What Is Red Zinfandel?
Red Zinfandel is a red wine variety that originated in Italy and became synonymous with California winemaking. Known for its deep, rich color and bold, fruit-forward flavors, Red Zinfandel is often made into a single varietal wine, although it can also be blended with other grapes. The wine is famous for its wide range of flavors, from juicy fruitiness to smoky, peppery notes, making it incredibly food-friendly and enjoyable on its own.
Which Red Zinfandel Should I Try First?
If you're new to Zinfandel, start with a California Zinfandel that balances fruitiness with the characteristic spice. Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel or Ravenswood Vintners Blend offer approachable, balanced styles that feature rich berry flavors with a touch of pepper. For something more complex, try a Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel or Turley Wine Cellars Zinfandel, which offer deep fruit flavors with hints of oak and spice, perfect for sipping or pairing with food.
How Should I Drink Red Zinfandel?
Red Zinfandel is best served slightly below room temperature, around 60-65°F (15-18°C), to highlight its fruit and spice flavors. It’s typically enjoyed:
- Neat: Sip it on its own to appreciate its full, fruity complexity.
- On the Rocks: Add a small amount of ice for a cooler, slightly diluted experience.
- Cocktails: Zinfandel can also be used in sangria-style cocktails for a fruity, spiced drink.
What Foods Pair Well with Red Zinfandel?
Red Zinfandel is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. It pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled Meats: Zinfandel’s bold flavors complement smoky, grilled meats like steak, ribs, or BBQ chicken.
- Spicy Dishes: The wine’s peppery notes work well with spicy cuisines, such as chili, Mexican, or Indian food.
- Cheese: Strong cheeses, like aged cheddar or gouda, complement Zinfandel’s rich profile.
- Tomato-Based Dishes: Zinfandel pairs beautifully with pasta dishes, especially those with tomato sauce or pizza with spicy sausage.
Does Red Zinfandel Improve with Age?
Yes, while Zinfandel is often enjoyed in its youth for its vibrant fruit flavors, many higher-quality Zinfandels improve with age. As it ages, the wine can develop more complex flavors of dried fruit, leather, and spice, mellowing out the boldness and creating a smoother, more balanced profile.
How Long Does Red Zinfandel Last After Opening?
Once opened, Red Zinfandel will last about 3-5 days if stored properly in the fridge with a wine stopper. While it’s best to consume it soon after opening to enjoy its fresh flavors, it can still be enjoyed for a few days, especially if stored airtight.
What’s the Difference Between Old Vine Zinfandel and Regular Zinfandel?
Old Vine Zinfandel is made from grapes from vineyards that are at least 40-50 years old, though some vineyards may be much older. These old vines often produce lower yields of concentrated fruit, which results in a wine with more depth, complexity, and richer flavors. Regular Zinfandel is made from younger vines and tends to have a fresher, fruitier profile.
Explore our Red Zinfandel collection and experience the bold, complex flavors of this iconic California wine. Whether you’re pairing it with food or enjoying it on its own, Red Zinfandel is the perfect choice for a full-bodied, flavorful experience.
