What is Shiraz Wine? A Guide to the Bold Red You’ll Love

If you prefer your wine with an edge–then pop a bottle of Shiraz. Shiraz is the rebel of the wine world – bold, unapologetic, and packed with intense flavors that make a statement. But what's the story behind this edgy red? Let's take a look at its history and why this red wine from Australia is a favorite for those who crave something with attitude.

Our Big Bear Wine & Liquor stores in the Pueblo region in Colorado have an impeccable selection of Shiraz. In this article, we’ll give you a peek into our top Shiraz wine picks and what makes this wine special.

Read on to learn more about the origin and distinctiveness of Shiraz grape wine. 

Shiraz is a bold red wine made from the Syrah grape, but you’ll often hear it called by different names depending on where it’s from. In warmer regions like Australia, it's called Shiraz, while in cooler areas like France’s Rhône Valley, it’s known as Syrah.

The different names are characteristics of the wine’s distinct regional flavours. Shiraz wines from Australia are bold and jammy, with ripe fruit flavors like blackberry and plum, and notes of spice and chocolate. The warmer the region, the more intense and fruit-driven the wine becomes, making Shiraz a go-to for those who love a wine with depth and punch.

Syrah from cooler regions like France, on the other hand, tends to be more restrained, with flavors that lean towards black pepper, earthy notes, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. This gives Syrah a more savory profile, with higher acidity and firmer tannins compared to the richer, fruit-forward Shiraz.

Shiraz has two syllables and can be pronounced in different ways. The most common pronunciation, especially in Australia, is shuh-RAZZ (rhyming with "jazz"). Alternatively, some may say shuh-RAHZ, similar to "Syrah," reflecting the grape's French origins.

The Syrah grape has ancient origins and a history that traces back to the Middle East. Some believe the grape was named after the city of Shiraz, Iran, which was a major winemaking center in ancient times. However, the Syrah grape as we know it today actually originated in the Rhône Valley of France. It wasn’t until the 19th century that Syrah made its way to Australia, where winemakers began cultivating it under the name Shiraz.

Australia’s warmer climate allowed the grape to develop a new identity, with wines that became renowned for their intensity, ripe fruit, and bold flavors. Today, Shiraz has become synonymous with Australian wine, dominating the country's wine industry and carving out a distinct niche that sets it apart from its French counterpart.

1. Shiraz (Syrah)

• Flavor Profile: Bold, spicy, fruity
• Common Regions: Australia, France, USA
• Ideal Food Pairings: Grilled meats, BBQ, lamb

2. Cabernet Sauvignon

• Flavor Profile: Full-bodied, dark fruit, oaky
• Common Regions: France, USA, Chile
• Ideal Food Pairings: Steak, roasted vegetables

3. Merlot

• Flavor Profile: Smooth, plummy, soft tannins
• Common Regions: France, Italy, California
• Ideal Food Pairings: Pasta, chicken, mild cheeses

4. Zinfandel

• Flavor Profile: Jammy, peppery
• Common Regions: USA, Italy
• Ideal Food Pairings: Pizza, burgers, spicy food

Shiraz’s bold flavors and rich texture make it an ideal partner for hearty and flavorful dishes. Some popular pairings include:

• Grilled Meats & BBQ: The smoky undertones in Shiraz perfectly complement grilled steaks, lamb chops, or BBQ ribs. The wine's fruity and spicy elements cut through the rich, savory flavors and make every bite more satisfying.
• Hearty Stews: Shiraz red wine pairs excellently with slow-cooked beef stews or lamb shanks. The tannins and full-bodied nature of Shiraz can handle the richness of these dishes. They also enhance the savory flavors without overwhelming the palate.
• Spicy & Peppery Dishes: Shiraz also goes well with dishes that have a bit of spice. For example, smoked sausages, pulled pork, or even a spice-rubbed brisket offer a balanced pairing. The peppery notes in the wine mirror the spices in the dish.
• Local Pueblo Favorites: Pueblo, CO, is famous for its green chili dishes. So you could pair Shiraz with a rich green chili stew or a grilled pork chop smothered in spicy green chili sauce. The smoky, peppery characteristics of the wine complement the heat and earthiness of these local flavors.

Here are some of our top-selling Shiraz grape wines:

If you prefer your wine with an edge, we, at Big Bear Wine & Liquor, have an impressive selection of Shiraz wines to suit your palate. From the bold and fruity Yellow Tail Shiraz to the complex and rich Yalumba Samuel’s Collection Shiraz, there's something here for every Shiraz enthusiast. Don’t miss out on the intriguing 19 Crimes Shiraz and the playful The Chook Sparkling Shiraz, perfect for those who love a bit of fizz with their bold reds.

If you’re looking for the perfect Shiraz in the Pueblo region, CO, visit us our stores at Big Bear - South, 2037 S Pueblo Blvd, Pueblo, CO 81005, and Big Bear – Pueblo West, 940 Hailey Lane, Pueblo West, CO 81007. You’ll meet fellow wine enthusiasts amojng our staff who will help you choose the perfect drink for any occasion.

For more information, give us a call at (719) 547-1786 or stop by to explore our selection of top-quality Shiraz wines.