Origins
A popular tale about the origins of Syrah tells of the vine's journey from the ancient city of Shiraz in ancient Persia, via Cyprus, and on to France thanks to returning Crusaders in the 13th century. Despite the many tales of its origins many French winemakers always maintained that the grape was native to France.
It has recently been revealed that the noble Syrah is indeed indigenous to France and is in fact a cross between the little known varietals of Dureza (a traditional variety from the Ardèche region) and Mondeuse Blanche (from the Savoie).

The grape was originally planted in the Rhone valley, notably on the hills of Hermitage and Cote Rotie. Today, these vineyards still produce some of the most highly sought-after reds in the wine world.

Characteristics
Syrah vines produce relatively small berries that can be deeply coloured.
Despite it's humble beginnings, Syrah is capable of rendering majestic reds that can be aged for up to half a century. The vines grow well in hot dry conditions with poor soils and produce rich, complex and distinctive wines. Characteristic flavours are black pepper, red cherry, spices, leather and roasted nut.
The grape is known as Shiraz in Australia where it is increasingly used for the highest quality bottlings.

Where our Syrah is grown
Our primary source for our premium Syrahs are the mature vineyards of Cazal Viel. Henri Miquel began planting Syrah vines when he was 17 years old and the average age of the vines is now 25 years. Poor soils and an ideal microclimate mean the Syrah produced here is well structured with elegant red fruit flavours and spicy notes.
A percentage of our Syrah also comes from estates located in the Minervois region. This area is very hot and dry and, on average, harvest takes place 15 days later than in the Saint Chinian. Minervois Syrah's are typically dense and lush with distinctive black cherry, raisin and liquorice flavours.