Sixteen-year distribution veteran to lead growth across the Monterey Peninsula, South Bay, and Northern California markets
July 20, 2026 (Carmel Valley, CA) — Bernardus is pleased to announce that Kendyl Lemp has joined the winery as Regional Sales Manager for Northern California, effective June 1.
Kendyl brings 16 years of wine and spirits distribution experience to Bernardus, along with a proven record of sales leadership, relationship building, and market development throughout Northern California.
She began her career with Young’s Market Company (now RNDC) as a Chain Sales Representative and Merchandiser in Sunnyvale, where she quickly distinguished herself by consistently exceeding sales goals and flawlessly executing supplier programs. In just her second year, Kendyl earned the prestigious “Best in the West”award, recognizing her exceptional performance.
Her success led to a promotion as District Manager, overseeing chain merchandising teams across the South Bay, Monterey, and Carmel markets. She later transitioned into On-Premise Sales, where she spent the majority of her career developing key accounts throughout Santa Cruz, San Jose, and the Monterey Peninsula. During this time, Kendyl consistently ranked among the company’s top performers in KPI achievement and was recognized as Salesperson of the Month multiple times across Northern California. She also holds a WSET Level 2 Award in Wines.
“Kendyl’s deep knowledge of the Northern California market, combined with her outstanding distributor relationships and passion for the wine business, make her an exceptional addition to the Bernardus team,” said Bruce Smitham, Vice President of U.S. Sales. “Her experience and local market expertise—particularly across the Monterey Peninsula and South Bay—will be instrumental as we continue to grow the Bernardus brand and strengthen our presence throughout Northern California.”
In her new role, Kendyl will focus on expanding Bernardus’ distribution, growing market share, supporting distributor partners, and developing relationships with key on- and off-premise accounts across Northern California, with particular emphasis on the Monterey Peninsula and South Bay markets.
Kendyl resides in Seaside California, with her partner and their two dogs. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, camping, gardening, cooking, and spending time outdoors with family and friends. She is also passionate about giving back to her local community.
ABOUT BERNARDUS WINERY
Bernardus Vineyards & Winery, a legacy winery in Carmel Valley, showcases single-vineyard Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs from the most prized sites in Monterey County. Founded over 35 years ago by Bernardus “Ben” Pon, the winery continues to uphold his commitment to quality and the relationships he cultivated with growers in Monterey’s Santa Lucia Highlands. Inspired by his Dutch heritage and driven by innovation, this family-owned winery distinguishes itself as the gold standard of elegant yet approachable luxury wines and offers a premier hospitality experience at its Carmel Valley tasting room. Learn more at bernardus.com.
