Meet Syrah (Shiraz)
pronounced : sea-raw
Syrah is a noble red grape variety renowned for producing wines of deep color, spicy aromatics, and powerful structure. Known as Shiraz in Australia and parts of the New World, it is one of the most important dark-skinned grapes globally, capable of expressing a wide range of styles — from elegant and peppery in cool climates to rich and fruit-driven in warmer regions.
It is the principal red variety of France’s northern Rhône Valley, where it forms the foundation of legendary wines such as Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas.
Origin and History
Syrah originates from the northern Rhône region of France. DNA profiling in the late 1990s confirmed its parentage as a natural cross between Dureza (a dark-skinned variety from the Ardèche) and Mondeuse Blanche (a white grape from Savoie).
Though myths once linked it to the ancient Persian city of Shiraz, historical and genetic evidence firmly place its origin in France.
The grape spread globally in the 19th and 20th centuries, finding great success in Australia, where it became known as Shiraz, as well as in South Africa, California, and Chile.
Aging Potential
Syrah wines — particularly from structured, cool-climate regions — have excellent aging potential.
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High tannin and acidity allow top examples (e.g., Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, Barossa Shiraz) to age for 10–20 years or more.
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With age, Syrah develops secondary aromas of leather, truffle, cured meat, and forest floor, while primary fruit notes soften into stewed plum and dried berry.
Classic Pairings
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Grilled and Roasted Red Meats
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Roast lamb, beef tenderloin, venison, ribeye steak
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Game and Wild Fowl
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Duck breast, pigeon, wild boar, venison stew
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Braised and Stewed Dishes
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Beef short ribs, lamb shanks, cassoulet
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Barbecue and Smoked Meats
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Smoked brisket, ribs with pepper rub, grilled
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