Item Number: FV050
Wine Grape Vine - Zinfandel
Wine Grape Vine - Zinfandel
Intense Fruitiness and Luscious Texture
- Bare Root Vine
- Variety: European
- Zones: 6-10
- Harvest: August
- Pruning: Cane or Spur Prune
- Flavor Notes: Red berry fruits like raspberry predominate in wines from cooler areas, whereas blackberry, anise and pepper notes are more common in wines made in warmer areas.
- Facts of note: A red grape variety of European origin grown mainly in California. The wines have an intense fruitiness and luscious texture. Zinfandel grapes can produce a wide range of wine styles including light-bodied wines, full-bodied dry wines and sweet late harvest wines. The grapevine is vigorous and produces lots of fruit. The bunches tend to be tight so it is important to pick them and make wine when they ripen to avoid bunch rot. Zinfandel grapes have been found to be genetically identical to Primitivo.
Zinfandel is a red grape variety with a long history and a prominent place in wine production, especially in California. Known for producing wines with intense fruit flavors and a range of styles, from light-bodied to rich and full-bodied, Zinfandel offers versatility to winemakers and growers alike. Zinfandel wine is cherished for its bold fruit notes, luscious texture, and ability to express different flavor profiles depending on the region and climate in which the grapes are grown.
Originally of European origin, Zinfandel grapes are genetically identical to the Primitivo grape of southern Italy, though they have come to be closely associated with California wine production. Growing Zinfandel grape vines can be highly rewarding for both hobbyists and professional vintners, with the variety offering high yields and excellent fruit production. This guide will walk you through the key aspects of growing grapes with Zinfandel vines, focusing on site selection, grape pruning, pest management, and harvesting grapes for wine production.
Growing Grapes: Zinfandel
Zinfandel grape vines thrive in a range of climates but perform best in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 10. While the grape is adaptable to cooler regions, it truly excels in warmer climates where its full potential for wine production can be realized. In cooler areas, Zinfandel wines tend to have red berry fruit flavors, such as raspberry, while grapes grown in warmer areas develop flavors of blackberry, anise, and pepper.
When growing grapes like Zinfandel, site selection is critical. These vines prefer full sun and need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal fruit production. Zinfandel thrives in well-drained soils with a moderate level of fertility, and the roots will establish deeply over time. Loamy soils are ideal, though Zinfandel vines can adapt to other soil types as long as there is good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
It is essential to give Zinfandel vines ample room to grow. These vines are known for being vigorous and productive, with a tendency to produce large clusters of fruit. Space the vines about 6 to 8 feet apart to allow for proper airflow, sunlight penetration, and vine growth. Overcrowding can increase the risk of diseases like bunch rot, especially because Zinfandel grapes tend to grow in tightly packed clusters. Proper spacing and training of the vines will help mitigate this issue.
Grape Pruning for Zinfandel Vines
Grape pruning is one of the most important tasks for ensuring healthy vines and high-quality fruit. Zinfandel grape vines can be pruned using either cane or spur pruning methods. Both methods have their benefits, but the choice largely depends on the grower’s preference and the local growing conditions.
Cane pruning involves selecting a few long canes from the previous year's growth and cutting them back to about 8 to 10 buds each. These buds will produce the next season's shoots and grape clusters. Cane pruning allows for good fruit production and is particularly useful in vineyards with lower yields or in cooler climates where Zinfandel vines might need additional care.
Spur pruning, on the other hand, involves cutting the previous year's growth back to short spurs with two or three buds each. This method is often used in warmer regions where Zinfandel vines are more vigorous and produce larger quantities of fruit. Spur pruning helps manage the vine’s energy and ensures that the fruit clusters are evenly spaced along the vine, reducing the risk of bunch rot.
Both methods are effective, but it’s important to regularly prune the vines during the winter dormant period before new growth begins in the spring. This ensures that the vine’s energy is focused on producing high-quality grapes rather than excessive vegetative growth.
Watering and Fertilizing Zinfandel Grapes
Zinfandel vines are relatively drought-tolerant once established, but they still require regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth and during fruit set. Deep watering encourages the development of deep root systems, which are essential for healthy grape production. Drip irrigation is often the preferred method for watering grapevines, as it delivers water directly to the root zone without wetting the foliage, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
During dry periods, it is important to increase watering to ensure that the vines do not become stressed. However, once the grapes begin to ripen, you can reduce the amount of water slightly to concentrate the sugars in the fruit and enhance the flavor of the wine. Over-watering at this stage can dilute the fruit and lead to less intense flavors in the final wine.
Zinfandel vines benefit from balanced fertilization, though over-fertilizing can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to provide essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Organic compost or well-rotted manure can also be used to improve soil fertility and structure.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Like many grape varieties, Zinfandel is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Powdery mildew, downy mildew, and bunch rot are common issues that can affect grapevines, particularly in regions with high humidity or poor air circulation.
To prevent powdery mildew, ensure that the vines receive adequate sunlight and are pruned regularly to maintain good airflow around the grape clusters. Sulfur-based fungicides can also be used as a preventive measure during the growing season. Bunch rot can be a particular concern for Zinfandel due to the tight clusters of grapes, which can trap moisture and promote fungal growth. Regular monitoring of the vines and timely harvests can help reduce the risk of bunch rot.
In terms of pests, grape leafhoppers, spider mites, and aphids can all pose problems for Zinfandel vines. These pests feed on the vine’s leaves and sap, weakening the plant and reducing fruit production. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can help control these pests naturally, but if infestations become severe, horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps can be used to manage them.
Harvesting Grapes: Zinfandel
Zinfandel grapes are typically harvested in August, though the exact timing can vary depending on the region and climate. The grapes should be fully ripened before harvesting, as they do not continue to ripen once picked. Zinfandel grapes are known for their large, tightly packed clusters, which can make them prone to bunch rot if left on the vine for too long. It is important to harvest the grapes at the peak of ripeness to avoid this issue.
Taste-testing the grapes is one of the best ways to determine if they are ready for harvest. The flavor should be sweet, with the characteristic red berry, blackberry, or anise notes depending on the growing conditions. In cooler climates, the grapes may have more tartness, while in warmer areas, the fruit will be richer and more robust.
Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut the grape clusters from the vine, being careful not to damage the fruit. Zinfandel grapes can be used immediately for wine production, or they can be enjoyed fresh as table grapes. Their versatility in both wine production and fresh consumption makes them a popular choice for growers.
Wine Production with Zinfandel Grapes
Zinfandel grapes are prized for their ability to produce a wide range of wine styles, from light-bodied reds to rich, full-bodied wines. The intense fruit flavors of Zinfandel wines make them popular among wine enthusiasts, and the variety's natural sugar content allows it to be used for both dry wines and sweet, late-harvest wines.
In cooler regions, Zinfandel wines tend to have bright red berry flavors, such as raspberry and cherry. In warmer climates, the wines are richer, with flavors of blackberry, anise, and pepper. Zinfandel can also produce bold, spicy wines with high alcohol content, which makes them particularly well-suited to aging.
Zinfandel grapes are vigorous producers, and careful management of the vines is essential to ensure high-quality fruit for wine production. Proper pruning, disease management, and timely harvesting are all critical factors in producing exceptional Zinfandel wines.
Conclusion
Growing Zinfandel wine grape vines can be a fulfilling endeavor for both home gardeners and professional winemakers. These vines are versatile, producing a range of wine styles that reflect the growing conditions and climate of the vineyard. By providing the right growing environment, including full sun, well-drained soil, and regular pruning, Zinfandel grape vines can produce bountiful crops of high-quality fruit year after year. Whether used for wine production or enjoyed as table grapes, Zinfandel offers a unique and flavorful experience for growers and wine lovers alike.
Photo by Naotake Murayama on flickr
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Description
Description
- Bare Root Vine
- Variety: European
- Zones: 6-10
- Harvest: August
- Pruning: Cane or Spur Prune
- Flavor Notes: Red berry fruits like raspberry predominate in wines from cooler areas, whereas blackberry, anise and pepper notes are more common in wines made in warmer areas.
- Facts of note: A red grape variety of European origin grown mainly in California. The wines have an intense fruitiness and luscious texture. Zinfandel grapes can produce a wide range of wine styles including light-bodied wines, full-bodied dry wines and sweet late harvest wines. The grapevine is vigorous and produces lots of fruit. The bunches tend to be tight so it is important to pick them and make wine when they ripen to avoid bunch rot. Zinfandel grapes have been found to be genetically identical to Primitivo.
Zinfandel is a red grape variety with a long history and a prominent place in wine production, especially in California. Known for producing wines with intense fruit flavors and a range of styles, from light-bodied to rich and full-bodied, Zinfandel offers versatility to winemakers and growers alike. Zinfandel wine is cherished for its bold fruit notes, luscious texture, and ability to express different flavor profiles depending on the region and climate in which the grapes are grown.
Originally of European origin, Zinfandel grapes are genetically identical to the Primitivo grape of southern Italy, though they have come to be closely associated with California wine production. Growing Zinfandel grape vines can be highly rewarding for both hobbyists and professional vintners, with the variety offering high yields and excellent fruit production. This guide will walk you through the key aspects of growing grapes with Zinfandel vines, focusing on site selection, grape pruning, pest management, and harvesting grapes for wine production.
Growing Grapes: Zinfandel
Zinfandel grape vines thrive in a range of climates but perform best in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 10. While the grape is adaptable to cooler regions, it truly excels in warmer climates where its full potential for wine production can be realized. In cooler areas, Zinfandel wines tend to have red berry fruit flavors, such as raspberry, while grapes grown in warmer areas develop flavors of blackberry, anise, and pepper.
When growing grapes like Zinfandel, site selection is critical. These vines prefer full sun and need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal fruit production. Zinfandel thrives in well-drained soils with a moderate level of fertility, and the roots will establish deeply over time. Loamy soils are ideal, though Zinfandel vines can adapt to other soil types as long as there is good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
It is essential to give Zinfandel vines ample room to grow. These vines are known for being vigorous and productive, with a tendency to produce large clusters of fruit. Space the vines about 6 to 8 feet apart to allow for proper airflow, sunlight penetration, and vine growth. Overcrowding can increase the risk of diseases like bunch rot, especially because Zinfandel grapes tend to grow in tightly packed clusters. Proper spacing and training of the vines will help mitigate this issue.
Grape Pruning for Zinfandel Vines
Grape pruning is one of the most important tasks for ensuring healthy vines and high-quality fruit. Zinfandel grape vines can be pruned using either cane or spur pruning methods. Both methods have their benefits, but the choice largely depends on the grower’s preference and the local growing conditions.
Cane pruning involves selecting a few long canes from the previous year's growth and cutting them back to about 8 to 10 buds each. These buds will produce the next season's shoots and grape clusters. Cane pruning allows for good fruit production and is particularly useful in vineyards with lower yields or in cooler climates where Zinfandel vines might need additional care.
Spur pruning, on the other hand, involves cutting the previous year's growth back to short spurs with two or three buds each. This method is often used in warmer regions where Zinfandel vines are more vigorous and produce larger quantities of fruit. Spur pruning helps manage the vine’s energy and ensures that the fruit clusters are evenly spaced along the vine, reducing the risk of bunch rot.
Both methods are effective, but it’s important to regularly prune the vines during the winter dormant period before new growth begins in the spring. This ensures that the vine’s energy is focused on producing high-quality grapes rather than excessive vegetative growth.
Watering and Fertilizing Zinfandel Grapes
Zinfandel vines are relatively drought-tolerant once established, but they still require regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth and during fruit set. Deep watering encourages the development of deep root systems, which are essential for healthy grape production. Drip irrigation is often the preferred method for watering grapevines, as it delivers water directly to the root zone without wetting the foliage, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
During dry periods, it is important to increase watering to ensure that the vines do not become stressed. However, once the grapes begin to ripen, you can reduce the amount of water slightly to concentrate the sugars in the fruit and enhance the flavor of the wine. Over-watering at this stage can dilute the fruit and lead to less intense flavors in the final wine.
Zinfandel vines benefit from balanced fertilization, though over-fertilizing can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to provide essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Organic compost or well-rotted manure can also be used to improve soil fertility and structure.
Managing Pests and Diseases
Like many grape varieties, Zinfandel is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Powdery mildew, downy mildew, and bunch rot are common issues that can affect grapevines, particularly in regions with high humidity or poor air circulation.
To prevent powdery mildew, ensure that the vines receive adequate sunlight and are pruned regularly to maintain good airflow around the grape clusters. Sulfur-based fungicides can also be used as a preventive measure during the growing season. Bunch rot can be a particular concern for Zinfandel due to the tight clusters of grapes, which can trap moisture and promote fungal growth. Regular monitoring of the vines and timely harvests can help reduce the risk of bunch rot.
In terms of pests, grape leafhoppers, spider mites, and aphids can all pose problems for Zinfandel vines. These pests feed on the vine’s leaves and sap, weakening the plant and reducing fruit production. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can help control these pests naturally, but if infestations become severe, horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps can be used to manage them.
Harvesting Grapes: Zinfandel
Zinfandel grapes are typically harvested in August, though the exact timing can vary depending on the region and climate. The grapes should be fully ripened before harvesting, as they do not continue to ripen once picked. Zinfandel grapes are known for their large, tightly packed clusters, which can make them prone to bunch rot if left on the vine for too long. It is important to harvest the grapes at the peak of ripeness to avoid this issue.
Taste-testing the grapes is one of the best ways to determine if they are ready for harvest. The flavor should be sweet, with the characteristic red berry, blackberry, or anise notes depending on the growing conditions. In cooler climates, the grapes may have more tartness, while in warmer areas, the fruit will be richer and more robust.
Use clean, sharp pruning shears to cut the grape clusters from the vine, being careful not to damage the fruit. Zinfandel grapes can be used immediately for wine production, or they can be enjoyed fresh as table grapes. Their versatility in both wine production and fresh consumption makes them a popular choice for growers.
Wine Production with Zinfandel Grapes
Zinfandel grapes are prized for their ability to produce a wide range of wine styles, from light-bodied reds to rich, full-bodied wines. The intense fruit flavors of Zinfandel wines make them popular among wine enthusiasts, and the variety's natural sugar content allows it to be used for both dry wines and sweet, late-harvest wines.
In cooler regions, Zinfandel wines tend to have bright red berry flavors, such as raspberry and cherry. In warmer climates, the wines are richer, with flavors of blackberry, anise, and pepper. Zinfandel can also produce bold, spicy wines with high alcohol content, which makes them particularly well-suited to aging.
Zinfandel grapes are vigorous producers, and careful management of the vines is essential to ensure high-quality fruit for wine production. Proper pruning, disease management, and timely harvesting are all critical factors in producing exceptional Zinfandel wines.
Conclusion
Growing Zinfandel wine grape vines can be a fulfilling endeavor for both home gardeners and professional winemakers. These vines are versatile, producing a range of wine styles that reflect the growing conditions and climate of the vineyard. By providing the right growing environment, including full sun, well-drained soil, and regular pruning, Zinfandel grape vines can produce bountiful crops of high-quality fruit year after year. Whether used for wine production or enjoyed as table grapes, Zinfandel offers a unique and flavorful experience for growers and wine lovers alike.
Photo by Naotake Murayama on flickr
Wine grapes have small berry like fruit with seeds. The flavor and color of wine is derived primarily from the skins. The best locations for planting grape vines are on slopes with good drainage and poor fertility.
Select a variety based on your climate and the type of wine desired. Find out if there are any vineyards in your area and what variety they grow — If they are having success with a specific variety you probably will as well.
Keep in mind each vine yields an average of one gallon of wine, but plant extra to make up for fruit loss from birds and other causes.
Our vines are 1-year-old plants, self-rooted from cuttings, no.1 grade with about 8” of top growth. Sold by individual bare root vine. Browse our collection of Table Grapes.
Shipping Information
Shipping Information
Cannot ship to the following states: HI, AK, PR, GU, VI
Cannot ship via USPS.
Cannot ship via SmartPost.
Shipping Weight: 3.3 lb
Dimensions: 26.0"L x 3.0"W x 3.0"H
Features
Features
- Open-Pollinated
- Thornless
Characteristics
Characteristics
Planting & Care
Planting & Care
Useful Information
Useful Information
Guarantee
Guarantee
Limited Dormant Tree & Plant Guarantee
* Claim deadline is June 15th
We guarantee that your dormant tree or plant will arrive in good, viable condition. If your tree arrives in substandard condition, notify us within 3 days of delivery. Please email pictures of the box, inside packaging, the tree and its roots to helpdesk@groworganic.com. We will investigate your claim and process a request to exchange or refund the damaged product.
If your dormant tree or plant has not grown new leaves by June 15th, you may be eligible for our Limited Dormant Tree & Plant Guarantee. This guarantee provides for a store credit for the purchase price of the tree, excluding shipping. Please see the Instructions below.
Important Dates:
- April 1st Dormant trees/plants must be planted in the ground
- May 15th Perform scratch test, if no new leaves have grown
- June 15th Deadline to apply for a dormant tree/plant credit
All required documentation must be received by June 15th for your claim to be considered. Claims or documentation received after June 15th will be denied, without exception. Instructions listed below
Terms and Conditions
We cannot guarantee that your tree or plant will remain alive and healthy after it is received, or bear fruit as there are too many variables in your environment that are beyond our control (i.e. soil preparation, weed and pest control, proper irrigation, chill hours, compatible hardiness for your growing zone, proper choice of pollinator, extreme weather, rodent damage, disease, etc.).
We cannot guarantee that we will be able to provide a replacement tree/plant of the same species either that same growing season or in future years. Customers are responsible for all shipping fees associated with replacement trees and plants.
If we determine that the tree you purchased directly from us is not viable, we will issue you a store credit (not a refund) for the purchase price of the affected dormant tree or plant. Shipping is not included in the dormant tree/plant guarantee. Store credits can be used to purchase any product we sell and are valid for use only until July 1st of the following year.
Historically, 98% of our dormant trees and plants grow and thrive when they have been cared for and planted using our growing guides. Dormant trees and plants must be planted in the ground by April 1st in order to be eligible for credit. If the ground in your area is still frozen solid, you may temporarily plant your tree or plant in a pot.
Potted, non-dormant trees or plants are excluded from this guarantee as they are not dormant at the time of shipment. Evergreen trees such as citrus, avocado and olive trees are not available for credit under the Dormant Tree and Plant Guarantee.
Instructions
We guarantee that your dormant fruit tree or plant will leaf out, if you care for it according to our growing guides. In the unlikely event that your dormant tree or plant does not have leaves by May 15th, follow these simple steps to apply for a store credit:
Before you call or email, please perform a “scratch test” to determine if the tree or plant is still alive. This video shows how to check for live tissue under the bark. Scratch tests need to be done a few inches above and below the graft.
Green Cambium Layer / Living Trees
If the cambium layer under the bark is green, give your tree a little more time. It is still alive, but hasn’t come out of dormancy yet. Check to make sure that it is getting the right amount of deep root water, enough sunlight and that the weather is warm enough for that type of tree/plant to come out of dormancy. Every tree has its own personality and will come out of dormancy at different times. Be sure to submit the required documentation listed below by June 15th, if it doesn’t grow leaves.
Brown Cambium Layer / Dead Trees
If the scratch test shows a brown cambium layer or if your dormant tree/plant doesn’t have leaves by June 1st, please email us at helpdesk@groworganic.com. All required documentation listed below must be received by June 15th for your claim to be considered. To be considered for the guarantee claim, all required documentation must be received by June 15th. Incomplete submissions will be denied.
Required Documentation
- Order number
- Name of dormant tree/plant and the quantity affected
- Photos of each tree or plant showing:
- The roots (tree or plant must be pulled out of the ground)
- The scratch test areas
- The entire tree/plant
We reserve the right to not issue credit for items that have already been replaced. We also reserve the right to require photographic evidence that the tree/plant was not killed by root rot, rodent or mechanical damage.
