White Zinfandel

White Zinfandel

White Zinfandel is a popular type of wine made from the Zinfandel grape variety. Despite its name, it is not a white wine but rather a rosé, characterized by its light pink color and sweet flavor.

History

White Zinfandel was first produced in the mid-20th century in California, United States. It was created by accident when a batch of red Zinfandel wine was left with the grape skins removed for a shorter period than usual, resulting in a lighter color and sweeter taste. The wine quickly gained popularity and is now one of the most widely consumed wines in the United States.

Production

The production of White Zinfandel involves the same basic process as other wines. The Zinfandel grapes are harvested, crushed, and fermented. However, unlike red Zinfandel, the grape skins are removed from the juice after a short period, usually less than a day. This results in the wine's characteristic light pink color. The wine is then fermented at a lower temperature to preserve its sweet flavor.

Taste and Pairing

White Zinfandel is known for its sweet, fruity flavor, with notes of strawberry, melon, and peach. It is often served chilled and pairs well with a variety of foods, including chicken, seafood, and spicy dishes. Despite its sweetness, it has a relatively low alcohol content, typically around 10%.

Popularity

White Zinfandel is particularly popular in the United States, where it accounts for a significant portion of all wine sales. It is often recommended as a starter wine for those new to wine drinking due to its sweet taste and low alcohol content.

Criticism

Despite its popularity, White Zinfandel has faced criticism from some wine connoisseurs who view it as a lower-quality wine due to its sweetness and lack of complexity. However, others argue that its accessibility and affordability make it an important part of the wine market.

See Also

• Zinfandel
• Rosé
• Wine production
• Wine tasting

External Links

• White Zinfandel on Wine.com
• White Zinfandel on Wine Spectator