Just when you thought it was safe to come out of the vineyard, International Shiraz Day on July 28th makes its appearance.

But wait, isn't International Syrah day in February, and aren't Australian Shiraz and French Syrah the same?

Well … sort of.

Technically, they are the same grape. And genetics will tell you that the Syrah grape is the marriage of two decidedly French grapes – dureza and mondeuse blanche – but frankly, who cares?

Way back in the 1830's a guy by the name of James Busby brought the grape to Australia and somewhere along the way (no one knows why) it started being called Shiraz and the name stuck. Since then it has become the Aussie’s most widely produced wine. And, here at Colloca Estate Winery, we’ve brought it to Central New York as part of our cadre of reds to supplement our award-winning Rieslings, Chardonnays, and Pinot Noirs.

In Australia, Shiraz is King and here at the winery, we source ours from the Heidenreich Vineyard on the famed Barossa Valley floor.

It's 100% single-sourced and is a concentrated inky purple-black wine that gives a hint of ripe cherry, black currents, sweet vanilla bean, and dark chocolate, all combining to give us a pure expression of Barossa Shiraz.

To highlight this incredible wine, we're celebrating the 3rd Annual Anniversary of International Shiraz Day on July 28th by offering a special deal through the end of the month. Normally, $24.95 a bottle, you can get $5 off.

So, whether you're trying Shiraz for the first time, comparing it with that French Syrah you have in your cellar, or just want to enjoy one great bottle of wine, stop by the tasting room and put a little taste of the land down under on your summer table.

And by the way, watch for the debut of a new Sparkling Shiraz on its way in August that will add a whole new experience to your choice of bubbly!