The
heat-loving Syrah grape variety has adapted well to the warm
venues of California. Syrah is a little
like jelly beans—there are many different flavors to choose
from. Some Syrah is mild, fruity and ready to drink a short
time after bottling. These are some of the most food-friendly
wines available. However, at the other end of the spectrum,
Syrah can be very spicy and heavy and chewy, and must be paired
with food that can stand up to the spice and heaviness. If you
are interested in making a Syrah, try to put your finger on
the flavors you favor and, if possible, get a handle on what
areas the Syrahs you like come from.
(Description
courtesy of Professional Friends
of Wine)
Syrah
Descriptors
Varietal
Aromas/Flavors
Processing
Bouquets/Flavors
Floral: grass
Fruit: black currant, blackberry
Spice: black pepper, licorice, clove
Herbal: sandalwood, cedar
Oak (light):
vanilla, coconut, sweetwood
Oak (heavy): oak, smoke, toast, tar
Bottle Age: earth, coffee, leather, cigar box
