Attending public tasting events serves as an essential element of my role and recommendation to readers. It offers an unrivaled opportunity to refine one’s palate, unearth new and exciting wines, and often, the exclusive chance to sample wines that might otherwise remain beyond reach. These tastings can be strenuous affairs, and usually, by the end of the event, I’m yearning for a well-deserved siesta.
However, upon the conclusion of the annual Wine & Spirits Top 100 tasting, I frequently find myself wishing for a few extra hours to meander amidst the assortment of wines. Part of this desire may be attributed to the allure of the seemingly bottomless oyster bar frequently featured alongside the diverse selection of sparkling wines chosen for the event. Nonetheless, the primary reason behind my longing is the yearning to taste and fully appreciate all the wines showcased, which consistently boast world-class quality.
Conducted by Wine & Spirits Magazine, this tasting extravaganza proudly displays the portfolio of (nearly all) wineries honored on the magazine’s annual list of Top 100 Wineries worldwide. While I acknowledge that such annual lists may carry limited novelty from my vantage point and often feature recurring names, it is undeniable that the caliber of wines on offer at this specific event is exceptional. Consequently, it stands as one of the premier public wine tastings held in San Francisco throughout the year.
