Syrah is a widely planted and highly regarded grape varietal that is known for producing full-bodied, bold, and complex red wines. The origin and history of the Syrah grape are somewhat shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have originated in the Rhone region of France, where it is still grown today. 

Where Does Syrah Wine Come From?

The exact origin of the Syrah grape is still a subject of debate among wine historians and ampelographers (scientists who study grapevine genetics). Syrah is widely believed to have originated in the Rhone region of France, where it has been grown for hundreds of years.

One theory suggests that the Syrah grape was brought to the Rhône Valley by the ancient Greeks during their colonization of the region in the 4th century BCE. According to this theory, the grape was then cultivated by the Romans and eventually became one of the most important grape varieties in the region.

Another theory suggests that the Syrah grape is actually a descendant of a wild grapevine that was once found in the Rhone region. It is believed that it may have originated in Persia (modern-day Iran) or in the city of Shiraz in ancient Persia. This theory is supported by DNA analysis. In fact, a wild Syrah grapevine is still found in the region.

What Does Syrah Wine Taste Like? What are the Characteristics of Syrah Grapes?

Characteristic Aromas

Syrah wines are known for their intense, complex aromas, which can include black cherry, blackberry, blueberry, plum, tomato, herbs, cocoa, leather, tobacco, smoke, white pepper, black pepper, barnyard, gamey and licorice. These aromas are often complemented by notes of vanilla, oak, and spice, which can come from aging in oak barrels.

Acidity Level

Syrah wines are typically medium to high in acidity, which helps to balance out their bold and intense flavors. The acidity level can vary depending on the growing region, climate, and winemaking techniques used.

Tannin Level

Syrah wines are also known for their high levels of tannins, which come from the grape skins and seeds. These tannins give the wine structure and backbone, as well as the ability to age and develop over time. The tannin level can vary depending on the ripeness of the grapes and the winemaking techniques used.

Tannic = Powerful = Long-Lived

Typical Alcohol Level

Syrah wines are typically moderately high in alcohol, with most wines falling between 13% and 15% ABV. This high alcohol level is a result of the grape’s natural sugar content, which is converted into alcohol during fermentation.

Does All Red Wine Made from Syrah Grapes Taste the Same?
Flavor Notes of Syrah vs. Shiraz

Syrah, also known as Shiraz in some parts of the world, is a grape varietal that is widely planted and highly regarded for producing full-bodied and complex red wines. The grape is grown in many different wine regions around the world, but some regions are particularly known for producing exceptional Syrah wines. 

The name Syrah is commonly used in France and other parts of the world, while the name Shiraz is used predominantly in Australia.

Shiraz is the most widely grown grape in Australia. Shiraz makes up over one-fourth of the total vineyard acreage.

Flavor Profile

Syrah wines tend to have a more savory and peppery flavor profile, with notes of black fruit, leather, and spice. Shiraz wines, on the other hand, tend to have a fruitier flavor profile with notes of blackberry, blueberry, and plum.

Climate

Another factor that can influence the difference between Syrah and Shiraz is the climate in which the grapes are grown. Syrah grapes are typically grown in cooler climates, while Shiraz grapes are grown in warmer climates. As a result, Syrah wines tend to have a higher acidity and tannin level, while Shiraz wines tend to be fuller-bodied and richer.

Which Countries Make the Best Syrah? Top Ten Syrah Wine Regions

1. Rhone Valley, France – The birthplace of Syrah, the Rhone Valley is still one of the world’s leading producers of Syrah wines. The Northern Rhone, in particular, is known for producing some of the world’s most prestigious Syrah wines, including Hermitage and Cote Rotie.
2. Barossa Valley, Australia – The Barossa Valley is one of the most famous wine regions in Australia, and Syrah is one of its flagship varietals. The region is known for producing bold and spicy Shiraz wines that are both approachable and age-worthy.
3. California, USA – Syrah has been grown in California for many years, and the grape has found a particularly good home in the Central Coast region. Syrah wines from California tend to be full-bodied and rich, with flavors of black fruit, spice, and chocolate.
4. Stellenbosch, South Africa – Stellenbosch is one of South Africa’s leading wine regions, and Syrah is one of its most successful varietals. The region produces Syrah wines that are both powerful and elegant, with notes of black fruit, tobacco, and spice.
5. Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand – Hawke’s Bay is one of the warmest wine regions in New Zealand, and it has proven to be an excellent location for growing Syrah. The region produces Syrah wines that are rich and full-bodied, with flavors of dark fruit, black pepper, and chocolate.
6. Mendoza, Argentina – Mendoza is Argentina’s leading wine region, and Syrah is one of its most successful varietals. The region produces Syrah wines that are bold and full-bodied, with flavors of black fruit, spice, and tobacco.
7. McLaren Vale, Australia – McLaren Vale is another Australian wine region that is known for producing exceptional Syrah wines. The wines are full-bodied and complex, with flavors of black fruit, spice, and chocolate.
8. Washington State, USA – Washington State has a relatively cool climate for wine growing, but Syrah has thrived in this region. The wines tend to be more restrained than their California counterparts, with flavors of black fruit, smoke, and herbs.
9. Northern Cape, South Africa – The Northern Cape is one of South Africa’s most remote wine regions, but it has proven to be an excellent location for growing Syrah. The region produces Syrah wines that are full-bodied and spicy, with notes of black fruit, pepper, and smoke.
10. Tuscany, Italy – While Tuscany is more commonly associated with Sangiovese, the region has also proven to be an excellent location for growing Syrah. The wines tend to be more elegant and refined than their New World counterparts, with flavors of black fruit, herbs, and tobacco.

Well-Known Examples of Syrah

1. Hermitage, Northern Rhone, France – Hermitage is one of the most prestigious and sought-after Syrah wines in the world. The wine is full-bodied and powerful, with flavors of black fruit, spice, and leather.
2. Cote Rotie, Northern Rhone, France – Cote Rotie is another famous Syrah wine from the Northern Rhone. The wine is elegant and complex, with flavors of black fruit, smoke, and herbs.
3. Penfolds Grange, Barossa Valley, Australia – Penfolds Grange is one of Australia’s most iconic wines, and it is made primarily from Syrah grapes. The wine is full-bodied and powerful, with flavors of black fruit, chocolate, and spice.
4. Guigal La Mouline, Northern Rhone, France – Guigal La Mouline is a highly sought-after Syrah wine from the Northern Rhone. The wine is elegant and complex, with flavors of black fruit, smoke, and herbs.
5. Alban Vineyards Reva, Central Coast, California, USA – Alban Vineyards Reva is a highly regarded Syrah wine from California’s Central Coast. The wine is full-bodied and powerful, with flavors of black fruit, smoke, and spice.
6. Penfolds RWT, Barossa Valley, Australia – Penfolds RWT is another highly regarded Syrah wine from the Barossa Valley. The wine is full-bodied and complex, with flavors of black fruit, spice, and chocolate.
7. Chapoutier Ermitage Le Pavillon, Northern Rhone, France – Chapoutier Ermitage Le Pavillon is a highly sought-after Syrah wine from the Northern Rhone. The wine is full-bodied and powerful, with flavors of black fruit, spice, and leather.
8. Shafer Relentless, Napa Valley, California, USA – Shafer Relentless is a highly regarded Syrah wine from California’s Napa Valley. The wine is full-bodied and powerful, with flavors of black fruit, chocolate, and spice.
9. Mollydooker Carnival of Love, McLaren Vale, Australia – Mollydooker Carnival of Love is a highly regarded Syrah wine from McLaren Vale. The wine is full-bodied and rich, with flavors of black fruit, chocolate, and spice.
10. Yalumba The Octavius, Barossa Valley, Australia – Yalumba The Octavius is a highly regarded Syrah wine from the Barossa Valley. The wine is full-bodied and complex, with flavors of black fruit, smoke, and spice.

Food Pairings for Syrah and/or Shiraz wines

Syrah wines are versatile and can pair well with a wide range of foods, thanks to their full-bodied and often spicy nature. Here are some excellent food pairings for Syrah:

1. Grilled or roasted meats: Syrah pairs well with grilled or roasted meats such as lamb, beef, or venison. The wine’s bold flavors and tannins can stand up to the richness of the meat, while its spiciness complements the flavors of the grill.
2. Barbecue: The smoky flavors of barbecue, especially ribs and brisket, are a natural match for Syrah. The wine’s bold flavors can stand up to the bold flavors of the barbecue sauce, while its acidity helps cut through the richness of the meat.
3. Spicy dishes: Syrah’s spicy notes make it an excellent match for spicy dishes such as Indian curry or spicy sausage. The wine’s bold flavors and tannins can stand up to the heat of the spices, while its spiciness complements the dish.
4. Hard cheeses: Syrah pairs well with hard, aged cheeses such as Parmesan or aged cheddar. The wine’s bold flavors can stand up to the richness of the cheese, while its acidity helps cut through the fat.
5. Mushroom dishes: Syrah’s earthy notes make it an excellent match for mushroom dishes such as mushroom risotto or roasted mushrooms. The wine’s bold flavors can stand up to the meatiness of the mushrooms, while its earthy notes complement the dish.
6. Dark chocolate: Syrah’s bold flavors and tannins make it an excellent match for dark chocolate. The wine’s acidity can help cut through the richness of the chocolate, while its flavors of black fruit and spice complement the chocolate’s bitterness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Syrah is a grape varietal that has been prized by winemakers for centuries for its intense flavors, high acidity, and tannic structure. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a beginner, Syrah wines are sure to impress with their bold and complex aromas, rich flavors, and ability to age and develop over time. If you are looking for a full-bodied and intense red wine, Syrah is definitely worth exploring.

Common Questions

What’s the Difference Between Syrah and Petite Sirah?

Syrah and Petit Sirah are two distinct grape varieties that produce different styles of wine.

Petit Sirah originated in France as a cross between Syrah and Peloursin grapes. It is primarily grown in the United States, particularly in California.

Syrah wines are known for their medium to full-bodied character with dark berry flavors and moderate tannins, while Petit Sirah wines are full-bodied, rich, and intense with high tannins and concentrated fruit flavors.