Syrah/Shiraz

Question 1

List the two notable growing regions for Syrah in France

Answer 1

Northern Rhone

South of France

Question 2

List the notable sub regions/appellations in France

Answer 2

Northern Rhone:

• Cote Rotie AOC (most Northern part of the the Northern Rhone)
• Hermitage AOC
• Crozes Hermitage AOC

South of France:
-Minervois AOC

Question 3

Describe the growing conditions and climate of the Northern Rhone

Answer 3

river valley is narrow
best vineyards planted on steep slopes
moderate
reflected sunlight aids ripening
so steep, machinery cannot be used

Question 4

What is a winemaking technique Cote Rotie AOC sometimes uses

Answer 4

co-fermenting with a small amount to Viognier

adds floral aromas

Question 5

What is the difference between a Cote Rotie AOC vs a Hermitage AOC

Answer 5

Hermitage AOC is less intense, less complex

prices lower due to higher yields

Question 6

List the three notable growing regions for Shiraz in Australia

Answer 6

South Eastern Australia
Barossa Valley
Hunter Valley

Question 7

Describe a typical Barossa Valley Shiraz

Answer 7

low yields
concentrated fruit
full body
high, ripe tannins
cooked black fruit (blackberry, black cherry)
black pepper
spicy flavours from oak (vanilla, coffee)

Question 8

Describe a typical Hunter Valley Shiraz

Answer 8

medium body
medium to high tannins
fresh black fruit
tertiary (earth, meat) 
complex