Syrah, if you think about it, is a wonder grape.

It results in wines with deep color, tantalizing black fruit, a charming spiciness and moderate tannins. It is grown in many countries, with notable efforts from cool climates (such as Monterey County and Chile's San Antonio Valley) as well as warm ones (Sicily and the Barossa Valley, to name two). A few of the finest examples, such as Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie are world famous.