Syrah (Shiraz) Dazzles In A Variety Of Countries

Syrah (Shiraz) Aromas And Tastes

There are many reasons why Syrah (Shiraz) dazzles in a variety of countries. And, it begins with the aromas and tastes. First, they are the same grape. The most common characteristics are blackberry, blueberry, pepper, mint, licorice, rosemary, tobacco, herbs and smoke. When you taste Syrah, you get an immediate assault of flavor that wears off. Then, you get a spicy aftertaste which is desirable and pleasant. Because of its front loaded style, Syrah blends well with grapes that add mid palate to help make the wine taste more complete. Traditionally in France, they blend Syrah with Grenache which is lighter and Mourvedre which is richer to create the classic Côtes du Rhône blend. Australia and the U.S. make some wines with the same grape blends. Imagine eating grilled steak with pepper. Then, skip the pepper and have it with Syrah. No pepper is needed!

Food Pairings

Food pairings for Syrah (Shiraz) are simple. If you can barbecue it, then it works with Syrah. Play with different spices when you barbecue and watch them work with Syrah. This is another reason why Syrah (Shiraz) dazzles in a variety of countries.

Syrah In France

Syrah grows predominantly in the Rhone region in France. It has been there for centuries. In the north, it is the primary grape in the blends. In the South, it takes a back seat to Grenache in the blends. Therefore, it is the Northern Rhone that boasts Syrah wines. Many famous areas give their names to French Syrah wines. Each area has its own style. Some of the most popular are Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Cote-Rotie, St. Joseph and Cornas. Some of these tend too be pricey, but so are their higher quality counterparts that come from other countries. If you can afford it, start with a French version.

French Syrah Wines

• 

• 

Syrah (Shiraz) From Other Countries

Although France produces almost half of what the rest of the world produces, Australia is a strong number two. Then, there is a sharp decline in the remaining countries. In order, they are Spain, Argentina, South Africa, U.S., Italy and Chile. Australia makes both Syrah and Shiraz even though they are the same grape. If grown in the warmer climates of Australia, they call it Shiraz. Otherwise, it is called Syrah in the cooler climates and in the rest of the world. Syrah has become relatively popular in Spain. Find it in La Mancha and in the Mediterranean areas. In Spain, you find a very different Syrah to the Rhone or Australian Syrah. Spanish versions are normally full bodied. In the U.S., South Africa and South America, the wines tend to be more jammy and less food friendly. There are a few great vineyards that produce excellent grapes like the Bien Nacido Vineyards on Californias Central Coast.

More Syrah (Shiraz) Wines

• 

• 

IF YOU WANT TO JOIN MY FACEBOOK PAGE CLICK HERE! https://www.facebook.com/howtopickawine/?modal=admin_todo_tour

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO READ MORE ABOUT WINE, PLEASE CLICK HERE.