Day El Diablo Vineyard Zinfandel 2018 is a robust and expressive Zinfandel, showcasing the intensity and character typical of old vine Zinfandel from California. On the nose, it offers an abundant and complex bouquet of ripe dark berries, primarily blackberry, black cherry, and plum, beautifully complemented by notes of sweet baking spices like cinnamon, clove, and a hint of vanilla. Further exploration reveals nuances of black pepper, smoky cedar, a touch of dried herbs, and a subtle underlying earthiness or dark chocolate. The palate is full-bodied and rich, with firm yet integrated tannins and a moderate acidity. It delivers concentrated flavors of jammy dark fruits, often with a hint of stewed berries, interwoven with layers of licorice, cocoa, roasted coffee, and a distinct peppery spice. The finish is long, warm, and persistent, leaving a complex impression of fruit, spice, and a gentle oak influence.

This bold and flavorful Zinfandel is an exceptional food-pairing wine, particularly renowned for its affinity with hearty, robust, and often smoky dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with barbecue ribs, grilled steaks, lamb chops, or spicy sausages, where the wine’s spice and fruit can amplify the savory richness. It also complements dishes with smoky sauces, roasted game meats, or chili-based stews. For cheese, strong, mature selections such as aged cheddar, smoked Gouda, or a pungent blue cheese make a perfect match, as they can stand up to the wine's intensity. Hearty pasta dishes with rich, meat-based sauces or even a gourmet pizza with spicy toppings would also be excellent choices.