The Prisoner Chardonnay — Carneros (2021, 750 ml)

The Prisoner Chardonnay 2021 is a bold, full-bodied white wine from Carneros in Napa Valley, crafted with the same spirit of defiance and creativity that defines The Prisoner Wine Company. Known for producing unconventional, provocative wines, the brand applies its signature style to Chardonnay, creating a wine that is both opulent and modern.

The fruit is sourced from premium vineyard sites in Carneros, a region ideally suited for Chardonnay due to its cool climate and strong maritime influence from the San Pablo Bay. These conditions allow for slow, even ripening, producing grapes with vibrant acidity and concentrated flavor. The wine is fermented and aged in a combination of oak barrels and stainless steel, striking a balance between richness and freshness.

On the palate, The Prisoner Chardonnay 2021 reveals layers of ripe apple, pear, and citrus intertwined with notes of vanilla, crème brûlée, and toasted oak. Its creamy mouthfeel is supported by lively acidity, delivering a wine that is both indulgent and well-structured. The finish is long and elegant, showcasing the depth of Carneros terroir and the craftsmanship of the winemaking team.

True to the ethos of The Prisoner Wine Company, this Chardonnay defies convention, offering a richer, more expressive style that challenges expectations while staying rooted in quality. It is a wine designed to stand out, appealing to those who seek bold flavors and a distinctive personality in their glass.

The Prisoner Wine Company began as a single red blend named The Prisoner, first released in 2000 by winemaker Dave Phinney in Rutherford, Napa Valley. Crafted from an unconventional blend of grapes, it rapidly transformed perceptions of red wine in California by embracing bold flavors and striking presentation.

Named after Francisco Goya’s sketch Le Petit Prisonnier, the brand’s label is a powerful visual and ideological symbol—it represents creative rebellion, speaking out against injustice, and never being constrained by tradition. This ethos has guided every blend and brand extension since the original release.

Over time, the company has evolved into a portfolio of rule-defying wines, including Dérangé (red blend), Blindfold (white blend), Chardonnay, Syndrome (rosé), and more. The brand partners with over 100 growers across California, sourcing expressive fruit from small family vineyards to craft wines that feel both unconventional and rooted in place.

In 2016, The Prisoner Wine Company became part of Constellation Brands, elevating its distribution while retaining its disruptive spirit. It has also expanded into hospitality, opening a bold tasting experience in Napa Valley—featuring immersive art, provocative design, and culinary creativity.

Today, The Prisoner Wine Company is celebrated as a modern icon of innovation. Its wines defy categorization, embrace bold storytelling, and continue to challenge how people experience wine—making The Prisoner not just a brand, but a cultural statement.