Wine
Top-Rated Syrahs Under $50 You Need to Try
July 28, 2025
Syrah, also known as Shiraz, is a beloved red wine grape variety that has captured the hearts of wine lovers everywhere, thanks to the full-bodied, flavor-packed wines it produces—and for those looking to enjoy high-quality Syrah without breaking the bank, there are numerous exceptional options available under $50.
From classic examples from the Rhône Valley to contemporary expressions from sun-drenched vineyards in California, the world of Syrah is vast and diverse, and knowing a few key tips and tricks to lead you to the best bottle for your preferences is key. Our experts have done the hard work for you and are sharing a few key pieces of advice to keep in mind when seeking out budget-friendly Syrah (bottle-specific recs included!)
Tips for Choosing Syrah Wines
Region
The region in which Syrah is produced will greatly influence the wine's final flavor profile. Renowned areas for high-quality Syrah include the Rhône Valley in France, Washington state, and California in the USA, though each region produces very different styles.
Love cites Victoria, Australia (especially the Grampians and Yarra Valley) as two of her go-to Southern Hemisphere areas. “These cooler regions produce Shiraz with elegance, natural acidity, and those signature peppery notes,” she says. Domestically, Love veers towards the Central Coast of California (Santa Barbara County and Paso Robles), as well as Washington State—the latter of which she notes “delivers ‘powerful Syrahs with a mix of ripe fruit and fresh structure, often at better prices than their California counterparts.”
Above all, Love recommends seeking out wines from smaller producers, single-vineyard bottlings, or limited releases. “These often offer better craftsmanship and uniqueness than mass-market labels, especially under $50,” she says.
Vintage
Love reveals that vintage can make a real difference when choosing a Syrah or Shiraz, even in the under $50 range. “Cooler vintages tend to produce wines with more acidity, black pepper, and herbal or floral tones. Warmer vintages lean into riper fruit, softer tannins, and a more plush mouthfeel,” she says. Thus, if you prefer a more restrained, savory style, Love recommends looking for wines from cooler years. “For something fruit-forward and rich, a warmer vintage or region might be more your style,” she says.
Occasion & Food Pairings
Love describes Syrah and Shiraz as incredibly food-friendly, thanks to their full body, fruit concentration, and natural notes of spice. “Some of my favorite pairings include barbecue dishes (brisket, roasted or smoked vegetables), Moroccan dishes (like tagine with briny olives), and definitely hard cheeses such as aged cheddar or gouda,” she says, stating that the structure and complexity of Syrah-based wines allow it to stand up to bolder, umami-rich foods, while its fruit and spice make it fun to play with on the table.
In terms of the best times to enjoy Syrah, Love notes that the sky’s the limit. “A few occasions I like to enjoy Syrahs on are cool evenings when you want something cozy and bold in your glass, dinner parties featuring grilled meats, or backyard hangouts with friends, charcuterie, and BBQ!” she exclaims.
Recommended Syrah/Shiraz Wines Under $50
1. Estate Syrah 2021
The wine shows fruit notes of blueberry and plum, mixed with black pepper and baking spice notes. The oak lends notes of chocolate, caramel, and cedar box subtly in the background of the wine. The tannins are assertive, but a refreshing acidity makes them more approachable and adds a freshness to the wine's finish.
2. Mount Langi Talus Shiraz 2022
Aromas of cherries and fresh plums accompanied by hints of mint and pepper. The palate is medium-to-full bodied, terrifically balanced by a pure acid line. Spicy notes backed by an elegant tannin structure, thyme and rosemary peeking through the concentrated berry flavors.
“This Shiraz from Victoria’s Grampians region is elegant, aromatic, and vibrant,” says Love, emphasizing its ability to showcase the finesse that cool-climate Australian Shiraz is known for. “It’s a perfect match for grilled meats or herb-roasted vegetables,” she says.
3. West Block Syrah 2021
Black plum and juicy blackberries intertwine with beautiful earthy crushed stone and black pepper. Notes of fresh Bay leaf and graphite create depth and highlight aromas of fennel seeds, thyme and currant. With a refreshing and lush mouth feel, this wine is delicious with a light chill.
“Grown sustainably in California’s Central Coast, this Syrah is earthy, bold, and beautifully textured. Expect dark berry fruit, savory herbs, and a touch of black pepper,” says Love, describing it as “the kind of wine you want with smoked brisket or cozy dinners.”
4. Thompson Vineyard Syrah 2021
A beautiful fruity nose, luscious flavors of dark red fruit and moderate tannins. 100% Syrah, sustainably farmed, grown on native rootstock from the esteemed Thompson Vineyard. “From one of Santa Barbara’s top Syrah sites, this wine delivers savory depth and balance,” says Love, citing flavors of olive tapenade, dark fruit, and dried herbs. “The wine’s smooth tannins make it ideal for pairing with roast lamb or a well-stocked cheese board,” she says.
5. Estate Ballfield Syrah 2022
This wine is accentuated by aromas of blackberry and mocha and intensified on the mid-palate with flavors of boysenberry and subtle pepper spice. The smooth finish leaves silky, lingering tannins.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to discovering bottles that deliver exceptional value and memorable tasting experiences in no time. For curated Syrah selections under $50, and Shiraz under $50 click here. To expand your tasting knowledge, book a personalized experience with one of our expert team members here.
