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Syrah grapes

Syrah grapes are known mostly as a wine grape, and are the most widely grown Rhone varietal in California.

Syrah grapes have a very dark, deep purple skin that is somewhat thick with a juicy inner flesh. The skin is high in tannins, which can be somewhat chalky and coat the tongue. Known as a premium wine grape, the Syrah grape offers berry-like aromas with a small internal seed. This grape presents a flavor reminiscent of plum as well as cherry and finishes with a peppery aftertaste.

Serving Ideas

Syrah grapes are most often used to make wine; however, they make a fine addition to any cheese and meat board. Make a jam or jelly from Syrah grapes alone, or add apples (with greater amounts of pectin required to set the jam or jelly) or lemon juice.

Geography/History

The origin of Syrah grapes dates back to thirteenth century France in the Rhone Valley. Various legends exist regarding how the grape came to France, ranging from the Phocaeans of Asia Minor bringing the grape from Shiraz, Persia in 600 BC to the Romans bringing the grape from Sicily in the 3rd century AD. Syrah grapes arrived in the US in the late 1800s as a wine varietal and since that time the number of grapes grown in California has increased by a hundredfold. Syrah grapes are most widely used for winemaking, though they are making an appearance at farmer’s markets in California where the wine grapes are widely produced.

Seasons/Availability

Syrah grapes are available in the summer months.

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