Situated in the picturesque St. Helena, Napa Valley, California, Beringer Vineyards stands as a testament to the rich winemaking history of the region. Established in 1876 by the visionary brothers Jacob and Frederick Beringer, this iconic winery holds the distinction of being California’s longest continuously operating winery.

The Beringer brothers’ journey began in the beautiful St. Helena AVA, where they harvested their first vintage and laid the foundation for a winemaking empire. Notably, in 1883, Frederick Beringer constructed the magnificent Rhine House, an exquisite Victorian mansion that now serves as the main visitor site of the winery, inviting wine enthusiasts from across the globe to indulge in its fascinating history.

Beringer’s success during the Prohibition era was no mere stroke of luck. They secured a federal license to produce wine for religious purposes, supplying sacramental wines to churches, which played a crucial role in sustaining the business during those challenging times. As Prohibition was repealed, Beringer once again made history by becoming the first winery to offer public tours, playing a pivotal role in the burgeoning Napa Valley tourism industry.

Over the years, Beringer has seen changes in ownership, and it currently rests under the stewardship of Treasury Wine Estates. Mark Beringer, the great-great-grandson of founder Jacob Beringer, now proudly holds the mantle of chief winemaker, ensuring that the family’s winemaking legacy lives on.

Beringer’s diverse portfolio of wines caters to every palate, ranging from affordable table wines to exclusive single-vineyard cuvées. Their commitment to quality is evident in their extensive selection, which includes renowned offerings like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Bordeaux-style blends.

Among their most celebrated range is the Private Reserve label, featuring exquisite Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay wines. The 1986 Cabernet Sauvignon secured the top spot in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 of 1990, while the 1994 Chardonnay took the number one spot in the 1996 edition—an unprecedented feat for any winery.

Beringer’s dedication to sustainability is evident in its ownership of certified sustainable vineyards in Napa and Sonoma, showcasing their commitment to environmental stewardship. Notable vineyards like Bancroft Ranch, Chabot Vineyard, St. Helena Home Vineyard, and Knights Valley Vineyard contribute to the winery’s exceptional wines.

Adding to its illustrious history, Beringer earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records in 2004 for producing the largest bottle of wine ever—a colossal 130-liter bottle of the 2001 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, aptly named ‘Maximus,’ fetched an impressive $55,812 at a charity auction.

In conclusion, Beringer Vineyards stands as an enduring symbol of Napa Valley’s winemaking heritage. Its commitment to excellence, from offering a diverse array of wines to embracing sustainable practices, ensures that it remains a revered name among wine enthusiasts worldwide. As visitors step into the historic Rhine House, they are transported back in time, experiencing the legacy of the Beringer family and their timeless pursuit of winemaking perfection.