Shiraz

Syrah is known as Shiraz when it´s grown in Australia and various parts of the New World; a stylistic difference to the lighter, fresher Syrah of the Northern Rhône. The heat of Australian vineyards, in particular, seems to bring out the best in Shiraz; rich dark fruits, pepper, coffee and meat. Unsurprisingly, most Australian vineyards count Shiraz as their most planted grape variety, particularly in southern Australia where many vines predate phylloxera.

Like France, much Shiraz in the New World is blended with Grenache and Mourvedre, creating a blend that´s known as “GSM”. This combines the spice and freshness of Shiraz with the ripe red fruits of Grenache, and the serious structure of Mourvedre.