The Durif grape, often recognised under the pseudonym Petite Sirah, is a richly coloured black grape variety. It is primarily cultivated in the Australia, California, France and increasingly in Argentina. Originating from France in the 1860s, it is a cross of Syrah and a lesser-known French grape, Peloursin, developed by Dr. Francois Durif – hence the namesake. Due to its susceptibility to mildew, it never gained much traction in its home country and is considered quite rare there now.
What is unique about the Durif grape is its extraordinarily dark colour and tannic nature. Wines produced from Durif are typically high in alcohol content and are known for their ability to age well and mature over time. They radiate sumptuous, powerful flavours dominated by blackberry, blueberry, prunes, and black pepper along with dark chocolate and liquorice notes.
Durif wines are full-bodied, with a bold character that help them pair wonderfully with flavourful foods such as grilled meats, spicy dishes, and robust cheeses. The grape's high tannin content means that not only do these wines age competently, they often require a few years of bottle ageing to soften their strong tannic backbone.
In terms of cultivation, the Durif grape thrives better in warm and dry climates, which explains why Australia often refers to it as their ‘own red grape’. Particularly in Victoria and New South Wales, it is blended with Shiraz to produce some truly unique red wine blends.
In summary, the Durif grape is a deeply flavoured and robust variety known for its power and vigour as well as its dark, intense wines. Whether enjoyed young for its intense fruit characteristics or aged for added complexity, Durif certainly offers a distinctive wine experience.
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