The 2004 "The Prisoner" is an eclectic blend of 51% Zinfandel, 17% Syrah, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petite Syrah, and 3% Charbono.  The maiden vintage for this wine was in the year 2000, and the winery itself is a relative newcomer to Napa, having started up in 1998.  All grapes are sourced from commercial growers, as they do not yet have their own estate vineyards.

I found the 2004 "Prisoner" to be a wonderful wine, but I think that it needs more cellar time, or else a prolonged decanting.  In fact, when I drank it right after pulling the cork, it seemed vegetal and disjointed.  About two hours later, the wine was a delight.  The nose is a little spicy, but plenty of fruit is present and carries on to the palate.  All the best qualities of a robust Zin, a peppery Syrah, and a fruity cab are present here.  Notes of anise round out the palate.  Tannins were fairly soft after decanting, and the finish of moderate length and smooth.  This wine would pair nicely with Italian food, winter stews, and many well flavored red meats.

The wine usually sells for somewhere in the 25 to 30 dollar range.  I purchased mine at the new Bristol Farms Market, near the UTC Shopping mall.

3.75 stars

 

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