Published: September 01. 2010 2:00AM

By Danny Baker
CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Syrah is grown in many wine-producing regions around the world, with concentrations in the Rhone Valley of France, Australia and the United States. The wines made from this grape can vary greatly, depending on where the grape was grown and how the wines were made. As diverse as they may be, these wines are all big, robust and powerful. Flavors and aromas often associated with Syrah include black pepper, blackberry jam, chocolate, coffee, smoke and leather. These wines are heavily pigmented, tannic, high in alcohol and need time to mature. Syrah prefers a warm climate and is considered to be relatively easy to grow. There has been much debate about the grape’s origins, but recent DNA testing has determined that Syrah is native to France. It is the result of a cross between two indigenous French vines: Dureza and Mondeuse Blanche. Syrah can handle hearty foods, including grilled or braised meats. Lamb is a classic pairing. Full-flavored dishes, stews and grilled vegetables are other ideal matches.

In France, wines are identified by “place” rather than “grape.” In the Northern Rhone, Syrah is the main grape of such classic wines as Hermitage, Cote Rotie and Cornas. In the Southern Rhone, it is a blending grape in wines such as Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Cotes du Rhone and Gigondas, which are primarily composed of Grenache. Syrah is also varietally bottled in the Languedoc.

The grape was taken from France to Australia in 1832, where it became known as Shiraz. It is now the most widely planted red grape in the country. Although bottled as a varietal wine, it is often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon or other Rhone grapes such as Grenache and Mourvedre. Recent winemaking trends have Shiraz pairing up with Viognier in Cote Rotie style. By adding a small percentage of this white grape, the wine becomes much brighter and more aromatic.

In the United States, Syrah and other Rhone varietals do especially well in the Paso Robles area of the central coast of California. Syrah has also been very successful in Washington. Under American law, either name (Syrah or Shiraz) may appear on the label.

Syrah is also being grown in areas of South Africa, Argentina, Chile and Italy. With its widespread popularity and availability, and such a range of style and price, there is sure to be at least one out there that you will enjoy. Try one this weekend and taste for yourself!