The San Francisco Giants have a new partner in wine, and his name is Evan Goldstein. But this isn't your typical wine connoisseur; he's a master sommelier with a unique partnership that's changing the game. Goldstein's journey began in the vibrant city of San Francisco, where he grew up attending Giants games at Candlestick Park. Little did he know, his love for wine would soon intertwine with his passion for baseball.
Goldstein's career in the wine industry started early, working at high-end restaurants in Paris and Napa Valley. He passed the prestigious master sommelier examination at just 26 years old, becoming the youngest American to achieve this feat. His expertise and connections in the wine world are unparalleled.
In 1997, Goldstein's path crossed with the Giants when he partnered with Mario Alioto, the team's vice president of marketing, to introduce a pregame wine tasting event. This marked the beginning of the Giants' wine culture, which has since flourished.
However, it was in 2022 that Goldstein's partnership with the Giants took an even more significant turn. He had a conversation with Jason Pearl, the team's chief revenue officer, about expanding their relationship. This led to the Giants becoming the first sports team to formally partner with a master sommelier, showcasing their commitment to elevating the fan experience.
Goldstein's extensive wine network opens doors for the Giants to collaborate with new brands and create innovative fan engagement opportunities. He works closely with the team and Aramark, the food and beverage operator, to curate wine and food pairings at Oracle Park, as well as during spring training events in Scottsdale, Arizona.
One of the most exciting initiatives is the Giants' wine club, curated by Goldstein in partnership with the Sonoma County Winegrowers. Members can enjoy a selection of up to 18 Sonoma County wines, delivered in three shipments annually, along with Goldstein's expert food pairing suggestions. This unique club offers a baseball-themed experience, allowing members to enjoy wine while attending games.
Goldstein's passion for wine extends beyond the ballpark. He collaborates with players and executives who share his interest, such as Tom Seaver, a Hall of Famer who opened his vineyard on Diamond Mountain. Goldstein has also worked with wine brands like Red Stitch Wine Group and Baker Family Wines, founded by former Giants managers.
Despite the wine industry's challenges, Goldstein remains dedicated to promoting wine's versatility. He aims to introduce fans to different wine styles, such as pinot noir with hot dogs or sausages, instead of traditional IPAs. By doing so, he believes he can broaden the appeal of wine and create a more inclusive experience for all fans.
Evan Goldstein's partnership with the San Francisco Giants is a testament to the power of combining two passions: wine and baseball. His expertise and creativity have elevated the team's wine culture, offering fans a unique and memorable experience. As the Giants continue to innovate, Goldstein's role will undoubtedly be a key part of their success.
