The peculiar thing about passion is that it rarely knows any bounds. It has the uncanny power to turn mere objects into an obsession, to transform everyday tasks into art. At Beringer Vineyards, we have been living this passion for over 134 years, and just like our wine it gets better with each passing day. From a humble start as one of the first vineyards in the Napa Valley, our passion for the fine art of winemaking continues to make us a brand synonymous with unsurpassed standards of quality. Furthermore, it is with an equal sense of pride that we share our story, replete with the ups and downs, accomplishments and challenges, with our patrons. We hope you enjoy reading the history of Beringer Vineyards as much as we enjoy recollecting it.
Our history dates back to the year 1868, when Jacob Beringer, enticed by the splendid opportunities of the new world, sailed from his home in Mainz, Germany to New York. However, New York did not appeal to Jacob and after hearing that the warm and Mediterranean plains of California were quite similar to the vineyards back home, he soon made his way to the Napa Valley. It was here that Jacob Beringer, along with his brother, Frederick Beringer, purchased land for the first Beringer Vineyard in 1875.
Beringer Vineyards holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating winery in the Napa Valley. It is also one of the very few wineries that survived the draconian prohibition of 1922, which lasted over a decade. The estate is also in the National Register for Historic Places as a historic district, a status it has held since 2001. With its perfect blend of modern technology and age old traditions, Beringer Vineyards still produces memorable wines that continue to bring recognition to the company and all of Napa Valley.
