Shiraz is originally thought to have originated in the Middle East and since Roman times it has been grown in Rhone Valley, France. However, nowadays Shiraz is also planted in USA, South Africa and most notably, in Australia where it is the dominant grape variety.
So where does the name “Shiraz” come from? It has been named after the city Shiraz in Iran where the process of wine-making originated 7 000 years ago. The most popular form of this wine is produced in Australia where you can buy Shiraz at very affordable prices as it is the most preferred wine choice in almost every store and online wine shop. The most popular regions which produce this exquisite wine and best to buy Shiraz from, are undoubtedly McLaren Valley, Hunter Valley and Barossa.
Shiraz is one of the darkest full-bodied red wines world wide. It is full of dark fruit flavours ranging from sweet blueberry to savory black olive. While tasting it you will feel a flavour that tapers off and then has a spicy peppery note in the aftertaste. Therefore, it is frequently blended with grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon which add more mid-plate to help make the wine taste more complete.
Old World Shiraz which comes form Italy and France has more acidity and earthy-herbaceous aromas, whereas New World Shiraz, produced in the USA and Australia, has more fruit-driven characteristics with lots of spice. Nevertheless, Shiraz is vibrant, blackberry juicy wine with a hint of black pepper and spice.
Shiraz Food Pairing
it is best to buy Shiraz that is full-bodies and to combine it with bold foods. Shiraz pairs well with anything from blue cheese burger to barbecue. You can always choose soft cheese to combine with this wine as the fat texture and earthy flavours will absorb the high tannin in Shiraz. Furthermore, the peppery spice of Australian Shiraz is a perfect match to peppery barbecue.
When it comes to wining & dining, it is all about matching spice with spice. Shiraz pairs well with Chinese, Thai and Mexican dishes. That is why it is no surprise it is such a popular choice in restaurants. The softer Shiraz styles are very easy to drink and are perfect for dinners over the week, from sausages to Shepherd’s pie or tagines. Or you can go a bit fancy as Shiraz is an amazing wine to pair with intense meat dishes such as poached sirloin steak, classic Roast Beef or caramelized onion tarte tatin.
At the end, whichever food you decide to have with the amazing Shiraz wine, do not forget to spice it up with laughter and good friends. Cheers!
