Syrah / Shiraz

シラー種 Syrah

Introduction

Syrah and Shiraz are two names representing the same grape variety. Opting for either name can provide consumers with insight into the wine's style. Syrah is used in France and other European countries, while Shiraz is common in Australia and other New World countries.

It's a thick-skinned black grape known for its black-fruit flavors and characteristic aromas of black pepper. You can find soft and fruity versions for easy sipping or concentrated ones that develop complex flavors as they age.

Characteristics of Syrah grapes and wines

Syrah needs a moderate to warm climate for full ripening and produces wines with medium to high tannin and acidity levels.

In moderate climates, Syrah tends to be medium-bodied with fresh black-fruit flavors (like black cherry and blackberry), herbal notes, and spicy aromas (mainly black pepper). On the other hand, in warm climates, it becomes full-bodied, boasting high alcohol content and flavors of ripe, cooked black fruits and licorice.

Syrah not only shines as a high-quality single-varietal wine but, thanks to its thick skins and small grapes, also plays a crucial role in contributing color, black-fruit flavors, and tannins to blends.

Syrah wines often undergo oak maturation, serving the dual purpose of softening the wine's tannins and infusing it with smoky and spicy flavors. Exceptional Syrah wines, owing to their intense flavors and tannins, are typically well-suited for bottle aging and, in time, can develop dried fruit, leather, meat, and earthy aromas and flavors.

Important regions for Syrah

France
- Northern Rhône (Côte Rôtie AOC, Hermitage AOC, Crozes-Hermitage AOC).
- Languedoc-Rousillon (Minervois AOC, Pays d'Oc IGP).
Australia
- South Eastern Australia.
- Barossa Valley.
- Hunter Valley.
Romania
- Muntenia (DOC Dealu Mare)
- Dobrogea (DOC Murfatlar)
- Oltenia (DOC Mehedinti-Corcova)

Syrah food pairings

Meat, especially beef, grilled or cooked over an open fire. Pork can also be a good option, especially if grilled. Dishes with garlic and herbs like thyme, oregano, and rosemary can also be a superb option for Syrah wines. And last but not the list, my favorite pairing is with cured meats.