red Wine

Zinfandel Wine Guide

California's signature grape, producing jammy, fruit-forward wines with spicy character.

Category

red

Serving Temp

60-65°F (15-18°C)

Price Range

$12 - $100+

Aging

5-10 years

What is Zinfandel?

Zinfandel is genetically identical to the Italian Primitivo and Croatian Crljenak Kaštelanski, but it has become synonymous with California winemaking. The grape produces bold, high-alcohol wines with jammy fruit flavors and spicy notes. Old-vine Zinfandel, from vines 50-100+ years old, is particularly prized for its concentrated flavors and complexity. The variety is versatile, also used to produce rosé (White Zinfandel) and dessert wines.

Tasting Notes

Zinfandel typically exhibits these flavor characteristics on the palate:

Raspberry jamBlackberryBlack pepperLicoriceTobaccoBramble

Aromas & Bouquet

On the nose, look for these aromatic notes:

Dried fruitCinnamonCloveVanillaAsian spiceChocolate

Best Regions for Zinfandel

Zinfandel thrives in these renowned wine regions, each offering distinct expressions:

1Paso Robles
2Sonoma County
3Lodi
4Amador County
5Napa Valley
6Puglia (as Primitivo)

Food Pairings

Zinfandel pairs exceptionally well with:

  • BBQ brisket
  • Pizza
  • Spicy sausage
  • Blue cheese
  • Grilled pork

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Similar Varietals

  • Primitivo
  • Petite Sirah
  • Barbera
  • Mourvèdre

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