Zinfandel And BBQ: A Match Made In Grilling Heaven

Forbes

3 days ago

With the summer heat in full stride and barbecue grills fired up, many people reach for a cold beer rather than wine. However, it turns out that Zinfandel is the ideal wine to pair with hundreds of BBQ dishes for several surprising reasons. So, enjoy a beer while you grill, but savor a glass of Zinfandel at the table with your meal.
'Zinfandel is a natural with the grill, because its vivid red fruit and warm spice cuts through smoky, charred flavors while complementing sweet-savory sauces and marinades. And, this versatility means it can harmonize with anything from grilled salmon or vegetable skewers to a juicy ribeye,' said Rebecca Robinson, Executive Director of the Zinfandel Advocates & Producers (ZAP), in an online interview.
Zinfandel Wine: Smooth, Jammy and Spicy
If you've never tasted zinfandel wine, then you are in for a treat, because it is a very approachable smooth smooth-tasting red wine. Many people enjoy it because it has rich fruity flavors of mixed berries (raspberry, cherry, blackberry, marionberry) and spice, such as cinnamon, allspice, and pepper. Some Zinfandels even taste like berry jam, but with the delightful heat of around 14% alcohol on the finish, and a touch of acidity to cleanse the palate between bites of BBQ.
'What many people don't realize is that it is OK to chill your zinfandel wine,' said Rebecca, 'especially on hot summer nights, pop your bottle in the fridge for 20–30 minutes before serving.'
She said that the light chill brightens the fruit, tempers the spice, and makes each sip even more refreshing—especially alongside grilled fare. 'Aim for around 55–60°F so you keep all the aroma and texture while adding a refreshing edge,' she added.
If it is a cooler evening, then serve the zinfandel at room temperature. And don't worry about fancy wine glasses at your outside table that might break. Though Zinfandel is snazzy enough to be served in crystal wine glasses (there are some very expensive Zinfandels that are worth checking out – see list at the end), it is also casual enough to serve in a plastic cup.
In fact, in Lodi, California, often referred to as the 'Zinfandel Capital of the World' where they have the largest acreage of Zinfandel grapes in California (and the world), one of their favorite traditions is to have a zinfandel tasting on the tailgate of a pick-up truck.
It was also a favorite wine of the forty-niners who brought zinfandel grape vines from Italy to the Sierra Foothills of California in the late 1840's during the gold rush. Therefore, it is probable that many gold miners enjoyed some Zinfandel wine while sitting around the campfire in the evenings, cooking their dinner over the flames.
Since that time, Zinfandel vines have spread across California and are now planted in many other regions, such as Napa Valley, Sonoma, Paso Robles, Mendocino, Contra Costa, Lake County and beyond. It is now even planted in other states and countries, including its home base of Croatia, as well as Italy (where it is called Primitivo).
Zinfandel Wine and Perfect BBQ Dish Pairings
So, which BBQ dishes should you pair with Zinfandel besides the classic ribs, steaks, and chicken? Rebecca Robinson had some great ideas:
Honey‑garlic prawns —This sweet-savory combo is a match made in heaven: Zinfandel's vibrant fruit and peppery spice elevate the glaze, while its lively acidity balances the prawns' richness.
Cedar‑plank salmon with herb butter — That kiss of wood smoke and buttery herbs unlocks Zin's earthier, savory-forward notes, while the fruit tones keep the pairing crisp and refreshing.
Grilled vegetables & skewers — Think zucchini ribbons dusted with smoked paprika or herb-oil-brushed artichokes. Zinfandel brings a playful pepper quality and bright fruit that harmonize with char and earthiness.
Korean-style BBQ (bulgogi, galbi) — The sweet-salty glaze dances with Zin's spice and rich berry fruit—combining umami and brightness in a way that begs you to take the next bite and sip.
Charred cauliflower steaks with chimichurri — Herb-packed sauce meets bright fruit, creating a vibrant back-and-forth that sings with every mouthful.
Tri‑Tip (Santa Maria style) — Zinfandel-soaked grills meet California classics: a Dry Creek Valley Zin—or similar—mirrors the regional roots and turns this smoky, peppery staple into something even richer and more soulful.
Of Course – BBQ Ribs, Steaks and Hamburgers – With a delicious rub and a nice smokey char note, pretty much all types of beef delight in the bright berry flavors and spicy notes of Zinfandel, creating a symphony of tastes in your mouth.
BBQ Chicken – whether it is classic tomato based, mustard, spicy Cajun, or teriyaki glaze, the savory notes of BBQ chicken enhance the bright fruit flavors of Zinfandel and enhance its spicy, peppery notes.
Veggie Burgers – If you enjoy Impossible, Beyond or other vegetarian burgers, it is amazing how good they taste on the grill. By just adding that wonderful smoky charred notes, with a great rub, they turn into a feast, which is only enhanced by the smooth jammy notes of Zinfandel.
'Zinfandel doesn't just keep up—it amplifies the flavors, creating a back-and-forth of bright fruit, savory depth, and spice that makes every bite sing,' said Rebecca.
Zinfandel Styles: Rosé, Sparkling, Blends and White
Don't just stop at red Zinfandel. Many producers also craft other styles of Zinfandel, such as sparkling, rose, and the traditional white zinfandel. So for people who would prefer a lighter style of wine, seek out these other styles, which can also pair with lighter BBQ dishes, such as grilled white fish, asparagus, or other grilled veggie or fruit dishes (don't forget about grilled peach and burrata salad!)
According to Rebecca, 'Zinfandel is full of surprises that go way beyond the big, bold reds. Here's how to explore its lighter, more playful side:
Rosé of Zinfandel – this is a new modern style of rosé, full of fresh berry and citrus notes and a crisp, refreshing finish. It should be served chilled and is perfect for lighter BBQ fare, from grilled shrimp to vegetable skewers, offering a refreshing counterpoint to smoky flavors.
Sparkling Zinfandels - though not as common, you can find a sparkling pink zinfandel if you are persistent. Expect lively berry aromas, citrusy brightness, and just enough structure to pair with grilled seafood, spicy chicken, or even tangy BBQ sauces. The bubbles lift the richness of the food while amplifying freshness.
Zinfandel Blends - Zinfandel plays beautifully with other varieties, especially in field blends (a mixture of different varietals grown in the vineyard) or creative combinations with grapes that add structure, spice, or floral notes. These blends can range from bright and aromatic to rich and savory, making them incredibly versatile with BBQ dishes from smoky tri-tip to charred vegetable platters.
White Zinfandel – if you prefer a semi-sweet wine, the traditional white zinfandel is still a great choice. With perfumed floral notes and sweet strawberry flavors with a creamy mouthfeel, it is a great sipping wine that pairs well with grilled peaches and other lighter BBQ fare.
Zinfandel Wine: Finding One That is Right for You
Fortunately, there are many delicious Zinfandel wines in the U.S. market, ranging from very affordable to the extravagant. Following is a table that lists some of the more popular brands.
Some Zinfandel red wines are also know for their excellent ability to age, and are prized by collectors of old California wines. These are generally made by some of the top Zinfandel producers, such as Ridge Vineyards, Turley, A. Rafanelli and a few other wineries. As they age, they can take on similar flavors and characteristics of old Bordeaux wines.
Old Vine Zinfandel: An American Heritage Treasure
If you are lucky you may find a bottle of Zinfandel that is labeled, 'Old Vine Zinfandel.' Though there is no official designation of what 'old vine' means, in general, it indicates that the grapes in the bottle are from vines that are at least 50 years old. In some, special cases, the vines are more than 100 years old – and the winery will usually list this on the label.
There are even a few old Zinfandel vineyards in the Sierra Foothills that were planted in the 1800's, such as the Grandpere Vineyard in Amador County that was planted in 1869. Both Lodi and Sonoma County also are home to some Zinfandel vineyards that are over 100 years in age. Imagine drinking a bottle of wine where the grapes were planted before WWII.
These old Zinfandel vineyards are considered to be American historical treasures, because most commercial vineyards are pulled out at around 30 years of age. This is because as they age, they don't produce as much quantity, but they do produce high quality. So if you encounter a bottle of old vine Zinfandel with grapes aged 100+ years, enjoy it with friends and know that you are drinking a piece of American viticulture history.