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Santa Barbara Winery founder Pierre Lafond dies aged 92
Pioneering wine entrepreneur Pierre Lafond, who founded the Santa Barbara region’s first commercial winery since Prohibition in 1962, has died at the age of 92.
Montreal-born Lafond moved to Santa Barbara in 1957 before founding Santa Barbara Winery in 1962. It is the oldest commercial winery in the county, operating in the beachfront industrial neighbourhood that would later become known as the Funk Zone.
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Today, the business’ wines are sold under two brands; the original Santa Barbara Winery label and Lafond Winery, which was founded in the late 1990’s.
“Pierre had a strong appetite for steady and true work. He invested whole-heartedly in his current ventures as well as creating ongoing opportunities,” read a statement released by his family on Tuesday.
“He was attentive, consistent and caring, working right alongside his many employees throughout his entire career and was a leader to the very end. Pierre was a staple in our community, ever present at our many locations, where his steadfast presence will be sorely missed. With gratitude in our hearts for his influence and dedication, we look forward to carrying on his legacy and honoring his commitment to family, hard work and service.”