Plavac Mali, Croatia's most popular red wine, is similar to Zinfandel in many ways. In fact, they share a genetic connection that was discovered by grape geneticist Dr. Carol Meredith in 1994. She found that Zinfandel is actually identical to Croatia's Tribidrag, also known as Crljenak Kaštelanski. This revelation was quite exciting for wine enthusiasts, as it meant that if you love Zinfandel, you already love Plavac Mali!
Both Zinfandel and Plavac Mali are red wines that have a rich and full-bodied character. They are known for their bold flavors and high alcohol content. These wines often exhibit notes of dark fruits like blackberry and plum, as well as hints of spice and pepper. They both have the ability to age well, developing more complexity and depth over time.
One of the reasons why Plavac Mali is similar to Zinfandel is because it is actually a descendant of the Tribidrag grape. Tribidrag is one of the parent grapes of Plavac Mali, along with another Croatian grape called Dobričić. This genetic connection explains why these two wines share many similarities in terms of flavor profiles and characteristics.
Having had the opportunity to taste both Zinfandel and Plavac Mali, I can personally attest to their similarities. The rich fruit flavors and robust structure of Zinfandel are echoed in Plavac Mali. Both wines have a certain intensity that makes them stand out, yet they also possess a certain elegance and finesse.
In terms of food pairing, Plavac Mali is similar to Zinfandel in that it pairs well with hearty and flavorful dishes. The wine's robust tannins and acidity make it a great match for grilled meats, stews, and aged cheeses. It can also hold its own against spicy foods, thanks to its fruit-forward nature.
While Plavac Mali may not be as widely known as Zinfandel, it certainly deserves recognition for its quality and unique characteristics. It is a wine that showcases the rich winemaking history and tradition of Croatia. So, if you are a fan of Zinfandel, I highly recommend giving Plavac Mali a try. You may just discover a new favorite wine that shares the same genetic roots as one of your old favorites.