In Croatia, Zinfandel goes by the name Crljenak Kaštelanski, which is its original and indigenous name. This name holds significant historical and cultural value as it is the true identity of the grape variety. It is also sometimes referred to as Tribidrag, which is another name used for Zinfandel in Croatia.
Personally, I find it fascinating how this grape variety has different names in different regions. It reflects the rich diversity of grape cultivation and winemaking traditions across the world. It also highlights the importance of understanding the cultural context and history behind a specific grape variety.
I had the opportunity to visit Croatia a few years ago and explore its wine regions. During my visit, I was fortunate enough to taste some incredible Crljenak Kaštelanski wines. The flavors were bold and expressive, with dark fruit notes and a hint of spice. It was interesting to compare these wines to the Zinfandels I had tried from California, as they shared some similarities but also had their own unique characteristics.
It is worth mentioning that Zinfandel has a long and complex history. While it is now widely associated with California, its origins can be traced back to Croatia. In fact, DNA analysis conducted in the late 20th century confirmed that Zinfandel is genetically identical to Crljenak Kaštelanski and Primitivo, another name for the grape in Italy.
This discovery added another layer of intrigue to the story of Zinfandel. It revealed the grape's journey from its Croatian roots to Italy and eventually to California, where it played a crucial role in the development of the state's wine industry. Zinfandel became one of California's flagship grape varieties, known for producing robust and fruit-forward wines.
The fact that Zinfandel has different names in different countries is a testament to its versatility and adaptability. It thrives in various climates and soils, allowing winemakers around the world to craft their own unique expressions of the grape.
Zinfandel is called Crljenak Kaštelanski (and Tribidrag) in Croatia. This name reflects its original identity and highlights the grape's historical significance in the region. Exploring the diverse names and expressions of Zinfandel adds depth and richness to the world of wine.