Pairing Chocolate and Syrah
Also Known As “Shiraz”
Syrah is thought to have been at first cultivated by the Romans in modern day Iran, and is a dark, heavy-skin grape that excels in hotter climates such as Australia, California & Rhone Valley in France. Some of the World’s finest Syrah originates from Italy’s Piedmont region as well as Sicily.
While the style of Syrah varies from region to region, it is only called “Shiraz” if it is from Australia, and is called Syrah elsewhere (but let’s be honest, “Shiraz” is more fun to say).
The Syrah grape possesses the most antioxidants of all the popular winegrape varietals and has a distinct flavor profile of pepper, vanilla, blackberry and spice with a velvety finish. Syrah stands up to very heavy meats, beef, barbecue, lamb, duck, venison, sausage, mushroom, and tuna, dark semisweet chocolate, and dark chocolate with coffee. The natural profile of this grape varietal is enhanced through sweeter darks, similar as the wine elevating coffee notes in blended chocolate.
Shop our suggested selections below, with a four-piece pre-made selection, as well as a "build your own tasting flight" option to host your own chocolate and wine pairing. Please keep in mind, all pairings are subjective person-to-person, and these are mere suggestions to help get you started to find your favorite pairings. We also have posted a wine aroma wheel so your guests can use it as a guideline to discuss what flavor notes/aromas they are noticing with each pairing. Want to share your initial thoughts or your favorite pairings? Let us know here!
Download WWC's Wine & Chocolate pairing notes template for hosting your own tasting party
Build-Your-Own Syrah & Chocolate Pairing Selection
Mix-and-Match our chocolate bar suggestions to build your own pairing flight.