A timeless classic for every season
Shiraz in Summer
When Summer rolls around, many wine enthusiasts turn to lighter white wines or crisp Rosés to complement the warmer weather. Yet for lovers of Shiraz, there’s no need to shelve your favourite red. Known for its bold flavours, versatility and ability to pair beautifully with summer dishes, Shiraz remains a popular choice all year round.
The popularity of Shiraz transcends seasons for good reason. Its appeal lies in its ability to offer something for everyone, whether you prefer a fruit-forward and youthful Shiraz or a more complex, aged expression. It’s this adaptability that keeps Shiraz firmly on the radar for wine lovers throughout the year.
In Summer, Shiraz' bold flavours can enhance barbecues, grilled vegetables and smoky meats, making it a natural fit for alfresco dining. The key is to serve it at a slightly cooler temperature then you might in winter, roughly around 15-18 degrees is the secret to bringing out its vibrant fruitiness and refreshing qualities.
The perfect wine for a warm Summer's day
Shiraz, also known as Syrah in parts of Europe and the U.S is a varietal celebrated for its bold and fruit-forward profile. Originating from France’s Rhone Valley has now found its spiritual home in Australia, where it thrives in regions like the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale and Coonawarra. These regions produce wines renowned for their full-bodied structure, rich dark fruit flavours and hints of spice, chocolate and pepper.
Versatility is really what sets Shiraz apart from other wine varietals. It’s a wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a wide variety of foods. While its robust character often conjures images of cozy winter evenings, Shiraz’s adaptability ensures it holds its ground as a true summer staple.
Food pairings - Summer Edition
One of the many joys of Shiraz is how beautifully it pairs with food, especially the grilled and charred flavours that are so prevalent in summer meals. Here are our top go to’s when it comes to food matching your favourite Shiraz’s with.
Barbequed meats: A classic partner in crime is barbequed meats, Shiraz’s bold tannins and rich fruit complement the smokiness of grilled steaks, lamb chops and sausages.
Spiced dishes: The spicy undertones of Shiraz make it an excellent companion for dishes with a bit of kick, such as Moroccan lamb or spiced chicken skewers.
Cheeses: The classic food match for many varietals but semi-hard cheeses like Gouda or aged cheddar bring out the very best in Shiraz.
An untraditional twist
While Shiraz has you picturing of snuggling up on the couch with a blanket watching your favourite movie, it’s actually the perfect wine to enjoy slightly chilled on a warmer day. Traditionally served at room temperature, summer calls for an adjustment. A brief chill of 20 - 30 minutes in the fridge can truly transform the wine, enhancing its freshness and making it even more enjoyable on warmer days.
Alternatively, consider serving Shiraz-based cocktails or a classic Shiraz sangria with fresh berries, oranges and a splash of soda, the perfect choice for outdoor gatherings and parties.
Shiraz styles
Fruity to aged
One of the reasons Shiraz remains so beloved is its diverse range of styles. From vibrant and fruit-driven to rich and full-bodied, there’s a Shiraz for every occasion. Here’s a few styles to consider:
Young and fruity: These types are perfect for casual summer sipping with flavours that are bursting with blackberries, plums and cherries.
Aged and complex: Traditional notes of leather, tobacco and dark chocolate, these styles match perfecting for more intricate dishes when you’re looking to impress.
Cool-climate Shiraz: Regions such as Victoria and New Zealand usually produce Shiraz with higher acidity and peppery undertones, offering a refreshing alternative for Summer.
Sip and savour
Shiraz for Summer
Shiraz'enduring popularity in summer boils down to its ability to bridge the gap between robust and refreshing. It’s fruit-forward nature and adaptability to a range of foods make it a go-to summer barbecues, picnics and casual gatherings.
Additionally, the rise of lighter, cool-climate varietal has made the varietal even more appealing to warm-weather wine drinkers
Drinking Shiraz in Summer is a celebration of the varietal’s versatility and enduring charm. Whether you enjoy a bold Australian Shiraz with a grilled steak, sipping on a refreshing Shiraz Sangria by the pool or exploring cool-climate expressions, this wine proves it’s far more than a winter staple.
So, as the sun shines and the barbeque sizzles, don’t hesitate to pour yourself a glass of Shiraz and savour the moment.
