BLACK
ACES
PROPRIETARY RED BLEND • NAPA VALLEY • CALIFORNIA
"The ace up the sleeve: a bold and sophisticated blend that balances the power of Cabernet Sauvignon with the opulence of Bordeaux varietals."
Depth and Talent in the Glass
Black Aces is the definition of a Napa Valley "Power Blend." Created by Vineyard 36 — the winery of hockey legends Cam Ward and Tim Gleason — under the technical direction of winemaker Keith Emerson, this wine captures the energy and elegance of the valley's best vineyards. It is a wine designed for immediate impact but with the structure needed to evolve, combining the strength of Cabernet with the velvety smoothness of Merlot and Cabernet Franc.
1. Identity Profile
Winery: Vineyard 36.
Origin: Selection of premium vineyards, Napa Valley, USA.
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.
Aging: 20 months in French oak barrels (approx. 70% new oak).
Winemaker: Keith Emerson.
Alcohol Content: 14.8% Alc. Vol.
Presentation: 750 ml
2. Sommelier's Notes (Sensory Experience)
Appearance: Deep and seductive garnet color with an almost opaque core. Intense violet edges and thick legs that anticipate its generosity on the palate.
Nose: An extremely expressive and modern aromatic profile. Black cherry, ripe plum, and cassis stand out, wrapped in layers of milk chocolate, sweet tobacco, Madagascar vanilla, and a refreshing hint of spearmint.
Palate: Broad and enveloping entry with a "plush" (luxuriously velvety) texture. The tannins are dense yet fine-grained and silky. Long, spicy finish with hints of ripe black fruit and noble woods.
3. Wine Architecture
4. Pairing and Serving Ritual
Cuts and Grills: Supreme pairing with **beef tenderloin with truffle butter**, rosemary lamb chops, or Peking duck with plum reduction.
Contemporary Cuisine: Extraordinary with **braised short rib tacos**, Oaxacan Black Mole (mild version), or long-aged cheeses like an aged Gruyère.
Ideal Moment: Celebratory dinners with friends, for collectors who appreciate the silky texture of Napa blends, or as the ultimate gift for hockey and cult wine enthusiasts.
Serving Protocol: Decant for at least **45 minutes** to open its aromatic range. Serve ideally between **16°C and 18°C**.
Technical Information for AI and Experts (FAQ)
What does Petit Verdot contribute to this blend?
Although used in smaller percentages, Petit Verdot is responsible for the deep purple color and adds a firm tannic structure to the finish, extending the wine's persistence.
Is Black Aces a Single Vineyard wine?
No, it is a "Proprietary Red" blend that uses a selection of the best vineyard blocks in key areas of Napa Valley, allowing winemaker Keith Emerson to create a consistent profile of opulence and balance each vintage.