Bernardo Winery

Specialties

Family owned and operated, the The Bernardo Winery is the oldest operating winery in Southern California and a hidden gem in North County San Diego. Specializing in the red varietals that grow so well in the Southern California region the winery produces Syrah, Petite Syrah, Sangiovese, and Zinfandel to name a few, sourcing Grapes from across San Diego County. California Whites are also available in the tasting room, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Riesling. Don’t forget a taste of our refreshing medium-​dry Bernardo Winery white sparkling wine.

Besides the tasting room, the winery is home to over a dozen specialty shops, an award winning restaurant, a theatre, artisan galleries and a coffee shop. The Bernardo Winery is a hidden gem in San Diego and a day well spent, wandering through the 125 year old buildings, under the olive trees and into the past.

The winery’s old world feel and architecture make it a beautiful and memorable venue for your wedding or special event.

History

Established in 1889.

Bernardo Winery, nestled in the quaint town of Rancho Bernardo, just East of the Rancho Bernardo Inn, is the oldest continuously operating Winery in Southern California. Family owned and operated since 1927, Bernardo Winery the winery is still fully functioning and producing wines with San Diego grapes as it has been for over 100 years and much of the old style equipment and original vines can be seen as you wander the grounds.

During Prohibition, the Bernardo Winery continued producing Sacramental and «medicinal» wine and fresh grape juice that would «begin fermenting before the barrel reached the coast». Also at that time, olive oil production began at the winery from our olive trees that still grow throughout the property. During the hard times of prohibition, the winery also sold olive oil to the thriving San Diego Tuna industry.

Today, the winery is still producing fine red wines in the old tradition and welcoming visitors young and old from around the globe.

Meet the Business Owner

Ross R.

Business Owner

The Bernardo WInery has been familiy owned and operated since 1927 by the Rizzo family.