Prisoner Red Blend California 2022

The Prisoner Wine Company began in 2000 when founder Dave Phinney released a bold, California red blend named “The Prisoner,” crafted from an unconventional mix of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Charbono. It gained cult wine status both for its daring flavor and its edgy label inspired by Francisco de Goya’s etching *Le Petit Prisonnier*, enshrining a rebellious approach to winemaking. Following rapid growth—from just 385 cases in its first vintage to over 85,000 under Huneeus Vintners, and eventually more than 165,000 after being acquired by Constellation Brands in 2016—the Prisoner brand has expanded into a diverse portfolio of “rule bending” blends including Dérangé, Blindfold, Saldo, Syndrome, and white and rosé offerings. Today, under the leadership of Director of Winemaking Chrissy Wittmann and her team, Prisoner collaborates with over 100 growers across Northern California, producing immersive and unconventional tasting experiences at its St. Helena tasting lounge—complete with art installations, skeletons, and gothic design—and offering pairing events that challenge tradition. Moreover, the brand has embraced social impact: its annual Corrections series features label art by formerly incarcerated artists like Jesse Krimes and donates a portion of proceeds to prison reform organizations, deepening its identity as a creative force for advocacy.