In 1986, Michael Etzel located an 88-acre parcel of land straddling Ribbon Ridge near Newberg, Oregon. He decided to purchase the property along with his sister Pat and brother-in-law, wine critic Robert Parker Jr. In 1988 Michael cultivated 24 acres with Pommard and Wadenswil clones of Pinot Noir on the southwest facing hillsides in Willakenzie sub-soils. He aspired to craft world-class Pinot Noir from these vineyards. His first crop was harvested in 1990 and sold to Ken Wright and Dick Ponzi. Afterward, he realized the potential of this site for producing his own estate Pinot Noir, which has since received consistent, national acclaim. In 2000, Michael planted a 9-acre vineyard at a higher elevation than Beaux Frères Vineyard, naming it the Upper Terrace Vineyard. In 2022, Beaux Freres became shared ownership between Michael Etzel and Artemis Domaines of the Pinault Family with their collection of high-profile wine estates in France.

This 24-acre estate vineyard which was cultivated between 1987 and 1991, is farmed biodynamically, unfined and unfiltered. In the glass, the 2021 Beaux Frères The Beaux Frères Vineyard Pinot Noir glistens with a dark ruby hue, deep and lustrous, catching the light in a way that is instantly captivating. As you swirl, this mesmerizing wine unfolds, releasing a bouquet of dried rose petals and a potpourri of freshly picked garden flowers and herbs. The inner core greets you with layers of underlying fruits of dark cherry skins and creme de cassis mixed with Chinese black tea and a delicate savory undertone enhancing its overall depth and complexity. The first sip is pure refined elegance, where the wine's plush texture envelops the palate with a silk-like richness. A fine line of acidity keeps this wine fresh and vibrant from the start to its graceful finish while leaving you craving just one more taste of this exquisite expression of Oregon terroir.

By W Peter Hoyne