Remembering Bob Steinhauer: A Tribute to the Beringer Viticulturist Who Shaped Winemaking at 84

California viticulturist Robert “Bob” Steinhauer passed away on November 28 at the age of 84. His remarkable career spanned more than five decades, during which he managed over 15,000 acres of vineyards across California, predominantly in Napa and Santa Barbara Counties.

Steinhauer’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the transformation of Napa Valley, as he played a pivotal role in its shift from prune orchards to becoming a prominent viticultural community. Andy Beckstoffer, a notable figure in Napa Valley, remarked on Steinhauer’s significant influence during a crucial period of change.

Born in 1941 in Exeter, California, Steinhauer grew up in Easton, where his family cultivated grapes for raisins. This upbringing ignited his passion for both farming and the grape-growing labor force. He pursued a bachelor’s degree in viticulture and a master’s in plant science from California State University, Fresno. Graduating in 1969, he became one of the first formally trained viticulturists in a burgeoning program. Steinhauer started his career managing around 5,000 acres of vineyards for Schenley Industries and was instrumental in negotiating some of California’s initial farmworker union contracts.

In 1971, he relocated to Napa Valley and began working for Beckstoffer, who operated Napa Valley Vineyard Company. It was there that he caught the attention of winemaker André Tchelistcheff, leading to an opportunity to manage vineyards for Beaulieu Vineyards. Steinhauer later joined Beringer Vineyards in 1979, where he had a lasting impact over a 26-year tenure. Under his management, Beringer’s vineyard holdings expanded to over 10,000 acres. He was integral in developing popular wine programs, including their Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

Affectionately nicknamed the "Tasmanian Devil" for his energetic and dynamic presence, Steinhauer’s contributions to the industry were recognized through the establishment of Taz, a winery by Beringer Blass in tribute to him, where he oversaw the planting of Santa Barbara vineyards. He retired in 2005, founding his own consulting firm, Wineland Consulting LLC, which he continued until his death.

He leaves behind his wife Verna, children Erik and Anne, granddaughter Parker, and a cousin, Leonard Hoskins, who worked alongside him as a child in agriculture.

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