White Zinfandel is a pink wine with a flavor similar to chardonnay. Do you chill white zinfandel? What pairs well with white zinfandel?
We’ll answer these questions and more as we explore the perfect way to serve white zinfandel wine.
Do You Chill White Zinfandel?
Yes, chill a bottle of white zinfandel overnight in a wine refrigerator set to between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Then decant the white zinfandel for about 30 minutes to develop the flavor before serving.
What Is White Zinfandel?
White Zinfandel is a type of wine that is made from the Zinfandel grape. The grape is red, but the skin is removed before fermentation, resulting in white wine.
The origin of white zinfandel wine is a bit of a mystery, with many different theories and claims circulating throughout the wine-making community.
Some winemakers believe that it was first produced in the late 1970s by accident when winemakers stumbled upon an experimental rosé variety that had turned particularly pale and light during fermentation.
Others argue that it originated much earlier, citing historical records indicating that white zinfandel may have been cultivated as far back as the 1800s.
Ultimately, the exact origin of this beloved varietal remains unclear, but what is certain is that it has become an iconic and highly celebrated wine in its own right.
Whether savored on special occasions or simply enjoyed on a lazy afternoon, white zinfandel continues to delight and intrigue drinkers all over the world.
How Is White Zinfandel Best Enjoyed?
Today, White Zinfandel is produced by many different wineries, and it is typically characterized by its light sweetness.
It can be served chilled on its own or as an accompaniment to food.
White Zinfandel is a type of fresh, young wine that is ideal for drinking at summer barbeques or other outdoor gatherings.
This wine also has a relatively low alcohol content, so it’s easier to drink a little more before feeling “tipsy” or “buzzed.”
Overall, white zinfandel is the perfect choice for anyone who loves a crisp and refreshing glass of wine on a hot summer evening.
How Do You Chill White Zinfandel?
White zinfandel is often associated with warm weather because it is a light, refreshing wine that is served chilled.
Chilling the wine can help to bring out the subtle flavor notes and make it more refreshing.
In addition, chilling white zinfandel can help to reduce the amount of alcohol heat that is often present in the wine.
The ideal temperature for serving white zinfandel is between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Any colder and you risk dulling the flavor; any warmer and the wine may become too alcoholic.
Thus, if you want to get the most out of your white zinfandel, be sure to give it a little time in the fridge before serving.
How To Enjoy Chilled White Zinfandel – 5 Tips
Summertime is the perfect season to enjoy a refreshing glass of white zinfandel.
Here are five tips to help you chill your white zinfandel so that it’s perfectly cool and delicious:
- Start with a clean glass. Make sure to rinse your glass with clean water before adding chilled zinfandel. This will help ensure that your zinfandel tastes clean and fresh. Consider refrigerating the glasses to keep the zinfandel chilly while sipping.
- Decant white zinfandel. White zinfandel benefits greatly from 30 minutes in a decanter before serving to develop the flavors and evaporate some of the alcoholic bite.
- Use frozen grapes. If you’re serving white zinfandel outside on a hot day, even in chilled wine glasses you may worry it will get hot too fast. Use frozen grapes to keep zinfandel chilled while sipping without diluting the wine.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint. A sprig of fresh mint is the perfect finishing touch to a refreshing glass of white zinfandel. It looks pretty, but mint will also help to enhance the flavor of the wine.
- Serve in a regular wine glass. Some people like white zinfandel in a champagne flute, which certainly isn’t wrong, but a regular wine glass will let it breathe better, developing the floral aromas.
What Foods Go Well With Chilled White Zinfandel?
When it comes to pairing food and wine, there are many considerations to take into account.
While red wines tend to go well with hearty dishes like steak or roast chicken, white zinfandel pairs with lighter fare.
This elegant and flavorful varietal is perfect for sipping on its own, but it also works beautifully when paired with other foods.
Some delicious options include fresh fruit like berries or stone fruit, rich cheeses like brie or camembert, or even a light salad tossed in a dressing made with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
We enjoy white zinfandel with charcuterie trays, tapas, grilled chicken, fish, seafood, and grilled fruit kebabs.
It’s a light, refreshing wine, so it pairs best with light, refreshing foods. The perfect pairing for the hot, summer weather.
Final Thoughts
A glass of chilled wine on a warm day is one of life’s simple pleasures. White zinfandel is a delicate refreshing wine that fits the bill perfectly.
While the development of white zinfandel may be a mystery, the enjoyment of it is not mysterious in the least. Pour a glass of chilled white zinfandel this summer and enjoy.