Everything About Shiraz – Straight to the Point and into the Bottle

by Dylan Wells

Contents

Below are all the questions you have about Shiraz, give the people what they want right? 


What is Shiraz?

Shiraz is a red wine grape that is grown throughout the world. The wine made from this grape is typically full-bodied with flavours of blackberry, currant, and pepper. Shiraz can be paired with a variety of dishes, but is often enjoyed with steak or lamb.


Is Shiraz sweet?

Most Shiraz wines are on the dry side, but some can be a touch sweet. If you’re looking for a sweet wine, ask your wine merchant if they have any Shiraz wines that are labelled as “dessert” or “late harvest.” These wines will typically have more sugar in them and will be a bit richer and sweeter than other Shiraz wines.


So is Shiraz a dry wine?

When most people think of red wine, they think of a dry wine. Shiraz is a type of red wine that is typically considered to be a dry wine. This means that it doesn’t have a lot of sweetness and isn’t as light and fruity as some other types of red wines. Shiraz is known for its bold flavour and intense aroma.


How long does Shiraz last once opened?

If you’re like us, the only reason that you’re keeping a bottle of Shiraz longer than the day you opened is because you’re forced into this predicament for any particular reason.

So how long does Shiraz last after you open it?

In general, red wines like Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec can last for around four days after being sealed and stored in a cool, dark location or a fridge. Red wines containing more tannin and acidity tend to keep longer once opened. Late harvest reds can also survive for up to 4 days before the spoil. 


How many calories are in a bottle of Shiraz?

Calories in a Bottle of Shiraz

Like all wines, Shiraz contains alcohol, which has 7 calories per gram. Shiraz also contains carbohydrates and sugar, both of which contribute to its total calorie count. A typical bottle of Shiraz contains around 240 calories. Typically there are 5 glasses to a bottle – so that’s 48 calories to a glass. While this may not seem like much, it can add up quickly if you’re drinking multiple bottles throughout the night. If you’re watching your weight, it’s best to enjoy Shiraz in moderation or stick to lighter wines with less sugar like Pinot Noir.


Is syrah the same as Shiraz?

Shiraz is made from Syrah grapes, a variety first harvested in southern France as offspring of two grape varieties Dureza and Mondeuse Blanche.

They are essentially the same thing, but there are certain consistencies and expectations associated with Shiraz so we are finding more and more these days people are starting to call their wines Syrah.


Can I use Shiraz for cooking?

Cooking with wine is a popular way to add flavour to food. Many people are unsure of what wines are best for cooking, and which ones should be avoided. Shiraz is a great option for cooking because it has a deep, bold, and dark fruity flavour that pairs well with many dishes. 

Shiraz also pairs well with red meat dishes, as well as pizza and pasta. It is important to note that not all Shiraz wines are meant for cooking. When choosing a Shiraz to cook with, we recommend, as a rule of thumb, if you’d drink it you can cook with it. You’re obviously not going to use a top-shelf but something mid-range that’s tasty but won’t break the bank. 


Do you chill sparkling Shiraz?

Do you like to drink your wine cold? If so, you may enjoy sparkling Shiraz. This wine is made in the same way as Champagne, with the addition of carbon dioxide, which makes it bubbly. Sparkling Shiraz is best served chilled and can be enjoyed on its own or with light appetizers.


Does Shiraz age well and how long should you cellar it?

Shiraz is a grape varietal that has been around for centuries and is known for its ability to age well. In fact, many wine drinkers believe that Shiraz only reaches its peak after spending several years in the bottle. 

There are a few things you can do to help your Shiraz cellar well. First, make sure you store it in a cool, dark place. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or sunlight. Second, keep the cork moist. You can do this by spraying it with a water bottle every few months. Avoid movement at all costs, this will help keep the wine from spoiling.

It’s important to note that all Shiraz wines are unique and most will have a specific day recommended to pull out of the cellar and crack it open. If it’s an expensive bottle, or a bottle that holds sentiment (not sediment), then we recommend speaking to a sommelier and getting their opinion.