Bob Egelhoff visits

Bob Egelhoff was in town over the weekend. So, I stopped by and he had three wines he was showcasing. Bob is a consulting winemaker (and more) in the Napa Valley the last 15 years. He studied at University of California at Davis' viticultural program. From there, he started at Beckstofer wines. He was the wine-maker for Pahlmeyer and Merryvale among other,  high end, cult wines.

He started his own label in 2001 and produces his "Blue Label". We had the 2008 today: powerful spicy and significant tannins, but well integrated. Can't wait to have this in 5-7 years. $75

His red label, Walton, cabernet sauvignon was named after his wife's family. A little more approachable, but will last a long time, too. A mess of spices and softer, rounder tannins, but still well-balanced.

The Riesling is a rarety. Little is grown in Napa - less than 1% of all grapes grown there. He served the 2008 today. It has an earthy, minerally aroma. On first sip, the acid jars the tounge and starts the juices flowing, but, then this curatin a fresh fruit floats over the tongue. Hints of petrol, lemon and limestone. Very complex and delicious!