Elizabeth Hinds
Syrah/Shiraz
History The names Syrah and Shiraz are both terms to describe the same grape, but is a different than the Petite Sirah The origin of this grape is uncertain, but it gained popularity in the Northern Rhone region of France before expanding to other parts of the globe. Currently grown in France, Australia, Santa Barbara and Sonoma, CA, Washington state, South Africa, Chile, and Argentina. Imported to Australia in the mid-1800s and re-branded as Shiraz in that region. Since its popularization in the mid-20th century, Shiraz has become Australias biggest selling wine. Syrah was first imported to California in 1831, but was almost completely wiped out by disease before 1900. It didnt regain popularity until the mid-20th century.
Grape Characteristics Full-bodied, tannic wine Deep violet to black in color Wine characteristics are highly influenced by weather and region All regions o Smoky o Spicy France o Earthy o Red fruits o Dried herbs Australia and US o Black fruits Plums and blackberries
Elizabeth Hinds Preferred Climate and Growing Conditions Thick-skinned grapes allow Syrah to withstand more extreme climates The colder the climate the spicier the wine The grape requires heat to attain ripeness, but over-ripening diminishes the varietal characteristics Buds fairly late and is a mid-season ripener The vines are relatively productive, but require very specific weather conditions to develop
Typical Wine-Making Procedures In the Northern Rhone region, all Syrahs are oak aged Frequently blended with Grenache or Mourvedre When young, the wine is very tannic with strong peppery qualities Syrahs age very well, a characteristic often reflected in the price. As the wine ages, they take on the characteristics of black fruits and some smokiness
Pairing Suggestions Bold flavors such as smoked meats and stews Parmesan and aged goat cheese
Fun Facts References
"Syrah." The New Wine Lover's Companion, Barron's. Hauppauge: Barron's Educational Series, 2003. Credo Reference. Web. 03 November 2013.
In Rhone, due to the steep hillsides of the region, the grapes must be harvested by hand and carried on pickers shoulders in wooden crates up and down the hills Known as Syrah in Europe and the US; known as Shiraz in Australia and South Africa Syrah has been called voluptuous and slutty for its lavish, full-bodied style.
"Syrah." Wineaccess. WineAccess, n.d. Web. 03 Nov. 2013. http://www.wineaccess.com/wine/grape/syrah Haddad, Laura Holmes. Anything but Chardonnay: A Guide to the Other Grapes. New York: Stewart, Tabori & Chang, 2008. Print. LaMar, Jim. "Syrah." Syrah. Professional Friends of Wine, 8 Apr. 2003. Web. 03 Nov. 2013.