Vineyard At Stockcross

Something that changed a centuries-old status quo and rocked the 'civilised' world to it's roots. In a blind tasting with some of the leading French wine aficionados of the day, Californian wines were chosen over France's very best. Big names were knocked right out of the park in a comprehensive whooping. Now, we love wine - all kinds of wine - and we have no problem in recommending a bottle of Chateau Pétrus or d'Yquem when the occasion demands, but it's no coincidence that the Vineyard opened its doors after that auspicious day in Paris.

It's no secret either that Sir Peter Michael, The Vineyard's owner, is a wine farmer who produces some very fine estate wines in Knights Valley, Sonoma. So much so that Sir Peter commissioned a picture, 'After the Upset' to commemorate the day the wine world changed forever. All the protagonists are in there, and so is Sir Peter himself. It's a constant reminder that, with dedication and a never-give-up spirit, novices can become masters.