The Shiraz grape is a robust varietal that is suited to warmer climates than some of it’s more delicate siblings. From this thick-skinned black grape comes a beautiful spectrum of wines from the full, fruit-forward Shiraz from the Barossa Valley in South East Australia to the subtler, more elegant Syrah of the Northern Rhone.

Shiraz/Syrah is an excellent wine for blending; with it often seen in partnership with Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, Grenache and Mourvedre amongst others. Probably the most well-known of the Shiraz blends is from the Rhone: Châteauneuf-du-Pape – where Shiraz is blended with Grenache and Mourvedre.

On its own, the Shiraz grape creates full-bodied, dry, red wines with levels of acidity and tannin that can be quite high (although correctly managed this can be a great help in ageing). They show great fruit character tending towards darker fruit flavours and a stereotypical hint of spice to the palate.

1 Viña Echeverria Syrah Reserva, Chile - £10.75

A highly aromatic Syrah from the family run winery at Echeverria; this shows aromas of blackberries, blueberries and raspberries. Hints of bitter chocolate combine nicely with notes of black pepper, cinnamon and tobacco. A well balanced and round mouthful, with a juicy and long lasting finish.

2 Vidal Syrah, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand - £13.99

Grown on the Gimblett Gravels in Hawkes Bay this Syrah is beautifully scented with violets, white pepper and blackberry on the nose. The palate is richly fruity, supple and mouth-filling with a creamy ripe texture, smooth tannins and a hint of spice on the finish.