International Syrah Day (February 16) is a global ode to one of the most cherished red wine grape varieties cultivated in vineyards across the planet.

Syrah, which goes by the moniker Shiraz in certain regions, is a dark-skinned grape with a talent for producing medium to full-bodied red wines that have enthralled wine connoisseurs for centuries.

This wine is like a flavour explosion in a bottle, packed with rich, fruity notes and a touch of spice. But there's more to Syrah than meets the eye.

Family Tree Drama

Syrah's family history reads like a soap opera. Turns out, it's a bit of a lovechild between two obscure French grapes: Dureza and Mondeuse Blanche. Who knew Syrah had such scandalous origins?

French OG

While Syrah's gone global (including around 90 per cent of plantings in Hawke’s Bay and Northland here in New Zealand), it's got its roots deep in French soil, especially in the Rhône Valley. Think of it like the OG of French grapes, with records of its cultivation dating back to Roman times. Talk about staying power.

Down Under Swagger

You might know Syrah as "Shiraz" thanks to its rockstar status in Australia. Down there, it's all about big, bold flavour and a laid-back attitude. Syrah went from French chic to Aussie cool real quick!

Worldwide Wanderer

Syrah's not one to stay put. It's like the jet-setter of grapes, popping up in all sorts of places around the globe. From California to Chile, and everywhere in between, winemakers are taking Syrah for a spin and giving it their own unique twist.

Ageing Gracefully

Sure, Syrah's got that youthful charm with its fruity notes, but don't underestimate its ageing potential. Give it some time, and it transforms into a sophisticated sipper with layers of complexity. 

THIRSTY FOR MORE ABOUT SYRAH/SHIRAZ?
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