Educational takeaway from the Variety Focus: Syrah seminar. Rotundone is the chemical compound that produces the peppery notes often found in Syrah. Also found in marjoram, oregano, rosemary and basil, the levels can be “adjusted” in the vineyard. Cooler climates and growing conditions (think higher elevation and canopy cover) promote an increase in rotundone. The compound is located in the skins so that increased skin contact during fermentation can also increase the peppery character of the resulting wine. Vespolina, Gruner Veltliner and Schioppetino also contain rotundone.
Falvo’s in Flight
