How will this winner tackle the economy - the war - health care - the environment or more importantly, the rising cost of wine? It won’t… But, it will satisfy your thirst.

Here at Fermented Thoughts, our vote was to celebrate the election coverage with the 2006 vintage of Orin Swift’s The Prisoner, an irreverent five grape blend comprised of 51% Zinfandel, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Syrah, 6% Petite Syrah and 6% Charbono.

Dave Phinney, the mastermind behind Prisoner, found his way from the treacherous macroclimates of Arizona and through the daunting youthful phases of ambivalence to ultimately follow his dream of making wine. Utilizing a popular phrase from this historic election night, I’m certain Phinney must have thought to himself along the way “Yes, we can!”

Popping the cork, the paroled juice showcases a color reminiscent of black orchid with vivid, almost luminescent purple hues holding to the rim. Swirling the glass, reveals a wildly viscous nature that leads to a perfume of black fruit and cinnamon, folded with blueberry jam and faint metallic hints which fade into a mild mocha.

True to the dominant Zinfandel, the front palate is full, heady, hot, and initially holds back on the fruit. Given a little time and air however, the wine glides across the palate offering brambly blackberry, dried plum, and cherry fruit complicated by a little dark chocolate, coffee and a finish of powdery tannins.

A wine with a clear mandate to help ring in the next four years.

$30-35, Wine Spectators #17 among the Top 100 wines of 2007 (vintage 2005)