Shiraz
Shiraz, or Syrah as the variety is known in France, Argentina, Chile and the U.S.A., makes a quite often powerfully flavoured and full-bodied wine.
It is the offspring of two obscure French varieties, Dureza and Mondeuse Blanche; Dureza, native to the Ardèche and Mondeuse Blanche "Black Mondeuse" to the Savoie.
In Argentina and Spain in particular, it has historically been used to produce blend wines, but in the last decade its cultivation has become widespread.
In Argentina the variety adapts very well to the warmer regions, like Valle de Tulum, in San Juan and the Eastern Mendoza districts. When properly produced, this wine presents intense colors, a full-bodied texture and bouquets ranging from floral (in its youth) to spicy and animal, after oak and bottle ageing.
Tip: Best with steaks, barbecued ribs, prime rib and the stronger cheeses