Shiraz: The Perfect Wine for Every Meal
When it comes to wine, nothing is more versatile and widespread than the soft red Shiraz. Shiraz has been a favourite in wine cellars in Australia and worldwide for its bold flavours and rich history. Indeed, it is truly exceptional for drinking and pairing with various dishes.
Let’s explore why the popular combination of Shiraz and food is becoming popular.
The Charm of Shiraz
Shiraz, also known as Syrah in many regions, is a very intense red wine with full-bodied, spicy flavours. Originating from France, this grape has found the perfect home in the warm climates of Australia, where it thrives and unfolds into rich, intense flavour profiles. The classic flavour of Shiraz generally captures flavours of dark fruit, such as blackberry and plum, with black cherry additions, pepper, smoky spice, and sometimes chocolate or liquorice.
This dynamic flavour profile makes Shiraz a fantastic wine to pair with food. Shiraz can complement a wide range of flavours, from a rich steak to delicate pasta or the subtleties of a well-put-together vegetarian dish.
Best Food Pairings with Shiraz
The beauty of Shiraz is how well it can pair with many different types of food. Here are classic food combinations to elevate your next meal:
1. Grilled Meats and BBQ
The smoky features of Shiraz make it the perfect complement for grilled meats and barbecue dishes. From a beautifully seared steak to succulent lamb chops, the rich tannins and dark fruit flavours balance the smoky, charred flavours of grilled dishes. Consider pairing your Shiraz with a hearty Aussie BBQ, including sausages and marinated meats, for an Aussie touch.
2. Roasted and Braised Dishes
Shiraz is ideal for slow-cooked dishes like braised beef or lamb. Its deep, full-bodied nature complements the rich, tender meat and earthy flavours of root vegetables. A glass of Shiraz goes well with slow-cooked beef stew or roasted chicken seasoned with spices.
3. Spicy Cuisine
The wine’s boldness is excellent when combined with spicy food, making it perfectly suitable for dishes from cuisines like Indian, Thai, or Mexican. The peppery flavour can particularly highlight spices in dishes like Indian curries and grilled kebabs and provide the right contrast to spiciness.
4. Hard Cheeses
Shiraz blends well with a variety of hard cheeses, so it can also be a good choice for cheese lovers. Its bold and complex flavours complement the rich, creamy textures of cheddar, gouda, or aged parmesan cheese. Add some crackers or fruit to the wine and cheese combination for a perfect pairing experience.
5. Dark Chocolate Desserts
Shiraz can be a great companion for those who like the sweetness of their wine. Its fruit-forward profile and lingering spice enhance the rich flavours of dark chocolate, making it the perfect way to end a meal on a sweet note.
Discovering Kent Street Cellars Shiraz
Kent Street Cellars provides a remarkable range of Shiraz wines, reflecting the richness and diversity of this exceptional variety. There’s the full-on, robust Shiraz to enjoy with your barbecue or a smoother, more delicate bottle to accompany your favourite cheese – and everything in between. Kent Street Cellars has a Shiraz that is just right for you. With wines from renowned Australian producers, the collection offers a fantastic range of styles, ensuring that every Shiraz lover can find their perfect match.