The San Francisco Giants have a unique partnership with master sommelier Evan Goldstein, which has opened a bouquet of opportunities for the team and its fans. Like a fine wine, this collaboration has been maturing in California's wine country for decades, with Goldstein's passion for wine beginning before he was legally allowed to purchase it. He worked in high-end restaurants in Paris and Napa Valley, and passed the prestigious master sommelier examination at the young age of 26. In 1997, Goldstein partnered with Mario Alioto, a Giants vice president of marketing, to stage a pregame wine tasting event at the ballpark. This partnership continued as the team moved to Oracle Park in 2000, with Goldstein working on various events and collaborating with players and executives interested in wine. In 2022, the Giants became the only sports team in the world to have a formal partnership with a master sommelier, with Goldstein bringing his extensive wine network and expertise to the table. He works with the team and its food and beverage operator, Aramark, to strategize wine and food pairings at Oracle Park and other team initiatives. The Giants have also launched a unique wine club, curated by Goldstein, which offers California residents the opportunity to receive up to 18 Sonoma County wines each year, along with food pairing suggestions. This partnership has brought a new level of sophistication to the ballpark, with wine options available throughout the stadium, including bars, carts, and on-tap locations. Goldstein's expertise and passion for wine have opened doors for the Giants to partner with new brands and develop new ways to engage with fans, making the ballpark a more enjoyable and memorable experience for all.
