Shiraz is a grape variety commonly planted in Australia, yet its origin lies most likely in France, specifically in the Rhône-Alpes region. It’s a natural cross of Mondeuse Blanche and Dureza
Of the total vineyard surface in Australia (146,244 hectares) Shiraz accounted for approximately 40000 ha and is therefor Australia’s most planted red grape variety, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon (~25000 hectares)
Commonly used names and synonyms are Syrah, Marsanne Noire, Serin(n)e (France)
In this article, we are going to focus on the flavour profile and characteristics of Shiraz based on classic examples, following a structure commonly used by wine institutions like Court of Master Sommeliers (COMS) and Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET). We will also look at how does it compare to other red grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and what makes it unique.
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Appearance
Dark ruby often opaque with purple rim variation, high viscosity and stained slow moving tears
Aromas and flavours
Fruits: ripe sometimes leaning towards jammy – plum, blackberry, cherry, boysenberry, black raspberry. Cooler climates or elevated sites can show a distinctive ripe red fruit note.
Floral: sweet or candied violet, sweet tobacco
Others: sweet baking spices (clove, cinnamon), pepper, milk chocolate, sweet mint flavour, some eucalyptus or mint.
Sweetness
Dry – driven by fruit ripeness
Acidity
Moderate to moderate plus (watch out for potentially added acidity)
Alcohol/ Body
Moderate plus to high (often beyond 13.5% but well integrated) rounded & mellow body
Tannin
Moderate (covered by fruit ripeness) Smooth and velvety
Comparison to others
Cabernet Sauvignon (New world): higher noticeable tannin profile, more pyrazine and bell pepper notes. Additional blue fruit component
Malbec: drier, less rounded and slight less riper fruit, often more pronounced tobacco note and earthy undertone
What makes it unique
Fully ripe black/ red fruits with a soft and rounded/ velvet mouthfeel. Pronounced high pinched sweet floral note with often sweet mint driven finish
Classic examples
- Shiraz, Shaw and Smith, Adelaide Hills
- Shiraz ‘Entity’, John Duval, Barossa
- Shiraz ‘Woodcutter’s, Torbreck, Barossa Valley
- Shiraz ‘Ironheart’ Yangarra Estate Vineyard, McLaren Vale
Stefan Neumann MS
Austrian born, London based Master Sommelier – I am passionate about wine and a strong believer that wine should connect people. Hence I have made it my mission to share my wine knowledge and experience with like-minded individuals who would like to be part of this journey.
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