Syrah is the red grape used to make the famous Rhône wines and most Rhône blends. It is widely planted in France, traditionally grown in the Rhône Valley, and has also spread to many other countries around the world, being very successful in Australia, South Africa, Argentina and California. In California this grape variety is most rapidly increasing.
Basically, Syrah and Shiraz is the same grape, only from different locations. In Australia, the grape is called Shiraz, or Hermitage. This name is also commonly used in Canada and South Africa. The Californians also use the Shiraz name for marketing purposes. Other synonyms Syrah is known by in various parts of the world include Schiras, Sirac, Syra, Syrac, Serine, Sereine, Antourenein Noir, Balsamina, Candive, Entournerein, and Marsanne Noir.
