The Difference Between Syrah and Shiraz

If you’ve ever browsed wine lists or walked down the wine aisle, you’ve likely encountered both Syrah and Shiraz. At first glance, they might seem like two different grapes, but in reality, they are one and the same. This dual identity is rooted in history, geography, and winemaking traditions that have shaped these wines into distinct styles worth exploring.

In the video below, you’ll find a detailed yet straightforward comparison of Syrah vs Shiraz, covering origins, flavour profiles, vineyard influences, and winemaking styles.

Syrah vs Shiraz Explained

Syrah and Shiraz both come from the same grape variety originally from the Rhône Valley in southeastern France. There, it is known as Syrah and produces wines that tend to be elegant, medium to full-bodied, and characterized by savoury notes like black pepper, smoked meat, and dark berries. The cooler climate and winemaking style in the Rhône emphasize structure, acidity, and a peppery spice that make Syrah a sought after wine.

Courtesy of Wine Spectator

Shiraz, on the other hand, is the name given to this very same grape after it was taken to Australia in the early 19th century by Scottish viticulturist James Busby. Australian Shiraz has developed its own bold personality in response to warmer climates and different winemaking. These wines tend to be riper, and fruitier, showcasing flavours like blackberry, plum, and rich chocolate. Australian Shiraz is often fuller-bodied with softer tannins and higher alcohol levels, when compared for cool climate Syrah.

Syrah and Shiraz exemplify how terroir (the climate and soil), history, and culture influence the expression of a single grape variety. In one grape, you can have a medium-bodied wine, driven by crunchy black fruit, savoury notes, and firm tannins or a deep full-bodied wine that is driven by ripe fruit, with softer tannin.

So next time you pick up a bottle labelled Syrah or Shiraz, you’ll know the story and and what to expect from each, making your wine shopping decisions easier.

Syrah and Shiraz Producers to Explore

Northern Rhône Syrah Producers (Good Value)

Domaine Laurent Combier (Crozes-Hermitage)

Known for expressive, terroir-driven Syrah with bright acidity and balanced tannins. Offers several wines under $40 that reflect classic Northern Rhône style.

Domaine Stéphane Ogier (Côte-Rôtie & Northern Rhône)

Produces elegant, fresh Syrahs with peppery spice and dark fruit. Good entry-level bottles available around $40-$50.

Domaine Jamet (Côte-Rôtie)

Respected for approachable yet complex Syrah wines. Their Côtes du Rhône or entry-level Côte-Rôtie are often well-priced for quality.

Australian Shiraz Producers (Good Value)

d’Arenberg (McLaren Vale)

Offers a range of Shiraz wines from fresh and fruity to rich and complex, with many affordable options under $30-$40. The “The Footbolt” is a popular value pick.

Yalumba (Barossa Valley)

A historic winery known for quality Shiraz with ripe fruit flavours and balanced structure. Their Regional Reserve Shiraz is often a solid value.

Langmeil (Barossa Valley)

Focuses on old vine Shiraz with bright, rich fruit and fine tannins. Their entry-level wines are great quality at reasonable prices.