- Last updated on May 24, 2023
Welcome! Have you ever found yourself staring at many Syrah or Shiraz bottles wondering which one you would like best?
We spent a lot of hours researching the topic and tested hundreds of wines to come up with the below 19 best-of list for you.
We have ranked them by quality, region, and value for money and added an extensive buying guide so that you have all you need to make an informed decision.
You don’t have to spend several $100s to get an outstanding bottle of wine.
Choose one of the below bottles and you’ll find quality wines at a competitive price, for all occasions and pockets.
Syrah/Shiraz is a popular red wine known for its dark ruby color, full body, and black fruit flavors.
The two main styles are Syrah from the “Old World” and Shiraz from the “New World”.
Syrah has more restrained black fruit flavors with smoky notes. Shiraz has more intense black fruit flavors with spicy notes.
Our Best Syrah/Shiraz Selection
- Best Overall: Shafer Relentless 2018
- Best Value: Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz 2020
- Best under $15: 19 Crimes Red Blend 2020
- Best California (Napa): Lewis Cellars Alec's Blend 2019
- Best California (Sonoma): Ramey Syrah 2019
- Best Washington: K Vintners Milbrandt Syrah 2019
- Best Washington runner-up: Columbia Crest Grand Estates Syrah 2018
- Best France: Eric & Joel Durand Cornas Empreintes 2018
- Best France runner-up: Paul Jaboulet Aîné Les Grandes Terrasses Cornas 2015
- Best Italy: Tenimenti d’Alessandro Il Bosco Syrah
- Best Spain: Borsao Bodegas Zarihs Syrah 2017
- Best Australia: Mollydooker Blue Eyed Boy Shiraz 2021
- Best South Africa: Stark-Conde Stellenbosch Syrah 2018
- Best South Africa runner-up: Cederberg Shiraz 2018
- Best Chile: Casas del Bosque Syrah Gran Reserva
- Best under $20: Château Maris La Touge 2019
- Best under $50: Piedrasassi Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah 2019
- Best under $70: Henschke Keyneton Estate Euphonium 2017
- Best Luxury: Paul Jaboulet Aîné Hermitage La Chapelle Rouge 2019
19 Best Syrah/Shiraz Reviewed
Find below the reviews for our wine selection of the 19 Best Syrah/Shiraz so that you have all the info you need to pick what’s best for you.
Wine’s tips: 97 points by James Suckling
Region: United States, Napa Valley
Tasting notes: Blackberry, Plum, Oak, Vanilla, Chocolate, Black Truffle, Leather, Licorice, Violet.
Shafer Relentless is an exceptional wine that truly represents the quality of Napa Valley winemaking.
The wine’s complex aromas and flavors, as well as its smooth texture and well-integrated tannins, make it a wine to be savored and appreciated.
Aromas of meatiness along with black plum, black pepper, black fig. The wine’s tannins are silky and well-structured, providing a smooth and velvety mouthfeel.
The top 3 reasons that make Shafer Relentless stand out among its peers are:
Unique Blend: Shafer Relentless is a unique blend of Syrah and Petite Sirah, which is not commonly found in other California wines.
This blend creates a wine with a rich and complex flavor profile that sets it apart from other wines in its category.
Aging: The wine is aged for 30 months in French oak barrels, which is longer than most other California wines in its category.
This extended aging process allows the wine to develop a more refined and complex flavor profile, with notes of dark fruit, spice, and oak.
Consistency: Shafer Relentless consistently receives high ratings and critical acclaim, vintage after vintage.
This level of consistency is a testament to the winemaker’s attention to detail and commitment to producing a high-quality wine every year.
Its versatility in food pairings also makes it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions, whether enjoyed with a hearty meal or on its own.
Shafer Relentless is a must-try for any wine enthusiast and is a testament to the quality of American winemaking.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Good value for money. Similar wines usually cost 38% more
Region: Australia, McLaren Vale
Tasting notes: Blackberry, Plum, Vanilla, Chocolate, Pepper.
Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz 2020 is a truly impressive wine that showcases the winemaking skills and unique terroir of the McLaren Vale region.
Its intense fruit flavors, bold structure, and smooth tannins make it a stand-out example of Australian Shiraz.
This balance makes The Boxer incredibly versatile, pairing well with a wide range of dishes, from hearty grilled meats to spicy Indian curries.
Top 3 Reasons This Wine Stands Out:
- Bold and Intense Flavors: Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz 2020 is a bold and intense wine, with rich and complex flavors of dark fruit, spice, and chocolate.
The wine’s full-bodied nature and well-integrated tannins make it a standout among other Shiraz wines.
- Smooth and Velvety Texture: The wine has a smooth and velvety texture that adds to its overall elegance and drinkability.
Despite its bold flavors and full-bodied nature, the wine remains approachable and easy to drink.
- High-Quality Winemaking: Mollydooker is known for its high-quality winemaking practices, including the use of hand-picked grapes and meticulous barrel aging.
The result is a wine that truly represents the best of McLaren Vale winemaking.
It’s a wine that can be enjoyed now or cellared for several years to come, as its complexity and structure will continue to evolve with time.
Mollydooker The Boxer Shiraz 2020 is a must-try for any Shiraz lover or anyone looking to experience the bold, fruit-driven wines of Australia.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Great value for money. Similar wines usually cost 2 times as much.
Region: Australia, Victoria
Tasting notes: Plum, Blackberry, Cherry, Vanilla, Oak, Chocolate.
Whether you’re a history buff or a wine lover, 19 Crimes Red Blend offers a unique and flavorful experience that is not to be missed.
With its bold character and well-balanced structure, this wine is a perfect addition to any meal or occasion.
The three things that make this wine the best budget are:
1) It’s bold and yummy, if you like strong fruity flavour, that’s your wine
2) It’s the perfect everyday red that delivers every time.
3) It cost ~$10 (😲) yes, it’s unbelievable for the quality you get.
Try it with veal ragu pasta, BBQ ribs, burgers and Cheddar cheese and it’ll be a delight.
So go ahead, break the rules and enjoy a glass of 19 Crimes Red Blend. Seriously, what else do you need to know?😄
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: 93 points by Wine Spectator
Region: United States, Napa Valley
Tasting notes: Blackberry, Blueberry, Vanilla, Spices.
Lewis Cellars Alec’s Blend is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the quality and character of Napa Valley.
With its complex and layered flavor profile, elegant structure, and long, luxurious finish, it’s easy to see why this wine has gained such a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts and collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned Napa Valley fan or just starting to explore the world of California wine, Lewis Cellars Alec’s Blend is definitely worth trying.
Its outstanding quality and reputation make it a great choice for special occasions, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a delicious meal.
Read our full review here.
Region: United States, Sonoma Coast
Tasting notes: Blueberries, Blackberry, Oak, Chocolate, Pepper.
Ramey Syrah 2019 is a standout wine that exemplifies the quality and character of Syrah from Sonoma County.
Its complex and layered aromas and flavors, firm structure, and long, lingering finish make it a wine that is both approachable and age-worthy.
Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a hearty meal, this wine is sure to delight any wine enthusiast.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Featured in Top 19 Washington State Syrah wines in California right now.
Region: United States, Columbia Valley
Tasting notes: Blackberry, Plum, Vanilla, Oak, Cedar.
K Vintners Milbrandt Syrah is an exceptional wine that showcases the quality and character of Washington State Syrah.
With its bold flavors, complex aromas, and well-structured tannins, this wine is a perfect choice for those who appreciate a rich and full-bodied red wine.
Whether you’re enjoying it with a meal or sipping it on its own, K Vintners Milbrandt Syrah is sure to impress.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: 2018 vintage rates better than any other year for this wine
Region: United States, Columbia Valley
Tasting notes: Blackberry, Plum, Vanilla, Oak, Cedar.
Columbia Crest Grand Estates Syrah is a delicious and approachable wine that showcases the quality of Syrah grapes from Washington State.
With its bold and rich flavor profile, balanced acidity, and velvety texture, this wine is a great choice for any casual occasion.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of wine, Columbia Crest Grand Estates Syrah is definitely worth trying.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: 94 points by Robert Parker
Region: France, Cornas
Tasting notes: Blackberry, Plum, Leather, Oak, Vanilla, Pepper.
Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Empreintes is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the quality and character of the Cornas appellation.
With its complex and layered flavor profile, elegant structure, and long, luxurious finish, it’s easy to see why this wine has gained such a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts and collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned Syrah fan or just starting to explore the world of Rhône Valley wines, the Eric et Joel Durand Cornas Empreintes is definitely worth trying.
Its outstanding quality and reputation make it a great choice for special occasions, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a delicious meal.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Great value for money. Similar wines usually cost 2 times as much.
Region: France, Cornas
Tasting notes: Blackberry, Plum, Leather, Oak, Vanilla, Pepper.
Paul Jaboulet Aîné Les Grandes Terrasses Cornas is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the quality and character of the Rhône Valley region.
With its complex and layered flavor profile, firm tannic structure, and long, luxurious finish, it’s easy to see why this wine has gained such a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts and collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned Rhône Valley fan or just starting to explore the world of French wine, Paul Jaboulet Aîné Les Grandes Terrasses Cornas is definitely worth trying.
Its outstanding quality and reputation make it a great choice for special occasions, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a delicious meal.
Read our full review here.
Region: Italy, Toscana
Tasting notes: Blackberry, Blueberry, Cherry, Tobacco, Coffee, Violet.
Tenimenti d’Alessandro Il Bosco Syrah is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the quality and character of Tuscany.
With its complex and layered flavor profile, elegant structure, and long, luxurious finish, it’s easy to see why this wine has gained such a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts and collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned Syrah fan or just starting to explore the world of Italian wine, Tenimenti d’Alessandro Il Bosco Syrah is definitely worth trying.
Its outstanding quality and reputation make it a great choice for special occasions, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a delicious meal.
Read our full review here.
Region: Spain, Campo de Borja
Tasting notes: Black Cherry, Dark Berries, Licorice, Vanilla, Leather, Spice.
Borsao Bodegas Zarihs Syrah is a delicious and affordable wine that offers exceptional quality and flavor.
With its rich and complex flavor profile, velvety texture, and smooth finish, this wine is sure to impress even the most discerning wine enthusiasts.
Whether you’re enjoying it with a hearty meal or sipping it on its own, Borsao Bodegas Zarihs Syrah is a wine that is sure to please.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: 92 points by Wine Spectator
Region: Australia, Langhorne Creek
Tasting notes: Blueberry, Plum, Vanilla, Cream, Chocolate, Coffee, Spice.
Mollydooker Blue Eyed Boy Shiraz is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the quality and character of Australian Shiraz.
With its complex and layered flavor profile, elegant structure, and long, luxurious finish, it’s easy to see why this wine has gained such a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts and collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned Shiraz fan or just starting to explore the world of Australian wine, Mollydooker Blue Eyed Boy Shiraz is definitely worth trying.
Its outstanding quality and reputation make it a great choice for special occasions, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a delicious meal.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: 94 points by Decanter.
Region: South Africa, Western Cape
Tasting notes: Black fruit, Oak, Licorice, Spice.
Stark-Condé Syrah is a bold and complex wine that showcases the best of South African winemaking.
Its deep, rich flavors and silky smooth texture make it a standout choice for wine enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a hearty meal, this wine is sure to impress.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Good value for money. Similar wines usually cost 75% more.
Region: South Africa, Western Cape
Tasting notes: Black fruit, Oak, Vanilla, Spice.
Cederberg Shiraz is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the unique character and quality of the Cederberg Mountains.
With its complex and layered flavor profile, elegant structure, and long, luxurious finish, it’s easy to see why this wine has gained such a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts and collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned Shiraz fan or just starting to explore the world of South African wine, Cederberg Shiraz is definitely worth trying.
Its outstanding quality and reputation make it a great choice for special occasions, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a delicious meal.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Good value for money. Similar wines usually cost 70% more.
Region: Chile, Casablanca Valley
Tasting notes: Dark Cherry, Tobacco, Cedar, Violet, Lavender.
Casas del Bosque Syrah Gran Reserva is an outstanding wine that showcases the best of Chilean Syrah.
With its complex and elegant flavor profile, velvety texture, and long, lingering finish, it’s easy to see why this wine has gained such a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts and critics alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned Syrah fan or just starting to explore the world of Chilean wine, Casas del Bosque Syrah Gran Reserva is definitely worth trying.
Its outstanding quality and reputation make it a great choice for special occasions, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a delicious meal.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Good value for money. Similar wines usually cost 60% more.
Region: France, Minervois La Livinière
Tasting notes: Blackberry, Dark Fruit, Cherry, Smoke, Vanilla, Leather.
Château Maris La Touge is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the quality and character of the Languedoc region.
With its complex and layered flavor profile, elegant structure, and long, luxurious finish, it’s easy to see why this wine has gained such a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts and collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of French wine, Château Maris La Touge is definitely worth trying.
Its outstanding quality and reputation make it a great choice for special occasions, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a delicious meal.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: 96 points by Robert Parker
Region: United States, California
Tasting notes: Black Fruit, Raspberry, Thyme, Oak.
Piedrasassi Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah is an outstanding wine that showcases the unique character of the Central Coast’s terroir.
Its complex aroma, rich texture, and bold flavor profile make it a standout among Syrahs from the region.
Whether you’re a fan of Syrah or just starting to explore the world of California wines, Piedrasassi Bien Nacido Vineyard Syrah is definitely worth trying.
It is an exceptional wine that would be perfect for special occasions, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a delicious meal.
Read our full review here.
Wine’s tips: 91 points by Robert Parker
Region: Australia, South Australia
Tasting notes: Black Fruits, Red Plum, Black Pepper, Oak.
Henschke Keyneton Euphonium is an exceptional wine that truly showcases the quality and character of the Barossa Valley.
With its complex and layered flavor profile, elegant structure, and long, luxurious finish, it’s easy to see why this wine has gained such a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts and collectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of Australian wine, Henschke Keyneton Euphonium is definitely worth trying.
Its outstanding quality and reputation make it a great choice for special occasions, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a delicious meal.
Read our full review here.
Vivino’s tips: Great value for money. Similar wines usually cost 2 times as much.
Region: France, Hermitage
Tasting notes: Black Fruits, Prune, Leather, Sweet Spice, Oak, Tobacco, Licorice, Violet.
Here is an extract from the Vivino Editor’s note: “A Rare and Exceptional Ex-Château Library Release of The Northern Rhône’s Most Iconic Syrah—Pristine, Perfectly Aged and Ready to Drink”
Intense ruby red, limpid and bright. Highly complex, distinguished nose, revealing the great finesse.
Black fruits, sweet spices and, ultimately, finely woody. It is shaped by nature, the sun and the rain.
That’s why every year, this wine is unique. Discover, vintage by vintage, that gave us this land.
Buying Guide to Syrah and Shiraz
It’s not just about which Syrah and Shiraz you should buy. There are other important aspects like how to serve it, food pairings, and much more.
The below buying guide will give you a detailed overview of all these topics.
Syrah Main Regions and Alcohol Content
Here you find an overview of Syrah’s alcohol content and where it is most commonly planted.
Grape
Syrah
ABV
13%–15.5%
Main Regions
France: Rhône Valley
Other Regions
Argentina
Chile
Italy: Tuscany, Sicily
Spain
USA: California, Washington
Grape
Syrah
ABV
13%–15.5%
Main Regions
France: Rhône Valley
Other Regions
Argentina
Chile
Italy: Tuscany, Sicily
Spain
USA: California, Washington
What Does Syrah Taste Like?
These are some of the most common aromas and flavors of Syrah.
Color
Deep Ruby to Purple
Nose
Violet
Herbaceous
Blackberry, Blueberry
Spice
Chocolate
Palate
Black Fruit
Smoked Flavors,
Tobacco, Licorice
Dry to Off-Dry
Medium-High Acidity
Medium-High Tannins
Full Body
Color
Deep Ruby to Purple
Nose
Violet
Herbaceous
Blackberry, Blueberry
Spice
Chocolate
Palate
Black Fruit
Smoked Flavors,
Tobacco, Licorice
Dry to Off-Dry
Medium-High Acidity
Medium-High Tannins
Full Body
Syrah Food Pairings
These are some food pairing suggestions for Syrahs.
Appetizer
Pasta with Veal Ragu,
Grilled Vegetables,
Onion,
Mushroom
Meat
Game, Duck, Stews, Veals
Fish
Chargrilled Ahi
Cheese
Semi-Hard (Cheddar),
Blue Cheese (Gorgonzola)
Appetizer
Pasta with Veal Ragu,
Grilled Vegetables,
Onion,
Mushroom
Meat
Game, Duck, Stews, Veals
Fish
Chargrilled Ahi
Cheese
Semi-Hard (Cheddar),
Blue Cheese (Gorgonzola)
Serve and Store Syrah
Here you find some useful tips on how to serve and store Syrah.
Decant
1 - 2 hrs
Glass
Bordeaux
Serve at
59 - 64 °F
15 - 18 °C
Store for
Up to 5 years
10+ years finest bottles only
Decant
1 - 2 hrs
Glass
Bordeaux
Serve at
59 - 64 °F
15 - 18 °C
Store for
Up to 5 years
10+ years finest bottles only
Shiraz Main Regions and Alcohol Content
Here you find an overview of Shiraz’s alcohol content and where it is most commonly planted.
Grape
Syrah/Shiraz
ABV
13%–15.5%
Main Regions
Australia: Barossa and Hunter Valley
Other Regions
South Africa
Grape
Shiraz
ABV
13%–15.5%
Main Regions
Australia: Barossa and Hunter Valley
Other Regions
South Africa
What Does Shiraz Taste Like?
These are some of the most common aromas and flavors of Shiraz.
Color
Deep Ruby to Purple
Nose
Violet
Herbaceous
Blackberry, Blueberry
Spice
Chocolate
Palate
Black Fruit
Pepper,
Tobacco, Licorice
Dry to Off-Dry
Medium-High Acidity
Medium-High Tannins
Full Body
Color
Deep Ruby to Purple
Nose
Violet
Herbaceous
Blackberry, Blueberry
Spice
Chocolate
Palate
Black Fruit
Pepper,
Tobacco, Licorice
Dry to Off-Dry
Medium-High Acidity
Medium-High Tannins
Full Body
Shiraz Food Pairings
These are some food pairing suggestions for Syrah/Shiraz.
Appetizer
Pasta with Veal Ragu,
Grilled Vegetables,
Onion,
Mushroom
Meat
BBQ Ribs, Burger, Grilled Beef and Lamb
Fish
Chargrilled Ahi
Cheese
Semi-Hard (Cheddar),
Blue Cheese (Gorgonzola)
Appetizer
Pasta with Veal Ragu,
Grilled Vegetables,
Onion,
Mushroom
Meat
BBQ Ribs, Burger, Grilled Beef and Lamb
Fish
Chargrilled Ahi
Cheese
Semi-Hard (Cheddar),
Blue Cheese (Gorgonzola)
Serve and Store Shiraz
Here you find some useful tips on how to serve and store Shiraz.
Decant
1 - 2 hrs
Glass
Bordeaux
Serve at
59 - 64 °F
15 - 18 °C
Store for
Up to 5 years
10+ years finest bottles only
Decant
1 - 2 hrs
Glass
Bordeaux
Serve at
59 - 64 °F
15 - 18 °C
Store for
Up to 5 years
10+ years finest bottles only
Syrah & Shiraz Useful Insight
Whilst for New World wine varietal labeling is used, e.g. Shiraz, for the French wines, under AOC rules [1], the name of the place is used, e.g. Hermitage.
To know which Syrah/Shiraz style you are about the drink, just look at the name on the label. Syrah will be the Old World style whilst Shiraz will be the New World style.
Oak maturation is common for Syrah/Shiraz and it used to reduce tannins and add tertiary flavors.
The finest bottles can edge for a decade and develop more complex flavors of leather, meat, and earth
Our Verdict
Syrah/Shiraz is a popular red wine known for its dark ruby color, full body and black fruit flavors.
Syrah has more restrained black fruit flavors with smoky notes. Shiraz has more intense black fruit flavors with spicy notes.
What to do next?
Be sure to serve your Syrah/Shiraz at the right temperature.
Read our wine tasting guide to enhance your tasting experience and taste like the pro!
Alternatively, why don’t you check out our guides on Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or the other red wines?
FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Syrah/Shiraz.
What does Syrah/Shiraz mean?
No one knows for sure where does the name Syrah/Shiraz comes from. There are though two theories:
- It might be named after the Iranian city of Shiraz.
- It might be named after the Italian city of Syracuse, once a powerful city under the Greek domination in 400 BC.
What is Syrah/Shiraz history?
How old and from where Syrah/Shiraz grape originated exactly is still a mystery.
An ancient script from Pliny, dated AD 77, mentions a dark-skinned grape variety. The same description could though also fit for the Dureza grape [2].
We though know that there’s a long documented history in the Rhone region in France. Today’s finest bottles are still from this area.
In the 1830s the grape arrived in Australia where it is now the most planted grape in the country.
In early 2000, Syrah/Shiraz was estimated to be the world’s 7th most grown grape.
Where does Syrah/Shiraz grow best?
Syrah/Shiraz gives its best in a moderate to cool climate, eg France: Rhône Valley. It is though as well cultivated in warm climates too, e.g. Australia.
When is the perfect time to drink Syrah/Shiraz?
If you have organized a BBQ or have been invited to one, Syrah/Shiraz is your best bet. It will complement perfectly with ribs, burgers, and any other braised or roasted meats.
Is Syrah/Shiraz sweet?
Syrah/Shiraz is not a sweet wine. You can generally find it dry or off dry.
A dry wine contains less than 15 g/L, or sugar per liter. An off dry wine contains between 15-30 g/l.
Learn more about wine sweetness level here.
When is the International Syrah/Shiraz day?
The 16th of February is the International Syrah/Shiraz Day.
What are the differences between Syrah vs Shiraz?
Syrah and Shiraz are two different names for the same grape that though produces different styles.
- Syrah is the name used in France and for the “Old World” wine style. It usually has higher acidity, higher tannins, herbaceous and earthy notes, moderate fruit components with tertiary smoke flavors.
- Shiraz is the name used in Australia and for the “New World” wine style. It usually is easier to drink with fewer tannins, higher in alcohol, intense black fruit aromas, with tertiary spice (black pepper) flavors.
Why are the grapes used for the finest Syrah wines are still hand-picked?
In France, the grapes used for the finest wines are still hand-picked. This is because they grow on very steep, stony slopes which give complex and peppery flavors.
Examples are Côte Rotie, Hermitage and Northern Rhône.
Why is Hermitage famous?
Hermitage is the wine that made Syrah famous in the world.
It’s known for its excellence and it’s produced in France on a hill above Tain-l’Hermitage in the northern Rhône.
“ça va sans dire”, i.e. it goes without saying, it’s one of the most expensive Syrah you can find.
Are Petit Syrah and Syrah related?
Yes they are. Just to confuse you a little more, this grape is not a little version of the Syrah.
“Petit” means “small” in English, but it’s rather a descendant of the Syrah and Peloursin grape [3].
Is Syrah/Shiraz used for blend?
Syrah/Shiraz is also used as blending grape and generally with Grenache grapes [4]. Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône and Gigondas are typical examples.
What’s Syrah/Shiraz's typical price range?
Price can vary considerably and these are purely indicative prices. Like Pinot Noir, expect a higher price for certain areas in France.
The good news though is that you can find in any case good entry-level Syrah at $20-$40 and Shiraz at $10-$30 a bottle.
- $10-$20 Chile and South Africa.
- $10-$30 Australia.
- $20-$40 California.
- France:
- $20-$40 Rhône Valley, Crozes-Hermitage, Saint Joseph.
- $200-$800 Côte Rotie and Hermitage. As always, if you have some spare cash you can try a Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Ermitage ‘Cuvee Cathelin’ for $8’000+.
