Syrah / Shiraz
Red grape · Peppery, powerful red, called Syrah or Shiraz.
Unofficial study resource · not affiliated with or endorsed by WSET®In short
Full-bodied with medium to high tannin, showing blackberry, black pepper, and smoky or meaty notes. It is called Syrah in France and Shiraz in Australia.
Where it grows
The Northern Rhône (Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie), the Barossa Valley in Australia, and beyond.
Food pairing
Grilled and peppered meats, and hearty stews.
Why it matters for WSET
One grape, two names and two styles: cooler-climate Syrah is peppery and restrained, warm-climate Shiraz is riper and jammier.
Practise your grape knowledge
Grape varieties are core WSET material. Try free practice questions with explanations, then get the full bank and a wrong-answer notebook in the Eclavin app.
Download Eclavin on the App StoreFrequently asked questions
Are Syrah and Shiraz the same grape?
Yes. Syrah is the French name and Shiraz the Australian one; the style changes with the climate.
What does Syrah taste like?
Blackberry and black pepper with smoky, sometimes meaty notes, and firm tannin.