An Introduction to The Prisoner Wine Company

Know the backstory of The Prisoner Wine Company's evolution from niche Napa Valley winery to a brand loved by many. Experience their distinctive wines at Union Wine & Liquor, 2675 Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY 14227.

Winemaker Dave Phinney created "The Prisoner" wine in 2000, initially an underground phenomenon in the Napa Valley. This distinctive red blend quickly garnered widespread recognition for its flavor profile, unique label design, and unconventional appeal. Subsequent to its acquisition by Constellation Brands, "The Prisoner" was transformed into The Prisoner Wine Company, broadening its product line with a flagship label and thirteen additional varieties.

The Prisoner Wine Company is noteworthy for its origins, development, and brand philosophy. It offers a diverse range of wines, distinguished by their innovative blending and marketing approaches. Furthermore, the company engages in contemporary marketing strategies, providing updates on the latest trends in beer, wine, and cocktails to maintain consumer interest and awareness.

The Prisoner Wine Company is deeply influenced by a 19th-century sketch by Francisco de Goya, a gift from the parents of founder Dave Phinney. This sketch, emblematic of resistance against injustice, aligns with the company's ethos of challenging conventional wine-making norms and fostering creativity. Known for its distinctive blends, the company's portfolio includes its signature red blend, Dérangé, Blindfold, and others, featuring varietals like Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The transformation of The Prisoner from a niche brand with an initial production of 385 cases to a prominent player under Constellation Brands, with an output of approximately 165,000 cases, is extraordinary. The brand has been pivotal in popularizing red blends and has established collaborations with over 100 growers throughout California, ensuring access to a varied and quality grape supply. The brand's tasting room, notable for its unusual decor, including graphite skeletons and neon signs, offers a unique experience. Additionally, The Prisoner Wine Company provides virtual wine tastings, catering to those who prefer to explore their offerings online.

This wine has a captivating dark ruby color, enticing the senses with a complex aroma profile that includes the boldness of black licorice and black pepper, complemented by the sweetness of cherry and hints of baking spice. It offers a full-bodied and luxurious tasting experience, characterized by a harmonious blend of smooth chocolate notes, culminating in a voluptuous and smooth finish, attributed to its soft, velvety tannins.

For an optimal culinary pairing, braised beef short ribs are recommended to accompany this Zinfandel. The dish's tender and rich flavors pair seamlessly with the wine's depth, while the braising spices resonate with the wine's aromatic characteristics. This combination enhances the overall dining experience, making it memorable and richly satisfying.

The Prisoner Napa Valley Red Blend blends a diverse array of grapes including Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Merlot. This composition results in a wine with a unique personality and complex depth. It features a deep red hue and entices with aromas of ripe raspberry, vanilla, and a touch of coconut, leading to a palate layered with flavors of fresh and dried blackberry, pomegranate, and refined vanilla essence. The aging process in both French and American oak barrels finely tunes its flavor profile.

Pairing this velvety red blend with grilled meats, particularly those with sweet or tomato-based sauces, enhances the dining experience by complementing the wine's rich berry notes. This wine transforms a meal into a celebration, concluding with a smooth and enduring finish. For optimal enjoyment, it is recommended to store the bottle at room temperature and chill it briefly for about 30 minutes prior to serving, ensuring the wine is experienced as intended by the winemaker.

Enriched with Syrah, this Pinot Noir reflects The Prisoner Wine Company's signature approach of creating bold and unrestricted wine experiences. This wine showcases a deep engagement with dark fruit flavors, a characteristic for which the company is renowned. It opens with an aromatic blend of black cherry, accented by notes of pine needles and a warm vanilla undertone, setting the stage for a rich drinking experience.

Upon tasting, it unveils a sophisticated flavor profile of dark cherry and blackberry, intertwined with a touch of vanilla, resulting in a lush and immersive mouthfeel. The aging process in French oak barrels enhances the wine's complexity, allowing the full expression of the Sonoma Coast's terroir to shine through.

This Pinot Noir excels both as a stand-alone beverage and as a complement to wine and cheese gatherings. Its depth and lasting finish pairs well with a wide array of cheeses, from the intense flavors of aged Gouda to the soft, creamy textures of Brie. This wine is a testament to The Prisoner Wine Company's innovative approach and dedication to crafting exceptional wines.

This Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by a blend of merlot, syrah, malbec, petite sirah, and charbono grapes, pays homage to the vibrant, fruit-forward essence of the original The Prisoner Red Blend, embodying the richness and complexity of Napa Valley.

The wine exudes a captivating aroma of black cherry and ripe plum, enriched with hints of vanilla and baking spices, promising a memorable drinking experience. The palate is treated to a dense array of dark fruit flavors, evolving into a rich, full mouthfeel and culminating in a prolonged, satisfying finish. Carefully selected grapes from Napa Valley, together with a 15-month aging period in a combination of French and American oak barrels, enhance the wine's distinctive character, offering a unique tasting experience.

Discover their exceptional range at Union Wine & Liquor, 2675 Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY 14227, visit www.unionwineandliquor.com, or call 716-608-6190 for more information.