Join Our Newsletter:   
First Name:  
Email:  
  

     

Zinfandel Grapes

Zinfandel Grapes, which are also known as Zin, are a red skinned variety of wine grape very popular in California. The wines produced from Zinfandel grapes have an intense fruitiness and a luscious texture. Zinfandel grapes can produce a wide range of wine styles including sweet White Zinfandel, light-bodied red wines, full-bodied dry red wines and sweet late harvest wines.

Zinfandel grapes have been grown in California for over one hundred years and Zinfandel wines are one of California's most popular and successful varieties of wine. (see also Napa Merlot, White Merlot and Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon) Zinfandel grapes grow in tight bunches and its thin skins can be susceptible to rot. The best Zinfandel grapes are grown from old vines. This is loosely defined as vines that have been active for a minimum of 40 years. Although old Zinfandel vines tend to produce smaller crops, the berries have greater intensity and depth of flavor.

Zinfandel grapes are grown in wineries in Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino, Contra Costa, Lake and Santa Clara counties and in the Cucamonga region of Southern California. Two of the most famous Zinfandel wineries are Castoro Cellars and Sutter Home Winery.

Zinfandel grapes have been found to be genetically identical to Primitivo grapes which are grown in Italy. Both the Primitivo grape and the Zinfandel grape are thought to have originated in Croatia. (see History Of Zinfandel)

Zinfandel grapes produce wines with an intrinsic cherry, blackberry, zesty and spicy-pepper character which combined with its earthy tar and leather aromas means that this grapes can truly produce a wide range of wine styles. The Zinfandel grape can also be blended with Cabernet and Syrah with moderate success. Zinfandel Wines are very popular and are know to be complex wines that are usually deep in color with medium to high tannins and intense fruit flavors. (see Zinfandel Wine Recommendations)

Are you interested in growing your own grapes at home? If so, I can personally recommend this book by Danie Wium. I recently began growing my own grapes for use in winemaking and this book was an invaluable tool along the way.