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Get 10% off 6 still wines. Enter code SAVE10 during checkout. Excludes some fine wine and Sparkling.
Get 10% off 6 still wines. Enter code SAVE10 during checkout. Excludes some fine wine and Sparkling.
Few wines wear their personality as boldly as Zinfandel. Juicy, spicy, sometimes wild and often unforgettable, this grape has become a symbol of California’s adventurous spirit. But its story is more complex and more international than you might think.
Although Zinfandel is now synonymous with California, its roots trace back to Croatia, where a grape called Crljenak Kaštelanski shares its DNA. It travelled through Europe to the United States in the 19th century and quickly thrived in California’s sunny vineyards. By the late 1800s Zinfandel was everywhere, planted in old, gnarly vineyards that still yield some of today’s most sought-after bottles.
Of course, Zinfandel also suffered a midlife crisis in the 1970s when White Zinfandel, a blush and slightly sweet style, became a supermarket staple. While some wine lovers still wince at the mention, the fad kept countless old vines alive until the dry, bold red style could make a glorious comeback.
Zinfandel is famously full of ripe, jammy fruit such as blackberries, raspberries and plums, lifted by a generous sprinkle of spice, pepper and often a smoky edge. The style can range from fresh and medium-bodied to powerful, inky and high-octane, but the common thread is big personality.
This is where Zinfandel really shines. The grape is a natural partner for barbecue and grilled meats, making it the ultimate choice for summer cookouts and smoky winter feasts alike. Think sticky ribs, charred sausages, flame-grilled burgers and brisket straight from the smoker. The wine’s bold fruit and gentle sweetness stand up to marinades and spice rubs, while its peppery kick mirrors the char and smoke of the grill. Rich stews, pizzas loaded with toppings and even dark chocolate desserts can also work beautifully, but Zinfandel is at its best when there is fire and meat involved.
Ridge is the benchmark for serious Zinfandel. Their Geyserville and Lytton Springs bottlings are legendary, blending Zinfandel with small amounts of other heritage grapes to deliver structure, finesse and remarkable ageing potential. Ridge proves that Zinfandel can be as nuanced and cellar-worthy as Bordeaux or Burgundy. VIEW THE WINES
Based in Contra Costa County, Cline is beloved for approachable and affordable Zinfandels that consistently overdeliver. They farm some of California’s oldest vineyards, many dating back to the 1880s, and champion sustainable practices. Cline’s wines are plush, fruit-driven and perfect for everyday enjoyment, especially alongside burgers or barbecue chicken. VIEW THE WINES
If Zinfandel has a cult producer, it is Turley. Larry Turley and his team specialise in single-vineyard Zinfandels sourced from historic plots across California. Each bottling tells a story of place, with intensity, power and character in spades. For Zin lovers, Turley is a name that inspires excitement and sometimes envy. VIEW THE WINES
More than just a grape, Zinfandel embodies California’s wine history, from immigrant farmers to old vines and modern icons. It is versatile, full of charm and always ready to bring fun to the glass. Most importantly, it might be the best wine in the world to pair with barbecue. Whether you are firing up the grill, exploring cult producers or discovering the heritage of California vineyards, Zinfandel is a wine that never stops surprising.
Wines of California have an excellent resource where you can delve deeper into Zinfandel and other California wine varietals. To learn more, click here.
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