Zinfandel's history is a fascinating blend of Old and New World influences. From its European roots in Croatia and Italy to its adoption and success in California, Zinfandel is a grape that has adapted to a wide range of terroirs. Its versatility in winemaking allows it to produce everything from light, sweet White Zinfandels to rich, full-bodied red wines, making it a cornerstone of California's wine industry.
Zinfandel is genetically identical to the Italian grape Primitivo, grown primarily in the Puglia region, and to the Crljenak Kaštelanski grape from Croatia. DNA testing in the 1990s confirmed this connection, resolving a long-standing mystery about its origins. It's believed that Zinfandel made its way to the U.S. in the 1820s through Austrian grape collections, eventually finding its home in California during the Gold Rush of the mid-1800s.
Zinfandel flourished in California due to its adaptability and high yields, becoming one of the state’s most widely planted grape varieties in the 19th and early 20th centuries. During Prohibition, many Zinfandel vines were preserved, as home winemaking remained legal, ensuring the grape survived this challenging period for the wine industry.
In the 1970s, White Zinfandel (a blush, slightly sweet rosé made from Zinfandel grapes) became extremely popular in the U.S., introducing a new generation to wine. While initially a mistake in the winemaking process, this style's commercial success helped save many old Zinfandel vineyards that might have otherwise been abandoned.
California is home to some of the oldest Zinfandel vines in the world, many over 100 years old. These old-vine Zinfandels are renowned for their depth, intensity, and complexity. Older vines tend to produce lower yields, but the resulting grapes often have more concentrated flavors, leading to robust, highly sought-after wines.
Zinfandel is a great example of how terrior influences and winemaking techniques can make totally different wines from the same grape variety.
Regional Differences in California:
- Lodi: Known for producing full-bodied, fruit-forward Zinfandels with jammy berry flavors and moderate tannins. Lodi’s warm climate and sandy soils contribute to its distinctive style.
- Dry Creek Valley (Sonoma): Considered one of the best regions for Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley produces Zinfandels with balanced acidity, spice, and deep red fruit flavors. The valley’s hilly terrain and cooler microclimates contribute to the wine’s elegance.
- Paso Robles: This hot, inland region produces big, bold, and ripe Zinfandels, often with high alcohol content. The wines from here are known for their powerful fruit character, including blackberry and dark plum, with peppery notes.
Featured Zinfandel Wines Available at Midwest Supplies:
- Old Vine Zinfandel with Grape Skins - Master Vintner® Sommelier Select®
- Lodi Old Vine Zinfandel with Grape Skins - Winexpert Private Reserve
- Italian Zinfandel - RJS En Primeur
- California Zinfandel - RJS Cru International
- Zinfandel Rosé - Master Vintner® Winemaker's Reserve®