Winemaking with Zinfandel

Updated: February 2026 | Reading Time: 8 minutes

Zinfandel is America's heritage grape—bold, fruity, and uniquely expressive. While it produces everything from light rosés ("White Zinfandel") to massive, age-worthy reds, the hallmark of Zinfandel is its fruit-forward character and jammy richness.

Understanding Zinfandel

• Bold fruit: Blackberries, raspberries, jam
• High alcohol: Often 14-16% ABV
• Versatile: From rosé to robust red
• American original: Genetic connection to Croatian grapes

Winemaking Approach

Fermentation

• Warm: 75-85°F (24-29°C)
• Regular punch-downs
• Moderate maceration: 7-14 days

Yeast

Choose alcohol-tolerant strains:

• EC-1118
• DV10

Aging

Zinfandel works with various approaches:

• Minimal oak for fruit-forward style
• American oak for vanilla/coconut
• French oak for subtlety

Common Styles

• Light/Unoaked: Early drinking, fruit-focused
• Classic: 6-12 months oak
• Premium: Extended aging, complex

Conclusion

Zinfandel is forgiving and rewarding. Let the fruit shine.

Next: Winemaking with Syrah/Shiraz