What Category Of Wine Is White Zinfandel: Red, White Or Rosé?

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Aug 14, 2020

Hello there! I'm Dr. Vinifera, but you can call me Vinny. Ask me your toughest wine questions, from the fine points of etiquette to the science of winemaking. And don't worry, I'm no wine snob—you can also ask me those "dumb questions" you're too embarrased to ask your wine geek friends! I hope you find my answers educational, empowering and even amusing. And don't forget to check out my most asked questions and my full archives for all my Q&A classics.

Dear Dr. Vinny,

What category of wine is white Zinfandel: red, white or rosé? Is the term “blush” still used?

—Robert, Massapequa, N.Y.

Dear Robert,

Despite the confusing name, “white Zinfandel” is a rosé. It’s also made in a slightly sweet style. “Blush” is a somewhat outdated term for rosé, or pink wine. It was more widely used in the 1970s and ’80s, back when off-dry wines like white Zinfandel were much more fashionable. For some, “blush” still refers to a sweeter style of pink wines.

—Dr. Vinny

Ask Dr. Vinny Rosé Winemaking Techniques Explained Zinfandel

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