Zinfandel Wines
A Red Wine Powerhouse
Zinfandel wines made from the "Primitivo grape" can vary remarkably
depending on where the grape is grown and how it is vinified. The final
wines can be of a white, rose or red wine type.
These
grapes are versatile and usually result in wines that are extremely rich
in color and very aromatic. This grape has two harvests: one in early
September and one at the end of October (which usually yields a smaller
amount).
Zinfandels or "Zins" offer an
array of flavors including black and red fruit, spice, pepper,wood and
licorice. It can be produced in 3 very different styles or
"bodies".
Zinfandel Red Wine Regions:
California - some of the best Zinfandel wines are from the Lodi Region,
an area between San Francisco Bay and the Sierra Foothills. There are
many outstanding Zin wine producers in the California area. It is the
most widely planted grape in this area.
Italy - also made here but is better known by the following names: Primitivo di Goia, Primitivo Nero and Primaticcio.
Food and Wine Pairing:
*Light-Bodied - are the most popular.
They are light and young and made to drink upon release. They are great
with food and very reasonably priced. Ravenswood makes a light bodied
Zin. Try as an appetizer with
cheese.
*Medium-Bodied - are usually higher in tannins and
may have more fruit flavors. They also have more spice and a longer
finish. They pair well with venison and lamb.
*Full-Bodied
- are deeper in color and richer in taste and have the capacity to age
much longer. Many of the full-bodied Zins are produced by very old
vines. The alcohol content of this full-bodied wine can also top the
15.5% range. This may explain why a popular "Zin" from this category is called "7 Deadly Zins". Try these bold reds with Red Meats and dishes with heavy cream sauces.
Tell us about your favorite Zinfandel wine by visiting our
Red Wine Recommendations page.
