San Diego Union-Tribune (Sunday)
Winery’s dining amid olive trees and gardens creates European ambiance
RETAIL TRENDS
The Bernardo Winery has made changes to its operations since reopening during the pandemic. Many of these alterations have been a welcome relief to guests looking to dine outside in a natural setting. To prepare for social distanced seating, tables were added across the winery’s many patios, courtyards and grassy areas, giving guests an outdoor experience amid the olive trees, gardens and vineyard areas, providing a distinctly European feel.
“Our guests love the truly authentic outdoor feel they get when they visit us. We were built for outdoor dining, and families have been enjoying good food and wine together for generations here,” owner Ross Rizzo noted of the 130-year-old winery.
Guests can choose wines by the glass, bottle or a three-wine flight that Rizzo came up with to accommodate seated wine tasting, now that wine tasting at the counter isn’t available. The threewine flight that has become increasingly popular.
“It really took off,” Rizzo stated. “And the metal carrier is unique and fun for our guests.”
Guests can order fresh Italian fare with their wine, prepared in the onsite restaurant The Kitchen, featuring three generations of Italian recipes from the Rizzo family. The family has owned the winery since 1927. The Kitchen’s typical tableside service has been temporarily replaced with wine and food ordered in the wine tasting room.
The winery’s Village Shops have also re-opened offering many locally made items. Selena Roberts, who owns the Bag Cellar, a handbag and accessory shop, has adapted her business to an online shop, but welcomes shoppers into her boutique.
“There’s nothing like in-person shopping and service, and we encourage locals to shop small in our village this holiday season. We’re ready and really appreciate the business right now,” she said.
The winery and shops are open Wednesday through Sunday. Reservations are required for on-site wine tasting and dining. Take-out service is also available on those days.
The Bernardo Winery is at 13330 Paseo Del Verano in Rancho Bernardo. For reservation and information, visit bernardowinery.com or call (858) 487-1866, ext. 125.