Over many years, the French dined with Syrah at their tables and many types of cheese, saucisson and dishes were adapted to enjoy with the peppery, full-bodied red wine made from Syrah. As gastronomy evolved, extraordinary Syrah and food combinations were developed and Syrah found its friends in food. Today, that bond is still celebrated – not simply in the Rhône Valley of France but among the vines of the Franschhoek Valley. Raise a glass and feast with friends, as we celebrate Syrah with La Motte and these paired recipes.

Syrah & Friends

La Motte Wine Estate’s reputation for the consistent quality of its Syrah wines is not the only reason why red wine lovers often opt for the estate’s popular La Motte Syrah, acclaimed Pierneef Syrah Viognier or treasured Hanneli R Syrah blend. Syrah made in such an elegant style, is an easy wine to love. No wonder it has a large circle of friends when it comes to blends, food and people!

Shiraz or ‘Syrah’ as it is known in France, developed from two antique grape varieties in France’s Rhône wine-growing area. In the warmer, Southern parts of the Rhône, Syrah has a different persona — one that is even more intense and charismatic. Local folk who enjoyed wine throughout the day wanted a lighter style and thus incorporated other grapes with Syrah to make it less full-bodied. These blending components depended on the area and the vintage, but in the Southern Rhône, Syrah found its friends in blends.

Today, that bond is still celebrated – not simply in the Rhône Valley of France but among the vines of the Franschhoek Valley.

In South Africa, Shiraz is the second most planted red variety, and the Cape Winelands can truly be seen as a home for Shiraz. While a pure Shiraz or ‘Syrah’ is something to treasure, small percentages of blending partners add to the complexity and intrigue of the wine. We can learn a lot from the French, but in South Africa, Syrah has found its own friends. With our local food culture and wine history, it is easy to gather friends to enjoy a glass of Syrah. These French-inspired dishes paired with La Motte Syrah are ideal for those occasions.

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Roast Beef French Dip Sandwich

Indulge in comfort food with a sophisticated twist. Drenched in jus and filled with roast beef, this gourmet delight pairs exceptionally well with a full-bodied La Motte Syrah.

The hearty flavours of this French dip sandwich harmonise beautifully with the subtle spice and red berry notes of this Syrah.

Pepper-crusted beef is roasted to perfection along with garlic, onions, beef stock and fragrant rosemary and thyme, creating the ultimate dip for a crispy baguette. Smothered with creamy horseradish and filled with tender roast beef, Gruyère cheese and braised onions, the hearty flavours of this French dip sandwich harmonise beautifully with the subtle spice and red berry notes of this Syrah. Ideal for casual yet elevated gatherings, this unexpected pairing celebrates the versatility of Syrah. Sip and savour every bite!

Recipe for Roast Beef French Dip Sandwich

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Smoked Trout Chowder

Inspired by French cuisine and local produce, this Smoked Trout Chowder is the perfect partner for La Motte Syrah, offering a true expression of the Franschhoek terroir.

For a burst of acidity, top the chowder with capers and enjoy with a glass or two of La Motte Syrah.

With its natural fruitiness and delicate spice, this wine cuts through the richness of the chowder and enhances its smoky undertones. Fluffy potatoes, flakes of smoked trout and aromatic leeks, garlic and dill come together in the velvety sauce. For a burst of acidity, top the chowder with capers and enjoy with a glass or two of La Motte Syrah. The wine’s depth and the chowder’s creamy texture create a pairing that’s both sophisticated and comforting — the perfect serve for an intimate dinner party with friends.

Recipe for Smoked Trout Chowder

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Mushroom Galettes

These French-inspired Mushroom Galettes are a delightful start to any meal, offering savoury, earthy flavours that pair wonderfully with the Pierneef Syrah Viognier.

The Syrah provides structure and spice, while the Viognier adds floral notes and a touch of elegance…

For a sensational starter or light meal, enjoy these rustic galettes with this rich wine. With its blend of red and white grapes, this versatile Syrah brings a unique complexity to the table. The Syrah provides structure and spice, while the Viognier adds floral notes and a touch of elegance, making it ideal for this pairing. From the flaky, buttery crust to the Portabellini, herby ricotta and Parmesan filling, these gorgeous galettes are filled with umami, savoury notes. Friends will marvel at these sophisticated and satisfying starters.

Recipe for Mushroom Galettes

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Brown Butter & Hazelnut Financiers with Chocolate Ganache

End dining occasions on a sweet note with these decadent yet dainty Brown Butter & Hazelnut Financiers. Guests will swoon over these elegant treats!

These delectable treats are paired with the Hanneli R, a blend of Syrah and Petit Sirah that’s as luxurious as the dessert itself.

Drizzled with chocolate ganache and topped with toasted hazelnuts, these delectable treats are paired with the Hanneli R, a blend of Syrah and Petit Sirah that’s as luxurious as the dessert itself! The wine’s rich aromas and perfumy notes, derived from its Syrah vineyards in Elim, offer a beautiful contrast to the buttery sweetness of the financiers. The rich dark chocolate ganache brings out the wine’s fruity undertones, while the hazelnuts and beurre noisette complement its creamy, smooth finish. Top this delicious dessert with delicate gold leaf for the ultimate after-dinner indulgence. Simply divine!

Recipe for Brown Butter & Hazelnut Financiers with Chocolate Ganache

Celebrate Syrah & Friends with La Motte. Explore their Syrah selection and exclusive offers available at the website link below. 

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