Zinfandel
Zinfandel, considered synonymous with Primitivo, has been genetically determined to be of Croatian descent. Vines of this red grape are resilient and able to adapt to a variety of climates and soils types. Plenty of irrigation is needed as any lack of moisture can cause the fruit to raisin. More than other varietal, Zinfandel is prone to uneven ripening, with both green and ripe grapes growing in the same cluster. Zinfandel can be made into light and fruity wines, dry and complex table wine or heavy and ripe port. First planted in the 1850’s, it is the most widely cultivated red wine grape in California today. It first became popular in the U.S. as a pink, slightly sweet wine called White Zinfandel, although no such grape actually exists. While usually high in alcohol content, Zinfandel is known for its full-bodied spice and intense fruit flavors. Best enjoyed young, Zinfandel is smooth on the palate often with rich flavors and aromas of blackberry, cranberry, licorice, cinnamon and vanilla.
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