Types of Wine Grapes: Syrah and Shiraz

Wine Guide with Cork & Fizz - Wine education for beginners and enthusiasts

Ep 116

Is Syrah the same as Shiraz?

In today's episode you are getting a sneak peak inside one of my Cork Crew virtual tastings where we compare Syrah and Shiraz, two names for the same grape, grown in very different parts of the world.

This exclusive replay offers a deep dive into the differences between Old World Syrah from France’s Northern Rhône and New World Shiraz from Australia, showing how climate, winemaking style, and even culture influence the final flavor in your glass.

You’ll learn why Syrah is often described as bold, meaty, and peppery, and how it became a favorite among both sommeliers and casual wine drinkers. We cover the grape’s origins, its parentage, and how vineyard elevation and skin contact during fermentation shape its intensity. You’ll also get a breakdown of key Northern Rhône appellations like Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie, including how the area's terrain and traditions bring out different sides of Syrah.

Then we dive into Australia to uncover what makes Shiraz so distinct. From century-old vines in Barossa to cooler coastal climates in McLaren Vale and Hunter Valley, discover how Australian winemakers blend innovation with tradition and why “Shiraz” might just be their playful spin on a grape they’ve made entirely their own.

So, if you’ve ever wondered how to spot the difference between Syrah and Shiraz when shopping the wine aisle, this episode will help you know exactly what to look for!

Thank you to Wine.com for sponsoring this episode. Go to Wine.com/corkfizz and use code CORKFIZZ for FREE shipping on your order over $150. (Limit one per customer.)

Episode Highlights:

• Syrah vs Shiraz - Are they the same?

• Where Syrah originated and why it's so widely planted today
  
• Old World vs. New World wine characteristics and how they show up in Syrah
  
• Key differences between Rhône Syrah and Australian Shiraz
  
• Notable wine regions: Côte-Rôtie, Hermitage, Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Hunter Valley
  
• How extended skin contact and vineyard elevation affect Syrah’s bold flavors
  
• Why “Old Vine” labeling in Australia can be misleading and how Barossa’s Vine Charter helps clarify it

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