Best Zinfandel at the 2025 San Francisco International Wine Competition
Zinfandel once again proved why it remains one of America’s most iconic varietals at the 2025 San Francisco International Wine Competition (SFIWC). Leading the category, Jeff Runquist Wines earned the title of Best Zinfandel for its 2023 Zinfandel, a wine that captivated judges with its vibrant fruit and polished structure.
Jeff Runquist Wines has built a reputation for crafting bold, expressive wines that showcase ripe fruit intensity balanced by careful winemaking. The 2023 Zinfandel exemplifies this approach, delivering generous aromatics and depth while maintaining freshness and harmony on the palate.
The wine stood out for its layered dark fruit profile and seamless finish, demonstrating both power and finesse—hallmarks of an exceptional Zinfandel.
Finalists Showcase Range and Character
Two additional producers were recognized as finalists, each offering a distinctive interpretation of the varietal and underscoring Zinfandel’s remarkable stylistic range. From structured, restrained expressions to vibrant, fruit-driven profiles, the finalists demonstrated how site, vine age, and winemaking decisions can shape the personality of this dynamic grape. Their selections highlighted Zinfandel’s ability to balance ripeness with acidity, spice with structure, and power with finesse—showcasing why the category remains one of the most compelling and competitive at SFIWC.
Black Sage Vineyard 2018 Zinfandel presented a more restrained style. Its structure-forward profile highlighted balance and discipline, offering a contrast to more fruit-driven expressions.
V. Sattui Winery 2023 Ancient Vine Zinfandel delivered classic richness with lively energy. With vibrant berry fruit layered alongside vanilla and firm tannins, the wine demonstrated freshness and drive.
From bold and fruit-forward to structured and energetic, this year’s Zinfandel finalists reflect the remarkable stylistic diversity of the grape. With Jeff Runquist Wines leading the category, the 2025 SFIWC reinforces Zinfandel’s enduring place as a dynamic and expressive cornerstone of American winemaking.
