Uncorking the Bold Flavors of Texas Syrah: A Complete Guide

Texas Syrah is another varietal that is quietly making waves. Texas is known for its wide-open spaces, its independent spirit—and increasingly—its wine. While many associate Texan wines with big, bold Cabernet Sauvignons Texas Syrah is slowly making its mark. With its rich history and the unique terroir of the Texas hills, Texas is proving to be an exciting place to grow Syrah and is producing wines that rival those of more established regions. As a WSET-trained wine professional, I find that the Syrahs from Texas rival many of those made in the Rhône Valley.

Growing new grape varieties isn’t just a trend for winemakers. Tired of the same old grapes, savvy drinkers are also starting to understand how good Texas Syrah can be. With tasting rooms popping up all over Texas, it’s a great time to learn what all the excitement is about.

Why Texas Syrah?

Texas winemakers have experimented with various grapes for years, striving to find those perfectly suited to the state’s diverse climate and soil. With its versatility and affinity for warmer climates, Syrah has emerged as a top contender.

The grape’s thick skin allows it to thrive in the often searing Texas heat, while the varied soils impart distinctive characteristics to the final wine. These wines frequently find themselves in the shopping cart of wine lovers looking for something new and exciting.

Texas Syrah vs. Australian Shiraz

Often, people use the name “Syrah” and “Shiraz” interchangeably. Both refer to the same grape. However, subtle differences in growing conditions and winemaking techniques create noticeable distinctions in flavor profiles.

Australian Shiraz tends to be full-bodied with robust ripe fruit flavors, often showcasing jammy plums, blackberries, and sometimes a peppery spice. You might even catch hints of chocolate or licorice.

Texas Syrah shares some of these similarities. You’ll experience those full-bodied textures and bold dark fruit flavors. However, Texas Syrah often displays earthy notes like leather and tobacco. Many compare the structure and earthiness of Texas Syrah to those of the Rhône Valley in France.

Cool Climate Texas Syrah

Not all of Texas is a scorching desert. There is a vast array of different microclimates in the state particularly in higher-altitude regions like the Texas High Plains, which offer a cooler environment that is conducive for the successful growing of Syrah.

Wines from these areas lean towards a brighter acidity, displaying more restrained fruit notes, alongside savory characteristics of black pepper and herbs. This stylistic variation makes Texas Syrah anything but one-dimensional.

Where to Find the Best Texas Syrah

Several vineyards are excelling at producing remarkable Texas Syrah, each imparting a unique expression of the grape. Visiting one of their Texas Hill vineyards is a great way to spend an afternoon.

For a taste of what the Texas Hill Country has on offer head over to Texas Hills Vineyards located at 878 Ranch Road 2766, Johnson City, TX 78636. Many of their Syrah estate wines have even won awards. Be sure to sign up for their wine club while you’re there to take advantage of their current releases.

Do you fancy a scenic drive? Flat Creek Estate Winery & Vineyard, situated at 24912 Travis Peak Trail Marble Falls, TX 78654 offers stunning views alongside their impressive Syrah. Consider stopping by their gift shop while you’re there.

For something a little different, check out Becker Vineyards. They have two locations, an Estate Winery & Tasting Room at 464 Becker Farms Road Fredericksburg, TX 78624, as well as a Main Street Tasting Room located at 307 East Main Street Fredericksburg, TX 78624.

Ready to explore Texas Syrah a little more? Wineries like Torr Na Lochs Vineyard & Winery in Burnet and Driftwood Estate Winery also offer fantastic Texas Syrah, and visiting these spots will expand your palate for Texas wines.

The Texas wine scene is ever-evolving, and Texas Syrah, in all of its forms, is undoubtedly at the forefront of this exciting movement.

FAQs About Texas Syrah

What kind of wine is Syrah?

Syrah is a full-bodied red wine known for its rich, dark fruit flavors, like blackberry and plum. You’ll often pick up on savory notes like black pepper, tobacco, and even leather depending on where the grapes are grown.

What is Texas wine known for?

Texas wine is gaining recognition for its quality, especially in warm-climate varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, and yes, Syrah. Texas wines are often described as bold and fruit-forward.

Is Syrah red wine sweet or dry?

Syrah is a dry red wine. While it possesses ripe fruit flavors, it’s not considered sweet.

The wine’s dryness comes from the lack of residual sugar, as the sugar from the grapes is fully fermented into alcohol during the winemaking process.

Where does the best Syrah come from?

Traditionally, the northern Rhône Valley in France and certain regions of Australia are renowned for Syrah. However, Texas is making a name for itself with the production of high-quality Syrah.

While “best” is subjective, the best Syrah for you will depend on your preferences.

Conclusion

Texas Syrah isn’t just another wine; it’s a testament to the pioneering spirit of Texas winemakers and the incredible diversity of the state’s terroir. With each sip, you’re experiencing something special.

Syrah is a grape that flourishes in the Texan climate and soil, offering complex flavors and exceptional value. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, you should give Texas Syrah a try and discover a new world of vinicultural delight right here in the Lone Star State.