Pars by Avid Zinfandel 2020

The Zinfandel grape is often linked to the Italian grape Primitivo, which is linked to the Croatian grape Crljenak Kaštelanski. The Primitivo and Zinfandel grapes are genetically identical, but other than Croatia and Italy, Zinfandel is most widely grown in California. I like to think of it as California’s grape. The Zinfandel grape has unique characteristics that set it apart from other grapes/wines - it has the ability to both be highly fruit driven, but also have a decent amount of acidity. The Zinfandel grape itself has a high capacity for sugar development, meaning to be fermented completely dry you may have a wine with high alcohol levels, but since the grape skin is on the thinner side, color intensity may not be as strong as other thick skinned grapes (Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, etc.). It’s a unique wine that thrives in California’s Mediterranean climate and thrives in a few different areas.

Regional Differences between California Zinfandels

Sonoma Zinfandel, particularly from Dry Creek Valley, is often considered the "gold standard" because of its elegance, balance, and ability to showcase terroir. The cool nights preserve acidity, ensuring the wines remain vibrant and refined, even with Zinfandel’s naturally high sugar content. Sonoma Zinfandels achieve harmony between ripe fruit, spice, acidity, and tannic structure. They are expressive without being overbearing, offering depth and elegance.

Paso Robles Zinfandel - due to the warmer and drier climate, Paso Robles Zinfandels emphasize lush, fruit-forward flavors with a fuller body, ripe, jammy fruit, softer acidity that leans towards a richer and more opulent style.

While Napa Zinfandels are rich and flavorful, with notes of dark berry, fig, spice, and oak influence (vanilla and chocolate) they often lack the bright acidity and spice that define Sonoma Zinfandels. Napa producers typically focus on other varietals, making Zinfandel a side character in the Napa Valley theater of wines/grapes.

The Sierra Foothills, including regions like Amador County and Lodi, feature a warmer climate with old-vine Zinfandel plantings that date back to the 1800s. The soils are granite-based and well-draining. Zinfandels from this region are bold and rustic, with flavors of ripe black fruit, plum, and dried herbs. Amador Zinfandels often showcase an earthy, brambly quality with higher alcohol content, while Lodi Zinfandels can have a more approachable, fruit-forward style.

Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, Dry Creek Valley is renowned as one of California’s premier wine-growing regions. Spanning approximately 30 miles, this picturesque valley benefits from a unique combination of climate, soil, and topography that create ideal conditions for viticulture. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, sunny days and cool, foggy nights, which contribute to the slow and even ripening of grapes. This balance ensures that wines develop complex flavors while maintaining vibrant acidity.

Dry Creek Valley is particularly celebrated for its exceptional Zinfandel wines, often regarded as some of the best in the world. The warm days allow Zinfandel grapes to fully ripen, developing their signature bold flavors and rich color. The cool nights help retain acidity, providing balance and structure to the wines.The valley's diverse soils, including volcanic, clay, and limestone, contribute to the complexity of Zinfandel. These soil types enhance drainage and root development, allowing vines to access essential nutrients and produce high-quality grapes. Abundant sunshine ensures optimal photosynthesis, leading to higher sugar levels and deeper color in the grapes. This results in robust, full-bodied Zinfandel wines with intense flavors.