1. Wide Range. Zinfandel is planted in virtually all of California’s grape growing areas, and in the widest variety of soils, topography, and climates. Zinfandel is the most terroir-driven wine because it expresses the essence of where it is grown.

2. Right Place, Right Time. Zinfandel is a wine story uniquely Californian, making its way during the Gold Rush in the 1850’s, to winning international awards in the 1880’s, surviving Phylloxera, and Prohibition, to today where nearly 5,000 Zinfandels are made.

3. Roots Run Deep. Most of the oldest vineyards in California are Zinfandel, dating as far back as the mid-1800s. Many producers today make single vineyard designated Zinfandels to express the true essence of these precious, historic vines.

4. We All Come from Somewhere. While Zinfandel has European origins in Croatia, once it arrived in California, Zinfandel became the perfect match for the environment, heritage, food, and culture that has thrived for over 150 years.

5. There Are No Rules. Depending on winemaking techniques, Zinfandel can be made in a number of styles from lighter Rosé to robust, full-bodied reds. Most Zinfandel is produced from grapes with optimum balance of sugar and acid to yield wines with nuance and complexity.

6. Food Friendly. The multi-faceted profiles of Zinfandel offer an opportunity to compare and to contrast food flavors. A marvelous matchup for grilled meats, Zinfandel also pairs well with a wide range of spicy ethnic fare from Mexican, Vietnamese, Indian, and even sushi rolls!

7. Benchmark California Varietal. All other significant wine varieties have their reference points in Europe, but Zinfandel created its own tradition in California and that’s why it is considered America’s Heritage Grape.

8. A Passion We Share. Zinfandel is the only grape with its own multi-day event and advocacy group. ZAP hosts the annual Zinfandel Experience (ZinEX), which is the largest single varietal tasting of its kind.