What makes a wine a zinfandel

One advantage it does have, however, is the ability to continue producing decent quantities well past years of age. With lower yields comes a relative increase in cost to the winery, which now produces a lower volume of wine per area of vines planted. Zinfandel vines are believed to have first arrived in California with prospectors moving west during the Gold Rush of the early- to midth century.

Some of the vines planted during this period survive to this day. But the remainder of the 44, acres of Zinfandel vines planted in the state are made up of vines that have been replanted over time — and can still be considered old, though they might be closer to 50 than years of age — as well younger, more bountiful vines. Today, over 50, acres of zinfandel grapes are grown across California: It's estimated that ten percent of California's vineyard acres are planted with zinfandel.

Because of its rich, concentrated, jammy flavors, zinfandel is fantastic with barbecue dishes. Succulent meats like pork chops work nicely with the wine, too. Sarah Tracey, Freelance Writer. Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.

Save Pin More. Credit: Courtesy of Rusack Vineyards. Comments 1 Add Comment. Martha Stewart Member. January 6, Best time is 45 seconds from awake to asleep!

Create a personalised ads profile. Select personalised ads. Apply market research to generate audience insights. Measure content performance. Develop and improve products. List of Partners vendors. In This Article Expand. How to Taste Wine Follow these simple steps when tasting wine to ensure you have the best experience: Look: Examine the wine through the glass, noticing the color and opacity.

Smell: Swirl your glass for about 10 seconds and take a whiff. Then stick your nose into the wine glass for a deep inhale, getting your first impressions of the wine.

Taste: Take a little sip and let it roll around your mouth. Note the sugar, tannins acidity, and alcohol content when first tasting, then move on to specific tasting notes spice, fruit, wood and finally the finish.

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