2016 Shiraz Wines

Shiraz (known as Syrah in many other countries) is a dark-skinned grape that’s grown throughout the world to produce powerfully flavoured, full-bodied red wines.

First introduced to Australia in 1832 by a European immigrant who brought vine clippings when he arrived, Shiraz is now the most-grown varietal in the country. It wasn’t always appreciated the way it is now, though. It’s hard to believe, but in the 70s, white wine was so popular that growers were ripping out unprofitable Shiraz and Grenache vineyards, even those with very old vines.

Thankfully, that all turned around and Australia produces an incredible amount of Shiraz wine with a wide range of flavour notes that depend on the region it was grown in. The biggest Australian Shiraz-growing regions are the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Eden Valley, Clare Valley, Hunter Valley and Yarra Valley, but there are plenty of smaller regions producing great Shiraz, too.

Aromas found in Shiraz can range from violets to berries (usually dark as opposed to red), chocolate, espresso, and black pepper. No single aroma can be called "typical", but blackberry and pepper are common. Time in the bottle will usually supplement these "primary" notes with earthy or savory "tertiary" notes like leather and truffle.

What this all means is that, well… Shiraz is undoubtedly delicious. We love it. Especially these favourites, all of which have been tasted and approved by our expert tasting panel.