Peter left the Royal Navy in 1975 and pursued a career as a sole trader in the wine trade. In 1982, Champagne Gosset approached Peter to promote and distribute their products throughout the UK and 1986 saw the beginning of the ‘McKinley Vintners’ partnership as Peter and his wife Di developed the company into an Agency House offering a comprehensive service for wine producers throughout the world. They started the business from their house before moving to Burrell Street in SE1 and later Kennington Road by which point the company had grown to its current size. Di retired in 2006 but remains on the board whereas Peter is still very much ‘hands on’! Outside work, Peter practises what he preaches and is passionate about great quality champagnes, wine and spirits – especially the merits of a vintage cognac and a good cigar!