Syrah vs. Shiraz… What’s the difference?

Syrah vs. Shiraz… What’s the difference?



In a way, it’s just a few letters, but really… it’s oh so much more. You could say, “hey, it’s the same grape… those guys down under just call it something different”; and you’d be right! The Syrah (pronounced sir-ah) grape originates from France, where it still flourishes today. When the Syrah grape was transplanted to Australia in the 1800s, they chose to call it Shiraz (pronounced shir-ahz). So yes, technically it’s the same grape… but when you consider the differences in the climate, the soil, the air (terroir, if you will), and even the differences in wine-making styles; the results are two rather different wines.

Let’s start at the roots, so to speak. The Syrah grape originated from, and is now the dominant red grape in, the Northern Rhone region in France; though if you’re reading the label of a French Syrah, you likely won’t see the grape called by its name, but rather the area in which it’s grown. Look for labels that say Hermitage, Cote Rotie, St. Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage, and Cornas. The steep and rocky conditions of Hermitage and Cote Rotie force the vines to work extra hard to make their way down into the earth… does this result in more depth of flavor? You’ll have to judge that one for yourself. The slightly flatter and more sprawling areas like St. Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage make things a little easier on the vines and generally produce a gentler wine that can be enjoyed with less aging than other French Syrahs. The rugged, granite filled area of Cornas can offer a unique and intense Syrah that will likely need some aging, yet you can find some that are worth trying young. Ultimately, a French Syrah will give you a rich, deep, dark and fruity wine experience that will likely come across as more peppery than its Australian cousin…

…Which brings us to Shiraz! Shiraz is produced all over Australia, and regardless of the region, you can expect the label to say “Shiraz”. In general, the vines enjoy sunnier and easier growing conditions in Australia, than they do in France, which results in some different characteristics while still holding on to the basic Syrah qualities. Vines grow in abundant supply in the sunny and warm area of Southern Australia and produce dark, lush wines full of fruity notes like plum and blackberry. Not too far away, in the also warm area of Southeastern Australia, you’ll find some of the most easily drinkable and affordable Shiraz wines. Areas like Victoria and Western Australia will give you a flavor that is closest to the grapes’ French roots; fruity and rich, but more peppery than other Shiraz. While most Australian Shiraz can hold up to a fair amount of aging, it can also easily be enjoyed at a young age (wine age, that is… no minors, please!). With its pleasant fruitiness, and low acidity, an Australian Shiraz can make an excellent choice for a new wine drinker who is looking to branch out into reds.

So what do we call it in California? Or Washington, for that matter? More often than not, a Syrah that’s made in the U.S. will be called a Syrah… but it doesn’t have to be. Winemakers who choose to craft their wines in the Australian style will often label their wines as Shiraz. It stands to reason that you can expect these wines to be similar to Australian Shiraz, dark and jammy, but you’ll also notice some vanilla hints from the American oak used in the barrels. The U.S. came late to the game when it comes to Syrah, so it’s understandable that a domestic Syrah might come across lighter and simpler than others you’ve tried, but the result is a pleasant and affordable everyday type wine.

No matter what you call it, with so many variables in location, climate, and style, every wine drinker (from the newbie, to the proverbial “snob”) is bound to find a Syrah/Shiraz that they can enjoy. Here’s some tasty recommendations that you can find at Biggie Wine & Liquor:

France –
Delas, from the Crozes-Hermitage region. Regularly $23.99; look for it on sale at $19.99
Les Jamelles, 2008, this one will actually say “Syrah” on the label! Very affordable for a French wine at $9.99

Australia –
Brothers in Arms, 2002, rated 91 points by Robert Parker. Currently at a super sale price of $19.99
D’Arenburg Stump Jump, 2008. Light and juicy. Priced at $10.99

United States
Hahn Syrah, from California. Pleasant and fruity, reasonably priced at $9.99
Red Diamond Syrah, from Washington. Fruity and floral, very affordable at $7.99


By Jennifer Ramsey
(Jennifer was born and raised in NY, and after 10 years in the Army decided to move to Conifer last December on a whim. She works full time at the National Renewable Energy Lab in Golden, and part time at Biggie's. She like cooking, camping, and spending time with her two fat, lazy kitty cats.)

Jon Guelzow is the owner of Biggie Liquors the largest provider of wine, beer and spirits along the 285 corridor. Pete has 25 years experience in liquor and Jon has 15 years. Best prices, best selection and knowledgeable staff. Come on by and see us!

Biggie Wine and Liquors
303.816.9013
We are in King Soopers Shopping Center


Any questions about wine, beer or spirits for Jon, email .

Which brings up another pronunciation question: Is Hermitage pronounced like it's spelled or like "armitage" or something else?

Wayne Harrison wrote: Which brings up another pronunciation question: Is Hermitage pronounced like it's spelled or like "armitage" or something else?

The latter , I think

Good question!

The "Wine for Dummies" manual tells me that it is pronounced er mee tahj.

I can vouch for the D’Arenburg Stump Jump.