Syrah

Syrah (see-rah). Although Syrah has been cultivated in California for a century, it’s relatively new to most Americans.  Wine lovers have come to embrace it for its lush ripe blackberry, cassis, black pepper and meaty flavors.  Called "Shiraz" in Australia, Syrah can be rich, bold and spicy when grown in warmer regions; from cooler sites, it takes on a vibrant fruitiness and an elegant, structured frame.  When blended with other wines from France’s Rhône Valley, such as Grenache and Mourvedre, Syrahs are firm, smooth, full-bodied wines, often with spicy berry flavors that stand up well to meals with rich meats.  Discover more about Syrah and other Rhône varietal wines at www.rhonerangers.org.