Ashley Egelhoff was born and raised in Los Angeles. Despite having parents who are aerospace engineers, she did not envision having engineering as a career. She enrolled at the University of California, Davis, as an undeclared major with the intention of eventually studying bio- and life science. However, Hildegard Heymann’s introductory course, “Introduction to Winemaking,” captured Ashley’s interest, prompted a switch in major to Viticulture & Enology, and setting a goal to make winemaking her career. She earned her B.S. degree in 2010.

Immediately after graduating, Ashley completed a harvest internship at Joseph Phelps Vineyards in the Napa Valley. She then headed to Mendoza, Argentina, for a second harvest internship, and on returning to the U.S., returned to Joseph Phelps for a third internship, again working with its lead winemaker at the time, Ashley Hepworth. In March 2012, she joined Honig Vineyard and Winery as its enologist, and began working with Kristen Belair, the Honig winemaker, whom she considers an excellent mentor. Ashley was promoted to assistant winemaker in 2017 and to winemaker in 2023, when Kristen took on the role of Director of Winegrowing & Sustainability at the winery. Honig is family-owned and operated, and is known for its Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Ashley and her spouse, who also works in the wine industry, enjoy working out, gardening, camping with their three children, and participating in their children’s numerous activities.