Zinfandel

Berry delicacy

Zinfandel, also popularly known by the name “Primitivo,” originates from Croatia. Its name is derived from the Latin word “Primaticcio,” which means early ripener. This plant is quite historic, and its family comprises of the following 2 Croatian grape members:

• Crljenak Kaštelanski
• Tribidrag

Though this grape doesn’t have a wide variety of members in its family, it is quite well known for its tastes and color. Zinfandel is also popularly grown in other regions of the world, such as the USA, Europe, and Italy.

Zinfandel (Wine Grape)

Zinfandel needs to be grown with the utmost care. This variety of wine grape thrives in warmer environments and sunny areas, as the thin-skinned grapes tend to get sunburnt and shrivel up in extremely hot weather. However, these grapes are susceptible to rot as they tend to grow in thick clusters. Another problem that comes with Zinfandel is uneven ripening, which can be problematic if these grapes are to be used to make wine. Sandy, clay soils with loam present in them are preferred for this plant.

Zinfandel Taste Profile

This wine has natural fruity aromas that set it apart from other wines and has a unique taste. A few of its features are mentioned below:

Colour

Zinfandel is black, and they are thin-skinned.

Flavors & Aromas

Flavors of Zinfandel depend greatly upon the region and conditions they are grown in, which may cause them to vary. Flavors typically include cinnamon, strawberry, sweet tobacco, blackberry, and peach. Zinfandel also has smoky, earthy aromas of violets, walnuts, olives, and raisins.

Spice

Oak-aged Zinfandel may contain hints of spiciness such as cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper.

Taste

The wine is quite dry to taste, and it contains medium-high tannins.

Wine Structure

Zinfandel’s wine structure reveals medium-low acidity, dry taste, abv of over 15%, medium-high tannins, and medium-full body. However, on rare occasions, it could be made into a sweet wine.

Other properties

Oak: French oak barrels

Age ability: Zinfandel can age and can be stored for up to 5-10 years at maximum.

Other flavours: jam, licorice, cherry, blueberry

Serving temp: Cool (60-68 °F | 15-20 °C)

Taste profile

The typical Zinfandel is medium-low acidic, has medium-high tannins, a medium-full body, and blackberry, strawberry, and cinnamon notes.

Common regions to find Zinfandel

• California – Sierra Foothills
• Italy – Puglia
• Croatia
• Australia
• Chile
• Canada
• South Africa

Summary

Zinfandel flavors explode in candied fruitiness, and the high-sugar levels in the fruit also lead to high alcohol levels. It is a bold red wine that is exotic, spicy, and fruit all at the same time. These are a few reasons why it is so popular amongst wine lovers.

This wine can be paired with foods spicy and rich, such as curry, barbequed ribs, grilled chicken and pork, burgers, and hearty soups. Cheddar cheese and grilled vegetables like mushrooms, olives, eggplants, or red peppers can also be enjoyed with Zinfandel. All in all, this wine is quite versatile and can be paired with a number of dishes to alleviate your palate.