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"Que Syrah Syrah...."
Rich, red and fruity, the newly fashionable wine that has always been synonomous with the Côtes du Rhône is an ideal tonic for the winter blues. Known as Shiraz in Australia and South Africa, the delightful Syrah is often described as rustic and manly, yet elegant. One fable has it that the grape came from the Persian city of Shiraz and travelled to France by way of Greece. But no matter what the name or where it originated, pouring a big glass of this rich red is an effective way to fight the inalienable instinct to hibernate.
Broadly speaking, wines made from Syrah grapes are full-bodied, earthy rich reds full of warm spice and pepper. Syrah is also one of the most food-friendly grape varieties, whether for simple suppers or fine dining. It’s imposing structure and berried fruit makes it a powerful accompaniment to the richness of char-grilled lamb and beef, with its peppery edge giving the meat a natural seasoning.
A number of wineries in Crete are making impressive Syrahs, as well as Syrah-Kotsifali blends. Kotsifali, a grape variety native to Crete, is considered to be a grape of impressively well-balanced alcohol and acidity. As such it is a perfect partner for Syrah.
Wine Recommendations
Douloufakis Syrah
Intensely deep red colour. Fruity nose with vanilla accents. Rich flavour, soft and well-balanced. Imminently drinkable.
Nostos Syrah
Deep inky dark almost black color with forceful aromas of both fruit and pepper. Full-bodied with flavors of blackberries, black pepper and wild mountain herbs. Elegant, long finish with well-integrated oak flavours.
Domaine Gavalas Syrah
This biological wine is pleasantly well-balanced with a dark berry color, soft tannins, spicy flavor and rich aromas.
Douloufakis Dafnios Cuvée (Kotsifali, Syrah)
Very deep red color. Complicated nose with fruit accents. Full-bodied with soft tannins and well-balanced acidity.
Lyrarakis Syrah-Kotsifali
Deep red color with attractive bright hues. Complex aromas reminiscent of cherry and blackberry. Full-bodied with a velvety long finish.
Previous articles:
- WINES of the TIMES
- Embrace the Dark Side...
- It is OK to like Chardonnay...
- Hey Big Blender!
- Drink Like a Fish...
- Winter Warmers...
- The ABC ("Anything But Chardonnay") Wines of Crete...
- GRAPE EXPECTATIONS...
- LA VIE EN ROSÉ- pretty, pink pleasures
- Lively Summer Whites
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