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Zinfandel in California

Once upon a time in the sun-kissed vineyards of California, there lived a grape named Zinfandel. Zin, as the locals called it, was a vibrant grape with a history as rich as its flavors.

Zinfandel Cluster

Zin grew up in obscurity, its origins shrouded in mystery. Some believed it hailed from Croatia, while others thought it had Italian roots. But it found its true home in the rolling hills of California, where it basked in the warmth of the golden sun.

Zin was a bit of a rebel. It thrived and adapted quicly to diverse climates and soil types. Its clusters were tightly packed, adorned with plump, dark berries that promised a symphony of flavors.

As the seasons changed, so did Zin. In the heat of summer, it absorbed the sunshine, transforming its berries into pockets of sweetness. The cool evenings brought a touch of acidity, adding a tantalizing balance to its character.

Zin's journey took an unexpected turn when winemakers discovered its potential. They carefully nurtured the vines, guiding them through the seasons. Zin responded with a burst of flavors—blackberry, cherry, and sometimes a hint of peppery spice. It became the lifeblood of California's vineyards, celebrated for its versatility and bold personality.

The story of Zinfandel reached its climax during harvest season. The vineyards buzzed with excitement as pickers carefully selected each cluster. Zin's journey was far from over; it was destined for the cellar, where it would undergo a magical transformation into wine.

In the cellars, winemakers worked their alchemy, fermenting the grapes into a deep, ruby elixir. Zinfandel's essence unfolded in the barrels, gaining complexity and depth. Some Zins aged gracefully, softening their tannins and becoming elegant, while others embraced their bold nature, bursting with exuberance.

And so, the Zinfandel grape lived on, weaving its narrative through the glasses of those who appreciated its bold spirit and the unique journey that led it to become one of California's most cherished varietals.

Primitivo in Italy

The Primitivo grape has a history rooted in the sun-drenched soils of Puglia in southern Italy. Its story can be traced back to antiquity, where it has evolved and adapted over the centuries.

It originated in the Balkans and found its way to Italy, where it thrived in the warm and arid climate. The name "Primitivo" is derived from the Italian word "Primo" (first), possibly because of early ripening.

For years, Primitivo vines quietly adorned Puglia, producing robust and deeply colored grapes. It the late 18th century the grape caught the attention of wine enthusiasts and experts. Around this time, a connection was made between Primitivo and the Zinfandel grape of California, sparking interest in its potential.

While Primitivo and Zinfandel are genetically identical, the grape achieved its own distinct identity in Italy. Puglian winemakers embraced Primitivo, cultivating it in various terroirs and experimenting with winemaking techniques. The resulting wines showcased Primitivo's rich, full-bodied character, often with notes of dark fruit and spice.

In recent decades, Primitivo has gained international acclaim, with Puglia standing out as a key producer. The grape's journey from its humble origins to its current status as a star varietal in Italian winemaking is a testament to its resilience and the passion of the winemakers who have nurtured its growth over the years. Today, Primitivo continues to be a beloved and celebrated part of Italy's winemaking heritage.

Zinfandel / Primitivo / Tribidrag

Many Italian Americans are Zinfandel lovers, and many became "Zinfomaniacs" after it became known that Zinfandel and Primitivo are the same grape.

The Italians claim that American Zinfandel originated from the Southern Italian grape Primitivo.

Today, it as been proven that Primitivo is originally a Croatian grape known as Tribidrag, that has been cultivated in Croatia since the 15th century.

Zinfandel from Alder Ridge Vineyard

This 90-year-old grape vine, found in a garden in Split, proved that Zinfandel originates from the Croatian grape Tribidrag, that has been cultivated in Croatia since the 15th century.



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