Basketball Icon Partners With Renowned Winery to Unveil New Wine Label Chris Lehoux, May 2, 2024 Photo by Martin Blanco, courtesy of VII(N) The Seventh Estate and Robert Mondavi Winery The union of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the wine industry is strengthening, with the recent unveiling of a new wine by VII(N) The Seventh Estate. This wine brand, established in 2022 by Carmelo Anthony and Asani Swann, has announced its partnership with Robert Mondavi Winery, a stalwart in the wine sector since its inception in 1966. The first fruit of their collaboration, helmed by RMW chief winemaker Geneviève Janssens, is now available in the market. The mutual journey of these two entities launches with (SRP: $275), their initial release. At heart, it represents their joint dedication to wine crafting excellence and modernizing the category. It merges the long-standing heritage and acclaimed wine making skills of Robert Mondavi Winery with the ambition of VII(N) The Seventh Estate. While Robert Mondavi Winery is renowned for its enduring legacy and production of outstanding wines reflecting innovation and unwavering quality, VII(N) The Seventh Estate is motivated by the intent to introduce new voices to the wine scene. They aim to present fine wines while bridging viewpoints and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Photo by Maya Barkai, courtesy of VII(N) The Seventh Estate and Robert Mondavi Winery 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.” (SRP: $275) Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. About the Author: Chris Lehoux Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored! Wine