The grape known in France as Syrah and in Australia as Shiraz, is rapidly becoming the world's most popular red wines. They are easy to like, with spicy, wild red and blackberry flavors. Grown extensively in the South of France, all over Australia and a few other places like California, Washington State and South Africa. In France, Rhone blends often display earth and mineral flavors, whereas new world versions have more intense fruit flavors. They are often blended with other Rhône varietals such as Grenache, which adds strawberry flavors and Carignan and Mourvedre, which lend dark notes. Rhône blends are made in a variety of styles: from soft and medium-bodied with red berry characteristics, to big and powerful with flavors of black cherry, peppers, bacon and smoke.

 Softer styles pair well with spicy food and rich fish like salmon. Bolder styles are best paired with flavorful meats like beef and lamb.