With alleged origins in the ancient Persian city of Shiraz; travels to France with a returning crusader; cultivation by a hermit in the Rhone River Valley giving rise to the famous Hermitage appellation; migration to Australia in 1832; and achieving almost cult status with the Rhone Rangers in California, Syrah is as intriguing in its history as it is on the palate. Although grown primarily in France, Australia, and the United States (mainly California and Washington), Syrah grapes are also found in, Canada, Greece, India, Italy, New Zealand, South Africa, South America, Switzerland , and Thailand.
The Syrah grape produces full rich wines of intense flavor and color (deep-violet to nearly black). In cooler climates like the Rhone Valley of France, Syrah wines have pepper, spice, wild herbs and berry flavors. In warmer climates like Australia, the wines produce flavors that are sweeter and riper – black fruit, licorice, chocolate, espresso and jammy notes. With aging, Syrah’s flavors can become earthy or savory, such as truffle, cedar, leather, and cigar box.
Because of its robust character and almost muscular texture, Syrah pairs well with grilled and roasted meats and vegetables. So if your tasting is in summer, have no fear about drinking a bold red wine. Pull out the “Barbie” and grill away!
From rosé to port there is a Syrah for everyone - even a sparkling! So join in the 2007 National Tasting Project; set a date for your chapter tasting; and discover the captivating and sensual world of Syrah.
Directions to the tasting:
From DT: Go out 6th St. ; where the road becomes a Y - take the right hand lane (Warsaw exit). Go about 3/4 mile. Turn left at Grand Ave. (there's a stop light). Continue down Grand Ave. (about a half mile) to Bodley Ave. which will be on your left. Park toward the end of Bodley Ave. or continue to the intersection of Mt. Hope and park there. Opposite Bodley on the otherside of the Street is Zech Ave. Walk up Zech (200 feet) - turn right on Davenport Ave. On your left is Riverwinds Condos. Walk up the drive and go to the building on the Left. Larry’s condo is on the top floor Right. Ring the bell for No. 11 Wulker.
There is no parking available in the condo complex. Please do not park there. There is no parking on Zech or Davenport except for residents.
From the North - Take 75 South to Freeman Exit. Go past 8th street. On the right you will see an entrance to River Road - take this. This puts you on the 6th street expressway. Stay to the right. Follow the directions above.
There is a good city view. Bring a camera if you want pictures.
