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Rare Wine

Valspar · 1011-9

The Analysis

Rare Wine is a near-black, deep plum shade that absorbs almost all light due to its very low LRV of 2.447. Because it reflects so little light, it will shrink the perceived dimensions of a room and create a moody, enclosed atmosphere.

This is a high-drama choice best suited for an accent wall, cabinetry, or a small, enclosed space like a powder room or media den. It is too dark to serve as a standard wall colour for an entire open-concept home.

LRV 2

History & Origin

This shade draws on the deep, saturated palettes popular in Victorian-era libraries and studies. It feels both period-appropriate for historical homes and modern enough for a contemporary high-contrast design.

Undertonecool
FamilyPurple

How to Use It

Pair this with warm brass or gold hardware to pop against the dark pigment, or use matte black for a monochromatic, seamless look. It works exceptionally well with rich walnut wood tones or light oak to provide a sharp, clean contrast.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels grounding and sophisticated rather than energizing. It creates a quiet, restful sanctuary that feels intentional and cozy, especially in the evening hours.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Velvet Cloak

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-480

  • Antique Burgundy

    Valspar · 1011-8

  • Virtuoso

    Valspar · V126-1

  • Dark Purple

    Benjamin Moore · 2073-10

  • Rouge Noir

    Dulux

  • Galactic Sky

    Dulux

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural