As we explore the priciest wines of the year, we focus on Syrah, a versatile grape with roots in France’s Rhône Valley and a strong presence in Australia. Known as Syrah in Europe and Shiraz in the New World, this grape offers a range of flavor profiles and price points.
Leading the list is Pierre Gonon Saint-Joseph Vieilles Vignes from the Rhône Valley, with an average price of $1,858 and a critic score of 94 points. This wine, produced by a premier estate established in 1988, showcases the Rhône’s renowned quality.
In second place is Noël Verset Cornas, with a price of $935 and a score of 90 points. Verset, known for his traditional winemaking, significantly impacted Cornas’s reputation over his 70-year career.
Thierry Allemand Cornas ranks third, priced at $916 with a 92-point score. Allemand, a former collaborator of Verset, produces highly sought-after Syrah from his limited vineyards.
Penfolds Bin 170 Kalimna Vineyard Shiraz, the top Australian entry, is fourth. Priced at $861 and scoring 95 points, it reflects Penfolds’ storied history since 1844.
Henschke Hill of Grace Shiraz follows, with a price of $733 and a perfect score of 96 points. Henschke, an iconic Australian estate, is celebrated for its biodynamic practices and historic vineyards.
Marie et Pierre Bénetière Côte-Rôtie Le Dolium is sixth, with an average price of $664 and a 94-point score. Produced only in exceptional years, it represents the pinnacle of Côte-Rôtie Syrah.
Seventh is Domaine Jamet Côte-Rôtie La Landonne, priced at $616 with a 96-point score. This wine, made from whole bunch Syrah, is known for its aging potential.
Domaine Jamet Côte-Rôtie Côte-Brune, also from Jamet, is eighth, with a price of $601 and another 96-point score. It mirrors La Landonne in quality and aging potential.
Marcel Juge Cornas comes in ninth, priced at $568 and scoring 93 points. Juge, a leading figure in Northern Rhône, is celebrated for his organic and traditional winemaking methods.
Rounding out the list is Hundred Acre Deep Time Ancient Way Vineyard Summer’s Block Shiraz, priced at $565 with a 93-point score. Made in Napa but from Barossa Valley grapes, it stands out for its meticulous craftsmanship.
France’s Rhône Valley continues to lead in the most expensive Syrah wines, but Australia’s Shiraz is making notable gains.
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