2018 Zinfandel, El Dorado
92 Points Wine Enthusiast
The 2018 Zinfandel from El Dorado is a bold and expressive wine that feels especially at home in the winter months. Deep and vibrant in color, it immediately draws you in with generous aromas of dark cherry and ripe plum, offering a sense of richness balanced by freshness. These inviting fruit notes carry seamlessly into the palate, setting the tone for a wine that is both powerful and polished.
On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and well-balanced, revealing layers of ripe fruit alongside savory nuances of leather and a subtle hint of salinity. Supple tannins provide structure without heaviness, while the smooth, lingering finish highlights the wine’s elegance and sense of place. Now at an ideal point of maturity, this Zinfandel is drinking beautifully, showcasing depth, harmony, and thoughtful craftsmanship.
This Zinfandel pairs effortlessly with winter’s heartier fare. Enjoy it alongside slow-braised short ribs, rich beef stew, or grilled lamb chops for a comforting cold-weather match. It also shines with wood-fired pizza topped with Italian sausage and roasted peppers, as well as roasted root vegetables or wild mushroom pasta. Whether poured for a cozy evening by the fire or shared at a winter dinner gathering, this El Dorado Zinfandel brings warmth, depth, and satisfaction to the season.