Upon discovery of the Knights Valley Ranch in 1982, Sir Peter Michael pledged his 100×100 vision for the ranch and winery to remain under family stewardship for 100 years.
Once referred to as Sugar Loaf Ranch spanning just over 600 acres, today the Knights Valley Ranch encompasses nearly 750 acres (304 hectares), inclusive of vineyards on the hillsides of Mount St Helena at elevations reaching 2,000 ft. (609 meters), meandering down through forests to the valley floor where the winery, gardens and olive orchards reside.
Sir Peter and Lady Michael embraced the land as their home away from home, creating a sanctuary for generations to come. Today, their son Paul, and his wife Emily, continue the vision. And with each generation, the commitment and passion deepens.
Peter Michael is an engineer by training, an entrepreneur by daring, and a vintner by adventurous intent. Born in 1938, Peter grew up in Croydon, in South London, not far from Charing Cross. Following meeting Maggie at a ballroom dance class and later marrying, he founded a variety of businesses, ranging from technology to broadcasting, culminating in the establishment of his eponymously named winery in 1987. In 1989, Peter Michael was knighted Sir Peter Michael by Queen Elizabeth II of England.