Wine Wednesday!
Syrah versus Shiraz, What's the difference?
Absolutely nothing.... They are the same grape. This varietal is a great-grandchild of a pinot noir, but their characteristics couldn’t be more opposite. A pinot noir is a very light-bodied, transparent, and delicate wine that is best enjoyed younger, whereas Syrah/Shiraz is big, bold, full-bodied, dark, with high tannins, and ages well. This varietal is often called the “manly” wine due to its above characteristics including notes of leather, black pepper, black fruits, blueberries, and tobacco. The only true difference is the location of growth. In France, it is called syrah, and Australia it is called shiraz. Syrah is the 3rd most common varietal grown in France (#1 merlot and #2 grenache). In Australia, it comprises 25 percent of wine production. Shiraz is grown mostly in southern Australia, notably in the Barossa Valley and McClaren Vale. In the United States, South Africa, and South America, these varietals can be found labeled syrah or shiraz. It's a dealers choice.
Which came first, the chicken or the egg?..... Most wine historians believe that shiraz came first, probably referring to the ancient capital of the Persian empire, named Shiraz.
Shiraz/Syrah grapes are found all over the world. They are hearty and adaptable to many climates.
The foods best paired with this full-bodied wine include beef, game meats, lamb, and last but not least, greasy foods like salt and pepper french fries.
Below is a nice depiction (complements of Wine Folly), of the difference between the cool weather and warm weather grapes. Altitude and temperature have a huge impact on the characteristics of a wine.
There have been many articles describing the health benefits of red wine. Due to the high tannins in this particular varietal, there are extra antioxidants, and it's often thought to be one of the healthiest of the red wines to enjoy. So cheers to our health, in moderation of course!
Up next week..... Facts and fiction of wine. General wine knowledge that every wine lover should know!