Everything About Zinfandel Grape
"ZIN-fan-del" 
Zinfandel Description
Origin: Croatia
History: Zinfandel, also known as Primitivo, is a black-skinned grape variety that originated in Croatia, where it is known as Crljenak Kaštelanski. It was introduced to the United States in the early 19th century, where it became particularly popular in California. DNA analysis has revealed that Zinfandel is genetically equivalent to the Croatian grapes Crljenak Kaštelanski and Tribidrag, as well as to the Primitivo variety traditionally grown in Apulia, Italy.
Appearance: Small to medium-sized, blue-black berries with thick skins.
Growing Traits: Zinfandel is a late-ripening variety that thrives in warm, dry climates. It is moderately vigorous and highly productive, producing large, deeply colored berries. The grape benefits from its thick skin, which contributes to the intense color and structure of the wines.
Food Pairing Zinfandel's bold flavors and medium tannins make it a versatile companion for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, such as barbecued ribs and burgers, as well as spicy cuisines like Mexican and Indian dishes. The wine's fruit-forward profile also complements hearty pasta dishes and aged cheeses.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Medium to full-bodied with a rich texture, offering a balanced mouthfeel. Typically vinified dry, highlighting its natural acidity and fruit flavors. Medium tannin levels, contributing to a smooth and approachable mouthfeel. Medium to high acidity, providing freshness and aging potential. Moderate to high alcohol content, generally ranging from 12% to 15%, contributing to the wine's body and intensity.
Blackberry 
Black cherry 
Plum 
Black Pepper 
Anise Zinfandel wines are characterized by their rich fruit flavors, including blackberry, black cherry, and plum, complemented by spicy notes of pepper and anise. The wines are typically medium to full-bodied, with medium tannin and acidity, contributing to their approachable and versatile nature.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/united_states.png)
United States
•California
•Sonoma County
•Napa Valley
•Paso Robles
•Lodi
![[object Object] Region](/regions/italy.png)
Italy
•Apulia
![[object Object] Region](/regions/croatia.png)
Croatia
•Dalmatia
Notable Wines and Producers
Ridge Vineyards Geyserville
•Ridge Vineyards
Turley Wine Cellars Juvenile Zinfandel
•Turley Wine Cellars
Seghesio Sonoma Zinfandel
•Seghesio Family Vineyards
Zinfandel FAQ
Croatia
Zinfandel has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Zinfandel is Moderate bodied.
Zinfandel has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Zinfandel is Dry.
Croatia
Zinfandel is grown in United States (California, Sonoma County, Napa Valley, Paso Robles, Lodi)Italy (Apulia)Croatia (Dalmatia).
Zinfandel wines are characterized by their rich fruit flavors, including blackberry, black cherry, and plum, complemented by spicy notes of pepper and anise. The wines are typically medium to full-bodied, with medium tannin and acidity, contributing to their approachable and versatile nature.
Zinfandel's bold flavors and medium tannins make it a versatile companion for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, such as barbecued ribs and burgers, as well as spicy cuisines like Mexican and Indian dishes. The wine's fruit-forward profile also complements hearty pasta dishes and aged cheeses.
Zinfandel wines are characterized by their rich fruit flavors, including blackberry, black cherry, and plum, complemented by spicy notes of pepper and anise. The wines are typically medium to full-bodied, with medium tannin and acidity, contributing to their approachable and versatile nature.