Some quick facts about Zinfandel!
Zinfandel makes vibrant and rich red wines and some off dry pink wines. It is undeniable though, that when winelovers hear the grape Zinfandel, their thoughts turn quickly to the wines from the USA. Not only is it a grape capable of either elegance or great opulence, it is a very reliable grape to produce high quality at all price points.
Interestingly the grape was first brought to the USA by Italian settlers. In Southern Italy, this grape is known as Primitivo. In both Italy and the USA, this red grape is also used for luscious dessert style wines and are sometimes fortified in the style of Port. However, it really is as a red wine that this grape shines!
Some of the very best Zinfandel red wines come from old vines, those vines over 20 – 30 years old. Often those vines are grown on their own trunks without trellis support. These types of vines are called ‘bush vines’ and they produce some very intense and concentrated wines.
We have some Italian Primitivo wines as well as some outstanding Zinfandel wines from the USA. Look for the Italian versions Baccanera Negroamaro Primitivo £11.99 and Vargaglione Papale Oro Primitivo di Mandura £24.99 here.
It is a great alternative for wines such as Syrah / Shiraz, Tempranillo, Montepulciano, Merlot and Rioja Crianza or Reserva.
What does it taste like …
This red wine is deeply coloured and usually robustly structured. It tastes of black pepper, plums, liquorice with some layers of lighter cranberry and blue berry. It can produce rich red wines with plenty of spice.
Zinfandel is often rich with warm spicy oak as this is grape often needs that time in oak to smooth it out and add spiced support.
Something you didn’t know!
Zinfandel and Primitivo is not a native to either the USA or to Italy. It is actually a native red grape from Croatia. There it also goes by the name of Tribidrag.
What to pair this red wine with….
Dry red wines made using Zinfandel are usually very ripe and fruity.
Most red meat dishes will work well with Zinfandel particularly those with fruity and BBQ marinades. Well seasoned venison or roast beef is a great choice for this juicy grape. Tomato based pasta dishes and stews are also a good match.
Wines to try….
The Burlesque ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel and Seghesio Sonoma Country Zinfandel are available now for click below to purchase!
Serve at room temperature.
