California · USA
2024 The Prisoner Wine Company Complicit Red Blend
A full-bodied California red that layers dried plum, sandalwood and rye-cask spice into a richly textured, crowd-winning package built for drinking now through 2029.
- Varietal
- Red Blend
- Region
- California
- Vintage
- 2024
Drinking Window
In 2026: At PeakIn the heart of its drinking window (2026-2029).
Right now: In May 2026 the 2024 Complicit is squarely in its opening drinking window, and the wine is already performing at a high level. The barrel-influenced spice has knitted into the fruit rather than sitting on top, and the rye-cask warmth reads as a textural richness on the mid-palate rather than a raw spirit note. Tannins are supple and the finish is confident and long. There is nothing gained from waiting on a wine built for immediate pleasure, and the blend's freshness argues for enjoying it over the next two to three years while the vibrant cranberry and cherry notes remain lively. Pour it tonight with a confident decant of about twenty minutes and it will show its best.
About The Prisoner Wine Company
The Prisoner Wine Company built its identity around bold, imaginative blends that defy the conventions of single-varietal bottlings. Founded with the original Prisoner Red Blend, the Napa-based label has expanded into a full range of wines united by a philosophy of creative grape combinations and accessible luxury. Complicit represents that spirit well: a blend that invites curiosity rather than demanding study, delivering immediate enjoyment without sacrificing genuine complexity.
Food Pairings
Braised short ribs with rosemary and red wine reduction
The wine's dried plum and sandalwood notes echo the slow-cooked beef, while its bright acidity cuts through the richness of the braise.
Grilled lamb chops with herb chimichurri
Tempranillo's earthy backbone and Petite Sirah's grip stand up beautifully to lamb fat, and the herbal chimichurri mirrors the wine's nutmeg and cedarwood character.
Aged cheddar and charcuterie board
The rye-cask warmth and cranberry fruit play off aged cheese perfectly, and the blend's versatility handles the salt and fat of cured meats with ease.
Service & Cellaring
- Serving Temp
- 16-17C / 61-63F
- Decanting
- Decant for 20 to 30 minutes. The barrel-spice integration benefits from a brief rest in a wide-mouthed decanter. If drinking without a decanter, pour into a large Burgundy-style glass and let it open for 10 minutes.
- Cellar Storage
- 12-14C / 54-57F
Frequently Asked
What grapes are in the 2024 Complicit Red Blend?
The blend is led by Zinfandel and Sangiovese, with Tempranillo and Petite Sirah rounding out the composition. A portion is aged in High West rye and bourbon barrels, which adds the distinctive spice and warmth character.
When should I drink the 2024 Complicit?
It is drinking beautifully right now and will remain at its best through 2029. The fruit is vibrant and the barrel-spice is fully integrated, so there is little reason to wait.
Does it need to be decanted?
A 20-30 minute decant in a wide vessel opens the nose and softens any residual barrel tannin. It is enjoyable without decanting, but that brief rest does make a noticeable difference.
How does barrel aging in rye and bourbon casks affect the wine?
The spirit barrels contribute baking spice, a faint vanilla sweetness and toasted grain notes that weave through the fruit without overpowering it. The result is a richer, more textured mid-palate than a standard French oak aging would produce.
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