This Zinfandel blend is the first such release from Orin Swift Cellars since 2008.  The original blend, named The Prisoner, was well acclaimed and became a knockout brand over the years, but rights to the brand were sold in 2008 (for $285 million) as well as an agreement by Mr. David Phinney, the owner and winemaker, not to make another Zinfandel blend for eight years.

Spotted at Pinebrook Bottle Shop for $45, you can now enjoy Mr. Phinney’s latest release.  The wine is a blend of Zinfandel, Syrah, Petite Sirah, and Grenache sourced from grapes all around California.  This is a full bodied, powerful wine that tastes of lush fruit.  The bottle label is part of a series of eight different labels – all fascinating.  Winemaker Notes: An opaque core with a red amethyst rim, the wine opens with ripe raspberry and blackberry, dark plum preserves and hints of black pepper and clove. An entry of heft, the palate is packed with blueberry and sweet black cherry along with touch of fresh herbs—thyme, savory and tarragon. Long on the finish, the ripe tannins, a dash of ash, and notes of black tea round out the wine.