Syrah
Syrah makes deep red wines that are bold, dark, and packed with flavour. Expect black fruit like blackberry and plum, often with pepper, spice, and a bit of smokiness. The body is usually full, with enough tannin to give it some grip, and the acidity sits about medium, so it's not too sharp.
Syrah is a go-to for steak, BBQ, or anything grilled. It can pack a punch, but it’s generally smooth enough to drink on its own if you’re into bigger reds. You’ll find it everywhere from France (where they sometimes call it Shiraz) to Australia, but the core character stays the same: rich, spicy, and unapologetically bold.
Mourvedre
Mourvedre is a red grape that makes bold, gutsy wines. Expect loads of dark fruit, like blackberry and plum, plus a bit of a meaty, earthy kick. The wines are full-bodied with decent tannins, so they feel pretty grippy.
Acidity sits about medium, so the wine isn’t sharp, but it’s not flat either. Mourvedre is often used in blends (think GSM: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre), but you’ll also find it flying solo in some parts of Spain and France.
If you like your reds deep, savoury, and not afraid to show muscle, this one’s a solid bet.
Grenache
Grenache is a super easygoing red grape. The wines are usually medium-bodied, lower in acidity, and pretty soft on tannins, so they’re very smooth and drinkable. Expect loads of juicy red fruit—think strawberries and raspberries—plus a hit of warmth from higher alcohol.
It’s a crowd-pleaser on its own, but also a key grape in blends, especially in regions like southern France and Spain (where it’s called Garnacha). You’ll find it in everything from rosé to bold reds. Great for people who like fruit-forward wines without too much bite.
Carignan
Carignan is a red grape that's all about punchy, no-nonsense flavour. It brings bold, dark fruit and a bit of spice, with a fair amount of acidity to keep things fresh. The tannins can be grippy, so it’s not the softest sip, but it makes a lively, gutsy wine.
Usually medium to full-bodied, Carignan is often used in blends to add backbone and complexity, especially in Southern France and Spain. On its own, expect a rustic edge and plenty of character—great with food, less great for sipping solo.