What Is Syrah Wine?

Robust and full of flavor, Syrah wine enjoys popularity throughout the world.

"Syrah" refers to a grape originating from the Rhone region of France. When made into wine, Syrah grapes develop into a hearty, full-flavored red wine that pairs well with grilled meats, rich stews and highly-spiced dishes.

Growing Regions

First grown in the Rhone Valley, Syrah grapes are now grown all over the world, particularly in warmer climates where the ripe fruit releases a bright burst of flavor. France grows the most Syrah grapes of any country in the world. Five out of seven continents produce Syrah wine, with Australia (where it is called Shiraz) taking the lead.

Flavors

Many flavors are cited when describing Syrah wine, including blackberry, licorice, chocolate, cinnamon, rosemary, clove, black olive, bay leaf, mint and violets. Syrah grapes can be made into both a sweet wine and a dry wine, and are ideal for blending with other varietals.

Misconceptions

Petite Sirah and Syrah are two entirely different grapes and make two distinctly different wines. Also, while a Middle Eastern town called Shiraz has produced its own fine wines for hundreds of years, there is no connection between this product and the Shiraz wine of Australia.

References

• WineIntro.com--Shiraz/Syrah Information
• Syrah Wine
• Sunset.com--Wine Pairing Guide