Cheese & Syrah Masterclass

Syrah has a long history in New Zealand starting in the mid-1800s with early European settlers. Distinguished by its bright, spicy flavours and elegant texture, the intense varietal distinctiveness of New Zealand’s Syrah is found akin to the elegant Northern Rhône style, crammed full of plum and savoury black pepper flavours, and sometimes even a hint of violets.

While Syrah/Shiraz is adaptable, and grown in numerous regions around the world, it is primarily found in the temperate to warm viticultural areas. As of 2016, approximately 35% of the world's Syrah was found in France, followed by Australia with 20% and Spain with 10%. Today over 90% of plantings are found in the Hawke’s Bay, Auckland, and Northland regions with a total 444 hectares planted overall in New Zealand.

With brilliant bright flavours and elegant texture, Syrah pairs well with barbecued meats, with tomato-based dishes such as pizza or bolognese. And, cheese of course!

Cranky Goat owners Simon and Hellene Lamb took a leap of faith turning Simon’s cheese making hobby into a small business back in 2014. It took grit, determination and passion focusing on minimal processing, traditional French cheese making methods, and delivering real flavour with their range of goat, sheep, and cow's milk cheeses.

Book early as spaces are limited.