THE SYRAH: POWERFULLY FLAVOURFUL AND FULL-BODIED

The violet-scented Syrah of controversial origins has enormous ageing potential. Today this variety is grown all around the world, producing fabulous red wines as well as some of the most exquisite rosé wines.

The mystery surrounding the origins of the Syrah grape was unlocked only at the turn of the millennium. It was long believed to have been from the Middle East. In 1998, DNA testing showed that the Syrah variety was a cross between different varieties grown in France.

Who would have thought that the Syrah would one day become one of the six most grown varieties in the world? In just over 30 years, Syrah acreage has experienced a fifteenfold expansion, now representing 4% of vineyards throughout the world. The Syrah is grown in France, Australia, Argentina, South Africa, California, Chile and Italy, among other countries.

The Syrah has an unmistakable violet aroma, with undertones of fully ripe berries such as blueberries, cherries or cassis berries. With its excellent ageing potential, the Syrah develops through the years a rich, complex bouquet featuring a pastiche of musk, truffle, leather and coffee, sometimes enhanced with spicy notes. Its vibrant colour darkens with time, shifting to a deep, ink-like hue. Almost exclusively used for red wines, the Syrah is also used to produce sumptuous rosé wines, in Provence for instance.

SYRAH OR SHIRAZ?
In Australia and South Africa, among other countries, the term “Shiraz” is used on bottles. As a simple translation of its French equivalent, the English word “Shiraz” is now used for certain wines produced from the Syrah variety. However, the Shiraz winemaking process is not the same, thus giving these wines their own distinctive character. The Shiraz wines produced in Australia or South Africa are marked by strong, jammy fruit tastes and vanilla undertones, while French Syrah wines are deeper and more aromatic.

HARMONIOUS PARINGS. ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.
The Syrah is a citizen of the world. Its complex fruity, spicy and floral aroma lends itself to countless pairings which vary according to its place of origin. Australia’s Shiraz pairs beautifully with grilled meats and herbs. On the other hand, the California variety is the perfect companion to deeply marinated flank steak. As for Rosé Syrah-based wines, they are delicious year-round with smoked salmon hors d'oeuvres.

DID YOU KNOW?
§  The Syrah is said to be one of the healthiest varieties because of its high levels of resveratrol, boasting proven antioxidant properties.
§  According to regulations, the Syrah makes up at least 80% of the prestigious Crozes-Hermitage, Hermitage and Saint-Joseph appellations. 

SOURCE: Press release - La Grande degustation de Montreal 2016


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

V8 +, a Prosecco with many virtues to discover!

Image
By Marina La Forgia Icon of the Italian bubbles, the Prosecco continue to gain followers in the world and Quebec is not the exception. A new sparkling wine from the great wine house Genagricola has arrived at the SAQ gondolas with a name that is easy to remember, V8 +. They say that eight minutes is what it takes the sunlight to reach the Earth and the "eight" is also the number that symbolizes infinity ... now it is also the trademark of a new sparkling wine! Made 100% with the traditional Glera grape, this Prosecco DOC Brut and Millesimato is a deliciously fresh and fruity wine, with pleasant notes of green apple, pear and peach. On the palate, this young sparkling wine stands out for its slightly mineral character, not so easy to find in the more traditional Prosecco. A wine of excellent price quality ratio, very easy drinking and with an original label and bottles. In the price point of less than 20 canadian dollars is the ideal “party” ally. (MLF)
Read more

Akel, a new Chilean red wine that worth the discovery!

Image
(By Marina La Forgia) Akel, which means red in the Mapuche language, is the name of the new wine from the Chilean winery Montgras that has arrived to the SAQ gondolas. A blend of Syrah, Garnacha and Carignan that surprises and pleases thanks to its pronounced notes of red and black berry fruits, leather and cinnamon. The palate is very unctuous and pleasant. Although it has spent 12 months in the barrels, the oak contribution is gentle, subtle and elegant, respecting the great potential and splendor of these three red varieties that grow and mature so well in the Colchagua Valley. A little advice to enjoy it at its best? Leave it uncorked or poured for about 15 minutes before tasting it ... that way all its pleasant and full bouquet of aromas will blossom! Montgras is one of the wineries in the region that practices sustainable agriculture and its wines have in my humble opinion an excellent price-quality ratio. The new red Akel is another label that could confirm it.
Read more

Mountain Blend Chardonnay: Intense expression of the mountains

Image
From argentine producer Santa Julia arrives in the Quebec market a new wine that fortunately in my opinion helps to open the door for discovering new flavors and varieties of Mendoza. The grape Chardonnay, the star of the whites in the world, also has a very special terroir in the Uco Valley. This mineral and refreshing white wine, pleasantly surprised me by its delicate aromas of apple, jasmine and peach, and a slight but consistent structure in the mouth. With only 6 months in oak barrels, the wine preserves its fruity character and some flavors that remind me of the stony and alluvial soil so characteristic of the region. A delicious wine perfect for uncorking any of these summer evenings while it rests in the SAQ stores!  (Marina La Forgia)
Read more