- Pronounced
(shuh-RAHZ or SHEER-oz)
- Appearance
Ruby red to inky purple
- Body Style
Full-bodied
- Flavors
Black pepper, raspberries, boysenberries, blackberries, black cherries, plums, raisins, prunes, figs, chocolate, mushrooms, leather, cinnamon, clove and allspice
- Major Source
Australia; California; France (Rhone and Languedoc-Roussillon regions); South Africa; and Washington state
- Food Matches
Gruyere
Swiss
Lamb
Roast Beef
Steaks
Southwestern/Barbecue
The Syrah grape (called Shiraz in Australia) produces a hearty, spicy red wine. It has a smooth and supple texture, with smooth tannins. It is rich and complex and is capable of considerable aging. In the Rhone Valley of France, it is blended with other varietals for Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Languedoc-Roussillon and Gigondas. Grapes included in these blended wines are Grenache, Mourvedre and Cinsault. In Australia, Shiraz is grown in the Barossa Valley and other regions.
