Shiraz Wine Food Pairing

Before you consider Shiraz  wine food pairing, you should know what  Shiraz wine is. Shiraz or Syrah is typically a full-bodied red wine made from grapes grown throughout most of the wine producing regions of the world. Shiraz is used as a single varietal or type, or is blended with other grapes. In France, it is known as Syrah and is grown primarily in the Rhone Valley. Shiraz, as it is called in Australia, has become Australia's signature wine and has grown in popularity throughout the world.

1. Know what Shiraz tastes like. Shiraz  produces wines within a wide range of flavors, depending on the climate and soil where it is grown. It generally has flavors of black cherry, blackberry, plum, clove, licorice and smoked meat. Its aroma can range from violets to berries to chocolate and  espresso.
2. Try different dishes. Shiraz is a very versatile wine that can accompany and compliment a number of dishes.  Shiraz goes well with red meats such as steaks and roasts. It pairs well with stews, wild game, burgers and dishes with heavy tomato sauces.  It makes a great pizza wine and would be very appropriate as a Thanksgiving wine served with roast turkey.  Shiraz would not be appropriate with fish or a salad with a vinegar base. However, it could accompany certain sea food dishes such as mussels, lobster and shrimp provided they were prepared with a tomato sauce, such as lobster fra diavolo.
3. Drink what you enjoy.  When you come right down to it, taste is purely subjective and Shiraz wine food pairing suggestions are just that, suggestions.  They are not meant to be considered as culinary law. If you prefer to have fish or a salad with your Shiraz, then go ahead.  Aside from providing us with nutrition, food is meant to be enjoyed. So, enjoy it any way you like.