Episode 286: How to turn a pig farm into a world class pinot noir - the story of Beaux Frères

About this episode

The episode explores the journey of Beaux Frères, a pioneer in American Pinot Noir, from a pig farm to a renowned vineyard.

What is harder, making wine or family? Today we tell the incredible story of Beaux Frères, a pioneer in American Pinot Noir. When Michael G. Etzel and his brother in law Robert Parker jr. (yes, that Robert Parker) found an old pig farm in Oregon, they had a hunch there might be something there. Today Beau Frères Vineyard is a staple of wine collectors and great restaurants, but it wasn't easy and it still isn't. Vinexpo Americas is coming April 29-30 in Miami, Florida and you should be there! If you work in wine, spirits or beverages in the Americas, Vinexpo Americas is where business happens. Register now and secure your free trade badge. https://vinexpo-americas.com/newfront/about-the-show?utm_source=lealb&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=relais

Topics covered

• wine production
• Pinot Noir
• family business
• Beaux Frères
• American wine
• vineyard history

Keywords

• Beaux Frères
• Pinot Noir
• wine
• Oregon
• family business
• vineyard
• Robert Parker
• Vinexpo Americas

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Beaux Frères

Places: Oregon, Miami, Florida

More episodes of SOMM TV wine & food

• Episode 291: A revolution in Oregon plus ranking the world’s top 5 sparkling wine regions · June 11, 2026 · 58 min
• Episode 290: The billion dollar Wine and media question · June 3, 2026 · 1h 16m
• Episode 289: The story of Ukrainian Wine · May 28, 2026 · 41 min
• Episode 288: 8,000 vintages of wine in Georgia · May 16, 2026 · 31 min
• Episode 287: Premiere Napa Valley · April 16, 2026 · 40 min
• Episode 285: There is no perfect in the kitchen · March 19, 2026 · 40 min