Zinfandel Grape
The Zinfandel grape is a dark skinned Vitis Vinifera grape used to make very robust and full bodied red wine. It is also used to make a slightly sweet rose wine known as White Zinfandel. DNA testing has indicated the Zinfandel grape to be equivalent to the Croatian grape Crljenak Kaštelanski, and the Primitivo grape of Italy. The grape's origins are thought to be Croatia.
Zinfandel and wine made from Zinfandel are almost a California exclusive. Its for bearer, Crljenak Kaštelanski, has only recently started to be bottled as a varietal in Croatia. Primitivo is grown in Puglia (Apulia), the "heel" of Italy.
Zinfandel that is made into a red wine is typically aged in oak barrels. Its White Zinfandel rose version is typically not aged in oak. The red version can benefit from bottle aging. White Zinfandel is meant to be drunk upon release.
Zinfandel wine is typically very robust and full bodied and can have a high alcohol content (as much as 15%). Some refer to the high alcohol wines as "hot" because of the alcohol level. However, a well made wine, with enough fruit and tannins to stand up to the alcohol, can be balanced and very pleasing. The taste of Zinfandel can range from red berries to black berries with hints of anise and pepper. White Zinfandel has light flavors of strawberries.
Zinfandel is typically served at room or cellar temperature (see: Wine Serving Temperature), and is a natural for pairing with red meat. White Zinfandel is typically served chilled like a white wine and pairs better with lighter foods.
Other Names for Zinfandel
Zinfandel may also be known by the following names:
- Black St. Peters, synonym from California dating to the 1800's
- Crljenak Kaštelanski, Croatia
- Primitivo, Italy
More Information About Zinfandel
- Zinfandel, from Wikipedia
