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History of Shiraz Wine

Aug 23, 2025

Overview

This documentary-style exploration by journalist Anahita Shams traces the ancient and complex history of wine—especially Shiraz wine—from its origins in Iran through the Caucasus, Europe, and into the New World, uncovering archaeological, historical, and cultural connections while examining how the name and legacy of Shiraz wine continue globally today.

Ancient Origins of Winemaking

  • Iran has a rich history of wine production and export dating back thousands of years.
  • Archaeological evidence shows ancient wine jars from Hajji Firuz in Iran, dating back 7,000 years.
  • Georgia, in the Caucasus, is also recognized as a birthplace of winemaking, with traditions and grape cultivation spanning millennia.
  • Early winemaking techniques, such as fermentation in buried clay vessels (qvevri), persist in Georgia.

Wine Culture and Traditions

  • Wine played a central role in Persian court life and poetry, particularly in the city of Shiraz.
  • Drinking customs, such as wine horns in Georgia and ceremonial toastmasters, reflect the deep cultural integration of wine.
  • Folklore and poetry, including the story of King Jamshid’s court, mythologize wine’s discovery and use in Iran.

Historical Developments and Trade

  • Wine production in Iran flourished until the 1979 revolution, after which it was banned and went underground.
  • In Safavid Iran, wine (especially Shiraz) was produced by Armenian and Georgian minorities and exported widely, including to India and East Asia.
  • French merchants such as Chardin and Tavernier documented the widespread appreciation and export of Shiraz wine in the 17th century.

The Shiraz/Syrah Grape Mystery

  • The French Hermitage vineyards in the RhĂ´ne Valley are legendary for Syrah wines, but genetic analysis confirmed Syrah is native to France, not Iran.
  • The name “Shiraz” for Syrah in Australia is traced to James Busby, whose grape imports and possible mislabeling popularized the name.
  • The use of “Shiraz” in Australia and some New World vineyards continues the association, though the grape’s true origins are French.

Continuity and Legacy in the Modern World

  • Iranian Ă©migrĂ©s and enthusiasts have sought to revive Shiraz wine, including transplanting vines to Hungary and California.
  • California’s Dariush Winery combines Persian heritage and winemaking, producing Shiraz in homage to Iran’s legacy.
  • The story and spirit of Shiraz wine remain vibrant in diaspora communities and among global wine lovers.

Decisions

  • Continue seeking connections between Persian and global wine traditions to better understand cultural and historical links.

Action Items

  • TBD – Researchers/Curators: Sample and test remaining ancient jars in Tehran for wine residue analysis.
  • TBD – Enthusiasts/Winemakers: Further explore and document the migration and naming of Shiraz/Syrah grapes internationally.

Questions / Follow-Ups

  • Can additional archaeological evidence be uncovered to further clarify the historical spread of grape varieties?
  • How might ongoing political or cultural restrictions in Iran impact the preservation or revival of its winemaking heritage?

Full transcript