Zinfandel
/ZIN-fan-del/California's signature red grape, related to Primitivo.
Full Definition
Zinfandel is a red grape considered California's own, though genetically identical to Italy's Primitivo and Croatia's Tribidrag. It produces bold, jammy reds with high alcohol and berry-bramble character, plus blush White Zinfandel. Old vine Zinfandel is prized for concentration and complexity. It ripens unevenly, requiring careful viticulture.