|
 Petite Sirah has long been planted in California, and produces inky-colored, tannic wine capable of long aging. The origin of Petite Sirah, like Zinfandel, has been a long standing mystery until recently. DNA testing has shown that almost all Petite Sirah in California is the French grape called Durif. Furthermore, Durif comes from a cross between the French grapes Peloursin and Syrah, which may help explain where the name "Petite Sirah" originated.
Petite Sirah, while capable of making very good wine all by itself, seems to have an affinity for blending with Zinfandel, where it provides a bit of color and stucture. The well-drained granitic soil and mountain climate of Fair Play produce exceptional Petite Sirah, with more elegant structure and flavor than lower elevation examples.
|
