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Zinfandel can trace its earliest roots to Croatia,
where it was known as Crljenak Kasteljanski. As the
19th century drew to a close, however, it had become
one of the principal drivers of California's first wine
boom, a favorite of early Italian grape growers in Sonoma.
One often repeated story recalls when a Sonoma agricultural
leader offered a glass of Zinfandel to a visiting French
winemaker. The guest was so impressed he reputedly compared
it to a good French Claret, high praise indeed from
a Frenchman. Actually, it is not unusual for well-made
Zinfandels to rival Cabernets in richness, so the French
winemaker knew what he was talking about.
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One of the best ways to enjoy wine is to share the
experience, which means giving yourself the ability
to identify and discuss even the most elusive nuances
of flavor. Enter ZAP, the Association of Zinfandel Advocates
and Producers. They've created a special 'Zintrinsic'
aroma wheel, so you can describe more easily what your
tongue tastes. Check it out. www.zinfandel.org/about_zin/aromawheel/
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