Ancien Wines, Biography

Ancien Wines are made by Ken and Teresa Bernards. Their combined experience is moving into its 3rd decade, having made acclaimed wines for other producers prior to focusing on their own label, Ancien. They possess a passion for the Burgundian varietals, Pinot noir and Chardonnay, with an emphasis on capturing the essence of terroir. Ken continues to expand his range of experience as a consulting winemaker for wineries in California and in Chile.

Our Name...
Our trips to Burgundy filled us with inspiration drawn from the ancient history and tradition of winemaking. While winemaking techniques have constantly been refined, we utilize the same principles of winemaking employed for generations.

We are tied to soil and climate, and have those before us to thank for bringing us to our current state of the art. As we endeavor to reach greater heights, we draw on those before us for inspiration. Ancien ("ancient one") is our tribute to them.

The work of Napa artist Jim Hubert provided the perfect vehicle to relay our memories and sense of discovery visually through our label. (www.bonitavistaart.com)
His talent in displaying the colorful warmth of foreign and exotic peoples, sometimes toiling in obscurity, seemed akin to the emotions we felt.