Big House Prohibition Red Blend

Big House Prohibition Red Blend is a California red blend bottled at 13.5% ABV in a standard 750ml format, built around Mediterranean grape varieties in a bold, fruit-driven New World style. Produced by Big House Wine Co. — a Monterey County operation founded in 1990 and known as the first winery to adopt screwcap closures across its entire 750ml lineup — this blend leans into accessibility and everyday drinkability.

Quick Facts: ABV: 13.5%  |  Origin: Monterey County, California  |  Style: Red Blend  |  Winery: Big House Wine Co.

Production & Heritage

Big House Wine Co. was established in 1990 in Monterey County, California, with a philosophy rooted in blending Mediterranean grape varieties — including Grenache Noir, Syrah, and Zinfandel among others — using a decidedly New World approach. The Prohibition expression draws from multiple red varietals to create a fruit-forward, medium-to-full-bodied wine with balanced acidity. Big House was a pioneer in wine packaging innovation, becoming the first winery to use screwcap closures on all its 750ml wines and later introducing a 3-liter premium wine cask designed to keep wine fresh for up to six weeks after opening.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Ripe blackberries and red raspberries lead, followed by hints of leather and warm baking spices. A subtle floral quality, reminiscent of dried roses, adds complexity beneath the fruit.

Taste: The entry is jammy and generous, with plum and dark cherry arriving first on the palate. Mid-palate, cranberry and red raspberry flavors create a bright, tart counterpoint, while spicy black pepper emerges toward the peak. Acidity is well-calibrated, and smooth tannins give the wine a round, approachable mouthfeel.

Finish: The finish lingers with vanilla and dark cherry notes that slowly fade into earthy undertones. Tannins remain soft throughout, leaving a clean, fruit-tinged close without excessive grip.

How to Drink Prohibition Red Blend

This wine drinks well at cellar temperature (60–65°F) and benefits from a few minutes of breathing after opening, whether poured into a glass or a decanter. Its fruit-forward profile and smooth tannins make it a reliable base for red wine cocktails. A classic Sangria amplifies the berry and spice character with citrus and brandy. A Kalimotxo (red wine and cola) pairs well here, as the wine's jammy sweetness holds up against carbonation. For a warm-weather option, a Tinto de Verano with lemon soda highlights the cranberry and raspberry brightness without overwhelming the blend.

Best For

• Casual weeknight dinners where an easy-drinking red is needed
• Backyard cookouts and grilling sessions with burgers or ribs
• Introducing red wine newcomers to California blends
• Stocking a house red for entertaining without overthinking the selection

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Prohibition Red Blend taste like? It delivers jammy plum, blackberry, and dark cherry flavors with bright cranberry acidity, smooth tannins, and a spicy pepper kick on the back palate. The finish is clean with lingering vanilla and cherry notes.

How does Prohibition Red Blend compare to Apothic Red? Both are California red blends positioned as approachable, fruit-forward everyday wines, but Prohibition Red Blend leans more heavily on Mediterranean varieties like Grenache and Syrah, which contribute spicier, earthier undertones compared to Apothic Red's sweeter, more dessert-leaning profile built on Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Is Prohibition Red Blend good for beginners? Yes — its smooth tannins, generous fruit, and balanced acidity make it a very approachable entry point for anyone exploring California red blends without encountering overly tannic or complex wines.

Where is Prohibition Red Blend made? It is produced by Big House Wine Co., founded in 1990 and based in Monterey County, California, a coastal wine region known for cool-climate growing conditions influenced by Pacific Ocean breezes.

What foods pair well with Prohibition Red Blend? Grilled Italian sausages work well with the wine's spice and berry notes. Wood-fired pizza with red sauce and cured meats mirrors its earthy, jammy character. Barbecue ribs complement the smooth tannins and dark fruit. A sharp cheddar or aged Gouda stands up to the wine's body. Black bean tacos with salsa echo the cranberry acidity and pepper spice.

What sizes does Prohibition Red Blend come in? It is available in the standard 750ml bottle with a screwcap closure, and Big House has historically offered select wines in an innovative 3-liter premium wine cask format designed to stay fresh for up to six weeks.

Is Prohibition Red Blend worth the price? It positions as a value-tier California red blend, aimed squarely at everyday drinking rather than cellar aging or special occasions. For a reliable house red with genuine fruit character and clean structure, it delivers solidly within its price category.

Why Prohibition Red Blend?

Big House Prohibition Red Blend earns its place in the value California red category by doing the fundamentals well — ripe fruit, balanced acidity, soft tannins — without pretending to be something it isn't. The multi-varietal approach, anchored in Mediterranean grapes like Grenache and Syrah, gives it more aromatic complexity and spice than many single-varietal wines at the same price point. Big House's screwcap-first philosophy reflects a practical, quality-focused mindset that prioritizes consistency over tradition. For drinkers who want a dependable, fruit-forward red that works equally well at the dinner table or in a pitcher of sangria, this blend fills the role without complication.