Grenache vs Zinfandel
Grenache
A pale, high-alcohol black grape with ripe red fruit and relatively soft tannin, central to Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Priorat.
- Strawberry
- Soft tannin
- High alcohol
Recognize it
High alcohol with ripe red fruit and relatively soft tannin for the weight. Strawberry and red plum are common. Color is often paler than the body suggests.
Zinfandel
A ripe California red that is the same variety Italy calls Primitivo.
- Brambly fruit
- Sweet spice
- High alcohol
Recognize it
Fresh and raisined fruit can appear together because berries ripen unevenly within a bunch.
How they compare
- SimilarHigh alcohol, ripe red fruit and soft tannin.
- DifferenceGrenache is usually paler and more red-fruited.