Zinfandel
Is Zinfandel the great American red? Valued there as ‘everyman’s claret’, Zinfandel might lack the nobility of Cabernet Sauvignon (a Californian stablemate) but is very, very easy to love. As an early ripener it can make full-bodied, rich reds and blends en masse (which if done badly could explain its once-poor reputation). But more boutique, low-cropped examples benefit from proper tannin structure and uniquely mouth-filling, chocolatey dark fruits - which in some heavily ripe wines reach a prune-like or port-like flavour profile. 'White Zinfandel' is simply the rosé or blush form. Sadly for proud Californians, Zinfandel’s origins and landfall in the region are still mysterious, but definitely not local - it was recently revealed as genetically identical to Primitivo from Italy/Croatia.
You might also like Primitivo

-
2019 Sebastiani Sonoma County Zinfandel
Sam Kim
Another winner from Sebastiani and everything we look for in a Californian Zin. Pleasure-centred and oh so satisfying — yet not too heavy — it is packed with ripe fruit, spicey tannins and ... read moreElsewhere up to $24.99 Save $5.00 $19.99 in mixed 6+ or $22.99 per bottle -
2019 Rebel Ridge Zinfandel
Richard Caro
A new Zinfandel on our shelves, this offering from Rebel Ridge is unashamedly Californian in style. It is sourced from old vines on which the fruit has been allowed to become extremely ripe, ... read moreElsewhere up to $24.99 Save $3.00 $21.99 in mixed 6+ or $24.99 per bottle -
2020 Stonecroft Gimblett Gravels Zinfandel
Richard Caro
An organic take on this rare variety in NZ. Instead of aiming for the heavy Californian style, Stonecroft use the moderate heat of Gimblett Gravels to make this sun-loving grape into a red ... read more$27.99 in mixed 6+ or $30.99 per bottle -
2019 Artezin Mendocino Zinfandel
Sam Kim
A deliciously rich California Zinfandel that has also won accolades over the years. Bright red and spicy black fruits have a gently aromatic nose and a juicy (not jammy) palate. Offering real ... read more$29.99 in mixed 6+ or $33.99 per bottle