The Taste of Beringer Tour at the historic winery celebrates terroir and gourmet food pairings.

With roots that date back to 1868, Beringer Vineyards is often recognized for its history and position as a pioneer in the valley reputed for its many firsts — from the first winery to offer public tours in 1934 to the first and only winery to have a red and a white wine named #1 Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator Magazine. As impressive as these achievements are, Beringer’s modern chapter is also reputable, including its recent addition of Borrow Pit Vineyard, nestled in the Oakville AVA, and its “powerful yet refined” Cabernet Sauvignon.

“In 2015, an array of six different clones and rootstock combinations were planted here,” explained Sarah Kendrick, assistant hospitality manager of Beringer Vineyards. The site’s topsoil was used in the construction of the Rector Dam in 1946. The remaining ground subsoil was Perkins Gravelly Loam, which provides excellent drainage for Cabernet Sauvignon. “Due to the terroir, the vines struggle to produce clusters of small grapes; the grapes have a high skin-to-juice ratio and concentrated flavors, which give Borrow Pit the sought-after intensity, complexity, and depth,” added Kendrick.

Borrow Pit Vineyard is part of Beringer’s Single Vineyards portfolio that showcases the diverse terroirs of its site-expressive Cabernet Sauvignon. Borrow Pit contrasts the mountain-driven structure of other vineyards, ranging from St. Helena’s fruit-forward richness to Howell Mountain’s structure and dark fruit, and Spring Mountain’s earthy complexity.

Visitors to Beringer can better understand this range of terroir in a glass with the winery’s Taste of Beringer offering. This 75-minute tasting experience presents a strong educational component from the aromas and flavors of a wine to its culinary complements with rotating pairings to highlight each wine’s distinct characteristics. “Over the years, we have developed an educational, immersive, and unique experience tailored to each individual, whether their wine journey is just beginning or they are seasoned wine aficionados,” said Kendrick. ($95 per person with a club discount available).

Kendrick explained that at the heart of the experience is a sensory garden designed to “awaken your senses” by exploring characteristics one can find in their glass. Meanwhile, the farm-to-table seasonal menu celebrates the season’s bounty while harmonizing effort with every pour and pairing. “We explore the harmonious relationship between wine and cuisine, highlighting how the right pairings can elevate any experience,” said Kendrick. “Education is a fundamental base of Beringer Vineyards and how we foster relationships with our guests, and truly encompasses a hospitality heart.”

Though the pairings change regularly, Kendrick said one of her favorite seasonal pairings for summer is Borrow Pit Vineyard with a mini-BLT sandwich. “The combination of the rich plum framed by ripe, firm tannins pairs beautifully with the crispy pork belly and fresh buttery brioche.”

While balancing education and an entertaining experience can be challenging, Kendrick explained how confident she is in the team’s hospitality, heart, and passion to customize each reservation to be a perfect mix. “Tailoring to the individual allows us the freedom to educate while keeping the experience light, fresh, and fun.” she said.

For more information www.beringer.com