossa Valley Estate Shiraz, as their name suggests, focuses on exemplifying the unique strength of the Barossa in all their wines. Alluring exotic spice with vibrant flavours of red plum and fresh blackberry.
Wynns Coonawarra Shiraz displays aromas of ground black pepper, berry and distinctive floral notes. Delicate oak is used to match and support the fine palate structure, without dominating its distinctive, cool-climate character. A medium bodied wine with a lingering finish that will age gracefully.
Robert Oatley McLaren Vale Shiraz gives you a softer Shiraz displaying blueberries and spice, supple tannins and stylish French oak influence.
Seppelt Chalambar Grampians & Heathcote Shiraz shows off the strengths of two of Victoria’s best winemaking regions, combining the spicy, floral aroma of the temperate Grampians region with the big juicy flavours of Heathcote to create a refined, complex and firmly structured drink.
DeCapel Hunter Valley Shiraz is grown in New South Wales and uses American Oak to develop a Shiraz with luscious spiced berry flavours and a hint of sour cherry.
Taylors Estate Clare Valley Shiraz is a soft and fleshy shiraz boasting a lively palate of juicy red berry fruits, plum and spice, along with subtle chocolate and savoury characters from the oak maturation.