Drinking and Pairing Syrah/Shiraz with Food

Syrah, aka Shiraz in Australia and South Africa, is a deeply colored red grape varietal with origins in the Northern Rhône of France, where it is the primary grape in the famous and elegant wines of the Northern Rhône. Grown internationally, Syrah vines require a warm growing season in order for the grapes to mature fully, producing intense, aromatic wines with blackberry fruit and a characteristic exotic spiciness of sandalwood, violets, and black pepper. Shiraz wines from Australia, particularly those from Barossa Valley, have a particular "jammy" signature of black fruit.

Syrah, with its deep flavors and firm tannins, is a natural match to grilled or smoked meat, and dishes featuring roasted herbs, mushrooms, and onions.