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Wine Pairing
Get to Know Your Shiraz
Shiraz, also popularly known as Syrah, is a bold and full-bodied red wine which originates from France but is planted all over the world. The difference between the two variations is in climate, soil, and other regional characteristics in which they grow but generally, the wine boasts aromatic notes of smoke, black fruit, and pepper spice. For this reason, it is best paired with robust foods which are high in flavour. For the enthusiasts, the International Day of Celebration for Shiraz is 16th February.
Food Pairings
Meats
Richer styles of Shiraz with a higher alcohol percentage go well with grilled beef, lamb, and other variations of roasted or braised meats. For the best taste, serve beef rare and accompany with pepper sauce. Cook beef stews in wine or add a hint of chilli spice. The wine may also be paired with chicken but only if it is marinated with strong herbs, spices, or glaze.
Younger or sparkling variations of Shiraz may be delighted with anything barbecued such as ribs, sausages, kebabs, and brisket. Once again, any addition of spicy flavours is welcomed. Vegetable side dishes are also preferred to be barbecued when paired with the wine. Fully vegetarian meal options include falafel, portobello mushrooms and pasta.
Boards
Charcuterie boards should be filled with strongly flavoured items. For cheese, think about strong, salty, and stinky cheeses like Roquefort, pecorino, gouda, and aged cheddar. Add a sweet dip such as onion marmalade or chutney and complement with grapes, crackers, and nuts for snacks. Cold meats may include a variety of Italian antipasti namely salami, Prosciutto Crudo or Copa.
Pasta
Due to its acidity, Shiraz should be paired with equally as acidic tomato-based pasta sauces, with either cheese or meat included. Oily meats such as beef or pork are especially well-paired with the wine. Gravy-based pasta dishes such as stroganoff or beef bourguignon are also ideal.
What NOT to pair
What should definitely be avoided is pairing Shiraz with seafood, delicate or intensely sour dishes as the intensity of the wine will overwhelm the subtle flavours in the dish. If you must though, go for the lighter versions of the wine.
A wide variety of quality ingredients are available from Arkadia supermarkets in Malta and Gozo, including Arkadia FoodExpress Swatar and Arkadia Food Market Valletta.
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