Shiraz is undoubtedly Australia’s claim to fame. We are fortunate to have the freedom to blend it with all kinds of grapes from Cabernet to Merlot and everything in between. Syrah is often blended with a white grape called Viognier which adds texture and a floral character. This is a tradition in the Rhone Valley in particular but has cottoned on in both New Zealand and Australia. Syrah is a perfect blending grape as it adds a deep purple colour, tannins and ageability.