The Shiraz from Down Under

by Jon Fiume
October 17, 2005

In recent years past, Australia has become a powerhouse of wine production, and its popularity continues. Many of us have most likely tasted a wine from Australia, as these wines are not uncommon to see on store shelves or on restaurant lists. We may even be familiar with some of the brands, including Yellow Tail, Little Penguin, Alice White, and of course, Rosemount Estate, which I feature in this month's column. One of the most popular varieties, and one that we here in the States have copied well, commonly known as Syrah, is the Australian Shiraz. This grape is full-bodied, spicy, complex, fruity, and can be deep in color. It also serves well as a blending grape, finding itself in bottles with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Shiraz came to Australia in 1832 from France's Rhone valley, known there as Syrah. As Australia continued to take shape, so did Shiraz - enough so that it became versatile in the different wine regions, offering different characters depending on where it was grown. These characters range from intense and spicy to the more mild side of sweet and chocolaty. In some Australian regions you may find Shiraz to be heavier and rich.

The wines featured this month are from the Australian state of South Australia. This particular region, located in the center of the continent, produces the majority of wines in Australia, and contains some of the oldest vines. The area itself is made up of a variety of regions, offering climates that are warm, such as the Barossa Valley, to the hot Riverland region, and finally, the cooler Adelaide Hills region. Added to the mix are the ever popular maritime areas of McLaren Vale, Southern Fleurieu, Currency Creek, and Langhorne Creek. In the south-eastern part of the state, you will find the Limestone Coast zone, which has been the source of some very fine reds.

So, as you recognize some of the Australian Shiraz labels in the grocery store, take special note of where they have originated, and explore the differences in the tastes from South Australia.

Salute!

Rosemount Estate 2003 Shiraz. $10.99 or less.
This one is a personal favorite which can now be found in many grocery stores and restaurants. It was one of my first introductions into appreciating wine. With grapes from the McLaren Vale region, Rosemount Estate Shiraz is pleasing to the taste buds, with wonderful fruit tones of blackberry that ends with a nice, full, slightly spicy finish. Great as a table wine, to enjoy with a meal, or simply by itself.

Buckeley's 2003 Shiraz. $10.99 or less.
Buckeley's vineyard, located in South Australia, is named after an Australian folk hero, William Buckeley, who lived off of the land with aborigines for over 30 years.

Medium bodied with mild tannins, this Shiraz is plum fruity throughout, presenting itself with a mild chocolate flavor, and finishing with a long pepper taste. Definitely worth a try. Quite unique. Quite fun.