By Lori Budd of Exploring the Wine Glass
After a month of restraint and resolution, what better way to bid farewell to Dry January and welcome February than by pouring yourself a glass of Syrah? With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, Syrah offers the perfect balance of warmth, spice, and velvetiness. Its bold flavors and intense depth make it an ideal companion for cozy winter evenings or festive gatherings with a group of friends. And with International Syrah Day on February 16th, now is the perfect time to explore the history and allure of this exceptional varietal that has found a home in Paso Robles.
See Downtown Paso Robles wineries with Syrah.
Known for its deep color, bold flavors, and ability to thrive in diverse climates, Syrah easily captures the hearts of winemakers and wine enthusiasts alike. But where did this noble grape originate, and how did it make its way to Paso Robles, where it has flourished in recent decades? Let’s dive into the fascinating history of Syrah.
The History of Syrah
There are many legends behind the history of Syrah. Some believed that Syrah originally thought to have hailed from the ancient city of Shiraz in Persia, and brought to France by Roman soldiers (they did love their wine), while others adamantly declared it is a descendant of wild grapes growing in the Rhône Valley.
Thanks to modern DNA profiling, both schools of thought were proven wrong. In 1998, researchers at the University of California, Davis, determined that Syrah is the offspring of two lesser-known French grapes: Dureza (a dark-skinned variety) and Mondeuse Blanche (a white grape). These parent grapes were native to southeastern France, proving that although Syrah’s true birthplace lies in the Rhône region, not Persia, it did not descend from wild grapes.
Syrah’s Rise to Fame
Before we can discuss it’s popularity, I feel it is important to clarify its name. In France, it is widely known as Syrah, while in Australia, it’s called Shiraz—a name that stuck due to historical labeling practices rather than a connection to the Iranian city. Two names; one grape.
Documentation of Syrah began in the Middle Ages, with records showing its cultivation in the Rhône Valley as early as the 13th century. Just a mere five centuries later, Syrah had become the dominant variety in the Northern Rhône, where it continues to produce some of the world’s most sought-after wines, including Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas.
The grape traveled beyond France, finding its way to Australia by the early 19th century, where James Busby, the “Father of Australian viticulture” is claimed to be the first to plant it. As it turned out, Syrah loved the hot climate of Australia, especially in the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale where it produces robust, fruit-forward wines helping it solidify its global reputation. By the 20th century, Syrah had found a home in California, where it quickly became a favorite among winemakers looking to produce Rhône-style wines.
Syrah in Paso Robles
During the early 1970’s, Paso Robles’ own Gary Eberle secured bud wood from U.C. Davis; the only source of Syrah in the United States. This “mother block” was obtained from Chapoutier’s plantings in Tain Hermitage. In 1975, he planted twenty acres of this Syrah clone securing his place in history as one of the first winemakers to produce 100% Syrah varietal wine in the United States.
Today, the Rhône Ranger movement that began in the 1980’s and 1990’s leads the path for the momentum of Syrah in California by elevating Rhône varieties’ status and increasing plantings across the state, especially in Paso Robles. Syrah from Paso Robles is known for its rich, bold flavors and ability to express terroir. The region’s varied microclimates allow for a wide range of styles—from opulent, fruit-driven wines to more structured, savory expressions reminiscent of Northern Rhône.
Paso Robles Syrah is recognized for its rich, bold flavors and ability to express terroir. The region’s varied microclimates allow for a wide range of styles—from opulent, fruit-driven wines to more structured, savory expressions remindful of Northern Rhône.
See Downtown Paso Robles wineries with Syrah.
What to Expect
Syrah is known for producing full-bodied, deeply pigmented wines with intense aromas and flavors. The grape’s naturally high tannins and acidity make it an excellent candidate for aging, with well-made Syrah wines developing even more complexity over time.
Depending on the region and winemaking style, Syrah can showcase a wide spectrum of notes, including:
● Blackberry, blueberry, and plum (common in Paso Robles and Australia)
● Pepper, smoked meat, and black olive (hallmarks of Northern Rhône Syrah)
● Violet, licorice, and espresso (often found in cooler-climate expressions)
What to Pair with Syrah
Syrah’s bold structure and complex flavor profile make it an excellent companion to hearty dishes. Whether you’re grilling up a juicy steak or indulging in a rich vegetarian dish, Syrah brings out the best in your meal. Its smoky, peppery notes complement grilled lamb or beef, while its fruit-forward character balances sweet and tangy barbecue sauces. If you’re looking for a plant-based pairing, roasted eggplant harmonizes beautifully with Syrah’s depth and richness. And for a simple yet satisfying match, try aged cheeses like Gouda or Manchego, whose nutty, salty qualities enhance the wine’s savory side.
How to Celebrate Syrah Day
Whether you prefer a classic Rhône Syrah, an Australian Shiraz, or a bold Paso Robles expression, International Syrah Day is the perfect excuse to uncork a bottle and celebrate this extraordinary grape.
Looking for a great Syrah to enjoy? Downtown Paso Robles has no shortage of outstanding producers crafting incredible Syrah wines. Visit your favorite downtown tasting room, or find a new favorite. In addition to enjoying a single-varietal Syrah, this is also a great time to explore Rhône-style blends. Syrah often shines as part of a GSM blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre). Many Paso Robles producers craft stunning Rhône blends that highlight Syrah’s versatility and ability to play well with others.
Raise a glass to Syrah on February 16th! ~Slàinte!
About Lori Budd
With a passion for wine that bubbles like the finest Champagne, Lori Budd is a wine educator who loves bringing the joys of vino to others. A certified Spanish Wine Scholar and WSET Level 2 Award holder, Lori has mastered the nuances of wines from Albariño through Zinfandel. As a champagne specialist, she can sabrage a bottle open with flair while explaining what makes the region unique. Lori founded Cabernet Franc Day to spotlight this oft-overlooked Bordeaux variety. Based in Paso Robles wine country, she is dedicated to promoting the extraordinary region. When Lori pours, good times are sure to flow; she promises to never tell you what to drink, but she’ll always share what’s in her glass. Follow along her journey through her award winning blog and nationally ranked podcast; Exploring the Wine Glass.
