It’s no surprise that many current and former NBA players are wine connoisseurs. Some even have their own wine labels, such as C.J. McCollum, Yao Ming, Dwyane Wade, Channing Frye, and Steph Curry, among others. Joining the ranks of basketball stars turned vintners is Josh Hart from the New York Knicks, who has recently launched Bank Shot, a premium Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
Bank Shot is the result of a collaboration between Hart, acclaimed Napa winemaker Maayan Koschitzky (the director of winemaking at Philippe Melka’s Atelier Melka), and Wine Access, a leading destination for curated wines. The debut 2021 vintage of Bank Shot is crafted from grapes sourced from esteemed vineyards in Howell Mountain, Oakville, and St. Helena AVAs. This full-bodied wine, with its deep, luxurious purple hue, offers a well-balanced palate with ripe tannins, vibrant acidity, and notes of black cherry, exotic spices, tobacco, espresso, clove, and graphite. While delightful to drink now, this wine will continue to evolve with time and is an excellent addition to any wine collection.
“The exceptional blend originates from some of Napa Valley’s finest vineyards,” remarked Koschitzky. “Working together, Josh and I have crafted a distinctive wine that is both robust and refined, highlighting the excellence of the 2021 vintage.”
The collaboration between Hart and Wine Access began in July 2019 during a fundraiser in Napa Valley, where the team was impressed by Hart’s wine knowledge and passion, leading to the creation of Bank Shot. Furthermore, in 2020, in partnership with Josh, Wine Access initiated a Diversity in Wine Scholarship program, providing opportunities for emerging wine enthusiasts from marginalized communities. The program sponsored 100 dedicated BIPOC wine professionals to undertake the WSET Level 1 course, with standout participants advancing further in the initiative. The top three students were rewarded with a memorable trip to Napa Valley alongside Hart.
“It was a pleasure to connect with Josh and his wife,” said Koschitzky. “They are genuinely kind individuals who share a love for wine and are committed to community engagement.”
Discover Bank Shot exclusively here for $175 per bottle.
Images provided by Wine Access