Red Zinfandel vs White Zinfandel

Similarities of Zinfandel & White Zinfandel

The Zinfandel grape has a long and complicated history. It originates from Croatia and made its way to Italy in the 18th century (where it gave rise to Primitivo wine), before being introduced to the United States in the 19th century. In California, the Zinfandel grape is used to make two distinct styles of wine – the dry, red classic Zinfandel, and the sweet, rosé style White Zinfandel.

So, the main similarity between these two wines is the fact that they are made from the same grape. They are also prevalent throughout California, with Zinfandel being the third most planted varietal in the state.

White Zinfandel is generally considered to be a byproduct of red Zinfandel – it is usually made via the “saignée” or “bleeding” method of rosé production, where a portion of the grape juice is bled off from the tank being used to create red wine (which also contains the grape skins). Producers end up with an amount of light pink juice, used to create White Zinfandel and an extra intense tank of red wine, which is usually much darker in color, thanks to a higher ratio of skins to juice.

Both wines exhibit red fruit notes of raspberry and strawberry, but that is pretty much where the similarities end. 

Differences of Zinfandel Versus White Zinfandel

First of all, red Zinfandel has been around for much longer than White Zinfandel. The rosé wine is a relatively recent invention, being created by accident in the 1970s, by a producer named Bob Trinchero.

Within the United States, White Zinfandel is also significantly more popular than its bigger red brother, bringing in six times as many sales. However, outside of the US, it is red Zinfandel that prevails. You can find red Zinfandel being made all across Europe (Italy in particular) and Australia, while White Zinfandel has scarcely spread outside of California.

Other than the two wines’ respective histories and popularity, the main differences can be found in their style and color. Classic Zinfandel is always dry, red, full-bodied and full of jammy fruits, while White Zinfandel can range from a barely-there pink to a more vivid light red.

How To Distinguish Between Red Zinfandel & White Zinfandel

The easiest way to tell the difference between Zinfandel and White Zinfandel is by looking at it. White Zinfandel should be noticeably lighter in color, even if it’s a fairly dark version. If you’re involved in a blindfolded taste test, however, you might have to go further than that! White Zinfandel is also significantly lighter in the body and will contain fewer earthy elements. It will be considerably zippier in character, with elements of citrus, and most importantly, White Zinfandel will be sweet! It is almost always made in a semi-sweet or fully sweet style.

To go over some actual tasting notes, in a classic red Zinfandel, you can look for a full-bodied, potent experience, with medium levels of tannins and acidity and an intense, dry and jammy character. You should be able to find notes of raspberry, strawberry and blackberry jam, cocoa, spices, and a smoky, comforting feel.

In a White Zinfandel, look for a lighter body, medium levels of acidity, and a sweet, easy-drinking character. These wines usually exhibit notes of raspberry, strawberry, various stone and citrus fruit, melon, floral hints, and perhaps some notes of licorice or anise.

Red Zinfandel vs White Zinfandel Comparison Chart

Pairing Food With Red Zinfandel & White Zinfandel

Whichever style of Zinfandel you prefer, red and white are both brilliant, food-friendly wines. They’re both classic choices for a barbecue on a sunny day. Red will be better when paired with rich meats, such as lamb, or something spicy such as chorizo. White is excellent with fish, any dishes with tropical fruits (Hawaiian pizza for example), mild cheeses, or anything spicy. Check out our articles below to explore potential pairings in greater detail!