Dinking Prosecco With NBA Legend James Harden

Don’t be surprised if you recognize a colorful beard in the sparkling aisle of your local wine shop. Ten-time NBA All-Star James Harden has just released J-HARDEN’s Extra Dry Prosecco DOC, the third release from his J-Harden wine brand, following his Cabernet and California Red. I spoke with Harden about how best to enjoy his newest release, what the NBA brings into the wine world and who he hopes to enjoy a glass with one day.

What first brought you into the wine world?

To be honest I think it was just that the hard liquor — the tequila — can be difficult to wake up from. So having glasses of wine at dinner is easier.

Which were the first wines you developed a taste for?

The only wine I was drinking was Caymus. Which is safe, you know what I mean? But then I opened up my palate a bit, started trying different things and falling in love with more wines. Now I’m considered a wine connoisseur (laughs) well getting there at least.

And what made you want to go from enjoying wine to going into the wine business?

The opportunity presented itself. My team brought it to me as a way to expand my brand and it was a great decision. We’re doing a really good job. Tasting the wines, finding that right spot between too sweet and too dry and making sure it’s affordable for everybody. I had fun going into this process, I enjoyed it.

Tell me about the new Prosecco that’s coming out.

Bubbles! We did a really well with our Cabernet and our red blend and we’re continuing to expand. We created these street teams in major cities and they’ve been curating brunches where they’ve mixed the Prosecco into sangrias and mimosas to make sure everyone gets a taste of the J-Harden wine brand.

Is that your favorite way to enjoy it?

Obviously you can drink it by itself. We’re just giving people options. James Harden in a bottle (laughs). I think people like it,

Have you ever gotten to share a J-Harden wine with one of your idols?

Not yet. I’m waiting on that day. Honestly, Adam, when that day comes I’m gonna call you and tell you “I just cracked open a J-Harden bottle” with whoever it is. And I’m gonna be so excited because this is something that I put hard work into and then to share it with somebody that I respect? It’s going to be one of those great feelings I can’t even explain. You’re going to be the first person I tell.

I appreciate that. Any wish as to who that might be?

No. I don’t wanna jinx myself.

A number of NBA players have gotten involved in the wine world. Out of all sports basketball seems to give wine the most love.

There has to be some kind of connection. (Laughs) I have no idea what it is but when I figure that out I’ll let you know. But I think the excitement level that we’re bringing to the wine world is what we wanted to accomplish. We’re coming and we wanna make some noise.

That’s great. And don’t forget to call me when you have that special glass with someone.

Definitely. It’s probably going to be around midnight so make sure you have your phone on.