sommplicityWine Education · Simplified

Zinfandel vs Pinotage

Red grape

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.

Red grape

Pinotage

A South African crossing of Pinot Noir and Cinsault, often full-bodied with dark plum, brambly fruit and firm tannin.

  • Dark plum
  • Medium acidity
  • Firm tannin

Recognize it

Medium to full body with medium acidity and moderate to firm tannin. Dark plum, blackberry and bramble are common. Coffee, chocolate and smoke can come from oak treatment, so they are not reliable grape markers.

How they compare

  • SimilarBoth can be ripe and full-bodied.
  • DifferenceZinfandel is usually higher in alcohol and jammier; Pinotage usually has firmer tannin and darker plum fruit.

More comparisons

Reviewed by Gina Biernacki, Certified Sommelier, WSET Level 3 with Distinction.

Zinfandel Pinotage Preview the App