Style
A bold and iconic California red blend, The Prisoner 2023 helped redefine the modern luxury red blend category. Inspired by the field blends originally crafted by Italian immigrants in Napa Valley, it combines Zinfandel with an unconventional mix of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Merlot and Malbec. Rich, opulent and unmistakably Californian, it delivers concentrated fruit, velvety texture and layers of sweet spice.
Region
California, USA
Grape Variety
Nose
Expressive and inviting, with aromas of cranberry, blackberry and dried plum layered over caramelised vanilla, toasted coconut, nutmeg and sweet baking spices. As it opens, hints of dark chocolate and roasted fig add further richness.
Palate
Full-bodied and richly textured, revealing generous flavours of blackberry, boysenberry, raspberry and pomegranate, supported by notes of vanilla, mocha and sweet spice. Plush tannins and a silky mouthfeel create an opulent yet beautifully balanced wine with remarkable concentration.
Structure
Finish
Long, rich and luxurious, with lingering notes of ripe black fruit, vanilla, cocoa, toasted coconut and warm baking spices wrapped in supple tannins.
The Prisoner 2023 remains one of California's most recognisable and influential red blends. Combining power with approachability, it offers generous fruit, polished tannins and a decadent texture while maintaining impressive balance. Crafted from fruit sourced from over 100 growers throughout Northern California, it exemplifies the winery's innovative approach to blending and has become a benchmark for modern California luxury wines.
The 2023 growing season was characterised by abundant winter rainfall and a cool spring, delaying budbreak and harvest by several weeks. The extended growing season allowed for slow, even ripening and exceptional flavour development. The resulting wine displays outstanding colour, concentration and phenolic maturity while retaining freshness and balance.
Drink: Now–2036
Already expressive and approachable, the 2023 vintage has the fruit concentration and structure to evolve gracefully for 10–12 years under ideal cellaring conditions.
A rich, powerful red that pairs beautifully with:
Its plush fruit and velvety texture also make it an excellent wine to enjoy on its own.
Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
Decant: 45–60 minutes is recommended to allow the wine's rich fruit, sweet spice and layered complexity to fully unfold.
