Syrah/Shiraz

Syrah/Shiraz is a variety of dark grape used to make red wine in many countries. In the United States, France, Europe and many other countries it is referred to as Syrah, whereas in Australia it is called Shiraz. Where U.S. wineries are making Australian type wines, it is increasingly referred to as Shiraz as well.http://www.wineintro.com/types/sirah.html

Syrah/Shiraz pairs well with hearty dishes, such as beef and other red meats, and spicy pizza.

Shiraz is a full bodied wine with intense flavors ranging from spicy blackberry, plum and peppery to licorice, bitter chocolate or mocha. The flavor of Syrah is affected by the temperature of the region in which it is grown. Cooler temperatures mean a spicier wine, and warmer yield a mellower flavor.http://www.wineintro.com/types/sirah.html

Although some Shiraz wines can have a slight sweet flavor the tendency is a bit dryer. It can be served relatively fresh but is aged for some time in oak in the Northern Rhône, in France, which gives them an oak character. Some of the top wines aged in this manner can be very expensive.http://www.wineaccess.com/wine/grape/syrah/shiraz/

At a 64-65°F (18 °C), Shiraz is the wine with the highest recommended serving temperature.

• Chapoutier - France

• Chave - France

• Guigal - France

• Jasmin - France

• Auguste Clape - France

• Jaboulet - France

• Jaffurs Wine Cellars - California

• Beckmen Vineyards - California

• Qupe - California

• Two Hands - Australia

• Penfolds - Australia

• Heathcote II - Australia