White Zinfandel is a type of rosé wine made from the Zinfandel grape variety, which is predominantly grown in California. It is a versatile wine that is enjoyed by many due to its refreshing taste and light body. In this article, we'll delve into the history of White Zinfandel, its production process, flavor profile, food pairing, and some popular brands.
White Zinfandel was first introduced in the 1970s by Sutter Home Winery in Napa Valley, California. In order to make it, the Zinfandel grapes are harvested early, while they are still green. This helps to preserve their acidity and create a more delicate flavor profile. White Zinfandel is typically made using the "saignée" method, which involves bleeding off some of the juice from the grapes after they have been crushed, but before they have been fermented. This results in a wine that is less tannic and has a lighter flavor than other types of Zinfandel wine. The juice is then fermented in stainless steel tanks at low temperatures to preserve its freshness and fruity flavors. Once the fermentation is complete, the wine is clarified, stabilized, and bottled.
White Zinfandel is a very versitile wine, which makes it an excellent choice for pairing with a wide range of foods. It is important to keep in mind its light and fruity flavor, which makes it a great option for pairing with lighter and refreshing dishes such as salads, seafood, and poultry. White Zinfandel also pairs well with spicy and flavorful dishes, as its sweetness can help to balance out the heat of the spices. One classic pairing for White Zinfandel is with a summer salad. The light and fruity flavors of the wine complement the fresh and crisp flavors of the salad. Try pairing White Zinfandel with a salad made with fresh greens, sliced strawberries, and goat cheese, topped with a light vinaigrette dressing. This pairing is perfect for a light lunch or dinner on a hot summer day. Another great pairing for White Zinfandel is with seafood. The light and fruity flavors of the wine pair well with the delicate flavors of seafood, such as shrimp, crab, and lobster. Try pairing White Zinfandel with a seafood salad made with shrimp, avocado, and mango, topped with a citrus dressing. This pairing is perfect for a summer picnic or outdoor gathering. For those who enjoy spicy food, White Zinfandel can be a great option for balancing out the heat. Try pairing White Zinfandel with spicy Asian dishes such as Thai curry or Spicy Vietnamese spring rolls. The sweetness of the wine helps to tame the heat of the spices, while the light and fruity flavors complement the bold flavors of the dishes. This sweetness also helps the wine to pair well with many desserts, such as berry tarts or peach cobbler.
Some of the most popular brands currently producing White Zinfandel are Sutter Home, Beringer, Kendall-Jackson, and Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi. Of those, Sutter Home is the most well-known producer, and their wines are widely available in many supermarkets and wine shops.