(©Image courtesy of Ron Bez for Paso Robles Wine Country)

Rich, spicy and full of dark fruit flavors, American Zinfandel is a red varietal that produces robust wines that go beautifully with the flavorful fare from the tradition of grilling steaks, fresh-caught seafood, and seasonal vegetables brushed with olive oil.

Mysterious Origins

In the 1880’s Zinfandel grapes were the most popular variety being planted in California, but their exact origin remains a mystery. The varietal was once believed to be America’s only indigenous grape capable of producing good wine, but its DNA indicates it may have roots in southern Italy. The mystery remains and there is no European equivalent.

Whatever its origins, Zinfandel is an American success story. It may not have a lineage traceable to noble roots, but neither do most Americans and quite a few have overcome humble beginnings to achieve greatness. Zinfandel has attracted a large and devoted following.

2010 Zinfandel Festival

A fair number of Zinfandel enthusiasts border on the fanatic, an amiable army worthy of the label Zinhead Nation. Some of them are certain to be in attendance at the 18th Annual Zinfandel Festival which will begin on Friday, March 19th and continue through the weekend. Centrally located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along California’s Central Coast, Paso Robles Wine Country is the state’s fastest growing wine region. It encompasses more than 26,000 vineyard acres and more than 180 wineries.

Attendees will enjoy vast selections of Zinfandel and Zinfandel blends, as well as a Wine Country Auction featuring unique items only offered during the Zinfandel Festival. In addition to the Zin Tasting and Wine Country Auction, more than 140 area wineries offer a compilation of individual events such as winemaker dinners, barrel samples and musical entertainment throughout the weekend.

The ZIP Ticket Level is for Zinfandel enthusiasts who cannot get enough of this bold, bodacious berry. ZIP attendees may zip in early to the Zin Tasting and receive special benefits including an exclusive taste of the 2010 Zinfandel Collaborative Blend. ZIP ticket holders will also experience auction items exclusively for them and other special surprises throughout the evening.

“Zin fans will find new enhancements to a traditional walk around tasting integrated into a special Wine Country Auction,” said Stacie Jacob, executive director of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance. “We invite you to check out quality wines featuring Paso Robles’ heritage grape."

The newly formatted Wine Country Auction features items showcased at winery pouring booths, giving wine enthusiasts a chance to learn about the Zinfandel producers of Paso Robles. One-of-a-kind auction blocks include wine tasting retreats, dinners with Paso Robles producers, VIP tours, seminars and special large format bottles signed by the winemakers themselves. The area’s top chefs will also be serving Zinfandel friendly culinary creations.

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to: 2010 Zinfandel Festival, Zin Tasting and Wine Country Auction

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