Rose and aperol spritz season is winding down, but just means that it's time to uncork some robust and hearty reds, and get cozy.
Whether you’re cooking up an intimate dinner for a date night or hosting friends, a versatile bottle of wine is always in demand. No one knows that better than James Harden—yes, the same James Harden who is one of the most prolific players in the NBA knows a thing or two about wines. Most notably, he’s gotten into the wine game with a little help from the immensely popular app, Vivino.
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With 60 million active users, Vivino also knows a thing or two about wine and what people like, making this an all-star level partnership. Vivino connects wine lovers across the globe and empowers them to enjoy their wine to the fullest, fostering an amazing community of like-minded collectors and drinkers.
Vivino is the perfect partner for Harden's own wine, J-Harden Wine, created alongside Jam Shed winery in California. With a 4.1 rating on the app, Harden is off to the races with his inaugural Cabernet Sauvignon.
“Vivino helps with that education component,” Harden says. “I love how it recommends wines for you, and what foods you can pair up with certain wines.”
His decision to enter the space was not random or unintentional, but rather stems from years of exposure to some of the best wines in the world due to his incredibly busy and globe trotting schedule.
“My first love for wine began a few years ago when having it at dinners and trying different wines at those events,” he says. “We would also play cards a lot and would try a lot of wines during those games. I found a passion for it as I've matured.”
However well received J-Harden Wine has been in the space, the all-star player’s plans are bigger than just a line of wines.
“I have always seen the wine industry as a closed-door environment,” he says. “Through J-Harden, my goal is to make a high-quality product that can be enjoyed by the masses at a reasonable price. That’s what Vivino is all about, so it’s the perfect pairing. If you’re new to wine or an experienced enthusiast, I believe you’ll love this wine as much as I do.”
With subtle notes of blackberries, cherries and dark fruits, this cabernet sauvignon is a “fruit forward delight,” as one enthusiastic Vivino member describes it in the reviews.
A smooth, full-bodied California Cab, Harden has created something that gives people plenty of pairing options. He suggests a hearty steak, venison, poultry or lamb, all of which fit the wine’s versatility. This Cabernet keeps it interesting, and should appeal to a wide variety of drinkers.
J-Harden wine is now available via the Vivino app as well as other major retailers. Visit vivino.com to learn more.
Photography by: Courtesy of J-Harden
