The Black Heroes Collection by McClain Cellars is a remarkable series of five wines that honors the enduring legacies of some of America’s most revered Black heroes. Among them is the 2020 Truth & Justice red blend, which pays tribute to Frederick Douglass, a monumental figure in the fight for abolition and equal rights. Crafted with care by Kynal Wines in the Santa Ynez Valley, this wine embodies the spirit of Douglass’s life, his profound contributions to American history, and his tireless efforts toward justice.

Frederick Douglass: A Legacy of Truth and Justice

Frederick Douglass was born into slavery in Maryland in 1818. He taught himself to read and write and eventually escaped slavery at 20 years old, disguising himself as a sailor. Douglass became one of the most powerful voices for abolition and social justice in the 19th century. His life’s work was marked by his eloquence, courage, and unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom. Furthermore, his writings, speeches, and advocacy directly impacted the fight against slavery along with, the adoption of the Emancipation Proclamation.

His dedication to human rights extended beyond abolition; he championed women’s suffrage, education, and equal rights for all. Douglass’s impact was not only felt in his lifetime but continues to inspire generations today. The Truth & Justice wine reflects Douglass’s enduring spirit, offering a moment to pause and reflect on his remarkable achievements and the ongoing struggle for equality.

A Pinot Noir Blend from the Santa Ynez Valley

This red blend was crafted with Pinot Noir grapes from the fertile soils of the Santa Ynez Valley. Truth & Justice embodies elegance and complexity. Aged for 36 months in French oak barrels, it offers a rich, layered experience. Moreover, it balances the vibrant fruit character typical of Pinot Noir with nuanced notes of spice and oak.

Pinot Noir has a light to medium body, bright acidity, and red fruit flavors. For example, you can look forward to hints of cherry, raspberry, and cranberry. When aged in French oak, it develops additional layers of complexity, with notes of vanilla, clove, and a subtle smokiness. The Santa Ynez Valley, with its unique terroir and climate, enhances these characteristics. The result? A wine that is both expressive, refined, and full of depth in every sip.

A Match Made in Culinary Heaven

To truly appreciate the Truth & Justice blend, consider pairing it with the recommended dishes below to enhance your experience. The wine’s acidity and balanced tannins make it versatile with various foods.

• Fennel-Garlic Pork Roast: The savory, herbal notes of a fennel-garlic pork roast harmonize beautifully with the wine’s fruit-forward profile. Additionally, the natural fat of the pork is perfectly cut by its bright acidity. Add a side of arugula salad for a full-course meal.
• Leek-and-Pecorino Pizza: For a vegetarian option, try a leek-and-pecorino pizza. The creamy, slightly tangy cheese pairs well with the wine’s subtle oak influence. The leeks, on the other hand, add a delicate sweetness that complements its red fruit notes.
• Grilled Salmon with Herb Butter: The rich, buttery texture of grilled salmon is elevated by the wine’s bright acidity and red fruit notes. The herb butter adds a savory depth that complements the subtle oak and spice flavors in the wine.
• Mushroom Risotto: The earthy flavors of a creamy mushroom risotto bring out the wine’s complex layers, particularly its oak-aged undertones and delicate fruit characteristics. The richness of the dish is balanced by the wine’s acidity, creating a harmonious pairing that lingers on the palate.
• Black Truffle and Garlic Artisan Popcorn: Our Black Truffle and Garlic Artisan Popcorn, is a sophisticated treat crafted with premium black truffle olive oil, garlic olive oil, a hint of white pepper, and Himalayan sea salt. Made with air-popped white hulless corn from Amish country, it delivers an elegant and unique flavor profile. The fresh herbs and spices create a perfect balance that beautifully complements a fruit-forward wine.

These pairings enhance the wine’s unique profile, offering a versatile range of flavors that complement each other beautifully.

A Toast to Truth & Justice

Enjoying a glass of Truth & Justice from McClain Cellars is more than just an indulgence in a fine wine. It’s a tribute to a legacy of courage, advocacy, and the unwavering pursuit of equality. As you savor each sip, remember the milestones Frederick Douglass helped achieve and the inspiration his life continues to provide in the ongoing fight for justice and equality.

The Black Heroes Collection represents our commitment to honoring diversity, history, and heroism through the art of winemaking. 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.