Petite Sirah
(peh-TEET seer-AH)
Not So Small
There is nothing petite about this grape. Petite Sirah, the result of a crossing between Syrah and Peloursin, is also known as Durif. Being the father, Syrah imparted some of its flavors and characteristics to its offspring, but the two grapes are decisively different. Petite Sirah is mostly found in California, where it was used as a blending partner, but is most popular now as a single varietal wine.
(peh-TEET seer-AH)
Not So Small
There is nothing petite about this grape. Petite Sirah, the result of a crossing between Syrah and Peloursin, is also known as Durif. Being the father, Syrah imparted some of its flavors and characteristics to its offspring, but the two grapes are decisively different. Petite Sirah is mostly found in California, where it was used as a blending partner, but is most popular now as a single varietal wine.
Notable Facts
A common descriptor for Petite Sirah is inky. And so it is - the dark skinned grape creates wines that are tannic, sturdy, jammy and of course, stain-your-teeth purple. The grape helps to add structure and backbone to wines made in not-so-perfect vintages. As a sole variety, the wine typically shows off peppery flavors with concentrated fruit flavors reminiscent of plums and prunes with notes of cherries and blackberries. The grape is becoming more popular in California for single varietal production and making some delicious and intense wines.
Summing it up
Successful Sites:
California, South Africa
Common Descriptors:
Inky, peppery, prunes, black fruit, leather