BV Was There: The 1960s, a Cult Cab in Full Swing

A new generation of leadership brought a new era of technological experimentation, from glass-lined aging tanks to using hovering helicopters for frost abatement. BV was riding high under the continued direction of the ever-energetic winemaker André Tchelistcheff and its new president, Hélène de Latour de Pins.

1960

The Honolulu Star-Bulletin notes: “Beaulieu Vineyard serves 25,000 visitors a year and still has enough grape juice left over to sell a million bottles per annum.”

1961

BV wins a blind tasting of California and French wines with its 1954 Brut, conquering the Champagne category. André, at last, fulfills his dream of exploring the Carneros AVA, when the winery buys the 145-acre Ferrini property. It becomes Beaulieu Vineyard Ranch No. 5.

1962

BV establishes a certified nursery and constructs wastewater pools for irrigation.

1968

Dr. Richard G. Peterson is appointed Wine Master.

1969

After more than four decades of working with her parents and then on her own to run BV, Hélène decides to retire from the daily demands of the wine business at the age of 66. She sells the family winery to Heublein, an international food and beverage company.

2025 is the 125th anniversary of that historic moment. In preparation for our year-long celebration, we’ve been combing our archives and reconnecting with family, friends, and team members far and wide to rediscover the people and happenings that made it all possible.