Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks Editor
RedRed • Dry12–14.5% ABVMedium bodyDry sweetnessmedium acidityMedium tannins
Is this for me?
Choose this if…
- ✓You prefer dry, crisp wines without residual sweetness.
Skip if…
- ✗You prefer sweeter or off-dry wines.
What is Syrah/Shiraz?
A full-bodied red wine with high tannins and flavors of black pepper, dark fruit, and smoky undertones.
Best For
DinnerSavoury foodRed
Food Pairings
Taste & Style
Dry sweetnessmedium acidityMedium tanninsMedium bodyBlack FruitPepperySpicyFull Bodied
Flavour profile
Food pairings
- BBQ
- Korean BBQ
- Lamb
- Smoked Meats
- Steak
- Grilled Fish
- Spicy Food
Best for
- Best with BBQ
- Best with Korean BBQ
- Best with Lamb
- Peppery
Frequently asked questions
- What is Syrah/Shiraz?
- A full-bodied red wine with high tannins and flavors of black pepper, dark fruit, and smoky undertones.
- What does Syrah/Shiraz taste like?
- Syrah/Shiraz is often described as Black Fruit, Peppery, Spicy, Full Bodied. Flavour intensity varies by region, producer and vintage.
- What foods pair with Syrah/Shiraz?
- Syrah/Shiraz pairs well with BBQ, Korean BBQ, Lamb, Smoked Meats. Food pairing suggestions are based on complementary flavour profiles.
- How strong is Syrah/Shiraz?
- Syrah/Shiraz typically has an ABV of 12–14.5%. Strength varies by producer and vintage.
- When should I drink Syrah/Shiraz?
- Syrah/Shiraz works well as an aperitif, with a meal, or as a standalone sipping wine. The ideal occasion depends on the body and sweetness level — lighter styles suit casual dining while fuller-bodied wines complement heartier dishes.
- What wines are similar to Syrah/Shiraz?
- If you enjoy Syrah/Shiraz, explore other wine styles with a similar body and flavour profile using the sensory bars as a guide. Wines with matching acidity and tannin scores will feel closest in character.
- Does Syrah/Shiraz improve with age?
- Cellaring potential for Syrah/Shiraz depends on the producer, vintage and storage conditions. Most everyday expressions are best enjoyed within 3–5 years of release. Premium examples may benefit from longer ageing — check producer notes for guidance.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Tannin/Bitterness (soft to grippy), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent), Boldness (delicate to bold) and Beginner-Friendly (acquired taste to easy intro). Each scale helps you compare wine styles at a glance.
- How do I use the sensory profile to find wines I like?
- If you enjoy light, crisp wines look for Light Body with Crisp Acidity. For bold, rich wines choose Full Body with Grippy Tannin. Compare Syrah/Shiraz with similar wine styles to find your next favourite.
Wine style information is approximate and varies by producer, region, vintage and serving size.