Wine Style
Zinfandel
Red Wine
Zinfandel is a bold California classic — high alcohol, jammy black fruit, and spice from ripe grapes and often American oak. It ranges from hearty red table wine to plush old-vine expressions. Built for BBQ, burgers, and anything smoky or sauced.
Pronunciation: zin-fan-dell
Also known as: Zin, Primitivo
Wine structure
Typical descriptors
Typical grapes
- zinfandel
Typical regions
Food pairings
Primary
Secondary
- Burgers and sliders
Foods to avoid
- Delicate poached fish
- Light vinaigrette salads
Substitutions
If you cannot find Zinfandel, try:
Serving
- Temperature: 60–65°F (15–18°C)
- Glassware: Large red wine glass
- Decanting: Optional; 30–60 minutes for young, high-alcohol bottles
- Cellaring / aging: Best drunk within 3–8 years; top old-vine 8–12 years
Beginner guide
Expect big, ripe fruit — great for casual cookouts and bold flavors.
FAQ
- Is Zinfandel sweet?
- The wine is dry, but ripe fruit can taste jammy. White Zinfandel is a separate, sweet rosé style.