Let’s talk about Syrah. Syrah is one of the noble grape varieties and holds a significant place in the world of wine. Originating from the Rhone Valley in France, Syrah has a global reputation for its bold flavours and rich textures. It can be aged for years on your wine shelf. To celebrate this varietal on International Syrah Day, February 16th 2024, I am going to open a bottle that has been starring in my collection for a few months. This is your reminder to open that bottle of Syrah you have been keeping for that special occasion because every day is special. 

Syrah in BC

The Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys in British Columbia have an ideal landscape for cultivating Syrah grapes, making them prime regions for Syrah production in Canada. With 644 acres dedicated to Syrah across the Okanagan, British Columbia has showcased its proficiency in crafting intensely flavoured, cool-climate Syrah wines. This consistently earned BC Syrah recognition as the top red wine in Canada in various wine competitions. BC Syrah strikes a perfect balance between the rich, ripe characteristics of Australian wines from warmer climates and the medium-bodied, fresher, and peppery profiles of wines from the northern Rhône Valley in France. BC Syrah showcases the region’s unique terroir and winemaking excellence, exhibiting intense fruit flavours, a hint of gaminess, floral aromas, and a prominent presence of black pepper notes.

My Favourite BC Syrahs to Drink This International Syrah Day

New World vs. Old World Syrah 

When discussing wine, you often hear Old World vs. New World wines. Old World wine and New World wine refer to two broad categories based on the regions where the wine is produced and the winemaking traditions associated with those regions.

Old World Syrah, originating primarily from regions like the Rhone Valley in France, emphasizes earthiness, minerality, and a sense of place known as terroir. These wines often exhibit more restrained fruit flavours, accompanied by notes of black pepper, violet, and savoury herbs. In contrast, New World Syrah, cultivated in regions like Australia, British Columbia, California, and South America, often leans towards a riper, fruit-forward style. These wines typically showcase lush blackberry and plum flavours, often complemented by hints of chocolate, vanilla, and baking spices from oak aging. While both styles of Syrah offer unique pleasures, the distinction between Old World and New World exemplifies the diversity and adaptability of this grape, captivating palates around the globe.

Syrah and Food 

With its bold flavours and versatile character, Syrah offers an array of food pairing possibilities. Its rich and robust profile makes it an excellent companion to a variety of dishes, particularly those with savoury and umami elements. For carnivores, Syrah’s tannic structure and dark fruit notes make it a natural partner for grilled meats such as lamb chops, steak, and venison. Its peppery undertones also complement the smoky flavours of barbecue dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience. Syrah’s acidity and fruit-forward profile make it an ideal match for hearty stews, braised short ribs, and game meats, as it can stand up to their intense flavours while adding depth and complexity.

Syrah’s earthy and spicy notes also make it a delightful pairing for dishes featuring mushrooms or truffles. For cheese lovers, aged varieties like Gouda or Roquefort provide a perfect foil to Syrah’s bold flavours. Whether enjoyed with a casual weeknight meal or a special occasion feast, Syrah’s versatility ensures a perfect pairing for every palate and occasion.

As we celebrate International Syrah Day, let us not only savour the complexities of this grape but also take the opportunity to uncork that special bottle we’ve been saving for the perfect moment. Because, as the saying goes, every day is indeed a special occasion when enjoyed with a glass of Syrah. Cheers!