Bernardus focuses on creating wines that flatter the palate and stimulate the imagination, curating “Wine and Memories.” Widely traveled and endowed with impeccable taste, Founder Bernardus (Ben) Pon could have chosen anywhere in the world to establish his namesake Bernardus Winery, intending to cultivate premier-class wines. He selected Carmel Valley, with its west-facing orientation, hot days and chilly nights, and stunning beauty, confident his vineyards there could produce wines to rival the greatest on the globe.
Bernardus has three estate vineyards — Marinus, located in Cachagua (deep Carmel Valley) and planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec; Featherbow, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon grown in front of the winery; and Ingrid’s Vineyard, located 10 miles west of Marinus and planted to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. They are managed by Matt Shea, a champion of sustainable practices that ensure vine and soil health while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. His goal is to produce the best possible fruit while caring for the land on which it grows.
