MICHAEL LANCASTER

Managing Partner & Winemaker

Toronto native Michael Lancaster had been working as a financial analyst for Nabisco Brands Corporation when he decided a sabbatical was in order. He took a year off and cycled through the wine regions of France, Italy, and Germany. By the time he returned, he knew he would never wear a suit and tie again: Wine was his destiny.

In 1993, Mike packed his belongings and drove to the Napa Valley. He attended the University of California at Davis graduate enology program as a visiting scholar and began working for Gloria Ferrer Champagne Caves. In 1995, Mike moved to Quail Ridge Cellars to assist winemaker Anthony Bell, and in 1997 he was promoted to winemaker.

Together with friends Gray Fowler and Carl Stewart, Mike started Tin Barn Vineyards in 2000. Their goal was to produce some of California's most delicious Syrah, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon. In 2006, Kurt Chapman and Bud Johnson joined the partnership.

mlancaster@tinbarnvineyards.com