May 2, 2023, New York, New York, USA: During the fourth quarter of game two of the 2023 NBA Eastern Conference semifinal playoffs at Madison Square Garden, New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) attempts to shoot the ball against Miami Heat big Kevin Love (42) and forward Caleb Martin (16). Photo Credit: USA TODAY Sports, Brad Penner
It’s no secret that some of the NBA’s current and former top players are avid wine enthusiasts. Many of them have ventured into winemaking, such as C.J. McCollum, Yao Ming, Dwyane Wade, Channing Frye, and Steph Curry. Joining the ranks of basketball stars turned vintners is Josh Hart of the New York Knicks, who has introduced his own Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon called “Bank Shot.”
Bank Shot is a collaborative effort between Hart, the renowned Napa winemaker Maayan Koschitzky, who serves as the director of winemaking for Philippe Melka’s Atelier Melka, and Wine Access, a premier destination for wine connoisseurs seeking expertly-curated selections. The inaugural 2021 vintage of Bank Shot is crafted from grapes grown in esteemed locations, including Howell Mountain, Oakville, and St. Helena AVAs. This full-bodied wine is beautifully balanced, displaying a deep, luxurious purple hue, ripe tannins complemented by vibrant acidity, and a flavor profile featuring notes of black cherry, exotic spices, tobacco, freshly ground espresso beans, clove, and graphite. While delightful now, this wine will gain complexity over the years and is an excellent addition to any wine cellar.
“The unique blend is sourced from some of the finest vineyards in Napa Valley,” explained Koschitzky. “Together, Josh and I have crafted an exceptional wine that combines power and elegance, showcasing the beauty of the 2021 vintage.”
The Wine Access team initially connected with Hart in July 2019 at a Napa Valley fundraising event. They were impressed by Hart’s knowledge and curiosity about wine, leading to the idea of a collaboration, which ultimately resulted in Bank Shot. In 2020, Wine Access, along with Josh, initiated a Diversity in Wine Scholarship program. This program offered opportunities to aspiring wine experts from underrepresented communities and sponsored 100 dedicated BIPOC wine professionals in completing the WSET Level 1 course, with the top performers advancing in the program. The three highest-achieving students earned a memorable trip to the Napa Valley with Hart.
“Getting to know Josh and his wife was a great experience,” Koschitzky added. “They are genuinely nice, down-to-earth individuals who have a passion for the world of wine and a strong commitment to their community and giving back.”
You can find Bank Shot exclusively here, priced at $175 per bottle.