Honoring the Women Who Shaped Our Past and Pour Our Future
Beringer’s story has always been shaped by women who lead with grit, curiosity, and heart. From Bertha Beringer (1883–1970), who took over management in 1915 and helped guide the winery through Prohibition, to Director of Winemaking Margo Van Staaveren, who began her career here and now brings 45 vintages of experience, their influence is woven into every chapter of our legacy.
This month, we’re taking a moment to honor the women who bring Beringer to life at the estate in celebration of International Women's Day: 3/8/26. From winemaking to welcoming guests, meet a few of the women who make every visit to Beringer one of a kind.
The Legacy of Bertha Beringer
Bertha Beringer (1883–1970)
Long before conversations about women in leadership were commonplace, Bertha Beringer was guiding one of Napa Valley’s most historic estates through uncertain times.
After taking over management in 1915, she led the winery through Prohibition, a period that forced many wineries to close. Under her leadership, Beringer secured a federal license to produce sacramental wine, allowing operations to continue when others could not.
She is also credited with inventing the “Grape Brick,” a compacted block of grapes sold with instructions on how not to turn it into wine. The irony was understood. The resilience was real.
Bertha is remembered as a “Whisper Sister,” a term associated with women who operated speakeasies during Prohibition. Resourceful, determined, and quietly influential, she represents the enduring strength of women in wine long before the industry formally recognized them.
Women of Beringer Today
Margo Van Staaveren
Director of Winemaking
Margo Van Staaveren is Beringer’s Director of Winemaking and one of California’s most admired winemakers. She began her winemaking career right here at Beringer as an intern and has played a major role in shaping some of California’s most celebrated wines. With at least 45 vintages behind her, Margo brings a rare blend of experience, artistry, and vision to every blend, honoring tradition while helping lead Beringer into its next chapter.
Claire Wilkins
Director of Hospitality
I’m Claire Wilkins, Director of Hospitality at Beringer Vineyards, and I’ve had the privilege of working at this iconic estate for the past 13 years. Beringer is an extraordinary place, producing incredible wines with consistent quality, nuance, and character. It is unique in its rich history and remarkable landmarks, including the historic Rhine House, surrounded by beautiful gardens and trees that have stood for more than 150 years. My favorite time of day is early evening, when I walk the property and take in the captivating scents from our diverse collection of trees and plants.
I am immensely proud to be part of Beringer during its milestone 150th Anniversary year. It is truly an honor to serve as a steward of its remarkable legacy, playing a role in bridging our storied past with a vibrant and successful future. I often reflect on the millions of guests we have had the privilege of welcoming over the past 150 years — from all around the world — and feel incredibly fortunate to experience this beautiful estate each and every day.
Favorite Wine
2021 Bancroft Ranch Merlot
One of my personal favorites is the Bancroft Ranch Merlot. It’s a stunning wine with a bold, distinctive, and complex character — wonderfully expressive for a Merlot, which is precisely why I love it. In blind tastings, it’s often mistaken for Cabernet; and once revealed, it quickly becomes a new favorite. Bancroft Ranch itself is a breathtaking vineyard and a cornerstone of our Howell Mountain portfolio, also producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec.
Pairing
I especially love pairing the Merlot with a sautéed mushroom risotto — finished, of course, with generous shavings of Gouda. Simply delicious.
Sarah Kendrick
Hospitality Manager
To introduce myself, my name is Sarah Kendrick and I am the Hospitality Manager at Beringer Vineyards. I'm originally a California transplant from Texas. However, wine brought me to Napa. I've been a part of Beringer for 2 years now. Although, I'd be hard-pressed to pick a favorite aspect of what I love most about working at Beringer Vineyards, I ultimately combine all the pieces, the rich legacy, history, people, hospitality, and of course amazing wines! I enjoy the variety in that no one day is the same with wine as the focal point. I get to work in a beautiful atmosphere combing passions on hospitality and classic wines.
Favorite Wine
2023 Private Reserve Chardonnay
Pairing
I am obsessed with our Private Reserve Chardonnay. I love pairing with a lighter chicken dish in the evenings during the summer. For a red wine option, a new favorite has emerged.
Marisa Senecal
Wine Club Ambassador (standing in the center, wearing burgundy)
I’ve had the privilege of being part of Beringer for 21 years and currently serve as a Wine Club Ambassador. I’m passionate about continually learning about wine and connecting with guests and members who share that same curiosity and appreciation. It’s an incredible honor to represent a winery defined by legacy, innovation, and a consistently exceptional luxury portfolio, and as we approach our 150th anniversary, I feel especially proud to be part of a story that continues to evolve while honoring its rich history.
Favorite Wine
2022 Chabot Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Chabot is my favorite for its remarkable depth, structure, and refined power. It’s a wine that truly expresses both craftsmanship and sense of place.
Pairing
I especially love pairing it with artisan cheeses such as a Cabot Aged Cheddar, where the richness and complexity elevate one another beautifully.
Women in Wine: A Legacy That Continues
Wine is often described as a reflection of place. At Beringer, it is also a reflection of people.
The women of Beringer represent nearly 150 years of resilience, creativity, and leadership in Napa Valley wine. From guiding the winery through Prohibition to crafting wines and welcoming guests today, their contributions shape not only our portfolio but the experience of belonging that defines our brand.
On International Women’s Day, and every day, we celebrate the women who continue to influence the future of women in wine and carry forward the pioneering spirit that has defined Beringer since 1876.
