Q&A: Wine, Food, Beer, Or Spirits Questions
wine orgins
I read that the syrah-shiraz grape was native to Iran {shiraz} ,then read that no in fact it was native to France. Is there truth to either of these claims or is the truth in the middle somewhere ?
Answer From Expert Roger C. Bohmrich, MW
This may be the most popular question relating to a grape variety. There have been many legends and theories connected with the origin of Syrah; among them, that the grape originated in Iran, explaining its alternate name, Shiraz. In fact, we know from DNA testing that Syrah is derived from Mondeuse Blanche and Dureza and is native to southeastern France. Cuttings from French vineyards and nurseries were taken to Australia, where the variety came to be called Shiraz.
About The Expert
Roger explains his approach to the Q&A -
"My goal is to provide as much reliable, practical information as I can in a brief answer. I try to choose my words carefully to be as accurate and precise as possible in the space allowed. I always do my best to be fair, treat the question with respect, and offer credible, informed commentary. By all means, ask a follow-up question if you feel a key issue has not been addressed. I also encourage you to look over past questions as you may find the answer to yours."
Bio:
Roger has enjoyed a lengthy career in the wine trade, and he last served as a senior executive with a major national importer. In 2006, he launched Millesima USA, a retail entity affiliated with Europe's leading fine wine mail order company. Roger became one of America's first Masters of Wine in 1993, and he has been very active as an educator and speaker at wine festivals and conferences. He hosts a community television program entitled "Wine's Simple Pleasures," and is currently working on a book of original recipes and wine pairing solutions.
