Shiraz / Syrah

Syrah, also known as Shiraz, is a dark-skinned grape variety grown throughout the world and used primarily to produce red wine. Australia calls the Syrah grape Shiraz where it reigns supreme since its introduction from France. 

In New Zealand we call the variety Syrah, as the wines it produces in our cooler climate are stylistically closer to France than Australia. Syrah in New Zealand often has the appealing cooler climate fresh black pepper characters with ripe red fruit flavors and an attractive spicy note. The areas where New Zealand is having the most success with this variety are the Hawke’s Bay.