Syrah - California’s Wine Grape Varietals

Great wine begins with great grapes. Capitalizing on the state’s diverse geography and climates, California wine-grape growers can grow a wide range of grape varieties and styles. The Golden State boasts more than 100 different varieties of wine grapes, thanks to its diverse topography, soils, climates and growers.

With respect for tradition and a propensity for innovation, California’s wine-grape growers are able to produce some of the best grapes, and wines, in the world. Here’s a look at some of California’s most notable wine grapes:

Image of Syrah Wine Grapes Varietals on the vine, grown in California

Pronunciation

Syrah is pronounced see-RAH.

Syrah (Red)

Syrah (sometimes referred to as shiraz) is fairly new to California and is grown in both warmer and cooler climates with different results. It is rapidly gaining popularity.

Taste: Distinctively spicy, with rich berry/cherry flavors. Full-bodied with an aftertaste that’s almost peppery.

Perfect Food Matches: A good partner for lamb chops or charcoal-grilled steak, or spicy meat dishes such as pepper steak or Mexican carne asada.