Zinfandel Wine Guide
Discover Zinfandel, California's signature red grape. Learn about its bold fruit, jammy character, old-vine heritage, and perfect barbecue pairings.
Characteristics
- Medium to full body with high alcohol
- Flavors of blackberry, raspberry, black pepper, and baking spice
- Ripe, jammy fruit with a peppery kick
- Old-vine examples add brambly complexity
Key Regions
Food Pairings
- Barbecue ribs and smoked brisket
- Grilled burgers with blue cheese
- Spicy sausage and peppers
- Hearty pizza
Serving Temperature
60-65°F (16-18°C)
California’s Own Grape
Zinfandel is California’s adopted signature variety, brought by immigrants in the 19th century and now inseparable from the state’s winemaking identity. DNA research revealed it is genetically identical to Croatia’s Crljenak Kastelanski and Italy’s Primitivo, but it is in California — particularly from gnarled old vines — that Zinfandel reaches its most celebrated expression: bold, ripe, and unapologetically fruity.
Tasting Zinfandel
Classic Flavors
- Fruit: Blackberry, raspberry, black cherry, boysenberry
- Secondary: Black pepper, licorice, baking spice, vanilla (with oak)
- With age: Dried fruit, tobacco, leather, prune
On the Palate
Medium to full-bodied with moderate tannins and high alcohol (often 14-16%). Ripe, jammy fruit with a signature peppery kick. Old-vine examples add layers of complexity and a brambly character.
World Regions
Sonoma County, California
Dry Creek Valley and Russian River Valley are home to some of California’s finest old-vine Zinfandel plantings. These century-old vines produce small yields of intensely concentrated, complex wine.
Paso Robles, California
Warmer conditions produce riper, bolder Zinfandel with rich, jammy fruit and generous texture.
Puglia, Italy
As Primitivo, the grape produces robust, fruit-driven reds in southern Italy, typically at friendlier prices than its Californian counterparts.
Food Pairings
Zinfandel’s bold fruit and peppery spice make it ideal with:
- Barbecue ribs and smoked brisket
- Grilled burgers with blue cheese
- Spicy sausage and peppers
- Hearty pizza and red-sauced pasta
Aging Potential
Most Zinfandel drinks well within 5-7 years. Old-vine bottlings from top producers can develop beautifully for a decade or more, gaining earthy complexity while retaining their characteristic fruit.
Learn More with Sommo
Zinfandel’s alcohol and intensity vary wildly by producer and vineyard age. Use Sommo to scan labels, compare old-vine bottlings, and track the bold Zins that genuinely impress you.
