What is Petite Sirah? Though the name has occasionally been given to a number of different grapes grown in California, Petit Sirah was developed by French botanist Francois Durif in 1880, who crossed the Syrah grape with the French variety Peloursin. The grape was introduced to California four years later, and by the turn of the century the dark and densely clustered red grapes had become popular throughout the state’s winegrowing regions.
Today, Petite Sirah remains a California favorite, and flourishes in other New World winemaking locations, including Australia, Chile and Argentina. Petite Sirah wines are inky, almost black, with big tannins and sweet plum and blackberry fruit flavors, sometimes with pepper and spice notes. In addition to making varietal wines, Petite Sirah adds color, tannin and complexity to red blends.
Pronunciation
[Puh-TEET See-RAH]
Recommended food pairings
Barbecue, grilled steak and burgers, braised lamb, cheeses
Serving temperature
65-70°
