Another Member of Basketball Royalty Launches New Wine, With Help From a Legendary Winery

The connection between the National Basketball Association (NBA) and wine continues to solidify today with the official launch of a new wine from VII(N) The Seventh Estate, a wine brand founded in 2022 by Carmelo Anthony and Asani Swann. Today they announce their collaboration with Robert Mondavi Winery, a leader in the wine industry since they were founded in 1966. Along with RMW chief winemaker Geneviève Janssens, the first collaboration release with Robert Mondavi Winery hits the market today.

A multi-year collaboration between the two entities, kicking off with Ode to Soul (SRP: $275) as its first offering, has at its core the shared commitment to winemaking excellence and category modernization, blending the legacy and winemaking prowess of Robert Mondavi Winery with the mission of VII(N) The Seventh Estate. Robert Mondavi Winery is revered for a decades-long, rich heritage and acclaim for crafting exceptional wines that represent both innovation and uncompromising quality. VII(N) The Seventh Estate is driven by a mission to bring new voices into the world of wine, offering premium wines while connecting perspectives and individuals from all walks of life.

Ode to Soul is a proprietary red wine that embodies the essence of true collaboration between three dynamic connoisseurs with diverse perspectives on wine. Crafted by Robert Mondavi Winery's Chief Winemaker Geneviève Janssens in partnership with Carmelo Anthony and Asani Swann, Ode to Soul is the culmination of each contributor’s unique experiences, distinct palate and creative processes. Drawing from the world-renowned To Kalon Vineyard in Napa Valley's Oakville AVA, Ode to Soul showcases a blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a touch of Petit Verdot. A harmonious blend of rich heritage and future-focused innovation, the 2021 vintage offers a wine experience that is both exhilarating and powerful, yet elegant and classic. 

“We are proud to introduce a partnership with Robert Mondavi Winery aimed to produce incredible wines, prioritize innovation in the industry and foster a community,” said Carmelo Anthony, co-founder of VII(N) The Seventh Estate. “The seamless partnership between VII(N) The Seventh Estate and Robert Mondavi Winery is reflected in our inaugural wine, ‘Ode to Soul,’ and is a testament to both the power of collaboration and our commitment to expanding horizons in the wine space.”

Asani Swann, co-founder of VII(N) The Seventh Estate, adds “This is a pivotal moment for the wine category, and we are proud to be at the forefront, creating top quality wines and helping to build a more inclusive industry.”

Click here to purchase of a bottle of Ode to Soul (SRP: $275)

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