Syrah Wine
Central Oregon
Let's first tackle the proverbial elephant in the room: Syrah and Shiraz are two names for the same grape variety, but they are not the same as Petite Sirah, which is a distinct variety. In France, Syrah reaches its zenith in the Northern Rhône, where it defines the wines of Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie (often blended with a touch of the white grape Viognier), and St.-Joseph, adding spice and depth to the blends from the Southern Rhône. In Australia, it's referred to as Shiraz, typically showcasing a more fruit-forward profile, although the old perception of fruit-bomb Australian Shiraz is gradually fading with each new vintage. It also thrives in regions such as California, Washington State (notably the Rocks AVA, along with the impressive Walla Walla Valley — be sure to seek out exceptional Syrah from Cayuse and Horsepower), Israel, and more.
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Our Syrah is crafted from handpicked grapes sourced from Prosser, Washington. This deeply rich Syrah presents enticing aromas of blackberry, licorice, cherry, and smoke, culminating in a lasting impression of dense, dark fruit flavors. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, vegetables, wild game, and particularly aged hard cheeses such as Gouda.
What Is Syrah Wine?
Syrah is a wine made from the grape of the same name, primarily crafted as a red wine due to its thicker skins, tannins, and phenolic compounds that can be extracted during maceration and fermentation. However, Syrah is also significant in the world of rosé, with popular examples from the Rhône Valley, Provence, Languedoc, and beyond. This grape can showcase a savory profile, particularly in the Northern Rhône, where it exhibits distinctive notes of bacon and peppercorn, along with occasional floral hints like violets. In contrast, fruit-forward styles can be found in regions like the Central Coast, where Syrah contributes to the dense and bold reds that have gained popularity. For those seeking investment-worthy options, the Syrah-based reds from the cult producer Sine Qua Non are highly recommended.
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Where Does Syrah Wine Come From?
Syrah is most famously cultivated in the Rhône Valley of France, where some of the most renowned wines from the northern region are either based solely on Syrah or predominantly feature it. Notable expressions include Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie, while St.-Joseph and Cornas also produce exceptional Syrah-based wines, as does Crozes-Hermitage. In the Southern Rhône, although Grenache takes the lead, Syrah remains a key player, being one of the 13 permitted varieties in Châteauneuf-du-Pape and a significant component in many Côtes du Rhône blends. Additionally, in Provence, Syrah is crucial for both reds and rosés, and it should not be overlooked in the Languedoc and Roussillon regions.
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In Australia, Shiraz has played a pivotal role in introducing a generation of consumers to the country’s wines, particularly through its fruit-forward and approachable versions, often produced in large quantities. By the mid- to late-1990s, Shiraz became ubiquitous in the United States, frequently found in bottles adorned with colorful or whimsical animal designs. However, Australia also produces some of the finest Shiraz-based wines worldwide, and it would be misleading to generalize the entire Australian Shiraz landscape. Producers like Two Hands, Hentley Farm, Torbreck, Henschke, Penfolds, and Clarendon Hills create Shiraz-based wines that rival the best from France and beyond. Their aging potential is remarkable, with stories of older vintages like Penfolds Grange being particularly notable. A lesser-known yet delicious option is the 2020 Mount Langi Ghiran Cliff Edge Shiraz, which balances spice with brambly berry flavors, enhanced by hints of dried herbs and game.
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In California, a bold style of Syrah has been favored in regions such as Paso Robles and Santa Barbara, though there are also more restrained, savory versions produced throughout the state. Meanwhile, in Washington, Syrah has found a welcoming home in The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater AVA and other appellations.
Given Syrah's adaptability to warmer climates (though it also produces intriguing wines in cooler regions), it's no surprise that it is increasingly impressive in Israel. In South Africa, it thrives in both cooler and warmer microclimates, while in South America, it performs well in both Chile and Argentina.
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Why Should You Drink Syrah Wine?
Syrah delivers a range of delightful wine-drinking experiences across the stylistic spectrum, whether you prefer fruit-forward and generous reds or savory, spicy, and meaty options—or both! Syrah (or Shiraz) is sure to please.
This grape variety is known for being sensitive to temperature while also being quite adaptable. It excels in both moderate and warmer climates, showcasing the land where it is grown and the character of the vintage.
Fans of bold red wines are likely to find much to admire in Syrah and Shiraz. Its pronounced tannic structure, ability to achieve high alcohol levels, and balanced interplay between fruit and spice make it an ideal companion for hearty dishes like sausage, game meats, and flavorful barbecue.
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What Does Syrah Taste Like?
Syrah typically presents darker fruit flavors, with tasting notes of brambly berries, mixed mountain berries, and plums. In cooler regions and vintages, red fruit may also be detected. Common savory notes include cracked peppercorns, leather, and bacon, alongside floral hints like violets.
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Thanks to its thicker skins, Syrah's tannins allow for notable aging potential, depending on the growing region and vinification style. While many bottles of Syrah or Shiraz may have alcohol levels exceeding 15%, there are also excellent options with more moderate levels. The finest examples strike a balance between spice, savory notes, and ripe fruit.
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It might seem counterintuitive, given Syrah's tannic structure, but serving it slightly below room temperature is ideal, as warmer Syrah can taste overly boozy and unbalanced—a quick 15-minute chill in the refrigerator can help. If your Syrah is too tannic upon opening, decanting or vigorous swirling in a Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon glass will enhance its drinkability. Pairing it with fatty or protein-rich foods will further balance its tannic structure, allowing its fruit flavors to shine.
Syrah Wine Service Area
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Situated in Terrebonne, Oregon, our wine-making facility provides natural wine sales throughout Central Oregon. Our wine selection features Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Malbec, Chardonnay, and Vino Rosso. We reach various locations, including Bend, Redmond, Sisters, Prineville, La Pine, and Madras, with offerings available at places like Wild Ride Brewing, Testimony Wine Bar, Grace and Hammer Pizza, and more. Just ask for Black Goat Winery when you select your wine of choice.
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We’re your #1 Central Oregon Wine Store Selection!​