Some Syrah or Shiraz History

Filed in archive Australian Wines on May 11, 2006

Syrah or Shiraz, kind of reminds me of tomato or to-maw-toe, either way you spell it, this is one of my favorite wines. I like the musky often smokiness you get with this vintage. I did a little surfing and found some interesting history about this grape.

From Cellarnotes: This grape is known as Syrah in France and Shiraz in Australia. In the United States, it can appear under either name depending on the style of the winery. The grape is thought to be named for a city in Persia (Shiraz) where it probably originated. It produces full rich wines of intense color and flavor. In warmer climates like Australia, the grape produces wines that are sweeter and riper tasting. In cooler climates like the Rhone valley of France, it often has more pepper and spice aromas and flavors. Syrah usually becomes drinkable at an early age and most are produced for consumption within a year after release (2rd year from harvest). On the other hand, there are Syrah/Shiraz examples of very long lived wines such as Hermitage in France and Penfold's Grange in Australia.

From A Perfect Pairing - Pork Roast and a Bottle of Syrah: The syrah grape is considered one of the "big six" grapes in the industry today, along with chardonnay, sauvignon Blanc, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and pinot noir.

The history of the syrah grape dates back to Roman times. Some say the grape originated in the Rhone Valley in France or was imported by the Crusaders returning from Persia. It can now be found all over the world, but is best known in three areas: Australia, France and the western United States. Each of these areas lends a unique climate zone that can influence some of the flavors and aromas you find in syrah.