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Let’s talk about Syrah—one of the most underrated yet rewarding grapes in the red wine world. It’s not always top of mind like Cabernet or Pinot, but when you discover the best Syrah wines, you’ll wonder why it took you so long to get here.

Whether it’s called Syrah or Shiraz, this grape has the power to surprise. One glass might be bold and jammy, the next savory and spiced with smoky depth. That shape-shifting quality is exactly what makes the best Syrah wines so fascinating—and so worth exploring.

The Shape-Shifting Nature of Syrah

What makes Syrah so unique? It adapts beautifully to different regions, climates, and winemaking styles. That means no two bottles are exactly alike—and the best Syrah wines reflect the soul of where they’re grown.

In cooler climates, Syrah leans savory and peppery with structured elegance. In warmer regions, it bursts with ripe blackberry, plum, and chocolate. Some wines lean rustic and earthy; others feel polished and plush. All of them? Rich in personality. 

Syrah vs. Shiraz: What’s the Deal?

Same grape. Different names. And often, different expressions.

  • Syrah: Used in France, the U.S., and other cooler regions. These wines tend to be more restrained—think dark fruit, herbs, cracked pepper, and earthy depth.
  • Shiraz: The Australian version, known for its big, bold style—juicy black fruit, baking spice, and a plush mouthfeel.

No matter the label, many of the best Syrah wines are those that bridge this divide—capturing fruit, spice, and balance in one satisfying pour.

Savor Syrah: From Tasting Notes to Table Matches

Syrah is a bold yet refined red wine known for its layered complexity and incredible food-pairing versatility. In every glass, you’ll find:

  • Dark fruit: Blackberry, blueberry, and black cherry
  • Spice & depth: Black pepper, licorice, clove, and tobacco
  • Savory undertones: Smoked meat, olive tapenade, and wild herbs
  • Floral notes: Violets and lavender add a touch of elegance

These flavors aren’t just delicious—they’re dynamic with food. Syrah’s tannins and acidity make it a standout with grilled meats, braised dishes, roasted vegetables, and aged cheeses.

Whether you're planning a backyard BBQ or a candlelit roast dinner, the best Syrah wines are bold enough to impress and balanced enough to complement every bite.

Where to Find the Best Syrah Wines

If you’re on the hunt for top-tier Syrah, you’ll want to explore these key regions:

  • Northern Rhône (France): Home of classics like Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie—elegant, structured, and age-worthy.
  • Barossa Valley (Australia): Known for lush, powerful Shiraz with rich fruit and spice.
  • Walla Walla & Columbia Valley (Washington State): Rising stars in the U.S., producing savory, balanced Syrah with depth.
  • Paso Robles & Central Coast (California): Warm-climate Syrah with bold character, smoky notes, and ripe fruit.
  • Stellenbosch (South Africa): Underrated region producing structured, herbal, and food-friendly Syrah.

Each of these regions is home to some of the best Syrah wines in the world—showcasing how this one grape can tell so many stories.

The best Syrah Bottles to Try Now

Looking to explore some of the best Syrah wines available today? These standout bottles offer unique expressions of Syrah—each with its own style, regional character, and price point:

The best Syrah Bottles to Try Now

Charles Smith Boom Boom Syrah

Big, bold, and unapologetically expressive. This wine bursts with dark plum, black cherry, and smoked spice aromas. On the palate, it’s juicy and rich, with layers of blackberry, pepper, and subtle gamey notes—finishing smooth and slightly smoky. A perfect Syrah for grilled meats or a night in with bold flavors.

Callia Bella Syrah Malbec

An irresistible blend that opens with exotic aromas of blackberry, violet, and juicy plum. The palate is plush and fruit-forward, featuring ripe cherry, raspberry, and a touch of dark chocolate. A soft hint of sweetness on the finish rounds out this smooth, easy-drinking red with a seductive edge.

Charles & Charles Cabernet/Syrah

A beautifully structured blend that marries the richness of Syrah with the depth of Cabernet. Expect dark berry fruit, chocolate, and hints of rose petal, all wrapped in fine tannins and a polished finish. Aromas of black plum, cherry, crushed herbs, and smoky gravel add intrigue. Bold yet balanced—a go-to for those who like power with finesse.

Laurent Miquel Syrah Grenache

A southern French gem that highlights Syrah’s spicy elegance. Blackberry and blackcurrant aromas are layered with notes of licorice, cracked pepper, and a whisper of dried herbs. The Grenache softens the structure, making this blend both bold and approachable, with a long, warming finish.

Why Syrah Belongs in Your Rotation

If you love red wine and haven’t given Syrah a real shot, now’s the time. Whether you're into flavor-packed food pairings, discovering underrated wine regions, or just want something bolder than your usual Cab, Syrah delivers.

It’s bold without being brash. Complex without being complicated. And the best Syrah wines reward both casual sipping and serious exploration.

So go ahead—pop a bottle, fire up the grill, and let Syrahs how you what it’s really made of.

Shop top Syrah selections at Arlington Wine & Liquor—plus browse our curated picks in craft spirits, small-batch bourbons, premium tequilas, and summer-ready rosés.

Whatever your taste, we’ve got something to match it. Cheers to finding your new favorite.