HISTORY & FACTS

With vineyards dating back to 1843, Australia has the world’s oldest Shiraz vines still in production.

It is Australia’s best known and most widely planted variety, grown in virtually every wine region.

Shiraz thrives in moderate to warm climate areas.

French oak use is common for maturation although some fresh, early-drinking styles see no oak at all.

STRAIGHT SHIRAZ

Which type for which occasion? A versatile little grape, combine it with meat BBQs, charcuterie and cheese platters or hearty pastas, like a Bolognese.

CRFT Little Hill Shiraz displays layers of dark fruits with dried figs and prunes and a nice kick of spice. It will pair particularly well with lamb or stews. For your weeknight pizza or as a complement to richer meals like a beef wellington, try the Pertaringa Undercover Shiraz. Looking for the Queen of Shiraz? Hentley Farm's The Beauty is complex, soft and elegant. Co-fermented with Viognier, this is your ultimate wine for a special occasion. James Halliday gave it 96 points.

BLENDED SHIRAZ

In France, it's country of origin, Syrah is widely used in varietals from the Rhône or Languedoc-Roussillon areas and frequently blended with Grenache.

This is also a successful combination in Australian blends, Shiraz providing the structure and spice and Grenache the juicy palate. To create more depth, Mataro (or Mourvèdre) is added to form a fabulous GSM blend, such as the crowd-favourite Turkey Flat's Butchers Block Red.

And for a Bordeaux Blend with a twist (Shiraz is typically not added), try Paracombe's The Reuben. A fantastic food wine and a blend of predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc - with a touch of Malbec and Shiraz.