Item Number: FV054
Shiraz (Syrah) Wine Grape Vine
Shiraz (Syrah) Wine Grape Vine
Rich red grapes for bold wines.
Shiraz (Syrah) grapes are a bold and versatile wine variety, producing small, dark-skinned fruit with intense flavor and spice. These grapes are perfect for crafting full-bodied red wines with notes of blackberry, pepper, and smoky undertones. Thriving in full sun and well-draining soil, Shiraz vines are vigorous and perform best in warm climates. Known for their rich flavor and reliable yields, Shiraz grapes are a favorite for home winemakers and vineyards seeking robust, flavorful wines.
- Bare Root Vine
- Variety: European
- Zones: 6-10
- Pruning: Cane or Spur Prune
- Harvest: September - October
- Flavor Notes: Noted for rich round flavors of black cherry, blackberry, plum, bell pepper, black pepper, clove, licorice, dark chocolate and smoked meat.
- Facts of note: Reddish-black grape produces full rich wines of intense color and flavor. Wines display firm tannins. Remarkably versatile as a varietal or in a blend. Number one grape in Australia.
Shiraz, also known as Syrah, is one of the world’s most renowned red wine grape varieties, celebrated for producing wines with deep, intense flavors and firm tannins. Grown widely in wine regions across the globe, from France to Australia and the United States, Shiraz has become synonymous with rich, full-bodied red wines. While Shiraz is often associated with bold red wine production, the grapes can also be grown for fruit and table use. Learning to grow Shiraz grapes requires an understanding of the vine’s needs, from climate and soil to pruning and harvesting techniques. With the right approach, Shiraz can be a rewarding addition to any vineyard.
Growing Grapes: Shiraz Wine Grape Vine
Shiraz is a European variety of grape, classified under the species *Vitis vinifera*. Its origins can be traced back to the Rhône Valley in France, where it was first cultivated under the name Syrah. Today, it is most famously grown in Australia, where it has become the number one grape variety used in wine production. Shiraz thrives in warm climates, making USDA zones 6-10 ideal for its cultivation. These vines require a long growing season with plenty of sunlight to develop the complex, dark fruit flavors for which the grape is known.
The Shiraz grape itself is small, with a thick, dark reddish-black skin. This thick skin contributes to the grape's high tannin content, which in turn gives Shiraz wines their robust structure and ability to age well. The fruit also has high sugar levels, which can result in wines with relatively high alcohol content. Shiraz is noted for its rich, round flavors, which include black cherry, blackberry, plum, bell pepper, black pepper, clove, licorice, dark chocolate, and even hints of smoked meat.
Climate and Site Selection
Shiraz grapes are best suited to warm, sunny climates where the long growing season allows the grapes to fully develop their flavors. Regions such as Australia’s Barossa Valley, South Africa, and parts of California are particularly well-suited to growing Shiraz. However, the vines can also perform well in cooler climates, like the northern Rhône, where they produce more refined, peppery wines.
When selecting a site for planting Shiraz vines, full sun exposure is essential. The grapes need plenty of warmth to ripen fully, which enhances the development of their characteristic flavors. Avoid planting in areas prone to late spring frosts, as these can damage the buds and reduce fruit production.
Soil quality is also an important factor in growing Shiraz grapes. The vines prefer well-drained, fertile soils, though they are fairly adaptable and can thrive in a range of soil types, from loam to sandy or even rocky soils. Ensuring good drainage is key, as Shiraz grapes do not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Grape Pruning for Shiraz
Proper grape pruning is essential for ensuring healthy vine growth and maximizing fruit production. Both cane and spur pruning methods can be used for Shiraz vines, depending on the region and growing conditions. Cane pruning involves selecting one or two canes from the previous year’s growth and cutting them back to 10-15 buds each. This method is often preferred in cooler climates where vines tend to be less vigorous.
Spur pruning, on the other hand, involves cutting the previous year’s growth back to short spurs with 2-3 buds each. This method is commonly used in warmer climates where the vines are more vigorous and produce an abundance of shoots. Spur pruning helps control the amount of fruit the vine produces, ensuring a balanced crop and maintaining good air circulation around the clusters.
Whichever pruning method is used, it is important to prune during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring. Proper pruning ensures that the vine’s energy is directed toward producing high-quality fruit rather than excessive foliage.
Watering and Fertilizing
Shiraz vines require regular watering, especially during the growing season. Deep, infrequent watering encourages the development of deep roots, which helps the vine access nutrients and water even during dry periods. While established Shiraz vines are moderately drought-tolerant, consistent watering is crucial to ensure even ripening and prevent water stress, which can negatively affect the flavor and size of the grapes.
Fertilization should be approached with care, as over-fertilizing can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy vine growth, but avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can result in too much foliage and reduced fruit quality. Organic compost or well-rotted manure can be applied to improve soil structure and provide a slow release of nutrients throughout the growing season.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Like all grapevines, Shiraz is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Common fungal diseases include powdery mildew, downy mildew, and botrytis bunch rot. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and fruit, while downy mildew causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. Botrytis bunch rot, also known as gray mold, can affect the grape clusters, particularly in humid conditions or after rain during the ripening period.
To prevent these diseases, it is essential to ensure good air circulation around the vines and avoid overcrowding the fruit clusters. Regular sulfur sprays or other organic fungicides can help control fungal outbreaks. Proper vineyard management practices, such as removing weeds and fallen leaves, also help reduce the risk of disease.
Shiraz vines can also be affected by pests such as grape leafhoppers, spider mites, and birds. Introducing beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and predatory mites, can help control pest populations, while bird netting can protect the fruit from being eaten.
Harvesting Grapes: Timing and Technique
Shiraz grapes are typically harvested between September and October, depending on the climate and growing conditions. The timing of the harvest is critical, as it directly impacts the quality and flavor of the wine. Shiraz grapes should be picked when they have reached their optimal sugar and acidity levels. For wine production, the grapes are often harvested when the sugar content is between 24-28 degrees Brix, though this can vary depending on the desired wine style.
To determine the ideal time for harvesting grapes, regularly taste the fruit and measure the sugar levels. The grapes should have a balance of sweetness and acidity, with fully developed flavors. Shiraz grapes tend to have firm tannins and deep color, which are indicators of ripeness.
When harvesting, use sharp pruning shears to cut the grape clusters from the vine. Handle the grapes gently to avoid bruising, as damaged fruit can spoil during the winemaking process. It is also important to harvest the grapes promptly once they reach maturity, as leaving them on the vine for too long can result in overripe fruit with lower acidity and potential loss of flavor complexity.
Wine Production and Table Grapes
Shiraz is primarily grown for wine production and is known for producing full-bodied red wines with intense color and flavor. The wines display firm tannins and a wide range of flavor notes, including black cherry, blackberry, plum, bell pepper, black pepper, clove, licorice, dark chocolate, and smoked meat. The rich and round flavors of Shiraz make it remarkably versatile, and it can be enjoyed both as a varietal wine and in blends.
In Australia, Shiraz has become the country’s most popular grape variety, used to produce wines ranging from bold and spicy to elegant and fruit-forward. Shiraz wines from cooler regions, like the northern Rhône in France, tend to have more peppery, herbaceous notes, while those from warmer climates are often more fruit-driven and rich.
While Shiraz is primarily used for wine production, the grapes can also be eaten fresh as table grapes. Their rich, dark fruit flavors make them a tasty snack, though they are not as commonly grown for this purpose as other table grape varieties like Flame Seedless or Thompson Seedless.
Conclusion
Shiraz wine grape vines are an excellent choice for growers looking to produce bold, flavorful wines. With their rich fruit flavors, firm tannins, and deep color, Shiraz grapes are highly sought after by winemakers worldwide. By selecting the right site, pruning appropriately, managing pests and diseases, and harvesting the grapes at the optimal time, growers can enjoy successful fruit production for both wine and table grapes. Whether enjoyed as a varietal wine or blended with other varieties, Shiraz continues to be a favorite among wine enthusiasts for its versatility and depth of flavor.
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Description
Description
Shiraz (Syrah) grapes are a bold and versatile wine variety, producing small, dark-skinned fruit with intense flavor and spice. These grapes are perfect for crafting full-bodied red wines with notes of blackberry, pepper, and smoky undertones. Thriving in full sun and well-draining soil, Shiraz vines are vigorous and perform best in warm climates. Known for their rich flavor and reliable yields, Shiraz grapes are a favorite for home winemakers and vineyards seeking robust, flavorful wines.
- Bare Root Vine
- Variety: European
- Zones: 6-10
- Pruning: Cane or Spur Prune
- Harvest: September - October
- Flavor Notes: Noted for rich round flavors of black cherry, blackberry, plum, bell pepper, black pepper, clove, licorice, dark chocolate and smoked meat.
- Facts of note: Reddish-black grape produces full rich wines of intense color and flavor. Wines display firm tannins. Remarkably versatile as a varietal or in a blend. Number one grape in Australia.
Shiraz, also known as Syrah, is one of the world’s most renowned red wine grape varieties, celebrated for producing wines with deep, intense flavors and firm tannins. Grown widely in wine regions across the globe, from France to Australia and the United States, Shiraz has become synonymous with rich, full-bodied red wines. While Shiraz is often associated with bold red wine production, the grapes can also be grown for fruit and table use. Learning to grow Shiraz grapes requires an understanding of the vine’s needs, from climate and soil to pruning and harvesting techniques. With the right approach, Shiraz can be a rewarding addition to any vineyard.
Growing Grapes: Shiraz Wine Grape Vine
Shiraz is a European variety of grape, classified under the species *Vitis vinifera*. Its origins can be traced back to the Rhône Valley in France, where it was first cultivated under the name Syrah. Today, it is most famously grown in Australia, where it has become the number one grape variety used in wine production. Shiraz thrives in warm climates, making USDA zones 6-10 ideal for its cultivation. These vines require a long growing season with plenty of sunlight to develop the complex, dark fruit flavors for which the grape is known.
The Shiraz grape itself is small, with a thick, dark reddish-black skin. This thick skin contributes to the grape's high tannin content, which in turn gives Shiraz wines their robust structure and ability to age well. The fruit also has high sugar levels, which can result in wines with relatively high alcohol content. Shiraz is noted for its rich, round flavors, which include black cherry, blackberry, plum, bell pepper, black pepper, clove, licorice, dark chocolate, and even hints of smoked meat.
Climate and Site Selection
Shiraz grapes are best suited to warm, sunny climates where the long growing season allows the grapes to fully develop their flavors. Regions such as Australia’s Barossa Valley, South Africa, and parts of California are particularly well-suited to growing Shiraz. However, the vines can also perform well in cooler climates, like the northern Rhône, where they produce more refined, peppery wines.
When selecting a site for planting Shiraz vines, full sun exposure is essential. The grapes need plenty of warmth to ripen fully, which enhances the development of their characteristic flavors. Avoid planting in areas prone to late spring frosts, as these can damage the buds and reduce fruit production.
Soil quality is also an important factor in growing Shiraz grapes. The vines prefer well-drained, fertile soils, though they are fairly adaptable and can thrive in a range of soil types, from loam to sandy or even rocky soils. Ensuring good drainage is key, as Shiraz grapes do not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Grape Pruning for Shiraz
Proper grape pruning is essential for ensuring healthy vine growth and maximizing fruit production. Both cane and spur pruning methods can be used for Shiraz vines, depending on the region and growing conditions. Cane pruning involves selecting one or two canes from the previous year’s growth and cutting them back to 10-15 buds each. This method is often preferred in cooler climates where vines tend to be less vigorous.
Spur pruning, on the other hand, involves cutting the previous year’s growth back to short spurs with 2-3 buds each. This method is commonly used in warmer climates where the vines are more vigorous and produce an abundance of shoots. Spur pruning helps control the amount of fruit the vine produces, ensuring a balanced crop and maintaining good air circulation around the clusters.
Whichever pruning method is used, it is important to prune during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring. Proper pruning ensures that the vine’s energy is directed toward producing high-quality fruit rather than excessive foliage.
Watering and Fertilizing
Shiraz vines require regular watering, especially during the growing season. Deep, infrequent watering encourages the development of deep roots, which helps the vine access nutrients and water even during dry periods. While established Shiraz vines are moderately drought-tolerant, consistent watering is crucial to ensure even ripening and prevent water stress, which can negatively affect the flavor and size of the grapes.
Fertilization should be approached with care, as over-fertilizing can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy vine growth, but avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can result in too much foliage and reduced fruit quality. Organic compost or well-rotted manure can be applied to improve soil structure and provide a slow release of nutrients throughout the growing season.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Like all grapevines, Shiraz is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Common fungal diseases include powdery mildew, downy mildew, and botrytis bunch rot. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and fruit, while downy mildew causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. Botrytis bunch rot, also known as gray mold, can affect the grape clusters, particularly in humid conditions or after rain during the ripening period.
To prevent these diseases, it is essential to ensure good air circulation around the vines and avoid overcrowding the fruit clusters. Regular sulfur sprays or other organic fungicides can help control fungal outbreaks. Proper vineyard management practices, such as removing weeds and fallen leaves, also help reduce the risk of disease.
Shiraz vines can also be affected by pests such as grape leafhoppers, spider mites, and birds. Introducing beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and predatory mites, can help control pest populations, while bird netting can protect the fruit from being eaten.
Harvesting Grapes: Timing and Technique
Shiraz grapes are typically harvested between September and October, depending on the climate and growing conditions. The timing of the harvest is critical, as it directly impacts the quality and flavor of the wine. Shiraz grapes should be picked when they have reached their optimal sugar and acidity levels. For wine production, the grapes are often harvested when the sugar content is between 24-28 degrees Brix, though this can vary depending on the desired wine style.
To determine the ideal time for harvesting grapes, regularly taste the fruit and measure the sugar levels. The grapes should have a balance of sweetness and acidity, with fully developed flavors. Shiraz grapes tend to have firm tannins and deep color, which are indicators of ripeness.
When harvesting, use sharp pruning shears to cut the grape clusters from the vine. Handle the grapes gently to avoid bruising, as damaged fruit can spoil during the winemaking process. It is also important to harvest the grapes promptly once they reach maturity, as leaving them on the vine for too long can result in overripe fruit with lower acidity and potential loss of flavor complexity.
Wine Production and Table Grapes
Shiraz is primarily grown for wine production and is known for producing full-bodied red wines with intense color and flavor. The wines display firm tannins and a wide range of flavor notes, including black cherry, blackberry, plum, bell pepper, black pepper, clove, licorice, dark chocolate, and smoked meat. The rich and round flavors of Shiraz make it remarkably versatile, and it can be enjoyed both as a varietal wine and in blends.
In Australia, Shiraz has become the country’s most popular grape variety, used to produce wines ranging from bold and spicy to elegant and fruit-forward. Shiraz wines from cooler regions, like the northern Rhône in France, tend to have more peppery, herbaceous notes, while those from warmer climates are often more fruit-driven and rich.
While Shiraz is primarily used for wine production, the grapes can also be eaten fresh as table grapes. Their rich, dark fruit flavors make them a tasty snack, though they are not as commonly grown for this purpose as other table grape varieties like Flame Seedless or Thompson Seedless.
Conclusion
Shiraz wine grape vines are an excellent choice for growers looking to produce bold, flavorful wines. With their rich fruit flavors, firm tannins, and deep color, Shiraz grapes are highly sought after by winemakers worldwide. By selecting the right site, pruning appropriately, managing pests and diseases, and harvesting the grapes at the optimal time, growers can enjoy successful fruit production for both wine and table grapes. Whether enjoyed as a varietal wine or blended with other varieties, Shiraz continues to be a favorite among wine enthusiasts for its versatility and depth of flavor.
Wine grapes have small berry like fruit with seeds. The flavor and color of wine is derived primarily from the skins. The best locations for planting grape vines are on slopes with good drainage and poor fertility.
Select a variety based on your climate and the type of wine desired. Find out if there are any vineyards in your area and what variety they grow — If they are having success with a specific variety you probably will as well.
Keep in mind each vine yields an average of one gallon of wine, but plant extra to make up for fruit loss from birds and other causes.
Our vines are 1-year-old plants, self-rooted from cuttings, no.1 grade with about 8” of top growth. Sold by individual bare root vine. Browse our collection of Table Grapes.
Shipping Information
Shipping Information
Cannot ship to the following states: HI, AK, PR, GU, VI
Cannot ship via USPS.
Cannot ship via SmartPost.
Shipping Weight: 3.3 lb
Dimensions: 18.0"L x 3.0"W x 3.0"H
Features
Features
- Open-Pollinated
- Thornless
Characteristics
Characteristics
Planting & Care
Planting & Care
Useful Information
Useful Information
Guarantee
Guarantee
Limited Dormant Tree & Plant Guarantee
* Claim deadline is June 15th
We guarantee that your dormant tree or plant will arrive in good, viable condition. If your tree arrives in substandard condition, notify us within 3 days of delivery. Please email pictures of the box, inside packaging, the tree and its roots to helpdesk@groworganic.com. We will investigate your claim and process a request to exchange or refund the damaged product.
If your dormant tree or plant has not grown new leaves by June 15th, you may be eligible for our Limited Dormant Tree & Plant Guarantee. This guarantee provides for a store credit for the purchase price of the tree, excluding shipping. Please see the Instructions below.
Important Dates:
- April 1st Dormant trees/plants must be planted in the ground
- May 15th Perform scratch test, if no new leaves have grown
- June 15th Deadline to apply for a dormant tree/plant credit
All required documentation must be received by June 15th for your claim to be considered. Claims or documentation received after June 15th will be denied, without exception. Instructions listed below
Terms and Conditions
We cannot guarantee that your tree or plant will remain alive and healthy after it is received, or bear fruit as there are too many variables in your environment that are beyond our control (i.e. soil preparation, weed and pest control, proper irrigation, chill hours, compatible hardiness for your growing zone, proper choice of pollinator, extreme weather, rodent damage, disease, etc.).
We cannot guarantee that we will be able to provide a replacement tree/plant of the same species either that same growing season or in future years. Customers are responsible for all shipping fees associated with replacement trees and plants.
If we determine that the tree you purchased directly from us is not viable, we will issue you a store credit (not a refund) for the purchase price of the affected dormant tree or plant. Shipping is not included in the dormant tree/plant guarantee. Store credits can be used to purchase any product we sell and are valid for use only until July 1st of the following year.
Historically, 98% of our dormant trees and plants grow and thrive when they have been cared for and planted using our growing guides. Dormant trees and plants must be planted in the ground by April 1st in order to be eligible for credit. If the ground in your area is still frozen solid, you may temporarily plant your tree or plant in a pot.
Potted, non-dormant trees or plants are excluded from this guarantee as they are not dormant at the time of shipment. Evergreen trees such as citrus, avocado and olive trees are not available for credit under the Dormant Tree and Plant Guarantee.
Instructions
We guarantee that your dormant fruit tree or plant will leaf out, if you care for it according to our growing guides. In the unlikely event that your dormant tree or plant does not have leaves by May 15th, follow these simple steps to apply for a store credit:
Before you call or email, please perform a “scratch test” to determine if the tree or plant is still alive. This video shows how to check for live tissue under the bark. Scratch tests need to be done a few inches above and below the graft.
Green Cambium Layer / Living Trees
If the cambium layer under the bark is green, give your tree a little more time. It is still alive, but hasn’t come out of dormancy yet. Check to make sure that it is getting the right amount of deep root water, enough sunlight and that the weather is warm enough for that type of tree/plant to come out of dormancy. Every tree has its own personality and will come out of dormancy at different times. Be sure to submit the required documentation listed below by June 15th, if it doesn’t grow leaves.
Brown Cambium Layer / Dead Trees
If the scratch test shows a brown cambium layer or if your dormant tree/plant doesn’t have leaves by June 1st, please email us at helpdesk@groworganic.com. All required documentation listed below must be received by June 15th for your claim to be considered. To be considered for the guarantee claim, all required documentation must be received by June 15th. Incomplete submissions will be denied.
Required Documentation
- Order number
- Name of dormant tree/plant and the quantity affected
- Photos of each tree or plant showing:
- The roots (tree or plant must be pulled out of the ground)
- The scratch test areas
- The entire tree/plant
We reserve the right to not issue credit for items that have already been replaced. We also reserve the right to require photographic evidence that the tree/plant was not killed by root rot, rodent or mechanical damage.
