The Prisoner Wine Company Thorn Merlot 2017

Cellar for up to 9 years. No need to decant.

Famed for their Zinfandel-based red blend, The Prisoner Wine Company likes to do things differently by working with trusted growers scattered across some of Northern California’s top wine regions. Winemaker Chrissy Wittmann was inspired to craft this premium Napa Valley Merlot after witnessing so many beautiful Merlot vines being ripped out and replaced with its more popular cousin, Cabernet Sauvignon.

Chrissy and her team are fortunate to count on a family of small grapegrowers who have been working with the PWC for years and understand the winery’s firm commitment to quality. To make the Thorn Chrissy selects grapes from world-class vineyards in the Atlas Peak and cooler Los Carneros AVAs.

This combination of different microclimates helps to craft a wine that is rich and ripe yet perfectly balanced. Chrissy adds small amounts of Syrah and Malbec to the Merlot to contribute a touch more fruit and a fuller body and ages the finished blend in French and Hungarian oak barrels.. As soon as the bottle is opened, herbal and earthy aromas emerge followed by succulent blackberry and dark cherry seasoned with warming baking spice which carry through onto the palate. The silky smooth mouthfeel and soft, ripe tannins make this the idea choice for a weeknight treat or a relaxed steak dinner with close friends.