Calling all Zinners!

by Jon Fiume
February 7, 2007

For the average wine consumer zinfandel may not be a wine they are familiar with outside of the ever popular white zin. However, given a try, the true red zinfandel wines are a special treat not to be overlooked and in fact may have you choosing it over your other favorite reds.

Domestically, one of if not the most popular areas of zinfandel production is Paso Robles California. Located in San Luis Obispo County between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Paso Robles is named for their oak trees. The area itself contains over 100 wineries (comparably Napa has over 250) and 26,000 acres of vineyards. Commercial winemaking in Paso Robles began in 1882 and continues to thrive today with such well-known producers as Bianchi, Norman, Firestone, Tobin James, and Meridian to name just a few.

The taste of zinfandel is truly an experience. Typically full bodied they offer a taste profile that is very fruity, often described as jammy, and spicy. Compared to other red wines they also tend to possess a higher alcohol content. It is not unusual to see red zins carry a more moderate price tag as popularity and recognition have increased even under the shadow of the ever popular Californian cabernets.

One last note, if you are crazy about red zins or want to dive into knowing more consider attending the Paso Robles Zinfandel Festival on the weekend of March 16th. Enjoy zinfandel tastings as well as a live and silent auction with proceeds going to support health and education initiatives for the local vineyard workers.

Featured wines of the month:

Norman Vineyards, 2004 Zinfandel, The Monster, approximately $20.00

2004 was a great year for the zinfandels of Paso Robles. And The Monster is no exception. Attractively priced, this 100% zin is robust with earth and spice, dancing with fruit and finishing smooth. You would be pressed to know that the alcohol content sits on the higher end of the scale at 16.5%. I can only assume that is where the name Monster is derived!

Bianchi, 2004 Heritage Zinfandel, approximately $24.00

This little delicacy has become a recent favorite of mine as I discovered it on a restaurant wine list. Definitely jammy, this zin is full of intense berries and a tremendous presence of spicy pepper. It offers a smooth velvety finish that will be sending you back for more. It is a wonderful first zin to try!