Syrah, also known as Shiraz, is a dark-skinned grape variety used globally to produce red wine. This versatile grape yields powerfully flavored, full-bodied wines. While known as Syrah in its ancestral home of France, the same grape is recognized as Shiraz in other significant wine-producing regions, particularly Australia. This dual identity reflects the grape’s adaptability and diverse wine styles.
Global Journey and Regional Styles
The Syrah grape originated in southeastern France, a natural cross of Dureza and Mondeuse Blanche. It gained prominence in the Rhône Valley, especially the northern Rhône, where it is the sole red grape in wines like Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie. French Syrahs are characterized by elegance, structure, and earthy notes, reflecting cooler climates and traditional winemaking.
The grape arrived in Australia in the 19th century, becoming known as Shiraz and thriving in warmer climates. Australian Shiraz wines are bolder, more fruit-forward, and fuller-bodied. Beyond France and Australia, Syrah/Shiraz is cultivated globally in regions like the United States, South Africa, Chile, and New Zealand. The name often signals the wine’s style: “Syrah” implies a cooler-climate, savory profile, while “Shiraz” indicates a warmer-climate, fruit-driven one.
Unveiling the Flavor Profile
Syrah wines are full-bodied and display a wide range of flavor notes, influenced by climate and viticultural practices. Common characteristics include dark fruit notes like blackberry, blackcurrant, and blueberry. Beyond fruit, Syrah often presents spicy elements such as black pepper, licorice, and clove.
Savory undertones are also found, including notes of smoked meat, olive, and sometimes mint or eucalyptus. When aged in oak, Syrah wines develop additional complexity, introducing aromas of vanilla, chocolate, or coffee. The wine has a deep, inky color, firm tannins that soften with age, and moderate acidity, allowing for favorable aging.
Pairing and Enjoying Syrah
Syrah’s robust character makes it a versatile wine for food pairings, especially with hearty dishes. It harmonizes well with grilled or roasted meats like steak, lamb, and pork, as its bold flavors and firm tannins stand up to rich proteins. Game meats, including venison or duck, also complement Syrah, highlighting its earthy notes. Hearty stews, braised dishes, and aged, hard cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan are excellent companions.
For optimal enjoyment, serve Syrah slightly below room temperature, ideally between 60°F and 68°F (15°C to 20°C). Serving it too warm emphasizes alcohol, while too cold mutes its complex aromas and flavors. Decanting Syrah is beneficial, especially for younger or older bottles, as it allows the wine to breathe, softening tannins or separating sediment. Store Syrah bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature, around 55°F (13°C), to maintain cork moisture and prevent premature aging.