- There is nothing “petite” about Petite Sirah. This is a big, inky monster of a wine.
- The first plantings in California date back to the 1880s. Only a handful of other varieties can make that claim.
- It’s not unusual for Petite Sirah to be used as a blending wine to “beef up” other varieties, particularly in lesser vintages.
- Many vintners blend a small amount with their Zinfandel bottlings, even in strong vintages.
- Petite Sirah is a cross between Syrah and Peloursin (Syrah is the father, while Peloursin is the mother). And while Petite Sirah and Syrah are closely related, they are very different varieties — just as a parent and a child can be two very different people.
- Three venerable California wineries have long been champions of Petite Sirah: Parducci, Foppiano and Concannon.
- As of 2010, Petite Sirah acreage in California was just one acre shy of 8,000.
- Petite Sirah can be every bit as ageworthy as Cabernet Sauvignon. Many have been known to age gracefully for more than a quarter-century.
- Petite Sirah is one of the few wines that pairs well with vegetarian fare. Eggplant lasagna and grilled mushrooms are sublime culinary partners.
To learn more about Petite Sirah, visit: psiloveyou.org.
