The grape variety Petit Sirah

Petit Sirah, also known as Durif, is a red grape variety celebrated for producing deeply coloured, full-bodied wines with robust tannins and notable ageing potential. On the nose, Petit Sirah presents an intense aromatic profile featuring ripe blackberries, plums, and blueberries, often complemented by notes of black pepper, dark chocolate, violets, and subtle hints of liquorice. The palate is typically rich and powerful, marked by concentrated dark fruit flavours, firm acidity, and a touch of earthy undertones, leading to a long, structured finish.

The main viticultural regions for Petit Sirah include California’s Sonoma and Napa Valleys, as well as Lodi and Mendocino. The grape also finds success in Australia, Israel, and parts of South America, though it remains most prominent in the United States. Winemakers produce a variety of styles with Petit Sirah, from bold single-varietal expressions to complex blends, and both unoaked and oak-aged renditions.

This grape’s strong character makes it a superb partner for hearty dishes such as grilled ribeye steak, slow-cooked lamb shanks, barbecued meats, peppered sausages, and rich, mature cheeses. The wine’s structure and intensity also complement spicy cuisine and savoury stews.