The style and character of Shiraz wines depend mainly on the climate in which it’s grown. However, many characteristics remain constant. Shiraz is typically full-bodied and deeply coloured, with medium-high levels of tannins and acidity.
Shiraz is also known for being far more fruit-forward, blackberry-packed and jammy than Syrah, having sweeter notes of liquorice and raisins, as well as a punchier alcohol content.
While it’s hard to pick a bad Shiraz, certain things can guide you to a bottle that hits your taste sweet spot, such as where it’s from and its ageing process.
For world-class Shiraz, look for Barossa on the label. Other Australian regions worth a try include McLaren Vale and Eden Valley. These wines deliver seriously rich, dark, blackberry-packed flavour.
See a dash of Viognier on the label? This tells you the wine is made in the same style as the premium wines of Côco-Rôtie in France – your glass will be filled with a touch more elegance and a dash more complexity.
If you’re drawn to wines with lots of layered flavours and depth, a Shiraz aged in new oak might be your match.