Syrah is not a Pinot Noir. Syrah and Pinot Noir are two different grape varieties with distinct characteristics and flavors.
Syrah, also known as Shiraz in some parts of the world, is a bold and robust grape variety that originated in the Rhone region of France. It is known for its dark color, high tannins, and intense flavors of blackberry, black pepper, and spice. Syrah wines are typically full-bodied and have a long aging potential.
On the other hand, Pinot Noir is a much lighter and more delicate grape variety that is primarily associated with the Burgundy region of France. It produces wines that are pale in color and have a wide range of aromas including red fruits like cherry and raspberry, as well as floral and earthy notes. Pinot Noir wines are generally medium-bodied with lower tannins compared to Syrah.
While both Syrah and Pinot Noir can be enjoyed on their own, winemakers sometimes choose to blend them together to create a unique wine style. This blend is often referred to as “Pinot Noir – Syrah” or “Syrah – Pinot Noir.”
The blending of these two grape varieties can result in a wine that combines the best characteristics of both. The Pinot Noir contributes its elegance, bright fruit flavors, and finesse, while the Syrah adds depth, structure, and a touch of spiciness. The result is a wine that is more complex and balanced than either grape variety on its own.
Blending Syrah with Pinot Noir can also help to mitigate any weaknesses or shortcomings that each grape may have. For example, Pinot Noir can sometimes lack structure and depth, but the addition of Syrah can help to provide those characteristics. Similarly, Syrah can be too bold and tannic on its own, but the inclusion of Pinot Noir can soften and round out the wine.
I have personally tried a few Pinot Noir – Syrah blends and found them to be quite enjoyable. The combination of the elegant and aromatic qualities of Pinot Noir with the richness and spice of Syrah created a wine that was both complex and approachable. The flavors were well-integrated, and the wine had a nice balance between fruit, acidity, and tannins.
While Syrah is not the same as Pinot Noir, blending the two grape varieties can result in a unique and enjoyable wine that combines the best characteristics of both. The Pinot Noir – Syrah blend offers a balance of elegance, complexity, and depth, making it an interesting choice for wine enthusiasts looking for something different.
