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.
Pinotage
Pinotage is South Africa’s signature red grape. It’s a bit of a wildcard—think bold flavours, often reminding people of dark berries, smoke, and sometimes a touch of coffee or even rubber (in a good way, if that’s possible).
You’ll find that Pinotage is usually medium to full-bodied, with low to moderate acidity. Tannins can feel a bit rough or grippy, especially in cheaper bottles. It’s not everyone’s favourite, but it works great with BBQ, spicy food, or a burger.
Most Pinotage is made as a solo act, but you’ll see it sometimes blended. If you like bold reds and don’t mind something a bit different, it’s worth a try.