Black Heroes Wine Collection: Panther’s Pride, Remembering the 761st Tank Battalion

Jason McClain

McClain Cellars’ Black Heroes Collection, is a lineup of five distinctive wines that pay homage to some of America’s most revered Black heroes. One of the most notable wines in this collection is Panther’s Pride. It’s a robust red blend crafted to honor the legacy of the 761st Tank Battalion, also known as the original Black Panthers. These brave soldiers broke racial barriers and contributed significantly to the Allied victory in Europe. Their courage and determination are captured in every bottle of Panther’s Pride. Truly, this wine is more than just a delightful experience for the palate—it’s a tribute to strength, determination, and camaraderie.

The Legacy of the 761st Tank Battalion

761st Tank Battalion Red Wine Blend

The Black Panthers made history as the first Black armored unit to engage in battle during World War II. Activated in 1942, the battalion saw action in some of the most critical battles on the Western Front, including the Battle of the Bulge. Despite facing discrimination both at home and abroad, the men of the 761st fought valiantly. As a result, they earned the nickname and motto “Come Out Fighting” for their tenacity in combat. Decades later, the soldiers were rewarded with a Presidential Unit Citation. Furthermore, many members received individual honors, including eleven Silver Stars, hundreds of Purple Hearts, and a Medal of Honor.

Panther’s Pride reflects the grit, valor, and resilience of the Black Panthers, ensuring their legacy lives on with every pour.

A Seamless Blend of Red Varietals

Panther’s Pride is a complex yet approachable blend, featuring four varietals that come together harmoniously:

Syrah (33%)

Known for its bold flavors and rich texture, Syrah provides the backbone of this blend with its signature dark fruit and spice notes.

Petite Sirah (31%)

Adding depth and structure, Petite Sirah contributes a robust tannic profile and an earthy undertone, balancing the wine’s fruit-forward elements.

Graciano (18%)

A lesser-known varietal, Graciano brings acidity and freshness. It further elevates the wine with its bright red fruit characteristics and subtle floral notes.

Malbec (18%)

Rounding out the blend, Malbec offers soft tannins and a plush mouthfeel. Savor flavors of plum and blackberry that complement the blend’s complexity.

The Santa Ynez Valley sources the grapes and is renowned for its diverse microclimates and varied soils, making it an ideal growing region. The region’s warm days and cool nights help to maintain the balance of acidity and ripeness. The result is a wine that is both full of flavor and easy to drink.

Aging to Perfection

Aging plays a crucial role in the development of Panther’s Pride. After spending 36 months in French oak barrels, the wine emerges with a smooth texture and well-integrated tannins. The oak imparts subtle notes of vanilla, spice, and toasted wood. This technique enhances the wine’s natural flavors without overpowering them. This long aging process also adds layers of complexity, giving the wine its distinctive earthy body and refined mouthfeel.

Tasting Notes: A Journey of Flavors

Upon opening a bottle of Panther’s Pride, the aromas immediately captivate the senses, with notes of rich dark cherries that hint at the wine’s fruit-forward nature. On the palate, this red blend is light-bodied yet flavorful, offering a delightful mouthfeel that is smooth and well-rounded. The wine’s earthy body adds depth, while its smooth texture makes it an easy-drinking choice for both casual sips and formal pairings.

The Versatility of Panther’s Pride

Black truffle and garlic popcorn and red wine.

One of the standout qualities of Panther’s Pride is its versatility when it comes to food pairings. This wine is an excellent companion for a wide range of dishes, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some recommended pairings to elevate your next meal:

Roasted Chicken with Angel Hair Pasta

Serve the chicken with a light garlic marinara sauce, and you’ll find that the soft tannins and bright fruit of Panther’s Pride enhance the dish’s flavors.

Fish or Lamb

The wine’s light body and earthy notes make it a great pairing with grilled fish or roasted lamb, complementing the savory richness of the meat without overpowering it.

Artisan Popcorn

For a more casual snack, Panther’s Pride pairs wonderfully with Black Truffle and Garlic Artisan Popcorn, adding a touch of sophistication to movie night or a casual gathering.

Mushroom Risotto

The earthy flavors of the wine are a natural match for a creamy mushroom risotto, creating a harmonious balance between the dish’s richness and the wine’s acidity.

Raise A Glass to Black History

Panther's Pride red blend wine honoring the 761st Tank Battalion.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a wine connoisseur, or simply looking for a versatile red to pair with your favorite meals, Panther’s Pride is sure to impress. As you enjoy this remarkable red blend, take a moment to reflect on the bravery of the 761st Tank Battalion.

McClain Cellars is a family-owned winery that crafts small-batch luxury wines that tell a story. Each bottle represents our passion for winemaking and desire to create memorable experiences for wine lovers. The Black Heroes Collection represents our commitment to honoring diversity, history, and changemakers through the art of winemaking. Thus, this series celebrates the legacies of Black heroes who have made a lasting impact on the world. McClain Cellars prides itself on creating well-executed wines that blend art, science, and tradition.

Sleeve patch image credit: U.S. Military

Published by

Jason McClain

As the proprietor of McClain Cellars, I am thrilled to finally do the one thing I have always loved the most. Create amazing wines to be shared with my family and friends. After spending 25 years in the dot-com space, my wife Sofia and I decided to throw caution to the wind and focus on what is really important: family, friends, faith and freedom. These are the pillars of this winery and why I love everything about it.

McClain Cellars