History

The story of Switchback Ridge began more than a century ago, rooted in a deep, multi-generational commitment to family, farming, and a legacy that remains rare in Napa Valley today. In 1914, Eliza and Mads Peterson purchased a 100-acre parcel on the Napa Valley floor at the mouth of Dutch Henry Canyon. Like many of their generation, they journeyed west in search of opportunity—Eliza from Ireland and Mads from Denmark—eventually settling in the place they would call home.

Located just off the Silverado Trail between St. Helena and Calistoga, the property included a modest Zinfandel vineyard. With the onset of Prohibition in 1920, Napa Valley agriculture shifted, and prunes and walnuts became the region’s primary crops. The Petersons adapted, planting a plum orchard to support their growing family. Tending the orchard, along with a large vegetable garden and livestock, required the efforts of the entire household: nine children—six boys and three girls.

When the time came to pass the land to the next generation, it was the daughters—Vera, Carrie, and Mae—who stepped forward. Together, they preserved the family’s legacy, caring for the land and overseeing its daily operations. Vera’s son, John Peterson, was raised on the farm, learning firsthand the value of hard work and stewardship—values he later passed on to his own children: Trish, Kelly, and Johnny.

Over time, the plum orchards gave way to vineyards. By the 1990s, grapevines flourished where plums once grew, thriving in the property’s well-drained, mineral-rich soils and warm, sunny climate. Today, 21 acres are planted to vines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petite Sirah. Among them is a cherished block of dry-farmed Petite Sirah, more than seventy years old—originally planted with John’s help when he was just a boy.

The idea to create a family wine label came to Kelly in 1995, following the passing of her great-aunt Carrie—affectionately known as “Auntie.” Carrie had insisted that her beloved old-vine Petite Sirah block, or “Pets” as she referred to them, remain untouched during vineyard replanting. At a time when Petite Sirah was largely overlooked and underappreciated, with acreage in California at historic lows, Kelly was inspired by her aunt’s conviction. Determined to honor her legacy, she set out to produce a wine that would celebrate both the varietal and the family’s heritage. In 1999, that vision became a reality with the first vintage of Switchback Ridge, crafted in collaboration with family friend and winemaker Bob Foley.

Today, Switchback Ridge enters an exciting new chapter, guided by a team that shares the family’s enduring commitment to the land. Matt Hardin of Hardin Vineyard Management oversees farming operations, while renowned winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown leads all winemaking. Together, they bring a level of expertise that places them among the finest in the industry.

The Peterson family legacy continues with the fifth generation. Kelly’s daughter, Ashley, has worked closely alongside her mother for more than a decade and plays an integral role in the winery’s ongoing success and future. Her brother, Devon, will soon join the family business as he completes his college studies.

More than a century after its founding, Switchback Ridge remains rooted in resilience, tradition, and a deep connection to the land—with a future as promising as its past.