In the hands of our Aussie friends, it is the big, bold, sexy Shiraz. Petite Sirah, which sounds like it should be related, is a totally different grape and a delicious discussion for another day. In short, the wines made from the syrah (shiraz) grape are as beautiful as the elusive vampire that loves to drink it.
Syrah in a glass. |
Although cultivated since antiquity, competing claims to the origin of this variety have it either being transplanted from Persia, near the similarly-titled city of Shiraz, or to being a native vine of France. There is evidence that the grape had been grown in the Rhone since the Roman occupation. While DNA testing seems to have disposed of the Persian claim, the Darioush winery of California, whose new world wines celebrate the old world styles of Bordeaux, makes a beautiful Shiraz as a salute to the winery owner's Persian heritage.
Syrah is wonderful on its own but also stands up to hearty food. Our Wine...er...Scheming Daemon loves to pair it with lamb or smoky, grilled meats. It's also tasty coupled with spicy Moroccan food. However, a certain vampire may have different ideas! :-)
Let's just cut to the chase: the drinking suggestions! These are a few of the daemon's favorite Syrahs/Shirazs. Give syrah a whirl! It's a peek into Matthew's soul. :-)
This wine always evokes memories of blueberry pancakes on a Sunday morning. |
Chateauneuf du Pape is a great starting point for sampling the Rhone's interpretation of syrah - with a range of price points you can ease into it slowly and have a great time exploring. |
This is great with or without food and reflects the Aussie's love of fun and witty names for their wines. Some of them are worth it for the label story alone! |
The back label of "The Ball Buster" |
Another Australian - it's an elegant bottle fit for a special meal. |
As always, trust your own palate! Taste. Taste. Taste. Drink what YOU enjoy and never apologize about the grape or price point.
Browse the contents of Matthew's cellar:
http://deborahharkness.com/about-deborah/matthew-clairmonts-wine-cellar/
Learn a little more about syrah here:
Syrah Wine Grapes, Flavor, Character History Wine and Food Pairing Tips
Some pairing ideas:
Northern Rhône Syrah: Foods to Pair and Meals that Call for Northern Rhône Syrah
And just for fun:
Your Wine Astrology Sign!
Wine By Sign
Feed your inner daemons . . . some delicious wine!
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