Zinfandel/Primitivo Characteristics Flashcards
What is the alternative name for Red Zinfandel?
Primitivo (Italy)
What type of grape skin does Red Zinfandel have?
Thick-skinned
What is the budding and ripening characteristic of Red Zinfandel?
Early budding, late ripening
What is the tannin level in Red Zinfandel?
Medium to high
What is the acidity level in Red Zinfandel?
Medium
What is the sweetness level of Red Zinfandel?
Dry
What is the typical alcohol percentage in Red Zinfandel?
14% or higher (often 15-17%)
What color is Red Zinfandel?
Deep red, almost purple
What is the sugar level in Red Zinfandel?
Dry (low residual sugar)
What are the primary flavors of Red Zinfandel?
Black fruit (blackberry, blueberry), jammy
What are some other flavors found in Red Zinfandel?
Spice (black pepper, licorice), sometimes smoky or chocolate notes with oak aging
What are the major regions for Red Zinfandel?
California (USA), Puglia (Italy - as Primitivo)
What is a challenge faced by Red Zinfandel?
Uneven ripening (can lead to both underripe and overripe grapes in the same bunch)
What foods pair well with Red Zinfandel?
Barbecue, Pizza, Hard cheeses, Spicy cuisine
What grape is used to make White Zinfandel?
Same grape as Red Zinfandel (but made with minimal skin contact)
What is the style of White Zinfandel?
Sweet, often slightly fizzy rosé
What is the sweetness level of White Zinfandel?
Sweet (noticeable residual sugar)
What is the typical alcohol percentage in White Zinfandel?
Typically 8-10%
What color is White Zinfandel?
Pale pink
What is the sugar level in White Zinfandel?
Medium to high
What is the flavor profile of White Zinfandel?
Strawberry, watermelon, candy
What foods pair well with White Zinfandel?
Salads, lighter fare, spicy Asian cuisine
What is the relationship between Primitivo and Zinfandel?
Genetically identical
What is the style of Primitivo?
Typically bolder and higher in alcohol than Red Zinfandel
