Beringer Winery holds an important place in my wine journey, because it was the place that I fell in love with wine. A friend had brought me to Napa Valley for my birthday and we did a tour and tasting at Beringer. I will never forget standing on the porch of the old historic Beringer house, looking out at the vineyards, and having one of those “ah ha” moments. Surrounded by friends, laughter, and a delicious taste of chenin blanc in my glass, I knew that wine would become an important part of my life. From there it became a hobby, and later in life, it became my career.
Because of this, I was very pleased to learn that Margo Van Staaveren, has been promoted to the position of Director of Winemaking for Beringer. I have known Margo for years, especially because she was always kind and welcoming whenever I brought a class of SSU wine business students to Chateau St. Jean – where she was winemaker for many years.
About Margo Van Staaveren
Beringer Vineyards is pleased to announce the appointment of Margo Van Staaveren as Director of Winemaking, a role that expands her leadership within Treasury Wine Estates’ luxury portfolio.
With forty-five harvests to her name, Van Staaveren is one of the most respected figures in California winemaking. Her deep understanding of vineyard expression, blending artistry, and stylistic refinement has shaped wines of enduring prestige and character. Her expanded role at Beringer reflects a commitment to honoring the winery’s legacy while guiding it into its next chapter.
“Beringer has long held a special place in my mind and heart—not only as one of Napa Valley’s most historic estates, but as a benchmark for excellence and character in California winemaking,” said Van Staaveren. “Over the past several months, I’ve had the privilege of working more closely with the vineyard, cellar, winemaking, and DTC teams, and I am deeply impressed by their expertise, collaboration, and unwavering dedication. As Beringer is on the cusp of its 150th anniversary in 2026, I’m honored help steward the incredible vineyards and legacy that make Beringer so enduring.”
Van Staaveren’s appointment underscores her continued leadership as Director of Winemaking, North Coast, overseeing several brands in the Treasury Wine Estates’ luxury portfolio, which includes Beaulieu Vineyard, Frank Family Vineyards, Stags’ Leap Winery and more. Her collaborative spirit and passion for the craft has earned her admiration from peers, trade partners, and wine lovers alike.
“Margo’s ability to balance legacy with innovation makes her the ideal winemaker for Beringer’s next chapter,” said Matt Johnson, Chief Winemaker and Vice President, Winery Operations, Treasury Americas. “Her leadership continues to elevate our wines and inspire our teams across the North Coast and beyond.”
About Beringer Vineyards
Established in 1876, Beringer Vineyards is California’s oldest continuously operating winery and a defining name in Napa Valley winemaking. With nearly 150 years of heritage, Beringer combines time-honored tradition with a forward-looking approach to craft wines of distinction from its sustainable farmed vineyards in Napa Valley and Sonoma’s Knight’s Valley. The historic St. Helena estate was one of the first to offer public tours and among the pioneers of food and wine education in the region. Today, Beringer remains a benchmark for American wine, known for its hospitality, innovation, and enduring legacy. Learn more at beringer.com or follow @Beringervyds on Instagram and @BeringerVineyards on Facebook.