Que Shiraz or Syrah – What is this wine?
Que Shiraz Syrah ~ What will be will be. The Man Who Knew Too Much, the 1956 Alfred HItchcock remake of his 1941 film of the same name, shares a name but nothing else. Hitchcock took a different direction with the film that won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)”, sung by Doris Day. Hitchcock described them, “Let’s say the first version is the work of a talented amateur and the second was made by a professional.” (Francois Truffaut (October 2, 1985). Hitchcock: A Definitive Study of Alfred Hitchcock. Simon & Schuster.)
Let’s say the first version is the work of a talented amateur and the second was made by a professional.
~ Alfred Hitchcock
Two Wines Share The Same Name
A well known wine that shares the same genes is called Syrah or Shiraz. Both are a dark wine, even darker than a Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines share the same red, rich concentrate of the darkest flavors such as blackberries, plums, black cherries, flowers, spices, dirt, chocolate, licorice, blueberries, cassis, pepper and truffles. The wine is produced by the Syrah grapes and are grown all over the world, they can also be categorized as Shiraz. Mainly in Australia are they called Shiraz.
The Same Yet Different
The same grape, but they have their differences. There was a landmark study about identical twins raised apart conducted by the University of Minnesota in 1979. It found one set of the twins with remarkable similarities. While genes can prove the type of grape and from where the grape was grown, it will range in the distinguishable flavors listed above. The flavors of each variety produced are dependent on the climate, the terrior, and the care given to each crop. The same way that identical twins raised apart may have a lot of similarities, yet they are not carbon copies.
Discover the allure of Syrah wine, born from the grape of the same name. Often celebrated as a robust red, its thick skins and rich tannins lend depth during the winemaking process. But Syrah’s versatility extends to the realm of rosé, captivating palates from the Rhône Valley to Provence and beyond. Delve into its savory Northern Rhône expressions, boasting hints of bacon and peppercorn, or savor fruit-forward renditions from California’s Central Coast. Uncover the gems of cult producer Sine Qua Non, a testament to Syrah’s enigmatic charm.
Did someone say bacon?
Travel to the Rhône Valley of France, where Syrah reigns supreme, crafting legendary wines like Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie. In the Southern Rhône, it harmonizes with Grenache in iconic blends like Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Venture to Australia, where Shiraz captivates with its fruit-forward appeal, epitomized by producers like Two Hands and Penfolds. From California’s full-throttle Syrah to the refined expressions of Washington and the emerging delights of Israel and South Africa, Syrah’s journey is one of global acclaim.
Mixed in Texas as a GSM, the “S” is for Syrah
In Texas, vintners blend the Syrah grape with Grenache and Mourvèdre to give it more balance and smoothness, the same way it has been mixed in the Rhône Valley of southern France for centuries. All of these grapes grow very well in the Texas heat and they are given the name GSM. Look for the Texas GSM mix, listed in order of the percentage in the wine: Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre.
The “G” of the GSM grapes adds smoothness and plenty of sweet plum flavors to the mix. Grenache wines, by themselves, can oxidize quickly, which means it’s best to drink it right after bottling.
The “M” of the GSM is the Mourvèdre (moor-VEDr) grape which adds tannin and alcohol to the GSM blend and on it’s own can produce wines similar to a Merlot.
The “S” of the GSM is the beloved Syrah grape that was introduced into Australia in 1832 by James Busby, an immigrant who brought vine clippings from Europe with him. In Australia the Syrah grape is invariably called Shiraz just as most wine labeled Shiraz in the U.S. is from Australia.
Why indulge in Syrah wine?
Its spectrum of styles caters to every palate, from lusciously fruity to boldly savory. Whether relishing its dark berry allure or savoring hints of pepper and leather, Syrah delivers an unforgettable experience. Embrace its adaptable nature, thriving in diverse climates and expressing terroir with finesse. Pair it with hearty fare like sausage or barbecue, and let its structured tannins and generous fruit elevate any meal.
What awaits in a glass of Syrah?
Explore a symphony of brambly berries, plums, and savory accents, guided by its enduring tannic structure. Navigate its nuances, from moderate alcohol levels to a delicate balance of spice and fruit. Serve slightly chilled for optimal enjoyment, allowing its complexity to unfold. Whether decanting or swirling vigorously, Syrah rewards those who seek its bold yet refined character.
Enjoy!
So whether it is Syrah, Shiraz or Texas GSM, you will enjoy a dark red or purple shade of wine with a full-bodied flavor. Turn on the stereo, kick back and enjoy your favorite glass of Texas red!
To The Good Life, Whatever that May Be
