Zinfandel (aka "California’s Wild Child")

Description:

Zinfandel is a grape with a globe-trotting identity. Known as Crljenak Kaštelanski in Croatia and Primitivo in southern Italy, it found its true swagger in California. Here, it’s bold, jammy, and unapologetically loud... bringing flavors of blueberry, blackberry, and even a hint of peach. A true rock star of the wine world, it thrives around smoky barbecue pits and hearty fare.

Tasting Tips:

• Swirl and sip to unlock ripe berry aromas with peppery spice.
• Serve slightly cooler than room temperature (60–65°F) for balance.
• Decant for 30 minutes to let its bold personality shine.
• Pair with smoky, flame-kissed dishes to highlight its jammy punch.

Characteristics:

• Deep ruby to purple in color
• Flavors of blueberry, blackberry, jam, and sometimes peach
• Notes of black pepper and spice
• Medium to high alcohol content
• Full-bodied with bold fruit-forward style

Food Pairing Spotlights:

• Carne Asada: The smoky char and spice meet Zinfandel’s ripe fruit for a lively duet. Try adding a squeeze of lime to brighten the pairing.
• Beef Stroganoff: The creamy richness contrasts perfectly with Zin’s jammy boldness. Toss in extra mushrooms for a deeper earthy match.
• BBQ Ribs: Zin’s sweet fruitiness complements tangy BBQ sauce. For a knockout pairing, go with a spicy rub to echo the wine’s peppery notes.
• Hard Cheeses (like Manchego or Aged Gouda): The saltiness sharpens Zin’s fruit flavors, making it a power couple for your cheese board.

Fun Extra Info:

• Zinfandel is genetically identical to Primitivo from Italy and Croatia’s Crljenak Kaštelanski.
• California Zinfandel vines can be over 100 years old, producing concentrated, powerful wines.
• White Zinfandel, its pink cousin, was an accidental creation in the 1970s but became a massive hit in the U.S.
• Nicknamed the “wild child” for its bold personality and strong ties to California winemaking history.