The Rhône Valley, birthplace of many iconic grape varieties, is the native land of one remarkable vine: Syrah. The history of this fascinating grape variety goes back centuries, and its cultivation is closely tied to this prestigious wine-growing region in southeastern France.
The Origins of Syrah
It was in the heart of majestic hills and terraced vineyards overlooking the mighty Rhône River that Syrah first emerged.
The origins of the Syrah grape remain shrouded in mystery. Many legends claim that the name and origin come from the city of Shiraz in Persia or even from a small Greek island in the Cyclades called Syros… However, it is now widely accepted that the Rhône Valley is the true birthplace of this grape variety. The same goes for white grapes from the serine family—Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne—which, despite various origin stories, are also native to this region.
Regardless of its exact origin, Syrah has flourished in the Rhône Valley’s favorable geo-climatic conditions. It is the only red grape variety permitted in the northern Côtes du Rhône appellations.
Syrah and Rhône Valley Wines
Over the centuries, Syrah has been cherished by winemakers for its unique qualities. Wines made from this grape are known for their deep color—ranging from purple to dark ruby—and their complex, captivating bouquet. Aromas of black fruits, pepper, violet, and spices blend harmoniously to create an unforgettable tasting experience.
Syrah wines take on different expressions throughout the Rhône Valley. In the northern part, Syrah shines in appellations like Saint-Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage, Cornas, Côte-Rôtie, and Hermitage. In the southern Rhône, in areas such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape, it is often blended with other local varieties like Grenache and Mourvèdre.
The international reputation of Syrah has been shaped by passionate winemakers who have carried its legacy through time. Thanks to their expertise, Syrah from the Rhône Valley has earned a place among the world’s great grape varieties.
The birth of Syrah in the Rhône Valley has given rise to a story rich in flavor, tradition, and winemaking expertise. Today, Syrah continues to captivate wine lovers around the world and shines as one of the jewels of French viticulture—a testament to its prestigious past and promising future.
Syrah in the Spotlight
Syrah takes center stage at many events and activities in the Northern Rhône Valley, such as Rendez-Wine, Vignobles en Scène, and the wide array of experiences offered by our certified Vignobles & Découvertes members.
Rendez-Wine is an invitation to experience the Northern Rhône Valley in a different way—through unique moments that combine tastings, encounters, and breathtaking landscapes. From May to September, sunset concerts, vineyard aperitifs, gourmet hikes, and winemaker brunches immerse you in the heart of the terroirs from Vienne to Valence. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the full range of appellations from our destination, all rooted in the exceptional grape that is Syrah, emblematic of this richly nuanced vineyard.
From October 17 to 19, 2025, we invite you to enjoy a weekend full of discoveries, flavors, and emotion during Vignobles en Scène, a fresh take on the legendary Fascinant Week-End. Banquet dinners in unusual locations, tastings, and vineyard immersions will be the highlights of this reimagined edition, built around three themes: Gustative, Creative, and Immersive experiences. It's a must-attend event to explore the terroirs and prestigious appellations of our destination in a new and engaging way—close to the winemakers and their know-how.
Vignobles en scène - Learn more
Check out our Events Calendar for all the must-see happenings in the Northern Rhône Valley: tastings, vineyard walks, concerts, gourmet markets, festivals, and cultural gatherings. It’s a hand-picked selection of authentic experiences to discover the destination at the rhythm of the seasons and the highlights of the vineyard.
Discover and taste Syrah, the legendary and complex grape variety that has brought international acclaim to our wines. Activities, events, tastings—so many ways to learn more about the vines and appellations of the Northern Rhône Valley.
Découvrez et dégustez la syrah, ce cépage mythique et complexe faisant toute la renommée de nos vins. Activités, événements, dégustations : autant d’occasion d’en apprendre plus sur la vigne et les appellations de la Vallée du Rhône nord.