Definition: Zinfandel

A European-style red grape variety, but typically Californian, of mysterious origin, possibly the Italian Primitivo, which can produce interesting, very characteristic red wines that are unique in their genre. A recent DNA analysis has finally concluded that Primitivo and Zinfandel are twin brothers, born on the Croatian island of Krk, where the grape variety is already known as Crljenak

Same texture, same aromas. This fairly full-bodied, very fruity red wine can be ordinary or remarkable, depending on the producer, and its alcohol content can exceed 15%. It comes in a wide range of varieties, from the pale pink white Zinfandel and Blush wine to fortified wine, reminiscent of port. Zin, as it is known on the West Coast of the USA, in its "grand red wine" version, opulent and spicy, is almost exclusive to California, particularly present in San Joaquin County, full of character, which is found almost nowhere else, except in Australia, at a winery owned by a Californian winemaker. In its "jug wine" version, California floods the market with rosé Zinfandel. There is now talk of "Zin bars" and "Zin restaurants". See also white Zinfandel.