Syrah

The Syrah is one of the grape varieties with black berries most iconic and internationally appreciated, known for producing intense, structured red wines full of personality. Native to the Rhône Valley in France, Syrah has conquered vineyards all over the world thanks to its extraordinary versatility and its ability to adapt to different terroirs. Wines made from Syrah stand out for their aromas, which are fruity, spicy and their great longevity.

Origin and Spread of Syrah

The origins of the Syrah are shrouded in mystery. For a long time it was believed to come from the Persian city of Shiraz (now in Iran), but recent studies have confirmed that Syrah is a variety native to Rhône Valley. Syrah comes from the natural crossing of two ancient French varieties:
  • Dureza (a black grape variety)
  • Mondeuse Blanche (a white grape variety)
Today Syrah is grown in numerous wine regions around the world, including:
  • France: Rhône Valley (Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, Crozes-Hermitage)
  • Italy: Sicily, Tuscany, Lazio
  • Australia: Under the name Shiraz, is the country's flagship grape variety, in regions such as Barossa Valley e McLaren Vale
  • United States: California, Washington State
  • South Africa, Chile e Argentina

Ampelographic Characteristics

The Syrah is a vigorous, resistant grape variety, able to adapt to different environments and soils.
  • Bunch: Medium-sized, compact and cylindrical in shape.
  • Berry: Medium, with a thick blue-black skin.
  • Ripening: Mid to late, it needs sunny, well-ventilated aspects.
  • Resistance: Good drought resistance, but sensitive to excess humidity.

Sensory Profile of Syrah

Syrah is famous for its intense, complex and deep wines. The sensory profile varies according to the climate and the terroir.

Aromas

  • Black fruits: blackberry, blueberry, plum.
  • Spicy notes: black pepper, liquorice, cloves.
  • Earthy aromas: leather, graphite, cocoa.
  • Development: with ageing it develops notes of truffle, tobacco e coffee.

Palate

  • Structured e enveloping, with robust, velvety tannins.
  • Balanced acidity, which gives freshness.
  • A long finish with spicy and fruity returns.

Wine Styles from Syrah

Syrah lends itself to producing different styles of wine, adapting to both warm and cool climates.

1. Powerful, Structured Red Wines

  • In the Northern Rhône Valley (Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie), Syrah gives elegant wines, with fine tannins and deep minerality.
  • In Australia (Shiraz), the wines obtained are more soft, fruity e opulent.

2. Blending with Other Grape Varieties

  • In the Southern Rhône Valley, Syrah is often blended with Grenache and the Mourvèdre (Blend GSM) for complex, harmonious wines.
  • In Italy, it is used in blends with local grape varieties such as Nero d'Avola in Sicily.

3. Rosé Wines

  • In some regions, Syrah is vinified as a rosé, producing fresh, spicy rosés.

Winemaking Techniques

The winemaking of Syrah can vary according to the style of wine desired, but it generally follows these stages:
  • Extended maceration: To extract colour, tannins and aromas.
  • Temperature-controlled fermentation: Among the 25°C and 28°C.
  • Ageing in oak casks: For wines of great structure, with ageing of 12-24 months.
  • Ageing in stainless steel: For fruitier, fresher wines.

Food Pairings with Syrah

The Syrah is a versatile wine that lends itself to pairings with rich, flavoursome dishes, thanks to its structure e complexity.
  • Red meat grilled or stewed.
  • Game (wild boar, venison) and roasts.
  • Aged cheeses and hard cheeses.
  • Spicy dishes, such as meat curries or Middle Eastern cuisine.
  • Smoked cured meats e smoked meats.

Why Choose a Syrah Wine?

Choosing a wine based on Syrah means choosing a tasting experience that is intense, deep e sophisticated. This variety is able to express at its best the terroir where it is grown, ranging from wines that are elegant e mineral notes to wines powerful e structured. It is the ideal choice for anyone looking for a wine of character, able to evolve over time and to pair with rich, flavoursome dishes. The versatility of Syrah makes it ideal for anyone who enjoys discovering wines from different regions and in different styles.

Syrah: My personal podium

  • 1
    Crozes-Hermitage 2023 - Dard et Ribo

    Crozes-Hermitage 2023 - Dard et Ribo

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Crozes-Hermitage, France, Rhône
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  • 2
    Crozes Hermitage AOC Rouge "Les Baties" 2022 - Dard et Ribo

    Crozes Hermitage AOC Rouge "Les Baties" 2022 - Dard et Ribo

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Crozes-Hermitage, France, Rhône
    Discover this wine
  • 3
    Crozes-Hermitage Rouge “C’est le Printemps” 2022 - Dard et Ribo

    Crozes-Hermitage Rouge “C’est le Printemps” 2022 - Dard et Ribo

    • Type: Red Wine
    • Region: Crozes-Hermitage, France, Rhône
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