What’s former NBA Champion Channing Frye up to now? We headed down to Portland to find out. Besa Gordon caught up with the hooper-turned-winemaker to hear about Chosen Family Wines and the way he’s turned his passion for wine into a business.

“It’s about gathering people to the table and having them enjoy time with each other and good wine,” Frye said. “We’re not trying to hit you with the salesman's speech, we’re trying to talk the way we do in everyday life.”

Frye says that the response in the Willamette Valley, where his winery is located, has been positive. 

“We try to respect tradition, but also put our own flair on what is happening for the future,” Frye says. “I want to share this with the world. We’re breaking down barriers one sip at a time.”

Frye also said that there are only three Black-owned wineries in Oregon, with one of the others being owned by current NBA player CJ McCollum. He says that one of his focuses is bringing wine to his community and bringing individuals into the industry.

“We’re trying to use our platform to show people that we’re making good wine that’s affordable, and we want you to experience these great things,” Frye said. “It’s not just about the wine, it’s about the people and the land too.”

He also highlighted the changing dynamics of Portland and the ways it’s become a melting pot of cultures. 

“It’s great, and there’s a lot of communities that we need to put more attention to,” Frye said.

You can see more in the video above and make sure to check it out on Back2Besa when it airs in the coming weeks.

You can tap in with Chosen Family Wines on their page and at their website www.chosenfamilywines.com