Clone 174 Syrah: Unravelling the Syrah vs Shiraz Difference
Syrah and Shiraz are the same grape variety, but the difference comes down to the style and the regions they are grown in. Below we have a little breakdown of the differences.
Syrah:
Origin: With amazing DNA testing it is confirmed Syrah originated in the Rhône Valley in South Eastern France and is known to be one of the oldest grape varieties in the world. The grape is a cross between Dureza and Mondeuse Blanche.
Style: Syrah wines are more restrained, with savoury characteristics like black pepper, olive, and smoked meat. The cooler climate of the Rhône Valley promotes higher acidity and structured tannins, making Syrah wines often more age-worthy.
Regions: Syrah is typically found in France, particularly in the Rhône Valley, and cooler regions like parts of California, Washington and now Frankland River in Western Australia.
Shiraz:
Origin in Name: When Syrah was brought to Australia in the 1800s, it became known as Shiraz, marking a distinct shift in style.
Style: Shiraz tends to be fuller-bodied and fruit-forward, with flavours of ripe blackberry, plum, and rich chocolate. Australian winemakers often use new oak, giving Shiraz bolder tannins and a more robust feel.
Regions: Shiraz thrives in Australia, especially in regions like the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale, where the warmer climate helps bring the riper, jammy fruit flavours.
Clone 174 Syrah:
Origin: Clones 174 was imported from France to Australia in the mid-1990s. It is one of several Syrah clones that were selected for their distinctive traits.
Key Traits: This clone produces low cluster weights and lower yields, resulting in more concentrated, balanced wines. Clone 174 is know for enhancing aromatic profiles with bright fruit flavours like cherry and red berries. It’s structure allows the fruit’s natural character to shine, often with less reliance on oak for flavour.
The Lake House Denmark Syrah Clone 174:
Aged in seasoned oak, allowing the grape’s natural flavours take centre stage without the weight of new oak tannins. The lighter style is still full of flavour – think elegant cherry and red fruits, leading to a complex mid-palate with hints of savoury plum.
Thriving in the cooler climate of the Frankland River region, much like in its Rhône Valley origins, this Syrah develops beautifully, showcasing its full potential in cooler climates.
