Syrah Wine and Shiraz Wine

The first thing I want to clear up is the relationship between Syrah wine and Shiraz wine, since there are a lot of questions and misinformation about them. The answer is fairly simple:

• The similarity between these two types of red wine is that the grape that is grown to create them is the same grape.
• The difference is the wine making technique used to created these two different red wines types.

Syrah Wine

For a long time, the origin of this wine was misunderstood. After DNA testing, researchers determined that Syrah is indigenous to the Rhone Valley Region in France. It is a cross between two little know vines: Durcza and Mondeuse Blanche.

The fame of this wine took off in the Rhone region just a few years ago. In the northern region, most red wines are 100% Syrah wine. It is also grown in some of the other wine regions in France and is frequently used as a blending grape.

It grows well in warmer climates, so wineries in Napa Valley and Sonoma Wineries in California also tend to grow and produce it really well.

Recently, both Switzerland and Italy are also becoming known for the quality they produce. It is typically dark and dense.

It's also medium to full bodied. It has flavors of raspberry, cherry and plum with hints of of pepper, herb and cocoa.

They are also high in tannins, but have moderate alcohol and acidity. It can also age for a long time, so it's never a bad idea to buy a little extra for storage when you find one you like.

Here are just a few Syrah recommendations:

Shiraz Wine

Although it's from the same grape, Shiraz wine tastes quite a bit different. It's much sweeter and fruitier type of red wine than Syrah. It is one of the most grown and most popular in Australia.

As other countries have grown to like Shiraz, New Zealand wineries and South African wineries have started to produce great Shiraz wine.

*Prices are estimates and may change at any time.

Find out more about the other popular types of red wine including:

Also, learn more about these regional red wine types: