Ken Bernards

Winemaker, Tournesol

Ken has been making wine in Napa Valley for 25 years with experience as winemaker or consulting winemaker with more than a dozen wineries. The insatiable curiosity that first led Ken to begin his quest to make great wines continues to lead him to seek out new and challenging opportunities beyond those presented in his own winery. His devotion to discovering the character of each specific vineyard site aided him as be became a pioneer in the Coombsville area, located in the southeast corner of the greater Napa Valley AVA. He has placed special emphasis with estate-grown vineyard designations, making a natural connection with Bob and Anne Arns at Tournesol Vineyard, beginning in 2003.

Country born: United States

Education: B.S. Chemistry with an emphasis on Flavor Chemistry. Internship in Epernay, France at Moet & Chandon. Winemaking Consultant with clients in Chile, Oregon, California. President Emeritus California Enological Research Association.

Years in the wine industry: 20-30 years

Winemaking Philosophy:
Terroir expression and balance are emphasized.