Zinfandel/Primitivo

Question 1

What happens to the zinfandel/primitivo grape as it ripens?

Answer 1

Flavors change from red fruit to black fruit.

Sometimes some grapes within the bunch start to raisin before the others have ripened. This gives high sugar levels and flavors of dried fruit (prunes, raisins).

Question 2

What is Zinfandel used for in California (besides red wine)?

Answer 2

Rosé wines

Labelled White Zinfandel

Question 3

How is White Zinfandel produced in California?

Answer 3

Short-maceration rosé winemaking process.

Low alcohol, 8-10%

Medium sweetness - achieved by removing yeasts before the fermentation has finished

Question 4

What are the characteristics of a red California Zinfandel?

Answer 4

1. Pronounced aromas of black fruit (blackberry, plum), dried fruit (raisin, prune), and oak (vanilla, coffee). Some can develop tertiary flavors of earth and meat in the bottle.
2. Dry to medium acidity and tannin
3. High alcohol
4. Full body

Question 5

What is the important region in Italy for primitivo?

Answer 5

Puglia

Question 6

What kind of wines does Puglia produce?

Answer 6

Soft, fruity, dry red wine for high volume brands