Shiraz or Syrah is a variety of grape used in wine. The names are interchangeable. It is called Syrah in France. In the United States, South Africa, Australia, and Canada it is known as Shiraz. It should not be confused with Petite Sirah, a synonym for Durif, which is a different type of grape.
Winemakers (or wine marketers) sometimes choose one name over the other to signify a stylistic difference in the wine they have made. "Syrah" labeled wines are sometimes thought to be more similar to Old World examples (presumably more elegant or restrained) such as Northern Rhône reds. "Shiraz" labeled wines are more similar to New World examples (presumably riper and fruitier), but even this rule of thumb is unevenly applied.
Wines made from Shiraz are often quite powerfully flavoured and full-bodied. The variety produces wines with a wide range of flavor notes, depending on the climate and soils where it is grown, as well as other viticultural practices chosen. Aroma characters can range from violets to berries, chocolate, espresso and black pepper. No one aroma can be called "typical" though blackberry and pepper are often noticed. With time in the bottle these "primary" notes are moderated and then supplemented with earthy or savory "tertiary" notes such as leather and truffle. ("Secondary" flavor and aroma notes are those associated with winemakers' practices, such as oak barrel and yeast regimes, and are not typically associated with specific grape varieties.)
