Syrah is a red wine grape variety that is also called Shiraz in some parts of the world, such as Australia and it has a rich history and a worldwide reputation for delivering big, full flavored wines. In our full guide we will pay attention to the appeal of Syrah, discuss its source, what makes it so unique, important regions that produce this wine, and examples of the best wines in different price categories.
What is Syrah and What Makes it Popular?
Syrah is a variety of grape characterized by a dark-colored skin, and thought to have its roots in the Rhône Valley of France. It is famous for its wines that are full-bodied, have rich flavors, and often present notes of dark fruits, pepper, and spice. The grape does well in many climates and types of soils which makes it a preferred variety of winemakers all over the world.
The versatility of Syrah is a reason for its popularity. Depending on climate, winemaking techniques, and aging processes, it can be tailored into different styles, with most styles falling into three basic categories, elegant and refined, medium and tight-knit, and bold and robust styles. Such versatility is attractive both to wine lovers and winemakers alike, which is why Syrah is a favorite of many.
What Makes Syrah Unique?
The spell of Syrah is within its ability to put terroir in a glass. The grape is highly sensitive to its environment, absorbing the properties of the soil, climate and vineyard practices. So, the wines of Syrah will present a rather new flavor and aroma depending on the terroir of the place where they are grown.
Syrah is also valued for its aging potential. While there are a few styles of Syrah that are easily appreciable when they are young, most of them are known to be keeping and gaining more complexity and character with years. The aging potential in Syrah makes it one of the favorite grapes of collectors and also of wine lovers looking for wines with depth and character.
Taste of Syrah Wine
Derived from ripeness of grapes, winemaking processes, and regional characteristics, Syrah wines are famous for their bold and expressive flavor profiles:
Fruit Flavors: The flavor that Syrah wines often show in this category are ripe fruit flavors like blackberry, plum, and blueberry. Usually, these dark fruit notes are accompanied by a bit of cherry and raspberry, ensuring deeper wine.
Spice and Pepper: Syrah is characterized by pepper and spicy notes. These can range from faint hints of white pepper to more intense aromas of black pepper, clove, and anise. The spicy undertones contribute to the progression of the wine depth and complexity.
Earthy Undertones: Syrah wines usually show earthiness in the aroma and flavor profile of the wine; characterized by forest floor, leather and dried herbs. Such earthy notes help in making the wine more interesting as the oaky elements fill, the wine in general, more.
Tannins and Structure: The standard character of Syrah wines is medium to full bodied, which has hard tannins that give structure and age. Some Syrah wines are drinkable in their youth but others benefit from some aging that tames the tannins and makes the wine more complex with time.
Acidity: Syrah wines have a moderate to high acidity level which makes them fresh and harmonious. The acidity helps to bring out the fruit flavors and gives a fresh feeling, which makes Syrah wines very flexible in terms of food pairing.
A History of Syrah
Syrah has a long history, and its roots can be traced to the Rhône Valley of France. It is supposed to be that the grape was first domesticated by the ancient Romans who realized its capacity of giving good quality wines. With time Syrah was transplanted to other wine regions such as Australia under the name Shiraz.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Syrah was widely consumed in regions like the Northern Rhône, particularly in appellations like Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie, relished for its power and aging potential. During the late 20th century, the Syrah grape variety was a hit all over the world, and there were many plantings of this grape variety in Southern part of America, South Africa, and also Chile.
Most Popular Syrah Wine Regions
Syrah is grown in many wine regions around the world, each expressing their own one of the grapes:
Rhône Valley, France
The Rhône Valley is the birthplace of Syrah that offers diverse terroirs and iconic appellations such as Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas. Syrahs of Northern Rhône are more structured and long-lasting and the Southern Rhône wines are usually blended with few other grapes. One of the top popular wines from this region is Vincent Paris Cornas La Geynale 2022.
Australia
Syrah, here known as Shiraz, is the most prominent red grape variety in Australia and grows particularly well in areas like Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Hunter Valley. The Australian shiraz is famous for its bold fruit flavors, ample body, and ripe tannins. We recommend you try Glaetzer Amon-Ra Shiraz 2021 - one of the top popular wines from Australia.
Washington, USA
The Syrah has succeeded in various wine districts of Washington, such as Hedges Family, Chateau Ste. Michelle, or the highly popular Charles Smith. Their Charles Smith K Vintners The Beautiful Syrah 2020 is characterized by vibrant fruit notes, with secondary flavors of blackberry, plum, and black cherry, making it a perfect pairing for grilled meat.
South Africa
Syrah, also known as Shiraz, soon becomes one of the highly sought after wine varieties in South Africa especially in Stellenbosch, Swartland and so forth. Generally, South African syrah is light, aromatic, and has a lively fruitiness and peppery finish. Porseleinberg 2020 is one of South Africa's most sought-after wines.
Chile
Hence, syrah is grown in a variety of Chilean microclimates, resulting in some glorious wines from all over the country, through the Colchagua Valley to the Maipo Valley, to make it simple. The Chilean Syrah is renowned for its lively, harmonious and strong fruit flavors. Montes Folly Syrah 2020 is noted as a favorite among the acclaimed wines of Chile.
8Wines Top Syrah Recommendations for any Budget and Taste
To cater to various preferences and budgets, we've curated an expanded selection of top Syrah recommendations across different price points, each accompanied by suggested food pairings:
€70 to 100+
Penfolds St Henri Shiraz 2019 - The renowned and distinctive feature of this Australian Shiraz is its performance of the important dishes with lamb chops being grilled with beef stew. It is the sweet sensation of apples, eatcheek soft and the tannin muscle which mix with the richness of the meat to make the taste more smooth and acceptable.
Charles Smith K Vintners Royal City Syrah 2018 - Here is the combination of the Syrah as a wine from Washington that calls out for special occasions and nights. Together with such plates as a duck or venison, try to do it on your own and make the most of the chance to be a gastronomy novelty in their restaurant for a while. The wine's complexity and elegance will complement the richness of game meats perfectly.
Tua Rita Per Sempre Syrah 2021 - is a rich and powerful Tuscan red wine with the taste of dark fruits, especially blackberries and plums, complemented by spices and a hint of smokiness. It pairs well with grilled meats, such as steak and lamb, or barbecue pork. What about desserts? Dark chocolate will complement the deep fruit flavors of the wine.
Standish The Relic Shiraz 2021 - Spoil yourself with a sip of the Shiraz from Australia – and delight yourself with grilled ribeye steak or braised short ribs at the same time. It has such intensity of fruity flavors, silky texture and long, lingering finish make it a luxurious choice for special occasions.
€30 to 70+
Glaetzer Amon Ra Shiraz 2021 - Being extravagant and experienced Shiraz from Australia. The wine is perfect for pairing with dishes like barbecued ribs or spicy beef stir-fry. The wine's dark fruit character and hints of chocolate and spice elevate the flavors of grilled or savory dishes.
Penfolds Bin 128 Shiraz 2019 - Another excellent option from Australia, this Shiraz pairs well with classic dishes such as spaghetti Bolognese or grilled steak. Matching of that deep floral-honey-like flavor with the blackberry notes and oak taste make it a perfect reflection of meat-based dishes. At the same time, that medium body and smooth finish make it a popular drink with everybody.
Vincent Paris Cornas La Geynale 2022 - With its origin in the North Rhone Valley of France, the Syrah wine is a perfect match with classic French dishes like the Coq au vin or beef stew. This is like the combination of their powerful tastes and scents with the typical French values of sausage virtue of French cuisine.
€20 and Under
First Drop Mother's Milk Shiraz 2020 - This delightful Shiraz from Australia perfect for all occasions, like parties or everyday food drinking. Serve it together with meals as pizza or barbecue chicken for a wonderfully laid back dining experience.
Shaw and Smith Shiraz 2021 - Best matched with lighter dishes like grilled vegetables and pasta primavera, this lively Shiraz from Australia is perfect for the entire table. It is very acidic and fruit-driven nature makes it a perfect companion for warm-weather eating.
D'Arenberg The Dead Arm Shiraz 2017 - This amazing Australian Shiraz goes well with many dishes, such as pasta with tomato sauce, grilled sausages, or burgers. The lively fruit flavors and gentle tannins of the wine suit casual dining situations.
Recommended Syrah Wines for any Budget
The Syrah wines still draw the attention of wine lovers with their extraordinary flavors, expressive scents, and amazing range. It makes no difference if you prefer to learn about the traditional expressions of Rhône Valley or you want to taste the lively styles coming out of New World areas, Syrah is a versatile grape that will suit every taste and event.
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