Shiraz vs Merlot: Explore the distinct differences between Shiraz and Merlot, two popular choices among wine enthusiasts. Learn about their unique flavor profiles, food pairings, and rich histories. Understand the nuances of these great wines, from their origin to their popularity in the world of red wine.
Wine enthusiasts often find joy in the adventurous experimentation of pairing food and wine. While wine can be a serious topic for some, for many of us, it’s about enjoyment, social gatherings, and creating moments of joy and laughter with friends and family. Shiraz and Merlot are two different types of red wine that, while sharing some characteristics, offer different nuances and complexities that distinguish them from each other.
Shiraz, also known as Syrah in some regions, is a French grape variety that originated in the Rhône Valley. Shiraz grapes are now grown throughout the world but are particularly synonymous with Australia, producing the darkest red wine globally. The flavor profiles of Shiraz vary significantly depending on the climate, soil, and winemaking style of the different regions. This grape is often blended with Grenache and Mourvèdre to create the classic Côtes du Rhône blend.
Merlot, on the other hand, originated in Gironde, part of the western France wine regions and is now grown across the world. It is the second most planted grape variety globally, following Cabernet Sauvignon. Merlot is the most planted grape in the Bordeaux region of France. Known for its velvety texture and particular tannin structure, due to the fact that these red wine grapes have thinner skins and fewer seeds. This versatile grape can be made into a white wine, sparkling wine, and rosé.
Merlot is often blended with other grape varieties like Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, playing a significant role in Bordeaux blends and Super Tuscans. It is also splendid as a varietal wine in its own right.
Jump to:
- Why You Will Love These Wines
- Primary Flavors Found in Shiraz vs Merlot
- Shiraz vs Merlot - Wine Characteristics
- Shiraz vs Merlot Wine Serving Tips
- Where are Shiraz and Merlot Grapes Grown?
- Best Food Pairings with Shiraz and Merlot
- Other Great Food Pairings with Shiraz and Merlot
- Shiraz vs Merlot: Why Choose One Over the Other?
- More Wine Pairings and Wine Articles
- FAQ'S
Why You Will Love These Wines
Shiraz
- Shiraz has concentrated black fruit aromas with a spicy black pepper finish to create a bold and elegant wine.
- The velvety texture of Shiraz packs a punch, making it perfect for special occasions.
- You can enjoy excellent value with a price range around $30 - $50, making it accessible for many wine lovers.
Merlot
- Merlot is a medium-bodied wine, fruity, smooth and easy drinking.
- Entry-level Merlot wine is a good choice for weeknight suppers with pizza and more relaxed, easy-going meals.
- Merlot is versatile and when used in Bordeaux blends it can be served for heavier dinner party dishes like roast turkey.
- Merlot from warmer climates such as Napa Valley, pairs well with red meat such as rack of lamb.
- Good quality Merlot is available from around $15.
Primary Flavors Found in Shiraz vs Merlot
Shiraz
- Warmer climates in Australia and South Africa produce flavors of plum, blackberry, black cherry, and blueberry with secondary spice notes.
- In cooler climates like France, Shiraz exhibits flavors of black currant, dragon fruit, and blackberry, along with bolder spice and earthy notes.
Merlot
- Merlot offers flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and plum, often accompanied by hints of herbs and graphite and a smoky or chocolaty finish.
- Merlot wines range from fruity, smooth, and easy-drinking, to more full-bodied and sophisticated.
- In warmer climates, Merlot tends to have smoother tannins, higher alcohol content, and a more full-bodied profile.
Shiraz vs Merlot - Wine Characteristics
Shiraz
- Profile: Shiraz is a dry wine.
- Body: It is a full-bodied red wine.
- Tannins: Shiraz has medium to high tannins.
- Acidity: It has medium acidity.
- Alcohol: The alcohol content ranges from 13.5% to 15% making it a high alcohol wine.
Merlot
- Profile: Merlot is a dry wine.
- Body: It is a medium to full-bodied red wine.
- Tannins: Merlot has medium to high tannins.
- Acidity: It has medium acidity
- Alcohol: The alcohol content ranges from 13.5% – 15%.
Shiraz vs Merlot Wine Serving Tips
Shiraz
- Temperature: Serve at 60 – 68°F / 15 – 20°C.
- Decanting: Decant for at least 1 hour.
- Glass Type: Red glass.
Merlot
- Temperature: Serve at 60 – 68°F / 15 – 20°C.
- Decanting: Aged Merlot – decant for 30 minutes.
- Glass Type: Oversized glass.
Where are Shiraz and Merlot Grapes Grown?
Shiraz
- France: In France Shiraz or rather Syrah is produced in the Rhône Valley.
- Australia: Shiraz from Australia is primarily grown in the Barossa Valley.
- Spain: Shiraz is also grown in Castilla- La Mancha, Catalonia, Valencia and Aragon in Spain
- United States: Shiraz is cultivated in California in the United States.
Merlot
- France: In France Merlot is produced in the Bordeaux, Pomerol and Saint-Émilion regions.
- Italy: Merlot from Italy is primarily grown in the Tuscany and Friuli areas.
- United States: In the United States Merlot is cultivated in the Napa Valley in California and Columbia Valley in Washington State.
- Spain: Merlot is also grown in Castilla- La Mancha, Catalonia, and Navarra in Spain
Best Food Pairings with Shiraz and Merlot
Shiraz
- Shiraz pairs wonderfully with Spicy Food such as Chinese 5 Spice Pork Roast and Indian Tandoori Meat.
- Avoid serving Bland Food with this bold red wine.
Merlot
- Merlot is a good match with a wide variety of foods.
- It is a great choice for easy drinking with dishes like Pizza, Chicken, and Pasta Dishes especially when it contains Bacon, Mushrooms or Cream.
Other Great Food Pairings with Shiraz and Merlot
Warmer Climate Shiraz
- You need not save your Shiraz wine for lavish dishes only. Shiraz is the perfect wine to serve with Pizza with Spicy Salami or a Beef Burger with Jalapeno is also a particular favorite.
- Strong cheeses such as Aged Cheddar, or Parmigiano-Reggiano are a great choice with Shiraz.
- A Grilled Juicy Cut of Steak with a Black Pepper Rub is especially enjoyable with a glass or two of warmer climate Shiraz.
- Chicken Tikka Masala is a highly recommended food pairing with this bold red wine.
Cooler Climate Syrah
- Next time you have Porcini Mushroom Risotto, try pairing it with a Shiraz from the Rhône Valley in France.
- We especially enjoyed Stuffed Quail Wrapped in Bacon, with a cooler climate Shiraz.
- Lamb Shank with White Beans and Herbes de Provence is an excellent match.
Merlot
- Merlot is ideal served with Hors d’oeuvres such as Cured Meats and Mild Soft Cheeses.
- If you use Merlot to make Coq Au Vin, why not serve it with a glass of Merlot.
- Merlot is all about the sauce. Try it with Beef Bourguignon, it is a delightful pairing.
- Shrimp Risotto served with a Merlot wine is a particular favorite.
Shiraz vs Merlot: Why Choose One Over the Other?
Shiraz
Shiraz is a bold, intense, full-bodied wine, making it perfect for special occasions. Not for the faint of heart, this wine packs a punch with its robust flavors and is adored by wine lovers. It is a great wine for pairing with strong, flavorful foods like spicy dishes and red meat. This big red wine offers a delightful peppery spice and dark fruit aroma, making it a favorite among wine enthusiasts.
Merlot
Merlot is more delicate and flavorful. Merlot is a medium-bodied red wine that is excellent for beginners. It is known as the most relaxed of the red wines and it pairs easily with a wide variety of foods. Merlot’s smooth tannins and fruity flavors make it a versatile wine that can be served at any occasion.
More Wine Pairings and Wine Articles
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- Baked Caprese Chicken (+ Best Side Dishes)
- Easy Orzo Recipe with Garlic, Parmesan, and Herbs
- Mediterranean Bulgur Salad with Chickpeas and Herbs
FAQ'S
Shiraz / Syrah
A : Shiraz and Syrah are the same variety of grapes but are named differently depending on the different regions. Shiraz typically refers to wines from Australia and South Africa, while Syrah is used in regions like France.
A : Syrah is commonly used as a blending grape, often mixed with Grenache and Mourvèdre in blends like the classic Côtes du Rhône. Shiraz Cabernet blends are also very popular.
A : Yes, Shiraz wines, particularly those with high tannins and acidity, can age well in the cellar for 10 – 20 years, developing more complex flavors over time.
A : Cooler climate Shiraz wines tend to have high acidity with more peppery and earthy notes, while warmer climate Shiraz showcases ripe fruit flavors like plum and blackberry.
A : Shiraz is known for its bold flavors, high tannin content, and notes of black fruit and black pepper, with a velvety texture.
A : Look for Shiraz from reputable regions like Barossa Valley and Rhône Valley. Consider the wine’s vintage and producer reputation.
Merlot
A : Yes, Merlot is often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc in Bordeaux blends.
A : Yes, Merlot wine can be cellar aged for 5 – 20 years, enhancing its smoothness and complexity.
A : Cooler climate Merlot is more structured with higher tannins. It has herbaceous and graphite notes with earthy flavors like tobacco. Warmer climate Merlot wine is more fruit forward, fuller-bodied with smoother tannins and higher alcohol.
A : Merlot is characterized by its smooth tannins, fruity flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and plum, and its versatility in pairing with various foods.
A : Choose Merlot wine from well-known regions like Bordeaux and Napa Valley. Look for reviews and recommendations from trusted sources.
Shiraz and Merlot each bring unique qualities to the table, making them a popular choice with wine enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the bold, spicy notes of Shiraz or the smooth, fruity flavors of Merlot, both wines offer a delightful experience for various occasions. Explore these grape varieties, experiment with food pairings, and enjoy the journey.
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