Durif or Petite Sirah

What is Petite Sirah?

Historically, the majority of vineyards plantings identified as Petite Sirah were actually mixed varieties of a dozen or more distinct types, but often including grapes with confusingly similar characteristics, such as Durif, Peloursin, and Syrah.
In the 1870s Dr. François Durif, actually propagated the grape trying for resistance to powdery mildew and named it after himself. This style has great significance in wine drinking circles both here and abroad, particularly in California.

Usually its flavour profile is consistent with jams, peppery concentrated fruit, spices, mild acids and big tannins, all robust flavours. Wines made from Petite Sirah age slowly and can be cellared for ten years or more. Petite Sirah is also often used in fortified production in Australia

If you would like to taste a sample why not try Pondalowie's take on this great style.

You be the Judge!

Food to enjoy with Petite Sirah:

Steak, hearty beef or kangaroo casseroles.