Producer

The Berniers have been farming in Dry Creek Valley for over 40 years. They have always believed that the health of the soil is paramount in sustainability and producing quality crops. In the early years of Bernier Farms, Paul and Yael invested in a seed drill so that they could grow a cover crop that would be turned under in the spring. This process benefits the soil, prevents erosion, and creates good habitat for soil organisms in order to increase fertility. Twenty years ago, Paul built a compost turner and now creates wonderful compost from local materials including grape pomace. The soil continues to improve year after year. (Photos: Paige Green Photography)

Bernier Farms continues to cultivate good food and strong relationships with the community. Growing annual cover crops and applying compost produced on site from winery by product keeps the soils healthy and productive on their farming sites. In addition to a variety of year-round organic vegetable crops and dry-farmed field blends of wine grapes, Bernier Farms specializes in fresh and sun-dried tree fruit and varietal garlic. They maintain a diverse collection of pomegranate trees that produce from late September through December, figs of all colors and flavors, and French and Italian prune plums for drying by the traditional method: on old redwood trays under the warm August and September sun.