Syrah and Shiraz are two names for the same grape, but they represent two distinct styles influenced by geography and winemaking traditions.
Syrah, grown primarily in Europe’s cooler climates, particularly France’s Rhône Valley, is known for its elegant flavors of violet, white pepper, and cool berries, often with a subtle touch of French oak. In contrast, Shiraz, popularized by Australia, is bold and robust, showcasing hot spice, brooding dark fruit, and higher alcohol content. Despite their shared origins, these two styles can produce wines that are remarkably different in character and appeal.
Although Syrah and Shiraz are the same grape, they have carved out unique niches in the global wine market. While neither commands the stratospheric prices of Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir, they do attract high prices, especially when produced by renowned estates. This year’s list of the most expensive Syrahs and Shirazes, according to Wine-Searcher, highlights the ongoing rivalry between France and Australia, the two powerhouses of this grape.
The Top Contenders by Wine-Searcher
1. Pierre Gonon Saint-Joseph Vieilles Vignes – USD 1,858
Topping the list is Pierre Gonon’s Saint-Joseph Vieilles Vignes from the Rhône Valley. Established in 1988, Pierre Gonon has built a world-class reputation for its Syrah, with this particular wine commanding an average retail price of USD 1,858. With a critic score of 94 points, it exemplifies the finesse and complexity that French Syrah can achieve.
2. Noël Verset Cornas – USD 935
Next is Noël Verset Cornas, a wine with a legendary status in the Rhône Valley. Noël Verset’s winemaking legacy spans over 70 years, and his wines have elevated the Cornas appellation to global acclaim. The 2000 vintage, his final release, is a rare find, with an average price of USD 935 and a critic score of 90 points.
3. Thierry Allemand Cornas – USD 916
Thierry Allemand, another star of Cornas, takes third place. Known for his limited-production Syrah, Allemand’s wines are highly sought after. His Cornas, priced at USD 916, reflects his dedication to traditional winemaking methods with modern refinements, earning a critic score of 92 points.
4. Penfolds Bin 170 Kalimna Vineyard Shiraz – USD 861
Australia makes its first appearance with Penfolds Bin 170 Kalimna Vineyard Shiraz. Penfolds, one of Australia’s most famous wine producers, is known for its distinctive and bold Shiraz. This wine, no longer in production, is a collector’s favorite, boasting a 95-point critic score and a price tag of USD 861.
5. Henschke Hill of Grace Shiraz – USD 733
Another Australian icon, Henschke’s Hill of Grace Shiraz, claims fifth place. Henschke, based in Eden Valley, is revered for its biodynamic practices and historic vineyards. The Hill of Grace Shiraz, made from some of the world’s oldest vines, scores 96 points and sells for USD 733.
6. Marie et Pierre Bénetière Côte-Rôtie Le Dolium – USD 664
Returning to the Rhône Valley, Marie et Pierre Bénetière’s Côte-Rôtie Le Dolium secures the sixth spot. Produced only in exceptional years, this Syrah is a limited release, highly valued for its quality, with a critic score of 94 points and a price of USD 664.
7. Domaine Jamet Côte-Rôtie La Landonne – USD 616
Domaine Jamet’s Côte-Rôtie La Landonne, another Rhône Valley treasure, is seventh on the list. This Syrah, known for its ability to age for decades, is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, scoring 96 points and priced at USD 616.
8. Domaine Jamet Côte-Rôtie Côte-Brune – USD 601
Following closely is another Domaine Jamet wine, the Côte-Rôtie Côte-Brune. Like La Landonne, this 100% Syrah ages for two years in French oak, resulting in a wine that can mature for 20-30 years. It also scores 96 points and is priced at USD 601.
9. Marcel Juge Cornas – USD 568
Marcel Juge’s Cornas ranks ninth. Renowned for his organic, hand-harvested wines, Juge’s Syrah is celebrated for its authenticity and traditional style. Despite his retirement, his wines continue to be highly regarded, scoring 93 points and priced at USD 568.
10. Hundred Acre 'Deep Time' Ancient Way Vineyard Summer's Block Shiraz – USD 565
Rounding out the list is Hundred Acre’s 'Deep Time' Ancient Way Vineyard Summer's Block Shiraz. Although Hundred Acre is based in Napa, this Shiraz is made from Barossa Valley grapes. Known for its meticulous craftsmanship, this wine scores 93 points and costs USD 565.
The Ongoing Battle: Syrah vs. Shiraz
This year’s list underscores the continued dominance of France’s Rhône Valley in the world of Syrah, with half of the top ten coming from this storied region. However, Australia’s Shiraz is clearly making its mark, challenging the Old World’s supremacy with bold, high-scoring wines. As the global wine market evolves, the rivalry between Syrah and Shiraz will likely intensify, each bringing its unique expression of the grape to wine lovers around the world.
Source: Wine-Searcher