One of the reasons Syrah and Shiraz are such beloved wines around the world is their incredible versatility at the table. These wines can be powerful and bold or elegant and savory, which means they pair beautifully with a wide range of food from simple snacks to hearty meals.
Why Syrah/Shiraz Pairs So Well with Food
Syrah and Shiraz tend to share several structural characteristics that make them natural partners for flavorful dishes:
- Moderate to high tannin: loves protein and fat
- Medium to high body: stands up to richer foods
- Savory notes (pepper, olive, smoke, herbs): complements umami flavors
- Dark fruit character: balances salt and spice
In simple terms, this is a wine that shines with food that has depth, char, or savoriness.
Classic Traditional Pairings
If you want to think like a sommelier, here are some classic combinations from regions where Syrah thrives:
Cooler-climate styles (more peppery, herbal, savory):
- Lamb (especially with rosemary or thyme)
- Duck
- Mushroom dishes
- Lentils
- Sausages
- Charcuterie
- Olive-based dishes or tapenade
Warmer-climate styles (riper fruit, spice, fuller body):
- Barbecue meats
- Beef brisket
- Short ribs
- Grilled steak
- Burgers
- Smoked foods
- Spiced dishes (Moroccan, Middle Eastern, Indian-inspired)
Aged Syrah (earthy, complex):
- Game meats
- Braised dishes
- Truffle flavors
- Hard aged cheeses
Easy Snack Ideas to Bring to a Wine Circle
If you’re looking for something simple and shareable, here are some great options that don’t require much preparation:
Meat-Based Options
- Salami or cured sausage slices
- Prosciutto wrapped around breadsticks
- Mini meatballs
- Cocktail sausages
- Beef jerky (surprisingly good with Shiraz!)
Cheese Pairings
Syrah works best with firm, aged, or nutty cheeses rather than very soft ones. Here are some good choices to consider:
- Aged cheddar
- Gouda
- Manchego
- Comté
- Gruyère
- Pecorino
- Parmesan chunks
“Nibbley Snacks” (Always a Hit)
These work because they mirror the wine’s flavors:
- Black olives
- Roasted red peppers
- Herb-seasoned nuts
- Smoked almonds
- Dark chocolate (especially with richer Shiraz)
Wine is always more fun when shared — and even better when shared with yummy food! So, join us for our next Wine Circle on March 5 where we will be discovering a variety of Syrahs/Shirazes paired with some delicious bites.
Wilmington Wine Circle 