Shiraz vs Syrah: what's the difference?
Shiraz and Syrah are the same grape, and the name usually hints at the style: Shiraz tends to be ripe, jammy and plush in the Australian way, while Syrah tends to be leaner and more peppery like France's Rhône Valley, so pick Shiraz for barbecue and big flavor and Syrah when you want a savory, spicy red.
Same grape, different accents. Australia made Shiraz famous with big, juicy bottles; in France and much of the US it goes by Syrah and often tastes more savory. Plenty of winemakers choose the name to tell you which style to expect.
Side by side
When to pick Shiraz
Pick Shiraz when you want a big, fruity red for the grill or a cold night.
[yellow tail] Shiraz
about $7Shiraz (Syrah)It's fine
Soft, jammy and cheap. Simple, but a fine burger-night red.
Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz
about $12Shiraz
A step up in depth from a famous Australian name. Ripe and rich but not syrupy.
When to pick Syrah
Pick Syrah when you want a red with pepper and savory edges that loves lamb and grilled meat.
E. Guigal Crozes-Hermitage
about $28Syrah
French Syrah from the Rhône, peppery and dark. The clearest way to taste the "Syrah" style.
Charles Smith Boom Boom! Syrah
about $15Syrah
Washington Syrah that sits between the two styles: plenty of fruit with a peppery kick.
Keep reading
- What is Syrah?
- What is Petite Sirah?
- What is dry red wine?
- Malbec vs Cabernet Sauvignon: what's the difference?
- What wine goes with BBQ?
- What wine goes with lamb?
Last checked 2026-10-04.