Geography
Mostly France and Australia and increasingly in California, Algeria and South Africa.

Viticulture
Grows well in a range of climates and copes well with warmth.

Varietal/Blend
Although used for blending in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, is capable of fine quality wine as a varietal.

Flavour & Character
Intense and complex sweet fruit flavoured, particularly blackberry and raspberry, with a peppery overtone.

Vinification
Traditionally, fermented at up to 35 ºC. Nowadays, often fermented at cooler temperatures in stainless steel vessels. Matured in old or new oak.

Style
Intense, rich and tannic with a velvety texture.

Body, Dry/Sweet
Capable of producing superb wines across the spectrum, but is at its best in full-bodied, intense, deep coloured wines. Produces superb full-bodied examples.

Notes
Known as Syrah in France and Shiraz in Australia and elsewhere.