Syrah/Shiraz

A very dark-skinned variety, Syrah or Shiraz is grown in many countries but the Rhône is probably home. That said, it was one of the original varieties brought into Australia and is firmly established as their iconic grape, where it's better known as Shiraz. Syrah produces wines with a great variety of flavours, very much dependant on the climate and soils where it's grown. Aromas can range from violets to dark berries, chocolate, espresso and black pepper. No one aroma can be called “typical” though blackberry and pepper are often noticed. The main grape in some of the most famous Rhône reds, in blends or on its own.