The precise origins of Syrah are unknown. One theory is that it came from the city of Shiraz, Iran, and was brought back to Europe by Chevalier de Stérimberg in 1224 when he settled at Hermitage. Another hypothesis is that Syrah was introduced to France in the 3rd century, when the Roman Emperor, Probus, gave the Gauls permission to plant vines again. The third possibility is that Syrah came from Syracuse in Sicily. Lastly, some authors maintain that Syrah is simply native to the Rhône Valley. This grape variety is now cultivated worldwide. Syrah is used in the great blended wines of the south of France: Rhône Valley, Provence, Languedoc, and Roussillon. Australia is the other country identified with Syrah, although the style is very different. Syrah is also grown in Italy, Spain, Greece, South Africa, Argentina, Chile, California, and Brazil. This grape variety produces long canes that may be damaged by high winds. It is advisable to prune Syrah vines short to restrict yields and optimize wine quality. Syrah is susceptible to chlorosis and may suffer from dieback, a phenomenon that is not yet properly understood. The vines are of average vigor and susceptible to gray rot and mites. Its grapes and bunches are small. Syrah produces deep-colored, tannic, full-bodied wines with a complex palette of aromas: flowers (violets), barnyard (leather), spices (liquorice), and fruit (raspberry and blackcurrant). In southern France, it is traditionally blended with other local grape varieties, whereas the Australians make a single varietal.
Synonym : Shiraz