The London Wine Competition stands out among international wine contests for its consumer-focused approach, especially when it comes to selecting the finest Shiraz wines. Rather than just assessing technical quality, this competition evaluates wines based on their appeal to everyday drinkers, taking into account their quality, value for money, and packaging. This approach ensures that the wines awarded—such as the standout Shiraz picks—are not only exceptional in taste but are also designed to resonate with both wine enthusiasts and trade buyers, offering true market value and accessibility.

Unique Characteristics of Shiraz Wines

Shiraz (also known as Syrah) thrives in moderate to warm climates, with its flavour profile significantly influenced by the region in which it is grown. In cooler climates like the Northern Rhône, Shiraz tends to produce medium-bodied wines with fresh black fruit flavours, herbal notes, and distinctive black pepper aromas. In contrast, warmer regions like Australia’s Barossa Valley yield fuller-bodied wines with higher alcohol content, showcasing richer notes of black fruits, chocolate, and liquorice. Shiraz can be produced as a single-varietal wine or blended with other varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Grenache, to enhance colour, body, and fruit flavours. Oak-ageing further adds complexity through smoky and spicy nuances. Due to its high acidity and tannin levels, Shiraz wines also have excellent ageing potential.

Exclusive Insights from the 2024 Winners

The 2024 London Wine Competition not only honoured outstanding wines but also offered a behind-the-scenes look at the stories of the producers. For instance, you can learn more about the craftsmanship behind the Lost Wolf 2019 Reserve Shiraz, which showcases the winemaker’s dedication to quality. Similarly, the Metala White Label Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon offers a glimpse into how careful blending and ageing have created a wine of elegance and power. Additionally, the Brockenchack 2020 William Frederick Shiraz highlights the passion and precision that go into making this rich and complex wine.

Top Shiraz wines of 2024 to consider

1. Cat Amongst the Pigeons Fat Cat Tawny, Gold Medal (96 Points)

Produced by Pinnacle Drinks, Australia, the Cat Amongst the Pigeons Fat Cat Tawny stands out for its luxurious and complex profile. The non-vintage Tawny Shiraz is remarkable for its eponymous hue and intricate balance of rich fruit flavours. Winning the accolade for Best Wine of the Year, this wine is well-structured, offering a delightful mix of sweetness and acidity that harmonises beautifully on the palate. With a creamy texture and smooth, lingering finish, this wine is an excellent choice for those seeking a dessert-style Shiraz. 

Image Title & Source: Cat Amongst the Pigeons Fat Cat Tawny

2. Armagh Shiraz Polish Hill River, Gold Medal (96 Points)

Crafted by O'Leary Walker Wines, Australia, the Armagh Shiraz Polish Hill River is a stellar representation of the Shiraz varietal. This 2021 vintage, securing the title of Best in Show by Varietal, offers a striking bouquet of floral and herbal aromas, leading into a dense, layered palate of black fruits, plum, blueberry, and dark chocolate. The wine finishes with a pleasing smoothness, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer an aromatic and balanced Shiraz. With its complexity and layers of flavours, the Armagh Shiraz is a top-tier offering that will appeal to wine enthusiasts seeking elegance and character in their reds. 

Image Title & Source: Armagh Shiraz Polish Hill River

3. The Pioneer Shiraz, Gold Medal (94 Points)

From Wakefield Taylors Wines, Australia, The Pioneer Shiraz, a 2018 vintage is a masterpiece with a dark ruby appearance and intense aromatic profile. On the nose and palate, black fruits dominate, supported by sweet spices imparted from oak ageing. The wine’s complexity is revealed over time, with a long, intricate finish that evolves with each sip. This premium Shiraz showcases the winemaker’s skill and dedication, appealing to immediate enjoyment. 

Image Title & Source: The Pioneer Shiraz

4. Pauletts Clare Valley Shiraz, Gold Medal (93 Points)

Pauletts Clare Valley Shiraz, produced by Pauletts, Australia, brings a vibrant and refreshing option to the table. The 2019 vintage features a medium body with a well-balanced structure, making it an approachable yet elegant choice. Red and black fruit flavours dominate the palate, supported by acidity that keeps the wine fresh. This Shiraz finishes with medium length, leaving a lasting impression without overwhelming the senses. 

Image Title & Source: Pauletts Clare Valley Shiraz

5. Mount Pleasant Wines OP&OH Shiraz, Gold Medal (93 Points)

Mount Pleasant Wines’ OP&OH Shiraz, produced by Mount Pleasant wines, Australia, is a rich and aromatic wine that offers an enticing nose filled with ripe raspberry, cinnamon, and black pepper. On the palate, the 2021 vintage is fleshy and full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a solid structure that balances richness with finesse. The OP&OH Shiraz is a sophisticated and complex wine that will resonate with Shiraz enthusiasts who appreciate depth and refinement. It represents the excellence of the region’s winemaking and is a premium choice for any wine retailer's portfolio.

Image Title & Source: Mount Pleasant Wines OP&OH Shiraz

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Top Shiraz Producing Regions

Australia

Australia is renowned for its Shiraz, which is the most successful grape variety grown across the country. Barossa Valley, in particular, is home to some of the oldest Shiraz vines, producing wines that are rich, full-bodied, and packed with opulent flavours of dark fruits, chocolate, and spice. The diversity in Australian Shiraz offers retailers a wide range of options, from robust and bold expressions to more nuanced and medium-bodied styles, depending on the region.

France

In France, Syrah finds its home in the Northern Rhône Valley, where it is the only black grape variety permitted in the region. Syrah wines from this area are known for their complexity, with smoky, peppery flavours, and the ability to age gracefully. Regions like Côtes Rôtie and Hermitage produce some of the most sought-after Syrah wines, which are often co-fermented with small amounts of Viognier to add a floral lift. These wines represent the pinnacle of Old World Syrah, appealing to consumers who value tradition and complexity.

Chile

Chile’s Syrah wines are gaining international acclaim for their elegance and distinctive body and flavour. The Rapel Valley, particularly the Cachapoal and Colchagua subregions, consistently produces some of Chile’s finest examples of Syrah. These wines are known for their high tannin content, giving them excellent ageing potential. Chilean Syrah offers a unique proposition that balances New World fruitiness with Old World structure.

USA

In the United States, Syrah is produced in both warm and cool climates, leading to a range of styles. California’s Sonoma County, Santa Barbara, and Paso Robles regions produce French-style Syrahs with a focus on varietal purity. Meanwhile, warmer regions like Napa blend Syrah with other Rhône Valley varieties, creating more approachable wines. Syrah from the U.S. appeals to a broad consumer base, offering versatility and accessibility in flavour profiles.

If you are a trade buyer or a wine enthusiast looking for some amazing shiraz that offers outstanding quality at the right price, you can check the 2024 London Wine Competition shiraz winners here

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