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Syrah Probably first planted in France around the 6th century A.D. by the ancient Greeks. Syrah's history does however date back further to 1st century, in the city of Shiraz, southeastern Iran. In France Syrah represents less than 2% of all red wine grape plantings. Yet it is worshipped! So great is the character of this variety it was used during the 19th century to add structure, strength and color to red Bordeaux. Australia is the only other major producer where Syrah comprises 40% of total red wine plantings for the country. It also happens to make Australia's most revered red wine Penfold's 'Grange Hermitage'. Syrah is an easy to grow variety, perhaps too, easy; due to its abundant vigor it can easily over produce. Hence good Syrah country is usually a well-drained shallow soil, coupled with low rainfall, this combats the vines amazing vigor. The versatility of this variety is astounding, you can just about plant it anywhere. It seems that it is all to easy to produce just a good product with this friendly variety. The real challenge is to produce a wine of exceptional quality. Hit the "BACK" button on your browser to return to previous page