Napa Valley Pioneer, Winery Founder Tony Peju, Dies At 85

NAPA VALLEY, CA — Anthony “Tony” Peju, a wine industry pioneer and founder of PEJU Winery, died June 10 at his home in Calistoga. He was 85 years old.

An industry trailblazer, Tony Peju redefined Napa Valley four decades ago as he successfully championed the right of winemakers and grape growers to sell wine made from their own grapes, paving the way for the hundreds of wineries that do so today. In founding PEJU, Tony broke the mold and cultivated his brand of wine country experience through a "guest-first" company culture and direct-to-consumer marketing approach that led to loyal employees and thousands of vocal fans.

Born in 1937, Tony immigrated to the United States in the 1950s. He and his wife, Herta Peju, owned successful flower shops and a nursery in Southern California, but Tony had grander dreams. In 1981, he designed a logo for the PEJU brand, and in collaboration with architect Calvin Straub, he envisioned the design of a beautiful winery with stunning towers. With that vision in mind and drawing in hand, Tony and Herta bought a 30-acre property in Rutherford in 1983, moved to Napa Valley to raise their two young daughters, and began making and selling wines out of their garage.

In 2003, Tony completed the iconic tower he envisioned 20 years prior, once again making his mark by constructing the tallest building in Napa County at the time of opening. In relentless pursuit of his vision, Tony pushed boundaries, questioned the status quo, and changed the wine industry forever.

“Today we lost a force of nature,” said his wife, Herta. “Tony was relentless and had incredible drive and perseverance, which enabled him to overcome all obstacles to make his vision a reality.”

Ahead of the estate’s 40th anniversary this year, Tony formally handed over the business to his two daughters, Lisa and Ariana, who continue to champion his mission to “make PEJU the highlight of every guest’s visit to Napa Valley.”

While the next generation is now at the helm, Tony’s impact remains visible throughout the Rutherford estate, from sculptures that decorate the grounds, to the iconic sycamore trees, to the koi fish in the pond.

Tony Peju is survived by his wife and three children Michelle, Lisa, and Ariana, along with his son-in-law and two grandchildren.

Tony’s service will be private. Condolences may be sent to P.O. Box 478, Rutherford, CA 94573 c/o The Peju Family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations are made to the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation. As Tony always said: “Without the vineyard workers we would not be here.” 

A full obituary paying homage to Tony's life, career, and Napa Valley contributions can be found on the PEJU website here.