By Malvina Demaj Last Updated: Mar 9, 2026

Zinfandel

(zin-fuhn-del)
DEFINITION

Zinfandel

Zinfandel, known as Primitivo in Italy, is a versatile, black skinned grape primarily grown in California. It is known for producing spicy and jammy red wines with high alcohol (14-16% ABV) of the same name. It is also made into a sweet, pink rosé called White Zinfandel. Zinfandel is ideally paired with BBQ pork, ribs, grilled meats or spicy Italian dishes (red Zinfandel).

Did you know? Although it is a Californian specialty, Zinfandel is genetically identical to Crljenak Kaštelanski in Croatia and Primitivo in Italy.

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