Story
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.
Discovery
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.
“When I looked at the creek, looked at the mountain, and listened to the noise of the birds, I thought this is the most extraordinary place on earth. But I couldn’t have imagined just how well it would work and how lucky I was to have found it.”
Family
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.
Sir Peter and Lady Michael
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.
Paul and Emily Michael
Emily accompanied Paul Michael to the Knights Valley Ranch for the first time in 1996, shortly after their engagement. The ranch was by then a second home to Paul, who helped plant the first 16 acres of Les Pavots vineyard in 1989 when he was 18 years old. Today, both visit the ranch seasonally. Their three children, Elliot, Anna, and Mylo, have enjoyed annual visits since infancy.
While entrusting the teams to daily operations, Paul and Emily play an integral role in the winery’s development and the sustaining of its culture.
Elliot, Anna and Mylo
Paul and Emily's three children have visited the ranch every year, deepening the relationship with the land and upholding the family 100 x 100 commitment.
“I think for the children, it’s in their blood now. They’ve seen the progression; they’ve been part of it and I think the land here is a part of them. I don’t think there’s any question of us reaching one hundred years in our family.”
Mountain Vineyards
Classical Winemaking
Limited Production
Since inception, these three attributes have adorned the label, reflecting the origin of the wines, our approach, and the reality of farming in unpredictable climates and elevations.
