Syrah is a grape variety whose origins have long remained an enigma. However, and although it is a difficult variety to cultivate because of its susceptibility to various diseases, it must be admitted that few grape varieties have the capacity to give rise to wines reds of such great intensity and aromatic elegance.
Adored by connoisseurs, Syrah is now firmly established in France and its success story is now combined internationally. Thus, over the last 50 years, the grape variety would have increased from 1,600 to more than 70,000 hectares in France! Globally, nearly 140,000 hectares are planted to date, compared to only 10,000 in the 1980s.
So what are the reasons for this dazzling success? What are the real origins of Syrah? Where is it planted in France and internationally? What to expect when you taste a glass of wine made from this fabulous grape variety? How to taste it ideally and with what to pair it? So many questions for which you will find the answers in this article!
Good discovery of the bewitching Syrah!
Origins of Syrah and places of cultivation
Often linked to linguistic similarities (Syracuse in Italy, Syros in Greece or simply Syria etc.), many origins have been attributed to Syrah.It was not until 1988, thanks to DNA tests, that it was possible to determine with certainty that this one was the result of a cross between the Mondeuse blanche and the Dureza.
Our dear Syrah is therefore indeed French and most likely originated in the northern part of the Rhône Valley, where the two varieties mentioned above were present by the pass. Even today, this magnificent wine-growing region remains thecradle of Syrah on French territory.
Thus, the simple evocation of this grape variety leads us to renowned appellations such as Côte Rôtie, Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Cornas or even Saint-Joseph. Here, Syrah is used as a mono-varietal (1 wine = 1 single grape variety), with a few exceptions. Indeed, the wines of some of these AOCs can sometimes be supplemented with a little Viognier, Marsanne or Roussanne.
Over time, Syrah spread further south in the Rhône Valley. Thus, although the Grenache is the majority here in the blends, the latter still occupies a place of choice within many AOCs such as Châteauneuf-du -Pope, Lirac, Beaumes-de-Venise or even the IGP Coteaux de l'Ardèche. Moreover, it is also widely used in the regional appellation of Côtes-du-Rhône, the majority of whose vines are located in the southern part of the region.
Internationally, this is a key variety in Australia (over 40,000 hectares) where it is called Shiraz, but is also present in United States (California), Argentina, Mexico, New Zealand and Italy. Its success and adaptation are such that it is now the 6th most planted variety in the world!
You will therefore have understood that Syrah is very popular, and this beyond our borders.So, what are the qualities of this variety that have allowed such international success?
The flavors of Syrah
Although this is primarily a matter of personal taste, Syrah is quite possibly one of the most charming red grape varieties in the world.
Indeed, the wines made from it regularly presentrich and seductive aromatic profiles, where aromas of velvety black fruits (blackberry, cherry) mingle with
t2>beguiling spices (pepper, liquorice) and a characteristic floral touch of violet. Syrah gives delicate but powerful wines whose silky tannins delight the taste buds.
As the variety evolves in sunnier regions, the fruit notes become richer (cherry brandy, blackcurrant liqueur etc.) and a gourmand chocolate touch may also appear. In addition, the alcohol will generally be more marked and the material in the mouth denser during tasting.
Without a doubt, we find the finest expressions of Syrah within its region of origin, particularly within appellations such as Côte Rôtie and Hermitage. Nevertheless, the more southern and warm profiles of the Syrah are not to be overlooked and can be absolutely divine in their richness and complexity. And to be able to make the most of these different expressions.nothing better than choosing the right food and wine pairing!
Which food should you pair Syrah with?
Syrah offers exciting food pairing possibilities. Thus, thanks to its measured power, it is equally suitable for white meats (chicken, pork, veal, etc.) than to red meats (beef, lamb etc). Moreover, duck in all its forms (magret, aiguillettes, roast, confit) goes superbly well with this one.
Dishes with Mediterranean and spicy flavors also highlight its aromatic complexity. Finally, cheeses such as parmesan or goudaalso go very well with Syrah.
Ideally enjoy a Syrah (temperature and ageing)
As with all grape varieties, serving temperature is a key element in the appreciation of wine. This is not lacking for Syrah and that is why it should avoid serving it too cold (exacerbated tannins, lack of aromatics) or too hot (marked alcohol and heavier).
Thus, La Cave Éclairée advises you to serve your Syrah between 14-16°C in order to fully enjoy it and bring out all its flavours.
Furthermore, the Rhone variety has a charming profile as well as silky tannins, its wines are generally enjoyed very well during their youth. From the outset, they will reveal all their elegant aromatic characteristics.
Nevertheless, many Syrahs also have superb aging potential. Thus, many cuvées made from this grape variety can keep for 8 to 10 years without any problem and some of them can even easily pass the 20-year mark! For this, the wine must of course come from exceptional terroirs, as well as be vinified in an adequate way (often in oak barrels or at least for a part).
In any case, don't hesitate to get advice before buying your wine so that you have all the elements to enjoy it ideally.
What are the best Syrah?
Although it is difficult to draw up an exhaustive list of the best Syrah, La Cave Éclairée offers youa precise and varied selection illustrating the quintessence of this grape variety. From the Syrah for pleasure to the great Syrah for keeping, there is something for all tastes and budgets!
Now all you have to do iscombine practice with theoryand pour yourself a glass of this wonderful Rhone grape variety. And if you need advice, La Cave Éclairéeis of course at your disposal!
The Côte Rôtie AOC and its magnificent Syrah terraces
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