SYRAH

Syrah and Shiraz are the same grape, and the name on the label tells you what style to expect. Syrah usually signals a leaner, peppery, savory wine, the style made famous in France's northern Rhône Valley. Shiraz is the name used in Australia and often signals riper, plusher fruit. Both are deep purple, medium-to-full bodied and built for red meat, so this collection is a good place to look for a steak night or a cold-weather dinner.

What to expect from the bottles

If you are new to the grape, start with Montes Syrah Alpha ($19.99), a Chilean Syrah from the Colchagua Valley with dark fruit, spice and a smoky edge that suits grilled meat. It is the most affordable bottle here and a reliable weeknight red.

For a richer, riper style, look to Australia. Kay Brothers Basket Pressed Shiraz ($32.99) is a McLaren Vale Shiraz made from basket-pressed fruit, with blackberry, chocolate and spice. Penfolds Shiraz Bin 28 ($34.99) is the classic Barossa-style Shiraz, ripe, spicy and built for a steak dinner. Mollydooker Shiraz Blue Eyed Boy ($59.99) is bigger and bolder, a full-throttle McLaren Vale Shiraz for people who like a plush, jammy glass, and Pramie Shiraz ($64.99) from Schild Estate is a step up for a special dinner.

Food pairings

Syrah loves anything grilled or smoked: steak, lamb, sausages and barbecue. The black pepper notes in the wine echo a pepper crust, and the tannins cut through fat. Try it with mushroom dishes, roast duck or aged cheddar. Skip delicate fish and very spicy dishes, which clash with the wine's tannins and alcohol.

Serving tips

Serve Syrah around 60 to 65 degrees, which usually means a short stop in the fridge if the bottle has been sitting at room temperature. Younger, fruitier bottles benefit from 30 minutes in a decanter or a wide glass, and bigger Shiraz can handle a full hour.

Keep exploring

If you want to compare styles, browse our full wine collection, try the bolder California reds or look at lighter Grenache for a softer alternative. Our guide to Barolo vs Barbaresco explains how regional rules shape Italian reds, and our guide to picking a Cabernet by region covers a similar idea for another big red grape. Prices and availability update live.