Episode 19: Sonoma Wine Guide & Holiday Pairings with Master Sommelier David Glancy
David Glancy
Master Sommelier, Certified Wine Educator, and Founder of the San Francisco Wine School
Renowned Master Sommelier and the Founder of the San Francisco Wine School, David Glancy joins us to discuss Sonoma County wines for the holidays. David shares his journey through the grueling Master Sommelier credentialing process and tells all about the San Francisco Wine School. We dive deep into the heart of Sonoma County, exploring how to make wine culture as approachable as a neighborhood beer taproom. David provides an insider’s guide to Sonoma’s diverse AVAs, offering expert recommendations for every budget—from hidden value gems to luxury bottles. Finally, we tackle the "dos and don'ts" of holiday pairings, ensuring your festive table is perfectly balanced.
The Craft Beer Concierge rounds out the episode by exploring the flavor bridges between the brewing and winemaking worlds to help listeners diversify their holiday beverage selections. By identifying shared characteristics across fermentation styles, Allo highlights how a crisp German Kölsch mirrors the bright, green apple notes of a Pinot Grigio or Grüner Veltliner, while funky Saisons and wild ales parallel the earthy complexity of a natural Pet Nat Chenin Blanc. For those seeking something bolder, the host compares the dark fruit and tobacco profiles of a rich Imperial Stout to a heavy Cabernet Sauvignon, proving that whether you prefer beer or wine, there is a counterpart waiting to be discovered on the other side of the tap.
Featured Guest
Resources & Wineries Mentioned
Education & Industry
San Francisco Wine School – Modular wine education for professionals and enthusiasts.
Court of Master Sommeliers – Information on the Master Sommelier credential.
Sonoma County Wine Recommendations
DRNK Wines – High-quality, direct-to-consumer value wines.
Balletto Vineyards – Affordable estate-grown options.
Red Car Wine – Specializing in cool-climate Pinot Noir and Syrah. Affordable, delicious Rose
Marimar Estate – Recommended for tapas and cooking classes.
Jordan Vineyard & Winery – A premier destination for gastronomic experiences.
Cobb Wines – Visit their new tasting room in Healdsburg.
Radio-Coteau – Organic and biodynamic estate wines.
Seghesio Family Vineyards - Dry Creek Zinfandel, David’s “killer value wine”
Eco Terreno Wines - Red Blend offers a solid value
Sparkling Wines
Iron Horse Vineyards – Renowned for sparkling wines and environmental stewardship.
Luxury & Gift Picks
Vérité Winery – Featuring "La Joie," a high-end Cabernet-based blend.
Ultramarine – Small-batch, highly sought-after California sparkling wine.
Key Pairing Advice
Match Sugar Levels: Ensure your dessert wine is as sweet as (or sweeter than) the dish.
The Great "Compromise" Wine: When in doubt, David recommends Sonoma County Pinot Noir to satisfy a wide variety of palates.
Avoid the Cab Trap: Skip the heavy Cabernet for sides like sweet potatoes; opt for an oaked Chardonnay or Pinot Noir instead.
