SYRAH
Dark Fruit, Deep Spice, Bold Soul
Syrah is a bold, expressive red grape known for its dark fruit flavors, peppery spice, and ability to reflect terroir. Whether in the cool slopes of the Northern Rhône or the sun-drenched vineyards of Australia (where it’s called Shiraz), Syrah offers a compelling spectrum—from elegant and savory to rich and opulent. It’s a favorite for those who enjoy depth, complexity, and a bit of dramatic flair in their reds.
Key Characteristics
Syrah is typically full-bodied with firm tannins and moderate to high acidity. Its signature profile includes ripe dark berries, black pepper, smoked meat, and earthy or herbal nuances. The style can vary widely based on climate and winemaking choices.
Style
Still, red
Body
Medium to full
Acidity
Medium to high
Primary Grapes
Syrah (aka Shiraz)
Typical Flavors
Blackberry, plum, black pepper, violet, smoked meat, olive, leather, dark chocolate
Origin & History
Syrah originates from the Northern Rhône Valley of France, where it is the sole red grape in appellations like Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas. There, it produces age-worthy wines with savory complexity. The grape gained international fame in Australia, where it thrives as Shiraz—offering a more fruit-forward and powerful style. Today, Syrah is grown around the world and prized for both single-varietal wines and blends.
How It’s Made
Syrah is typically fermented on the skins for color and tannin extraction, then aged in oak barrels (both new and neutral, depending on the style). Some winemakers use whole-cluster fermentation to enhance spice and structure. Cooler-climate Syrahs emphasize pepper and herbs; warmer regions highlight lush fruit and sweet spice.
Notable Regions
Syrah is a global grape, with standout regions offering distinct expressions.
France
Northern Rhône
Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, Cornas
Savory, structured, and age-worthy with floral and meaty notes
France
Southern France
Languedoc
Provence
Often blended; spicy, rustic, and fruit-forward
Australia
Barossa Valley
McLaren Vale
Lush, bold Shiraz with ripe fruit, mocha, and spice
United States
California
Sonoma
Paso Robles
From dense and ripe to cool-climate restraint
United States
Washington State
Walla Walla
Yakima
Balanced, structured, and expressive with dark fruit and pepper
South Africa
Stellenbosch
Swartland
Smoky, earthy, and bold with mineral edge
Food Pairings
Syrah’s bold flavors and tannic grip make it ideal with richly flavored, grilled, or spiced dishes.
Red Meat
Lamb chops, steak au poivre, barbecue ribs
Game
Duck, venison, wild boar
Cheeses
Aged cheddar, blue cheese, Manchego
Other
Lentil stew, grilled eggplant, mushroom ragu
How to Serve It
Glassware
Large red wine or Syrah-specific glass to highlight aromatics and richness
Temperature
60–65°F (16–18°C)
Storage
Store on its side in a cool, dark place; many Syrahs age well for 5–20+ years, especially from top regions
Fun Fact
Despite the myths, Syrah has no connection to the ancient Persian city of Shiraz—it’s a native French grape with a noble lineage in the Rhône.
Recommended Producers
These houses exemplify the diversity and craftsmanship of Syrah, from the structured elegance of the Northern Rhône to the bold expression of the Pacific Northwest.
Amavi
A standout Walla Walla producer crafting polished, fruit-driven Syrah that reflects Washington’s vibrant energy and terroir.
Cave Yves Cuilleron
A leading Northern Rhône estate known for refined Côte-Rôtie wines that balance aromatic lift with savory complexity.
Domaine du Gour de Chaulé
A traditional Gigondas producer delivering bold, earthy blends with deep southern Rhône character.
Domaine J. Denuzière
A rising name in Crozes-Hermitage, offering accessible, terroir-expressive Syrah with freshness and finesse.
Recommended Pours
Amavi - Syrah Walla Walla Valley 2018 — A bold yet balanced Washington Syrah with dark berry fruit, black olive, and savory spice.
Cave Yves Cuilleron, Cote Rotie, 'bassenon', 2021 — An elegant Northern Rhône Syrah-Viognier blend with lifted floral aromatics, smoky notes, and fine structure.
Domaine Du Gour De Chaule - Gigondas 2019 — A powerful Southern Rhône red with ripe black fruit, garrigue, and a rustic edge rooted in tradition.
Domaine J. Denuziere - Crozes Hermitage 2021 — A fresh, approachable Syrah with vibrant blackberry, pepper, and a hint of mineral tension.