Nine Impressive Syrahs from Different Regions Worldwide to Enjoy Immediately
In the world of winemaking, the Syrah/Shiraz grape variety is a fascinating subject of debate and intrigue. Unlike many other grape varieties, the origins of Syrah are not attributed to a specific person through crossing; instead, its history is steeped in ancient mystery, with possible roots in Persia or France.
The name Syrah has been associated with Shiraz in Australia and South Africa, where the grape variety has been cultivated since the 18th century. However, it is in these modern wine-producing regions that the debate over its origin continues to rage. Suggestions range from Shiraz in Persia, Syracuse in Sicily, and the Greek island of Syros, but the French roots of Syrah, particularly in the Rhone Valley, are widely accepted.
Notable examples of Syrah grown in Cornas, Hermitage, Saint-Joseph, and Côte-Rôtie have cemented the French connection, with the Rhone Valley being the primary region where Syrah thrives. Yet, in Australia and South Africa, the grape is more commonly known as Shiraz. Most winemakers in these regions brand their Syrah as Shiraz, but a few opt for the more French-inspired label, particularly when aiming for a style reminiscent of the Rhone Valley.
Some Syrah wine from Australia and South Africa is labelled "Syrah" instead of "Shiraz," a move that reflects a growing appreciation for the grape's French heritage and the desire to emulate the Old World winemaking techniques associated with it. However, Syrah from these regions has been found to be recalcitrant by most wine critics, which has led to a mixed reception for these wines.
Despite the debates and criticisms, Syrah remains a significant component in Côte du Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and Gigondas, where it contributes to the rich, spicy, and full-bodied character that these wines are renowned for. The Syrah/Shiraz grape variety may have a murky past, but its future in the world of winemaking continues to shine bright.
