Tasting notes

In its home in the northern Rhône, Syrah usually tastes of raspberry and black pepper with a distinct floral note like violet or lavender, and can be surprisingly light-bodied despite the firm tannins. In Australia, these flavours move towards dark cherry, chocolate and liquorice but in good examples, always with that floral freshness.

Very long-lived wines like Penfolds Grange from Australia or Hermitage in France are made from Syrah. As it ages, it takes on notes of leather, tobacco, bacon and spices, but it also makes great juicy fresh wines.

Syrah is a variety that responds to being served cooler to bring out its floral side. Try it with roast lamb or spices – chickpea curry or North African dishes.