Vitis vinifera ‘Shiraz’

Horticultural & Botanical History

‘This fine large oval black grape is that which is grown almost exclusively in the vineyards of the Hermitage [Rhône Valley], and furnishes the celebrated Hermitage wine. It is said to have been originally introduced from Schiraz, in Persia, by one of the hermits who formerly resided there.’ [Hogg – Fruit Manual p.406/1884].

‘Produces an excellent wine of good colour, body, and keeping qualities, specially adapted for the natural conditions met with in Australia, and should constitute the foundation of red Australian wine, both for the local and the export market.’ [Despeissis p.262/1903].

History at Camden Park

Listed in all published catalogues [Vines for Wine only no.4/1843]. ‘Schiraz’ is written by hand in a copy of the 1843 catalogue held at the Mitchell Library [ML 635.9/m].

William Macarthur’s comment: ‘No. 27 – Scyras (45/1 or No. 45 of the private collection [of Busby], but it is no longer to be found in the Botanic Gardens, although its name is in the catalogue). An excellent grape, and promises to be at least equally as valuable for red wine as the Verdeilho is for white. This is the sort said to be chiefly cultivated on the celebrated Hill of the Hermitage. It is a very hardy plant, produces well, and seems to be liable to no accident or disease; may be planted at same distance, or, as it grows with more vigour, at a greater distance than the Verdeilho.’ [Maro p.27/1844].

Notes