Learn the Basics about Zinfandel Red Wine Zinfandel is a grape variety near and dear to many Californian’s hearts. Grown in more than 10% of vineyards in [this part of the world – what do you mean by this? California? The United States?] red wine has been made from its grapes for hundreds of years and is now a nationwide staple. If you love it too you're in luck—you can easily purchase Zinfandel red wine from California and have it delivered straight to your home. There are many interesting things to note about Zinfandel red wine, some of which explain the unique characteristics of its taste. Do you like wine trivia? We have some for you:
The Real Origins of Zinfandel It was initially thought that Zinfandel was indigenous to the US because the vines have long thrived in California. However Professor [which professor?] questioned the real origin of the Zinfandel when he noticed that the grapes had many similarities to Primitivo grapes from Italy. So for a while, many believed that the grape variety originated in Europe. But as scientists continued to trace its origins through DNA testing, they discovered something mind-blowing: It has no ties to Italy or any of the famous wine regions in Spain and France. It instead originated from Croatia! So how did Zinfandel vines arrive in the US from Croatia? The most popular theory suggests that the vines made their way during the mid-19th century via George Gibbs, a horticulturist on Long Island. He received a number of shipments of grape varieties from the Imperial Nursery in Vienna, Austria. Regardless of its origin, Zinfandel has been a mainstay on the California wine scene for years and is most popular today as a red wine.
The Most Popular Zinfandel Red Wines Old Vine Zinfandel is a style of Zinfandel red wine which has both intense and bold flavor. The secret to its unique taste is that it is made from grapes grown on vines that are around fifty years or older. Old Vine Zinfandel is often considered premium red wine for this reason, as the grape vines produce less grapes as they age. The price of this kind of Zinfandel red wine varies depending on the vine's age, where the grapes were harvested and a number of other factors, so good examples can be found at nearly every price point. You can expect that the older the vine and more limited the production, the more expensive the red wine will be.
Unique Traits of Zinfandel Red Wines One quality Zinfandel is known for compared to other varieties is its distinct fruitiness. You will often find the flavors of jam, blackberry, and black raspberry mixed together in a sweet and savory blend. Many also love it for its spicy pepperiness and tobacco-like smokey finish. Compared to Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel can have a lighter color. However don't be fooled by the hue, because it has both high acidity and moderate tannin which makes its taste just as bold.