Old vine Zinfandel and Zinfandel are both made from the same grape variety, but there are some key differences between the two. The term “old vine” refers to the age of the vines from which the grapes are harvested. Typically, vines that are at least 50+ years old qualify as old vines. These vines have been around for several decades and have weathered the test of time.
One of the main advantages of old vine Zinfandel is that these vines tend to produce less fruit compared to younger vines. This may seem like a disadvantage at first, but it actually results in a more concentrated and flavorful wine. Since the vines produce fewer grapes, all the nutrients and energy are focused on a smaller number of fruit, leading to a higher quality final product.
Old vines also have deeper root systems, which allow them to access nutrients and water from deeper in the soil. This can contribute to the complexity and depth of flavors in the grapes. The roots of old vines have had many years to penetrate the soil and establish a strong foundation, resulting in a more stable and resilient vine.
Another factor that sets old vine Zinfandel apart is the unique character and personality that these vines develop over time. Just like people, vines mature and change as they age. They develop their own distinct traits and flavors that are not found in younger vines. These old vines have experienced years of different weather conditions, soil compositions, and winemaking techniques, which all contribute to the complexity and uniqueness of the wine they produce.
In terms of taste, old vine Zinfandel tends to exhibit more intense flavors and aromas compared to regular Zinfandel. The concentrated fruit flavors, coupled with the influence of the vine's age, can result in a wine that is richer, fuller-bodied, and more complex. The older vines also tend to produce grapes with softer tannins, which can make the wine more approachable and enjoyable at a younger age.
It's worth noting that not all Zinfandel wines are made from old vines. There are many vineyards that have younger vines, which can still produce delicious wines but may lack the depth and complexity that come with age. These younger vines often produce more fruit, which can result in wines that are fruit-forward and lighter in body.
To summarize, the main difference between old vine Zinfandel and Zinfandel lies in the age of the vines and the resulting concentration and complexity of the wine. Old vines produce less fruit but offer a more concentrated and flavorful experience. The age of the vines also brings out unique characteristics and contributes to the overall quality of the wine. So, if you come across a bottle of old vine Zinfandel, it's definitely worth giving it a try to fully appreciate the depth and richness it can offer.