From Hardwood to Heritage: NBA Star CJ McCollum's Journey into Oregon Winemaking

From the thunderous roar of basketball arenas to the tranquil serenity of Oregon's vineyards, NBA star CJ McCollum has seamlessly transitioned his unparalleled dedication and strategic prowess into an equally demanding, yet profoundly rewarding, new arena: winemaking. More than just a celebrity endorsement, McCollum is the passionate force behind McCollum Heritage 91, an acclaimed Oregon wine label that stands as a testament to his deep-rooted love for viticulture and a commitment to crafting wines of exceptional quality.

The journey began not with a splashy launch, but with a genuine appreciation for the nuanced beauty of Oregon Pinot Noir, a varietal that captivated McCollum's palate early in his career.

While still actively playing at the highest level of professional basketball, McCollum laid the groundwork for his brand, officially establishing McCollum Heritage 91 in 2020. The name itself, "Heritage 91," is a deeply personal nod to his birth year, 1991, and the foundational values instilled by his family – a heritage of hard work, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence that now defines his winemaking philosophy.

McCollum's venture into wine is far from a casual hobby.

He has immersed himself fully, forging a pivotal partnership with the esteemed Adelsheim Vineyard, a pioneering force in the Willamette Valley. Working closely with Adelsheim’s talented winemaker, Gina Hennen, McCollum is intricately involved in every facet of the winemaking process. This hands-on approach, from vineyard selection to blending sessions, ensures that each bottle of Heritage 91 truly reflects his vision and commitment to the terroir.

The focus of McCollum Heritage 91 is clear: premium Pinot Noir and Chardonnay sourced from some of the Willamette Valley’s most coveted AVAs, including the distinct Chehalem Mountains and Ribbon Ridge.

These regions are celebrated for producing wines with complexity, elegance, and a true sense of place. The meticulous care taken in sourcing the finest grapes and the precise winemaking techniques employed result in wines that consistently garner critical acclaim, proving that McCollum's pursuit of excellence extends far beyond the basketball court.

Beyond the quality in the bottle, McCollum brings a formidable business acumen to his wine enterprise.

He views McCollum Heritage 91 not just as a passion project, but as a significant pillar of his post-NBA career, demonstrating a foresight and entrepreneurial spirit rarely seen. His transition from athlete to vintner is inspiring, showing that dedication and a willingness to learn new crafts can lead to profound success in unexpected fields.

CJ McCollum is not just drinking Oregon wine; he is deeply invested in making it, contributing to its legacy, and sharing his passion with the world, one exquisite bottle at a time.