Beringer Vineyards

Beringer Vineyards: The Historic Benchmark of Napa Valley Beringer Vineyards is not just a winery; it is a living monument to the history of American viticulture. Established in 1876, it holds the title of the oldest continuously operating winery in Napa Valley. With a legacy spanning 150 years, Beringer remains a titan of quality, innovation, and timeless hospitality. A Legacy of "Firsts" in Napa Valley Founded by German brothers Jacob and Frederick Beringer, the estate has been a pioneer from the very beginning. Beringer was instrumental in establishing Napa Valley as a world-class wine region through several historic milestones: The First Tours: In 1934, Beringer became the first California winery to offer public tours and tastings, effectively sparking the wine tourism industry that defines Napa today. Prohibition Survivors: Remarkably, Beringer never missed a single vintage. During Prohibition, the winery stayed open by producing sacramental wine for religious services. Double #1 Awards: It remains the first and only winery to have both a red and a white wine named #1 Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator (1986 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and 1994 Private Reserve Chardonnay). Iconic Architecture: The Rhine House The center of the estate is the stunning Rhine House, a 17-room Victorian mansion built in 1884. Modeled after the Beringer family’s ancestral home in Germany, it features exquisite stained glass and intricate woodwork. Today, it serves as the ultimate tasting setting, where history and fine wine meet in the heart of St. Helena. Terroir Mastery: From St. Helena to Knights Valley Beringer’s excellence is rooted in its unparalleled collection of vineyards across Napa and Sonoma. Knights Valley Pioneers: Beringer was one of the first to recognize the potential of Sonoma’s Knights Valley in the 1960s, leading the effort to have it officially recognized as its own AVA in 1983. The Private Reserve Program: Launched in 1977, the Private Reserve program represents the pinnacle of Beringer’s winemaking. These wines are crafted to showcase the best possible expression of a single variety from the finest vineyard lots in a given vintage. Why Beringer Vineyards is a Must for GrapeYear For collectors on GrapeYear, Beringer is the ultimate example of "Old World" heritage meeting "New World" ambition. Longevity: Their Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignons are legendary for their ability to age gracefully for 20 to 30 years or more. Sustainability: With 150 years of farming experience, the winery is deeply committed to sustainable viticulture, ensuring their historic vineyards thrive for another century. Diversity: From the accessible Founders' Estate to the ultra-premium Single Vineyard bottlings, Beringer offers a window into the diverse terroirs of Northern California. The Iconic Portfolio Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon: A powerful, structured masterpiece that consistently receives top scores for its intensity and elegance. Private Reserve Chardonnay: A rich, full-bodied white that revolutionized the way California Chardonnay was perceived globally. Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its signature "forest floor" and herbal notes, offering a distinct alternative to the valley floor reds of Napa. Luminus Chardonnay: A vibrant, mineral-driven expression of the cool-climate Oak Knoll District.