South African Syrah, with its bold and diverse flavours, offers a wealth of possibilities for food pairing. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional braai or exploring more refined cuisine, Syrah’s versatility makes it a perfect companion. This post explores the best food pairings for South African Syrah, from classic combinations to innovative culinary adventures.
Classic Pairings
South African Syrah’s robust profile makes it an excellent match for hearty, flavourful dishes. One of the most traditional pairings is with grilled and barbecued meats, a staple of South African cuisine. The wine’s bold tannins and rich fruit flavours complement the smoky, charred notes of a well-seasoned steak, lamb chops, or boerewors (South African sausage).
Grilled Meats
The high acidity and tannin structure of Syrah help to cut through the richness of fatty meats, enhancing the overall dining experience. The wine’s peppery and spicy notes also add an extra layer of complexity to grilled meats, making each bite more enjoyable.
Hearty Stews
Another classic pairing is with hearty stews and braised dishes. A slow-cooked lamb stew with root vegetables, seasoned with herbs and spices, pairs beautifully with Syrah. The wine’s full body and robust structure hold up well against the rich, umami flavours of the stew, creating a harmonious balance.
Regional Cuisine Pairings
Pairing Syrah with regional South African cuisine can elevate the dining experience, highlighting both the wine’s origins and its ability to complement diverse flavours.
Braai (Barbecue)
For a true South African experience, pair Syrah with a traditional braai. Whether it’s ribs, chicken, or sosaties (skewered meat), Syrah’s fruit-forward profile and spicy undertones enhance the smoky flavours of the barbecue. The wine’s versatility also allows it to pair well with a variety of braai sides, from grilled vegetables to spicy chutneys.
Cape Malay Cuisine
Cape Malay cuisine, known for its aromatic spices and bold flavours, is another excellent match for Syrah. Dishes like bobotie (a spiced minced meat bake) and denningvleis (a sweet and sour lamb stew) benefit from the wine’s fruitiness and spice, which complement the intricate flavours of the cuisine.
Innovative Pairings
For those looking to experiment, South African Syrah offers exciting opportunities for innovative pairings. Consider matching Syrah with dark chocolate for a decadent dessert experience. The wine’s dark fruit and spice notes complement the rich, bittersweet flavours of high-quality chocolate, creating a luxurious combination.
Cheese Pairings
Certain cheeses, such as aged Gouda or blue cheese, also pair wonderfully with Syrah. The wine’s acidity and tannins balance the richness and saltiness of these cheeses, while its fruitiness adds a delightful contrast.
Tips for Creating Your Own Pairings
Consider the wine’s body and flavour intensity: Match lighter Syrah with more delicate dishes and fuller-bodied Syrah with richer, more robust foods.
Experiment with contrasting flavours: Pair Syrah’s fruity and spicy notes with dishes that have a sweet or savoury element.
Don’t be afraid to try unexpected combinations: Syrah’s versatility makes it an excellent candidate for creative culinary explorations.
South African Syrah’s bold and diverse profile makes it an exceptional wine for food pairing. Whether you stick to classic combinations or venture into innovative territory, Syrah has the versatility to enhance a wide range of dishes. So, pour yourself a glass and enjoy the endless possibilities of culinary matches made in heaven.
This Friday, here at Lomond we offer you the opportunity to experience our new Estate Syrah 2022 vintage available from our online store. Experiment with a pairing outlined above and let us know your thoughts or leave a review about this special new wine we have created.
View the Lomond Wine Estate selection of Syrah in our online store here. We offer discounted bundle pricing and free national delivery within South Africa for purchases of 2 cases or more. Join our Wine Club, to benefit from discounted prices and special vineyard releases.