Wine 101: Zinfandel
Though Zinfandel is descended from the Croatian grape Crljenak, the wine it produces is entirely Californian in character. It’s usually brawny, smooth and richly flavored.
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The California wine country’s warm, easygoing weather gives Zinfandel a jammy, juicy fruitiness (except when it’s made into dull, lightly sweet white Zinfandel). Typically high in both alcohol and flavor—boysenberries with a touch of brambly spiciness—Zinfandel is the perfect cookout wine, great with grilled burgers, sausages or chicken, or even chips and dip.
Intense, Fruity Zinfandel
Credit:
© Ngoc Minh Ngo
Top Bottles
- Seghesio Sonoma (California)
- Rancho Zabaco Sonoma Heritage Vines (California)
- St. Francis Old Vines (California)
- Green & Red Vineyard Chiles Canyon (California)
Recipe Pairings
- Baby Burgers with Angry Onions
- Beef Chili with Beans
- Chinese-Style Ribs with Guava Barbecue Sauce
- Crispy Deep-Fried Ribs
- Curried Pork and Squash
- Duck Breasts with Tamarind Sauce and Pickled Daikon Salad
- Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Honey-Mustard Chicken
- Red Chili Burgers
- Roasted Leg of Goat Stuffed with Swiss Chard and Lime Pickle
- Sticky Barbecued Beef Ribs
- Tunisian Spice-Roasted Chicken