Barry Bergman
Winemaker
R.H. Phillips, Esparato, California

Barry Bergman, winemaker for R.H. Phillips, developed an early interest in wine from his older brother and his experiences in the restaurant business. He decided to pursue his passion in a more serious way by enrolling in the Fermentation Science program at the University of California-Davis in 1986.

In 1987 and 1988 he worked in the cellar at R.H. Phillips while he completed his B.S. degree. The winery offered him an assistant winemaker position in 1989. In 1994, Barry was appointed winemaker and since then has led the development of the winery's four brands: Toasted Head, EXP, R.H. Phillips, and Kempton Clark.

His passion for producing new wines and finding innovative techniques has taken him to vineyards and wineries in Italy, Portugal, France, Canada, Australia, and Spain. Barry is also excited about the relatively new tempranillo program at the winery and the challenges of growing and making the Spanish red wine in the Dunnigan Hills. His recent success with tempranillo has encouraged him to plant Spanish white varieties as well.

Besides making wine, Barry enjoys travel, art, hiking, and trying new restaurants.