Shiraz, also known internationally as Syrah, is one of the world’s most celebrated grape varieties. At McLeish Estate, we like to say, “It’s not the way you say it, it’s how you drink it that matters.”
On 23 July – International Shiraz Day – we’re proud to celebrate the diversity, history and character of Australia’s favourite red wine. From elegant Hunter Valley Shiraz to traditional method Sparkling Shiraz and classic Australian blends, this remarkable variety continues to showcase its versatility across every style.
The History of Shiraz
Despite the long-held myth that Shiraz originated in Persia, DNA analysis has confirmed that Syrah originated in France’s Rhône Valley. It is the natural crossing of the white grape Mondeuse Blanche and the red grape Dureza, with its earliest history centred around the famous Hermitage region.
Shiraz first arrived in Australia in 1832, when pioneering viticulturist James Busby, often regarded as the father of Australian wine, imported vine cuttings from Europe. The variety quickly proved itself ideally suited to Australia’s diverse wine regions and today has become the country’s signature red grape.
Although wine trends have evolved over the decades, Shiraz remains Australia’s most widely enjoyed red wine, admired for its ability to express regional character while offering exceptional versatility at the table.
The Heritage of Hunter Valley Shiraz
The Hunter Valley is home to one of Australia’s most distinctive expressions of Shiraz. Rather than producing the bold, high-alcohol styles often associated with warmer climates, Hunter Valley Shiraz is renowned for its elegance, medium body and remarkable ability to age gracefully.
Our warm days, cool nights and ancient soils produce wines with soft, fine tannins, vibrant red and dark berry fruit, subtle spice and savoury earthy notes. With careful cellaring, these wines evolve beautifully, developing complex characters of leather, cedar and spice while retaining their hallmark elegance.
The McLeish Estate Style
When I think of McLeish Estate Shiraz, I think of the perfect food wine. Our philosophy has always been to craft elegant, medium-bodied wines that reflect the true character of the Hunter Valley and pair effortlessly with great food and good company.
From our Single Vineyard Reserve Shiraz to our RHM Shiraz Cabernet blend, Estate Shiraz, and our Traditional Method Sparkling Shiraz, every wine showcases the versatility and depth of this remarkable variety.
This International Shiraz Day, we invite you to pop the new release Culloden Sparkling Shiraz or enjoy a delicious vintage of our Estate Shiraz to raise a glass and celebrate Australia’s iconic red variety with us.
Happy International Shiraz Day from all of us at McLeish Estate Wines.
NEW RELEASE
2025 Culloden Sparkling Shiraz
A uniquely Australian classic, that is crafted in tradition method. The Culloden Sparkling Shiraz, sourced from old vine Shiraz grown on our De Beyers Road vineyard, the base wine was transformed through traditional bottle fermentation into a sparkling wine of richness, complexity and vitality.
Lifted aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant and ripe plum are layered with hints of dark chocolate, liquorice and sweet spice. With a fine, persistent bead across the palate; presenting freshness and energy. Subtle savoury spice and a touch of sweetness from the dosage create balance and texture, leading to a smooth, elegant finish with lingering fruit intensity.
Vertical Pack: Estate Shiraz 2023 & Reserve Shiraz 2018