Syrah & Shiraz

I often get asked what is the difference between Syrah and Shiraz. Are they different? Actually, they are the same grape. So, why the difference in spelling?

Syrah is one of the four classic red grape varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir are the other three). It's most famous growing region is the Rhone Valley in France. The Northern Rhone produces very dramatic Syrahs. The wines of Hermitage and Cote-Rotie are 100% Syrah. The Southern Rhone Valley uses Syrah as part of the blends that make up Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas and Cotes-du-Rhone. Further south-west in France is the Languedoc-Roussillon area. Syrah is also a major grape here where it is used in the blends of wines from Corbieres, Faugeres, Fitou and Minervois.

Shiraz began it's life in the seventeenth century when the French Huguenots brought Syrah to South Africa. There are only theories as to the renaming of the grape. One such theory is that the grape originated near the Persian city of Shiraz. Why the grape would be given a Persian name in South Africa is unknown. From South Africa the grape was taken to Australia where it retained the name Shiraz. Shiraz is the leading variety in Australia and the most famous (and expensive) is Penfolds Grange.

But what are the differences between these wines? The only real difference is in taste and structure. Even though the grape is the same, the wines taste different because of where they are produced, not because of spelling. The French wines may be more potent due to their acidity and tannins than those from South Africa or Australia. Those wines may be softer with a more fruity character. The difference in styles can be attributed to the growing area (terroir) and to the winemakers. Each winemaker puts his own imprint on the wine he makes. In general, New World wines tend to be more fruit forward than Old World wines.

Keep in mind that for every Hermitage or Penfolds Grange, there is also a Goats Do Roam (South African critter wine playing on the French Cotes-du-Rhone wine region).

So when you find yourself in a restaurant and the server tries to tell you that Syrah and Shiraz are two different varietals, you can show off your wine knowledge and maybe teach them something. Or just direct them to this blog.

FYI....Petite Sirah (sometimes spelled Petite Syrah) is another grape altogether.