Discover how one grape tells two stories. Rhône Valley Syrah meets Heathcote Shiraz in a tasting that uncorks terroir, trends, and label politics.

Syrah and Shiraz share identical genetics yet walk very different cultural paths. In this episode of Got Somme, we taste benchmark bottles from France’s Rhône Valley alongside Heathcote, Victoria, to reveal how soil, climate, and marketing shape each wine’s personality. You'll learn why cooler-climate Australian producers are embracing the term “Syrah", how Cambrian soil defines Heathcote Shiraz, and what these trends mean for Australia’s export future.

We alos want to know your thoughts on what defines labelling Syrah on Australian bottles?

Sponsors:

RIEDEL Wine Glasses: RIEDEL Superleggero Hermitage/Syrah https://www.riedel.com/en-au/shop/riedel-superleggero-premium/hermitage-syrah-642500041
Grays.com Buy the wine, drink the wine where we get ours: https://www.grays.com/search/wine

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Key Takeaways

One grape, two personas: “Syrah” signals elegance while “Shiraz” hints at bold generosity.
Labels guide perception: Name choice influences consumer expectations before the first sip.
Terroir tells the truth: Rhône delivers peppery finesse, Heathcote offers mineral-driven power.
Trends are cyclical: Market demand swings between delicate and full-bodied styles.
Blind tasting wins: Remove the label and let origin and craftsmanship speak louder.

Chapters

00:00 The Syrah vs Shiraz Debate
02:50 French Style Deep-Dive
06:03 Rhône vs Heathcote Tasting Notes
08:55 Shiraz’s Evolution in Australia
11:38 Reading the Label: Syrah or Shiraz
14:38 Looking Ahead: Future of Australian Shiraz

This podcast proudly presented by Grays.com: https://www.grays.com/search/wine-and-more?tab=items

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78% of people didn't know Syrah is Shiraz | Rhone Valley Masterclass

Got Somme : Master Sommelier's Wine Podcast