Shiraz (also known as Syrah) is considered the most popular red wine variety in Australia, in part due to its ability to thrive in the country's diverse climates and produce high quality wines with intense flavours and structures.
In addition to Shiraz, other popular red wine varieties in Australia include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Grenache, Pinot Noir, Tempranillo and Sangiovese.
The wine landscape of Australia is currently evolving, and a few trends have been gaining some traction of late including alternative varieties (including Mediterranean varieties like Nero d'Avola, Mencia and Touriga Nacional), natural and minimal intervention wines, single vineyard expressions and a move towards lighter to medium bodied reds that offer more freshness, vibrancy and approachability.
Australia has several regions renowned for their production of high quality red wines, including the Barossa Valley (known for Shiraz in particular), McLaren Vale (recognised for Grenache as well as Mediterranean varieties) as well as Coonawarra and Margaret River (both known for Cabernet Sauvignon).