Introducing Shiraz Wine

Every wine-enthusiastic who appreciates red wine loves Shiraz. But what makes the Shiraz grape itself so popular? Well, we can say that part of the grape's success is due to the taste it creates, it's history and its large usage in wine mixes. That's is not to mention the amazing deal that local Australian Shiraz makes.

Originally from France, the Shiraz grape variation planted in Australia is believed to be the same planted in there, which explains the supremacy of Australian Shiraz wines in the market. Shiraz was introduced in Australia in 1831 by the Scotsman James Busby, commonly called 'the Father of Australian viticulture'. He brought cuttings from wines from a trip to Europe and planted them in the Sydney Botanical Gardens and in Hunter Valley. By the 1860's, Shiraz was considered as an important variety in Australia.

Today the Shiraz grape is grown in most wine regions in Australia and produce a wine that is full bodied, with great taste variation – depending on the region it was grown. But Shiraz wines commonly have undertones of plums, blackberries and pepper fluctuating between their many layers.

In France, Shiraz is called Syrah. So if you become confronted by a choice between a French Syrah and an Australian Shiraz, know that some difference do exist. Shiraz wines are often labeled as younger, higher in alcohol, less subtle and sweeter than the more subtle, smoky and aged Syrahs from France.

But that is not a rule to follow since Australian vintners also produce a more high-quality Shiraz wines. All you have to do is ask your wine merchant or search online for wines that fall into the lighter, fruitier category and wines are heavier on the tannins, aged and spicier.

Another difference between the French Syrah and the Australian Shiraz is that the Australian winemakers prefer to use American oak barrels instead of French ones. This leads a hind of vanilla and spice to their wines.

The Shiraz grape is remarkably versatile. From light rose to a rich port, it has been used to produce a wide variety of wines. The grape presents undertones of darker, richer flavors, such as black pepper and plum, and can have sometimes berry and mocha tones as well. More aged versions tend to present leather, forest and cigar qualities.

The Australian Shiraz wine is divided into four categories:

• Barossa Valley Shiraz - Wine that is considered richer and more concentrated than the other three.
• Central and Southern Victorian - Wine that most closely resemble the Syrah variety of France. It tends to have a more peppery side of the flavor palate.
• New South Wales’ Hunter Valley - This Shiraz type often have a taste that can be described as “earthy and velvety.”
• Coastal Adelaide - Region that produces the sweetest, mintiest of the Shiraz varieties.

Pairing Shiraz with Food

Shiraz pairs beautifully with robust casseroles, beef and spicier ethnic foods such as Mexican and Indian. But is goes well also with more unusual dishes like an elk or a kangaroo of course.