Domaine du Paradis in Satigny just outside of Geneva
After years of ongoing discussions and lengthy research, it is now known without a doubt that Zin (huge in California) and Prim (home in Italy) are the same grape varieties, but in fact its origins are in Croatia.
Some of Zin’s other homes are South America, South Africa and Australia, but Switzerland? We never hear of it being planted here. After speaking to the Oenologist, Didier Cornut, from the Domaine du Paradis I know he spent sometime working in the vineyards in the US. There he fell in love with Zin, so thought to try and grow it here in Switzerland. Zin does require a lot of warm weather, which we have had this summer, so there should be a great 2015 vintage.
Domaine du Paradis in Satigny just outside of Geneva, is the only domain (apart from one other in Ticino) in Switzerland producing this variety. They have done such an excellent job of it, I am sure many other wine makers will soon follow suit.
Zin is a somewhat difficult grape to grow and it used to have a bit of a bad reputation. It was thought of as a cheap quaffing wine, although thankfully now this is no longer the case, and this variety can produce prestigious outstanding wine.
Nose – The nose conjures up images of far off exotic eastern countries: a spice market in Morocco or a street market in Kathmandu. Your sense of smell is aroused by the mix of fragrances that drift past: incense, delicious food being cooked on charcoal BBQs, fruits especially boysenberries and tree tomatoes, chocolate, musk and an earthiness. They are all here.
Palate – A zippy lively attack, which gradually softens. A tad of bitterness with silky background tannin. Flavours and savours of ripe red fruits with a nice lengthy finish. Zin is not a variety that has much tannin, but 50% of this wine has been aged in oak, which does provide some tannin. For top results let this Zinfandel breathe a little after opening.
Food & Mood Match – Zin is a hit paired with medium spicy Indian dishes. Can’t be bothered cooking and don’t know where to go for good Indian food, then treat yourself to a fine dining experience. Rasoi by Vineet (inside the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Geneva) where you have the perfect not too spicy Indian dishes that work well with Zin. The Domaine du Paradis Zin is on their wine list! If you’re a bit strapped for cash, then create your own Indian dish. (Internet). Pata Negra, which means black hooves, are very tasty Spanish cured ham from free-range pigs that only eat acorns. Salty cured meats and meat loaf also pair well.
Let your mind be awakened whilst your body unwinds.
Price: CHF 22 at the domain.
Available at: http://www.domaineduparadis.com/
Manor and Globus Geneva
Tel: +41 22 753 18 55
Fax: +41 22 753 18 55
info@domaine-du-paradis.ch
Wine Lingo: Attack – impressions of the wine in the first few seconds after tasting.
By Nina Bobillier
Nina Bobillier is a wine reviewer and guide. nina@lenews.ch
