Smallwater Estate Zinfandel 2025

Tasting Notes 

Colour: Deep crimson red with purple-blue highlights.

Aromatics: Spiced plum, maraschino cherry and dark chocolate, with hints of blackberry, red liquorice, pepper, dried herbs and sweet baking spice.

Palate: Plush and fruit-filled, with ripe red fruits, plum and cherry layered through the middle. The texture is smooth and generous, supported by soft tannins and a savoury spice line that keeps the wine balanced.

Finish: Long, warming and satisfying, with lingering plum, cherry, chocolate and gentle spice.

About the Wine

Zinfandel Primitivo is not a variety you see everywhere in Western Australia, which makes this Smallwater Estate release a fun and rewarding change from the usual red wine options.

It has the fruit richness many Shiraz drinkers enjoy, but with a slightly different personality: more cherry, more spice, more plushness and a lovely savoury edge. It is a red that works beautifully when you want flavour and warmth, but still want the wine to feel smooth and easy to enjoy.

Wine Details

Producer: Smallwater Estate
Vintage: 2025
Region: Donnybrook, Geographe, Western Australia
Variety: Zinfandel, also known as Primitivo
Style: Dry red wine
Body: Medium to full-bodied
Closure: Screw cap

Serving and Cellaring 

Serve: 16 to 18°C

If the bottle has been sitting at warm room temperature, place it in the fridge for around 15 minutes before serving. This helps keep the red fruit bright and the finish smooth.

Decant: 20 to 30 minutes is ideal, especially while young. It helps the plum, cherry and spice open up.

Cellaring: Enjoy now for its generous fruit and smooth texture, or cellar for three to five years if you prefer a softer, more savoury red.

Food Pairing Suggestions 

• Barbecue ribs or smoked brisket
• Woodfired pizza with salami, olives or mushrooms
• Slow-cooked beef ragu
• Lamb shoulder with rosemary and garlic
• Chargrilled burgers or sausages
• Tomato-based pasta with meatballs
• Aged cheddar, manchego or Comté

FAQ 🧐

Is Zinfandel the same as Primitivo?
Yes. Zinfandel and Primitivo are two names for the same grape variety.

What does Smallwater Estate Zinfandel taste like?
Expect spiced plum, ripe cherry, dark chocolate, red fruit, pepper and smooth tannins.

Is it similar to Shiraz?
It will appeal to many Shiraz drinkers because it has richness, spice and generosity. The difference is that Zinfandel often shows more cherry, plum and exotic spice.

Is it sweet?
No. This is a dry red wine. The ripe fruit gives it a generous flavour, but the finish is savoury and balanced.

Should I decant it?
A short decant is a good idea. Around 60 minutes will help the fruit and spice open up.

What food does it go with?
It is excellent with barbecue meats, pizza, pasta, lamb, slow-cooked beef and hard cheeses.