Syrah/Shiraz

You might think that having two names is a bit greedy, but personally I think it’s making a statement. To make things a little clearer, both Syrah and Shiraz are the same grape, but ‘Syrah’ is the French name and ‘Shiraz’ the Australian…why the Aussies felt the need to through a ‘z’ in there I have no idea, but there’s no denying that it’s quite jazzy.

What am I getting?
This is another grape that is hugely dependent on climate, so flavours vary according to where the wine is from. In the cool Northern Rhone, Syrah’s hotspot in Europe, the wine typically takes on a peppery vibe, ranging from smoky to floral undertones…which doesn’t exactly narrow it down, I know. To make things more complicated, warmer climate Syrahs (e.g. Australia’s Hunter and Barossa Valleys) are more earthy and spicy, often with fantastic black fruit flavours. Don’t let this wine’s versatility put you off, because you’d honestly be missing out, just pay attention to its origins and you’ll be bang on track!

What can I drink it with?
Another red wine, another steak wine. Syrah and beef are a match made in heaven, and if you’re feeling extra fancy and just a little adventurous this also applies to other dark meets such as venison and wild boar. Barbeque flavours also complement this wine really well, so think a long the lines of pulled pork too.
 
I want it!
And why wouldn’t you?
Let’s not go crazy…
Mon Plaisir du Sud Rouge 2016 (full, France) £7.99 per bottle
All out…
'Angels' Share' Shiraz 2015 Two Hands, McLaren Vale (full, Australia) £21.99 per bottle