Syrah :An Ambiguous Love Affair. But Why ? It's Amazing !Posted on 17th July 2024

The World of Syrah/Shiraz:A Journey Through France, South Africa, and Australia

Syrah, also known as Shiraz, is a versatile and beloved grape variety that has found a home in some of the world's most renowned wine regions. This noble grape produces wines that range from robust and spicy to elegant and complex, reflecting the unique terroirs of the regions where it is grown. Today, we'll explore the fascinating world of Syrah/Shiraz, focusing on its expression in France's Rhône and southern regions, South Africa, and Australia.

Syrah in France:The Rhône and Beyond

France is the birthplace of Syrah, with its roots firmly planted in the Rhône Valley. This classic region produces some of the most distinguished Syrah wines in the world, characterized by their depth, complexity, and aging potential.

Northern Rhône:

In the northern Rhône, Syrah reigns supreme, producing legendary wines from appellations like Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Saint-Joseph. These wines are often marked by intense flavours of blackberry, black pepper, olive, and smoky bacon, with a firm structure and a touch of elegance. The cooler climate of this region allows for a slower ripening process, contributing to the wine's refined tannins and intricate flavours.

Try : Saint Joseph, Delas Freres

Southern Rhône:

Moving south, Syrah is frequently blended with other varieties such as Grenache and Mourvèdre, particularly in regions like Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas. These blends create rich, full-bodied wines with a harmonious balance of fruit, spice, and earthiness. The warmer climate in the southern Rhône adds a layer of ripe, juicy fruit to the wine, making them approachable and enjoyable even when young.

Try : Gigondas, Domaine St Gayan

Languedoc and Roussillon:

Beyond the Rhône, Syrah is also cultivated in the Languedoc and Roussillon regions, amongst others, where it contributes to a diverse array of wines. Here, Syrah is often used as a blending agent and displays lush fruit flavors, herbal notes, and a touch of Mediterranean influence, resulting in wines that are both affordable and immensely pleasurable. 

Try : Minervois, Chateau de Rieux, Corbieres, Chateau de Luc

Shiraz in South Africa:A Rising Star

South Africa's wine industry has been making waves on the global stage, and Shiraz is one of the country's standout varieties. The diverse terroirs and innovative winemaking techniques have allowed South African Shiraz to develop its own distinct identity.

In Stellenbosch, one of South Africa's premier wine regions, Shiraz thrives in the varied soils and microclimates. The wines here are known for their bold, concentrated flavours of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice, often with a hint of smokiness. The warm climate and ample sunlight contribute to the ripeness and intensity of the wines, while the cooling breezes from the nearby ocean help maintain balance and freshness.

Try :Syrah, Circumstance, Waterkloof, False Bay, "Old School" Syrah

Shiraz in Australia:The Powerhouse of the New World

Australia is synonymous with Shiraz, particularly in the Barossa Valley, where the grape has achieved iconic status. Australian Shiraz is celebrated for its bold, fruit-forward style and versatility.

The Barossa Valley is the heartland of Australian Shiraz, producing some of the most powerful and opulent expressions of the grape. These wines are rich and full-bodied, with lush flavours of blackberry, plum, and dark chocolate, often accented by notes of vanilla and spice from oak aging. The warm climate and old vines in Barossa contribute to the depth and intensity of these wines, making them highly sought after by enthusiasts around the world.

Try :The Black Craft Shiraz, Deen Vat Series Shiraz, Willowglen Shiraz, De Bortoli

Conclusion

Syrah/Shiraz is a grape of many faces, reflecting the diverse landscapes and winemaking traditions of its various homes around the world. From the storied vineyards of France to the dynamic terroirs of South Africa and the bold expressions of Australia, this remarkable grape continues to captivate wine lovers with its versatility and depth.