Syrah

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran. It seems there is a buzz about Syrah. I hear about it and I read about it. I think Syrah has captured the interest of the consumer, and they seem to know the difference between Australian Shiraz and American styles of Syrah. The vinifera grape best known as Syrah is truly of ancient origins and was the offspring of the grape varieties Dureza (a dark grape) and Mondeuse Blanche (a white grape). The Romans brought the cultivation of the vinifera grapes to many regions of the world and the Syrah grape to France. Predominantly grown in the Rhone Valley Syrah is blended with other grapes from the region to create many sought after and admired wines. In recent years Syrah going by the name of Shiraz from Australia has captured the general consumers' interest big time. The increase in plantings of Syrah in many of the world's major wine regions has shown that winemakers are also having a bit of a love affair with the grape variety. Domestically both California and Washington state have been producing world class Syrah in varying styles. The marketing folks are projecting that after we get tired of Pinot Noir we will be redirecting our fancy to Syrah. Will it ever surpass Cabernet Sauvignon? Who can tell? But, for now try tasting some Syrahs from the different wine growing regions. Both styles and prices will vary and be conscious of the blends. Remember to send your wine questions to Linda at vine to wine dot net and thanks for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.