Michael Lancaster was born and raised in Ontario, Canada. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Geography from the University of Western Ontario in 1982 and went on to work as a Financial Analyst for Nabisco. Michael remained in the financial business for ten years, before succumbing to his interest in wine and developing it into his career.

Michael's introduction to the world of winemaking came via Stonechurch Vineyards in Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario in 1992, where he learned the ropes as cellar master and assistant winemaker, before relocating to California and taking on an Enologist role with Gloria Ferrer Caves in Sonoma. Hands-on and focused, Michael studied Viticulture & Enology at the University of California, Davis from 1993 to 1995. His experience to date includes making wine for both Quail Ridge Cellars and Quail Creek Winery and becoming a partner in Tin Barn Vineyards .

Michael became the Voss Vineyards Chief Winemaker in 2007, taking over from Brian Mox (2006 – 2007) and long-time Voss winemaker Steve Fennell (1999 – 2006). Michael is responsible for the production of Voss Vineyards wines from berry to bottle. When asked about his winemaking passions, Michael responds at lightning speed:

"Sauvignon Blanc – it's a fascinating variety.

"The Voss Sauvignon Blanc, in particular, has always been a reference point for me– I've crafted both the more tropical, ripe style and now I'll have the opportunity, with Voss, to spend more time on a Southern Hemisphere sort of style - looking for lifted grass and gooseberry aromas, more citrus, bright acid."