This variety is thought to be named after the city of Shiraz in Iran, where the process of winemaking is believed to have originated. That said, it is thought the variety originated in the Northern Rhone valley of France.

Shiraz is also known as Syrah, the later typically used in the old world\and in Shiraz in countries such as Australia. Shiraz typically produces full rich wines of intense color and flavour. In warmer climates like Australia, the grape produces wines that are sweeter and riper tasting. In cooler climates like the Rhone valley of France, it often has more pepper and spice aromas and flavors.

The grape was introduced to Australia in 1832 by James Bushby who brought in vines of several varieties from Europe. By 1844 Shiraz was a recommended variety for Australia and for at least its first hundred years in Australia, Shiraz was used as a 'blend' variety and not vinified separately.

In Australia, Shiraz has found a real home It's late blooming nature suited the warmer growing conditions found in Australia. The Shiraz grape is the most widely planted red grape variety in Australia where it is sometimes blended with Cabernet Sauvignon or occasionally with Mourvedre.

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." 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.)

….Powerful, deeply concentrated aromas of creme de cassis, cherry liqueur, licorice and violet pastille, espresso, vanilla, clove and mocha; there a lot going on here, and the wine is still a baby…. 91+ Points
Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar, Sep/Oct 05 (more)