April 20 - Syrah or Shiraz and Angus Beef

Angus Beef

Shiraz or Syrah. Which one is correct? Strictly speaking, neither. These are both names for the same grape and they are based on the grape's supposed place of origin. Shiraz points to a city in Persia. Syrah links the grape to Syracuse on the island of Sicily. The truth is far more humbling, the grape is actually the offspring of two obscure Southeastern French varieties. But in the northern Rhone, Hermitage produces a 100% Syrah-based wine and it is a powerhouse. And many people have asked me, exactly what cut of meat is the Angus? Angus beef is the meat from a specific breed of cattle. They were bred and developed in Scotland. In the United States this beef is being marketed as a superior meat source. Certified Angus Beef will only carry the grades; prime or choice, which in most stores establishes it as the premium line. So be a name dropper, pair an Hermitage with an Angus t-bone!