Syrah: A Versatile, Delicious Red Varietal

Syrah has always been one of my favorite red wines. It can be found in every major grape growing country in the world and, like most varietals, it’s made in an incredible range of styles and flavors.

Syrahs are generally characterized by low to medium acidity, medium to high tannins and medium body. They’re easy to drink after limited time in the bottle, but also cellar well in the three to five year range.

Some choices I’ve enjoyed as of late have included the Chateau de Valflaunès 2004 Espérance (about $16). This lovely wine from Southern France uses syrah as a base with a bit of grenache, mourvedre and cariganne blended in. It’s classic French red wine with understated currant flavors and gentle nuances of smoke, olive, toasted oak and spice. The wine’s overall earthiness and silky finish make it a natural to pair with poultry, beef and pork.

nullOn the opposite end of the spectrum there’s the Layer Cake 2006 Shiraz from Australia’s Barossa Valley (about $17). This wine really does taste a bit like a black forest cake, with bold, black cherry and mocha flavors that literally jump right out of the bottle. There’s also a hefty, near 15-percent alcohol content to contend with, so you’ll need to fasten your seat belt for this one. Pour a small glass for sipping and enjoy.

From California, the Novy Winery 2005 Syrah is a blockbuster Napa Valley red on every sensory level. It has a beautiful dark, inky color, a fragrant aroma of fresh berries and a high level of complexity to keep your palate guessing. The flavors of the wine are layered and intense with black currant, licorice and molasses predominating.

I purchased my bottle of Novy Syrah ($26 for 750ml or $14 for the 375ml split) at Quel Fromage cheese shop in Fairhaven. Proprietor Rachel Riggs tells me she’s got the only remaining supply of the 2005 vintage in the state, and quantities are limited. Don’t delay in picking up a bottle or two of this marvelous syrah while you still have the chance.

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