Petite Sirah is a rich full bodied red wine that is delicious by itself or with many of your favorite full-flavored dishes. Don’t be fooled by the name of this grape.  It is by no means a smaller, lesser version of the Syrah grape.

In fact, Petite Sirah is not the same grape as Syrah and it is even fuller in body than your favorite California Syrah or Australian Shiraz. A Californian Petite Sirah is as full in body as your favorite California Cabernet, French Hermitage Syrah, or even the Italian Nebbiolo we often adore from Barolo.

So what is this Petite Sirah?

In the late 1800s, a French grape nurseryman was trying to propagate a grape that would be mildew resistant. In his research he blended the seeds of the Peloursin (an old French blending grape) and Syrah. He was genetically successful in establishing a new varietal that is mildew resistant. Unfortunately, due to its densely packed clusters the grape is susceptible to rotting in moist weather, which is a typical climate throughout France. Therefore, the Durif grape was not popular with French winemakers and did not become as a commonly used grape.

During the 1900s the grape was brought to California and was originally used as a blending grape because of its high tannins and robust purple color. In the mid-1900s winemakers started refining its flavor and started introducing it as a primary grape. Much of the grapes confusing heritage revolves around the various names California winemakers called it including Petite Sirah and Petite Syrah. Until recently there were no laws governing the name of the grape which is why you could easily find California labels with either spelling. However, the US government has finally stepped in requiring winemakers to change the name to Petite Sirah.

In 2002 Foppiano Vineyards sponsored a Petit Sirah Symposium. It was this event that inspired a passionate group of Petite Sirah winemakers to start a movement to gain recognition for the grape. They created an advocacy group, eloquently called “PS I love you”. They even have their own website full of information about Petit Sirah the foundation itself. Visit the site and discover the detailed complexities of the grape’s history, fabulous recipes and varied winemakers who make and distribute the wine.

In the meantime, try one of the Daisywine favorites listed below (all in the $20 range). Enjoy the complex spicy aromas, rich berry and chocolate flavors, and smooth silky finish.  Enjoy it alone or try it with the Daisywine Buttery Mushroom Steak Sauce

David Bruce, Petite Sirah, 2006
Rosenblum, Petite Sirah, 2006
Guenoc Petite Sirah, 2005
Foppiano, Petite Sirah, 2005

After one sip, it will be easy to conjure up a cozy environment including a fireplace, a bottle of Petite Sirah and a full understanding of the phrase: “PS, I love you”.