Bernardo Winery a Legacy in Motion

Something old can also be something new in the hands of the right people. A walk through the Bernardo Winery proves that. This 119 year old winery takes a little doing to find, but once reached, speaks volumes about the handcrafted artistry of the Rizzo family who established a tradition of winemaking under the discipline of the original Bernardo Winery family member Vincent, who purchased the land, equipment and vines in 1927. Then, the valley was covered with vineyards and not a town was in sight, the closest being Escondido. The winery became a major wine and olive oil supplier to San Diego County.

Ross Rizzo took the winery over from his father in 1962 and until his recent passing, turned it into the fascinating destination that it is today. Much of the land became too valuable for winery use, so most of the grapes are imported from such regions as Paso Robles, Rancho Cucamonga and elsewhere in San Diego County.

The legacy of Bernardo Winery and its rustic environment is everywhere the visitor turns. Gnarly old oaks, venerable old equipment that passed the test of time, village shops that still display and sell collectibles from the past, and of course a courtyard gathering place and tasting room that echoes the essence of European relaxation.

A new era has begun at Bernardo Winery as Ross’s son Rossi now runs the winery with a vision of restoring the greatness of this place with old world robust varietals, many from southern Italy. New energy and ideas abound from the new owners of the restaurant, Café Merlot. Toni and Rick Kraft, with a talented culinary team, have crafted a quality of cuisine that compares with the finest dining anywhere in San Diego. Custom corporate and special occasion catering has blossomed and enhanced the Café Merlot experience in the Vineyard room, outside in the patio or on the greens.

The wines offered on the restaurant menu reflect the California style, with names like J.Lohr, Cinnabar and Dry Creek, as well as their signature Bernardo Winery Private Reserve Petite Sirah. Events include concerts and “La Technique” Cooking Classes with the next one scheduled for Tuesday August 26 from 5:30 to 8:30pm. Cost is $50. pp.

At Bernardo Winery, it’s all about a historic legacy, but at the same time, a work in progress with the talent of a new team and a new future. See more at www.bernardowinery.com or call at 858-592-7785.

More Restaurant Awards of Excellence
Last week’s list of Wine Spectator area Awards of Excellence was short on space to list all, so here are more deserving locations that have superior wine lists and pairings with their menu offerings: Le Fountainbleau at the Westgate, Dussini Mediterranean Bistro, Oceanaire Seafood Room & Osetra the Fish House in San Diego; The Marine Room & George’s at the Cove La Jolla; Pacifica, Paradise Grille and Sbicca’s Del Mar. SALUTE!