Zinfandel/Primitivo

Question 1

Characteristics

Answer 1

Black grape variety known as Zinfandel in the USA (California) and as Primitivo in Italy (Puglia)

Ripens unevenly
High sugar levels
Medium to high acidity
Medium to high tannin

Question 2

Climate

Answer 2

Warm

Question 3

White Zin vs. Red Zin/Primativo

Answer 3

As it ripens, flavors change from red fruits to black fruits.

White Zinfandel: Rosé wine, medium-sweet, low acidity and typically low alcohol with simple flavors of red fruits (strawberries and raspberries).

Red Zinfandel/Primitivo: dry, medium or high acidity and tannin with pronounced flavors of black fruit (blackberry, black plum), dried fruit (raisin, prune), and oak (vanilla, coffee) and full bodied.

Question 4

Maturation and blending

Answer 4

Red Zinfandel/Primitivo is typically matured in oak to soften tannins and add complexity.

Typically not blended.

Question 5

Important regions

Answer 5

USA: California (rosé and red Zinfandels are produced here)

Southern Italy: Puglia

Question 6

Very good/Outstanding examples

Answer 6

earth

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