Is Wine-Finished Whiskey Worth the Hype? Inside High West’s Prisoner’s Share Whiskey from Utah

It’s Bourbon Heritage Month 2025, and Bourbon expert Tom Fischer talks with High West's Tara Lindley to explore The Prisoner’s Share.This limited release blends Straight Bourbon and Rye aged 4–15 years, then finishes in French oak barrels that previously held Napa Valley’s The Prisoner Red Blend. Bottled at 102 proof, it delivers a layered whiskey experience that unites the worlds of bourbon and wine.Show Notes: Why High West Distillery in Utah partnered with The Prisoner Wine Company in California. How wine finishing and French oak shape flavor and textureTasting impressions and pairing ideasHow this whiskey release compares to other wine-finished bourbonsThe bigger question: Is wine-finished whiskey worth the hype? Whiskey SpecsType: Blend of straight bourbon & ryeAge: 4–15 yearsFinish: French oak barrels, ex–The Prisoner Red Blend (Napa Valley). Zinfandel is the backbone of the original wine blend.Proof: 102Release: Limited; 2025