Syrah Day & Why You Should be Drinking B.C. Wine RIGHT NOW!

Today we celebrate a wine that goes by two names and is grown, collected, and enjoyed across the world. Syrah, also known as Shiraz, originated in France’s Rhône Valley. Over time, the Syrah grape made its way into soils, wine glasses, and wine cellars across North America, Spain, South Africa, Australia, and beyond! 

To gain a deeper comprehension of the Syrah grape, we must understand the difference between Syrah and Shiraz. Although both terms refer to the same grape, “Syrah” alludes to an Old World expression which tends to be lighter in alcohol and body with more delicate tannins. “Shiraz” on the other hand, speaks to a New World style which is usually richer and bolder. This difference originally flourished due to the different growing climates since Australian grapes are grown in higher temperatures, resulting in high alcohol percentages and distinct aromas. However, no matter the style, Syrahs and Shirazs tend to have medium to high tannins with notes of black fruit and black or white pepper. 

When it comes to pairing, a cooler climate Syrah is delicious with grilled lamb or grilled eggplant. On the other hand, a full-bodied Shiraz would pair beautifully with barbecued pork or spicy Indian cuisine. The most important elements to remember with these types of pairings are that fat can make a high tannin wine appear smoother, and that umami flavours enhance the fruit notes in a wine. 

Regarding recommendations, although there are beautiful Syrahs produced worldwide, this is the year to sip, savour, and stock up on Syrahs from British Columbia (along with other varietals). Following this winter’s cold snap, where temperatures fell below -20 degrees Celcius in mid-January, wineries across the region are reporting devastating effects. This icy spell that even plummeted to -30 in some pockets of the province, not only affected primary and secondary buds but impacted entire vines. As a result, many wineries will be forced to replant their entire vineyards. According to the latest report from the Wines of British Columbia, there is a projected 97 to 99 percent decrease in grape and wine production across the province for 2024. Consequently, BC wines will be scarce across wine lists, tasting rooms, and liquor stores in the following years. 

On a lighter note, it’s Friday! So spend your weekend drinking Syrah but more importantly, drink BC Syrah!

Recommendations:

Le Vieux Pin Syrah Cuvée Violette 2021

A perfumed and floral expression of Syrah with notes of red fruit and spice on the palate. This wine can be summarized in 7 words: “Blackberries Violets Olives Licorice Spice Fleshy Elegance.” Buy it HERE.

Road 13 John Oliver Syrah 2020

Awarded 95 points in the 2023 Decanter World Wine Awards, this vintage has aromas of blackberry and cedar, followed by notes of blue fruits and pepper on the palate. The John Oliver series includes some of Road 13’s most premium wines, using estate-farmed grapes from the Golden Mile Bench and the Black Sage Bench. Buy it HERE.

Tantalus Further Afield Series Syrah 2021

Awarded 91 points by Anthony Gismondi, this vintage has notes of cedar and cherry paired with a juicy palate consisting of dark fruits, licorice and baking spices. Buy it HERE.