Expect ripe blackberry, dark cherry, raspberry jam, vanilla, mocha, and warming spice with full body and plush, ripe tannins. The 2018 Napa vintage was excellent.
- Varietal
- Zinfandel-dominant red blend (typically with Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Charbono)
- Region
- USA / California / Napa Valley
- Body
- Full
- Style
- dry red, ripe, opulent, fruit-forward, oak-aged
The producer
The Prisoner Wine Company was founded in 2000 by Dave Phinney with the original Prisoner red blend, which kicked off the modern California "red blend" category. Now owned by Constellation Brands. The wine remains one of the most widely distributed premium red blends in U.S. restaurants. Note: The Prisoner is more accurately classified as a Zinfandel-led blend than a Bordeaux-style Meritage.
What critics say
The Prisoner has built one of the strongest consumer followings of any modern California red blend; critical reception is solid, though some critics view the style as overly ripe.
Pairing
BBQ ribeye, smoked brisket, lamb burger