Spotlight on Zinfandel

Zinfandel will seize the limelight at the California Wine Annual Tasting 2012 with a masterclass led by some of the state’s most recognised specialists in this variety.

Taking place from 11.30am-12.30pm on Monday 27 February at The Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre in central London, the event will feature a tasting of 10 of California’s top examples of Zinfandel from seven different AVAs. These have been selected to highlight the balance, site specificity, age-ability and distinctive characteristics of California’s signature grape.

The panel will feature John Olney, winemaker from Ridge Vineyards in Dry Creek Valley; Mike Phillips, owner of Michael David in Lodi, and Kevin Powell, oenologist at Robert Biale Vineyards in Sonoma. They will be joined by Richard Flores, ambassador for Zinfandel Advocates and Producers (ZAP), who will act as moderator.

Founded in 1991, ZAP is a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing public knowledge and appreciation of US Zinfandel. In addition to involvement in masterclasses such as this one, the group also supports the Zinfandel Heritage Vineyard in Napa Valley, which aims to preserve a collection of old Zinfandel vines from sites across California.

For a detailed look at this under-appreciated variety, from the merits of field blends to Zinfandel’s ability to offer welcome value for California in the £10-£20 retail price bracket, as well as its role in innovative recent product launches from Gallo, see our report in the November 2011 issue of the drinks business.

To reserve a space at the masterclass, or for more information, contact Chuck Cramer or to register for the California Wine Annual Tasting 2012, click here.