Bernardus Wines

Bernardus owner and entrepreneur, Ben Pon appreciates good wine as an artform. His dream with Bernardus is to make a red wine equal to the finest from Bordeau. Ben, A Dutchman has chosen the Carmel Valley for his estate vineyards and winery. Since the early 197o's there has been a growing awareness of the outstanding potential for Bordeaux varieties form this viticultural appellation and the Bernadrus estate vineyards of Marinus and Featherbow Ranch are located in the Cachagua region of the Valley. More than 300 live oaks have been preserved to thrive among the carefully planted vines, known by the Native Americans as a sacred area in nature. Cachagua is the Spanish word for deep or hidden water in this spirited land of vineyards with 22 acres are dedicated to the Bernardus grapes. Producing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Sauvignon Blanc, Bernardus ventures forth as the fifth winery to establish vineyards in this sacred valley. Their tasting room is located in the Carmel Valley Village just past the little main street but well worth the extra minute to taste some of the best white and red wines in the Carmel Valley. Enjoy and be sure and stop to see their exceptional resort on the way out of the Valley on Carmel Valley Road with it's signature vineyards in front.