# Amazin' Zinfandel (2023)

- **Producer:** Solera Sweden AB
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Zinfandel
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €9
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, liquorice, plum, ripe red cherry

## About this wine

The Amazin' Zinfandel is a red wine from California, USA, produced by Solera Sweden AB. The 2023 vintage highlights the grape's rich fruit potential. Zinfandel, often considered America's signature grape, has a long history in California, with vines first planted in the mid-19th century. The producer, Solera Sweden AB, is a prominent importer in the Swedish market, known for its extensive network and experience in the global beverage industry.

## Interesting facts

- Zinfandel is often called 'America's own grape' due to its deep historical ties to California.
- The grape's origins are actually in Croatia, where it's known as Crljenak Kaštelanski.
- California Zinfandel has a history in the state dating back to the mid-1800s.
- Cold maceration is used before fermentation to enhance fruit extraction.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and ripe tannins complement the richness of proteins like beef and lamb, while its fruit-forward character can stand up to hearty sauces. Herbal notes in the wine can echo those found in dishes like rosemary-infused lamb.

## Wine making process

The Amazin' Zinfandel undergoes cold maceration prior to fermentation, a technique designed to maximize fruit extraction and aroma. The primary fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, preserving the grape's fresh fruit profile. Following fermentation, a portion of the wine is aged in American oak barrels, while the remainder stays in stainless steel. This dual aging approach aims to balance fruit intensity with subtle oak influence and a smooth texture.