Syrah vs Pinotage
Syrah
A dark, structured red grape with black pepper and violet, closely associated with the northern Rhône and called Shiraz in Australia.
- Black pepper
- Violet
- Firm tannin
Recognize it
Deep color, firm tannin, and medium acidity, with dark fruit, black pepper, violet, olive, and dried herbs. Pepper is more common in cooler-grown examples.
Pinotage
A South African crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsault, often full-bodied with dark plum, brambly fruit and firm tannin.
- Dark plum
- Medium acidity
- Firm tannin
Recognize it
Medium to full body with medium acidity and moderate to firm tannin. Dark plum, blackberry and bramble are common. Coffee, chocolate and smoke can come from oak treatment, so they are not reliable grape markers.
How they compare
- SimilarComparable weight and firm tannin.
- DifferenceSyrah is more peppery and violet-scented; Pinotage leans toward bramble and dark plum.