Few grapes are as synonymous with a country as Shiraz is with Australia. Known for producing bold, spicy, and full-bodied red wines, Australian Shiraz has not only become the country’s flagship varietal but also one of the world’s most sought-after styles. Whether it’s a robust red from the Barossa Valley or an elegant expression from cooler regions like Coonawarra, Shiraz thrives in Australia’s diverse terroirs and continues to define the nation’s wine identity.
Originally hailing from France—where it’s known as Syrah—this grape found a natural home in Australia. The warm climate, combined with varied soils and innovative winemaking, allowed Shiraz to develop a distinct Australian personality: one that is fruit-driven, lush, and often kissed with notes of black pepper, chocolate, and ripe berries. Over time, it evolved from a local favourite to an international icon, known for its balance of power and polish.
What makes Australian Shiraz so loved is its ability to express regional character. In McLaren Vale, it’s juicy and generous. In Coonawarra, more refined and peppery. In Langhorne Creek, you’ll find a balance of softness and spice. No matter the region, Aussie Shiraz promises bold flavours and incredible pairing potential with both Indian and Western cuisines.
If you’re ready to explore Australia’s most popular wine grape, here are three award-winning Shiraz wines from the IWSA 2024 Ultimate Drinking Guide that show why this varietal deserves your attention—and a spot in your cellar.
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D’Arenberg The Footbolt Shiraz McLaren Vale 2019
A benchmark wine from McLaren Vale, The Footbolt is a bold yet structured Shiraz that balances ripe fruit with earthy complexity. The nose bursts with blackberry, plum, and licorice, wrapped in hints of cedar and dark chocolate. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and intense, but with a silky mouthfeel and integrated tannins that make it surprisingly elegant for its price point.
This wine is made for hearty meals—pair it with lamb rogan josh, grilled pork ribs, or mushroom stroganoff. It’s a no-fuss, high-impact red that captures the sun-drenched spirit of South Australia in every sip.
Importer: Brindco
Price: ₹3,150
Penfolds Bin 128 Coonawarra Shiraz 2020
From one of Australia’s most iconic wineries, Penfolds Bin 128 is a cooler-climate Shiraz that delivers elegance, restraint, and finesse. Expect lifted aromas of blackberry, graphite, and black olive, supported by a backbone of French oak. The palate is more linear than lush, offering red fruits, spice, and fine-grained tannins that lead into a long, savoury finish.
This is the kind of Shiraz that pairs beautifully with refined dishes like peppered duck breast, smoked salmon, or mutton roast. It’s ideal for those who appreciate structure and subtlety in their reds, offering a more cerebral take on the varietal.
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Importer: Brindco
Price: ₹5,700
Metala Langhorne Creek White Label Shiraz 2021
Rich, generous, and smooth, this Shiraz from Langhorne Creek is everything you want in a plush, fruit-forward red. The wine opens with aromas of black cherry, raspberry jam, and spice, with hints of mocha and vanilla from oak maturation. On the palate, it’s velvety and round, with a warming finish that lingers gently without overwhelming.
This wine is tailor-made for comfort food—think butter chicken, paneer lababdar, or a barbecue platter. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the boldness of Aussie Shiraz with a soft, welcoming charm that works across cuisines.
Importer: Sonarys Co-Brands
Price: ₹5,290
Looking for amazing wine recommendations? Click here to check out the winners of the India Wines And Spirits Award 2024 edition.
