The Prisoner Corrections series pours a message with every bottle

Many wine drinkers have a bottle or two of the classic Prisoner Red Blend in their wine rack. The California based wine brand has often used its visual to entice people to open a bottle, enjoy a glass, and spend time with others. With the new Prisoner Corrections series, the hope is to evoke change by inspiring a meaningful conversation long after the wine bottle is empty.

Sometimes a wine label is the reason why people stop, notice and take a moment to ponder. Although sommeliers can boast terminology about terroir, a particular vintage, and a myriad of other sometimes lofty propositions, some wine drinkers want a bottle that sparks a spirited conversation around the table. Although the label should never overshadow the luscious beverage in the bottle, it can be the stimulant to a spirited discussion.

With the new Prisoner Corrections series, the hope is to take the wine brand’s visually provocative labels in a different direction. The idea is to implore wine drinkers to educate themselves on the plight of the criminal justice system.

For this special series, the winery commissioned artist Chris Burnett to create original labels. These collage-style creations convey how the human spirit is impacted by mass incarceration. As Burnett commented, “Our hope is that this artwork will evoke an emotion or create a connection that will drive people to act and help make a change.” Although the imagery might not be as well-known as the brand’s interpretation of Francisco Goya sketch entitled Le petit prisionnier, the labels give rise to a response and, more importantly, implore people to ask questions.

According to Bukola Ekundayo, General Manager, “We’re acutely aware that, given our namesake, we have a unique responsibility to play a larger role in driving awareness and inspiring a stance on prison reform. We have and will continue to use art as a rallying cry against the social injustices of our time, and the debut of Corrections is only the start of our commitment to inspiring change and prison reform.”

The Prisoner Corrections series wine offerings

The three bottle series, The Prisoner Corrections, takes wine drinkers on a journey. Although the names shed a light on a concept, it is more than that. Just like each wine is not a single flavor note, the story needs to unfold over time.

Finding Flowers, a 2021 Malbec, Oakville Napa Valley, focuses on resiliency. Building on the idea that the past should not define a person, the visual suggestions that hope can bloom. When humanity is nurtured, many things can grow.

With New Hope, a 2021 Viognier, Oak Knoll District Napa Valley, the concept is to look forward. Even when moments look bleak, the future can be better. A little hope can inspire meaningful change.

Lastly, The Other Side, a 2021 Tempranillo, Sonoma County, implores people to grab onto that outstretched hand. Instead of focusing on the differences and the divide, it is time to unite and work together for meaningful change.

The three bottle Prisoner Corrections series can be purchased for $225. A portion of the sales will benefit Rubicon Programs, a San Francisco non-profit.