Peter Mondavi Sr

In 1943 Mondavi's parents bought the Charles Krug Winery, which was founded by Prussian emigrant Charles Krug in 1861, making it the oldest winery in Napa Valley. Mondavi became CEO when his mother died in 1976. He acquired 800 acres to expand his vineyard on former dairy land. His winery became the first to import French oak barrels for ageing, and he was among the first to plant pinot noir and chardonnay grapes in the region. He died Feb. 20 at his California estate. The winery is run today by his sons Marc and Peter Jr.