SHIRAZ
This grape is known as Syrah in France and Shiraz in Australia.
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.
Wines made from Syrah are often powerfully flavoured and full-bodied.
Aroma characters can range from violets to berries, chocolate, espresso and black pepper. With time in the bottle these "primary" notes are moderated and then supplemented with earthy or savory "tertiary" notes such as leather and truffle.
Grape Variety
Shiraz
Use in Old World
Rhone, France
Use in New World
Australia & USA
Color
Deep red with hues of blue.
Aroma
Violets & Black pepper.
Body
Medium to Heavy
Wine Making Flavors
Minimal flavors intrude, even when much is done to the wine.
Blended with
Grenache and in Chateauneuf du Pape, 11 other grapes. In Australia it is a very important grape and is often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon.
Other
The Syrah of Australia is an older clone than in the Rhone. The clone was taken before phylloxera.
Categories:
Red Wine Grapes